🐾 Traveling to Iran with Pets
Pet-Friendly Iran
Iran offers unique opportunities for pet travel, though it's less common than in Western countries due to cultural norms. Dogs and cats are welcome in many rural areas and some urban hotels, but always check policies. Historical sites and parks often allow leashed pets, making family trips with animals feasible with preparation.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, confirming no contagious diseases.
Certificate must be endorsed by official authorities in the country of origin and translated into Persian if required.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the duration of stay.
Proof of vaccination must be included in all documentation; boosters may be required based on pet's age.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip implanted before vaccination for identification purposes.
Include microchip number on all certificates; Iranian customs may scan upon arrival.
Import Permit
Obtain an import permit from Iran's Ministry of Agriculture Jihad before travel; apply through Iranian embassy.
Process takes 2-4 weeks; include details of pet's breed, age, and vaccination history.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls may be restricted; check with embassy for specific lists.
All dogs must be leashed in public; muzzles recommended for larger breeds in urban areas.
Other Pets
Birds and small mammals require similar health certificates; exotic pets need CITES permits if applicable.
Quarantine may apply for non-standard pets; contact Iranian veterinary authorities in advance.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Iran on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like pet beds and nearby green spaces.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Tehran & Isfahan): Select mid-range hotels like Espinas Palace welcome small pets for 500,000-1,000,000 IRR/night fee, with access to gardens. International chains are more accommodating.
- Traditional Guesthouses (Yazd & Shiraz): Many eco-lodges and boutique stays in historical areas allow pets at no extra charge, offering courtyards for exercise. Ideal for cultural immersion with animals.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Platforms like Airbnb list pet-friendly homes, especially in suburban Tehran or Caspian Sea resorts. Private spaces give pets more freedom.
- Rural Homestays (Kashan & Desert Areas): Family-run guesthouses in villages often welcome pets alongside local animals. Perfect for families seeking authentic experiences.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Desert camps near Dasht-e Kavir and Caspian campsites are pet-friendly with open areas. Fees around 300,000 IRR/night including basic facilities.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Darband Hotel in Tehran provide pet amenities including walking services and special diets for a premium fee.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Desert & Mountain Trails
Iran's Alborz Mountains and desert oases offer pet-friendly hiking paths near Tehran and Yazd.
Keep pets leashed to protect local wildlife; check for seasonal closures during hot summers.
Caspian Sea Beaches
Northern beaches around Bandar Anzali have areas for dogs to swim and play.
Respect local customs; designated pet zones are limited but growing in tourist areas.
Cities & Parks
Tehran's Mellat Park and Isfahan's gardens welcome leashed pets; outdoor tea houses often allow them.
Shiraz's Eram Garden is pet-friendly for family picnics; avoid crowded religious sites.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Modern cafés in Tehran provide outdoor seating for pets with water bowls.
Traditional teahouses may allow small pets; always ask permission before entering.
Historical Walking Tours
Guided walks in Persepolis and bazaars often permit leashed dogs if pre-arranged.
Focus on outdoor sites; indoor museums like those in Tehran restrict pets.
Cable Cars & Lifts
Tochal Telecabin near Tehran allows small pets in carriers for 100,000 IRR fee.
Advance booking recommended; larger dogs may need to travel separately.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (RAI): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets (200,000 IRR) and must be leashed/muzzled. Available on most routes except high-speed lines.
- Buses & Metro (Urban): Tehran metro allows small pets in carriers free; larger dogs 50,000 IRR with restrictions. Buses in cities like Isfahan follow similar rules.
- Taxis: Negotiate with drivers; most accept pets for small surcharges (20,000 IRR). Use apps like Snapp for pet-friendly options.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Sorayeh allow pets with deposit (500,000 IRR refundable). Opt for spacious sedans for comfort on long drives.
- Flights to Iran: Iran Air and Mahan Air permit cabin pets under 5kg for 300,000 IRR. Book early and review carrier rules. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Turkish Airlines and Emirates accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 500,000-1,000,000 IRR. Larger pets in cargo with health certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Tehran (like Tehran Veterinary Hospital) and Isfahan offer urgent care.
Costs 200,000-500,000 IRR for consultations; travel insurance recommended for pets.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like Pet Shop Iran in major cities stock food, meds, and accessories.
Pharmacies carry basic pet treatments; import specialized meds if needed.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban areas have grooming services for 150,000-300,000 IRR per session.
Daycare limited but available in Tehran; hotels can recommend local options.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Tehran via apps or hotels for 200,000 IRR/day.
Arrange through trusted contacts; cultural norms favor family oversight.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, parks, and historical sites. Rural areas more lenient but respect local customs.
- Muzzle Requirements: Recommended for large dogs in public transport and crowded areas; not always enforced but wise to carry.
- Waste Disposal: Carry and dispose of waste properly; bins available in parks. Fines up to 100,000 IRR for violations.
- Beach & Water Rules: Caspian beaches allow pets in off-peak times; avoid during holidays. Respect prayer areas.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating often permits pets; keep them calm and away from food. Indoor entry rare.
- Historical Sites: Leashed pets allowed at Persepolis and gardens; prohibited in mosques and indoor museums.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Iran
Iran for Families
Iran is a family-centric destination with rich history, safe streets, and welcoming hospitality. Children are adored, and attractions like ancient ruins, bazaars, and parks engage all ages. Modern facilities include family restrooms and kid menus, blending tradition with comfort.
Top Family Attractions
Tehran Amusement Park (Lavizan)
Family park with rides, games, and picnic areas in northern Tehran.
Entry 50,000 IRR; rides 20,000-100,000 IRR. Open weekends with seasonal events.
Tehran Zoo (Eram Park)
Large zoo with lions, monkeys, and educational exhibits for kids.
Tickets 30,000 IRR adults, 15,000 IRR kids; combine with park visits for full day.
Persepolis Ruins (Shiraz)
Ancient city with storytelling tours and vast grounds for exploration.
Guided family tours 200,000 IRR; kids enjoy the historical adventure.
Science & Technology Museum (Tehran)
Interactive exhibits on Iranian inventions and space exploration.
Tickets 40,000 IRR adults, 20,000 IRR kids; hands-on fun for rainy days.
Isfahan Naqsh-e Jahan Square
UNESCO site with bridges, mosques, and boat rides on the river.
Free entry to square; boat rides 50,000 IRR. Magical for family photos.
Alborz Mountain Parks (Dizin)
Summer cable cars, winter skiing, and playgrounds near Tehran.
Family activities with gear rental 100,000 IRR; suitable for kids 5+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Iran on Viator. From Persepolis tours to desert safaris, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Tehran & Isfahan): Hotels like Homa offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for 1,500,000-3,000,000 IRR/night. Include cribs and kids' areas.
- Resort Stays (Caspian Sea): Beach resorts with family programs and pools. Properties like Ramin Hotel cater to families with entertainment.
- Traditional Homestays (Yazd): Clay houses with courtyards for play, 800,000-1,500,000 IRR/night including meals.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering in Shiraz with kitchens for family meals. Space for kids to relax.
- Budget Guesthouses: Clean family rooms in Kashan for 500,000-1,000,000 IRR/night with breakfast.
- Caravanserai Hotels: Historic stays like those in Meybod for immersive family experiences with gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Tehran with Kids
Golestan Palace gardens, National Museum treasure hunts, and Milad Tower views.
Ice cream in bazaars and park picnics make the capital exciting for children.
Isfahan with Kids
Bridge walks, square puppet shows, and handicraft workshops.
Family boat rides and storytelling at historical sites keep kids engaged.
Shiraz with Kids
Persepolis adventures, Eram Garden picnics, and pink lake visits.
Narangeestan Palace with fountains and family-friendly tours.
Desert Region (Yazd)
Windtower explorations, camel rides, and star-gazing camps.
Easy walks and cultural shows suitable for young explorers.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Kids under 5 free; 6-12 half-price (100,000 IRR). Family cars available with space for strollers on long routes.
- City Transport: Tehran metro family passes 50,000 IRR/day. Buses and taxis stroller-friendly in major cities.
- Car Rentals: Child seats 100,000 IRR/day mandatory under 12. Family vans ideal for road trips to sites.
- Stroller-Friendly: Sidewalks in cities like Isfahan are walkable; attractions provide ramps where possible.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants offer simple kebabs and rice for 100,000-200,000 IRR. High chairs common in tourist spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Traditional eateries with family sections and play areas in parks.
- Self-Catering: Bazaars and hypermarkets like Refah stock baby food and diapers.
- Snacks & Treats: Faludeh and pomegranate ice for kids; street vendors offer safe, fresh options.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls and hotels; public parks have basic facilities.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula and meds; English-speaking staff in cities.
- Babysitting Services: Hotel-arranged for 300,000 IRR/hour in Tehran.
- Medical Care: Pediatric hospitals in major cities; insurance covers basics.
♿ Accessibility in Iran
Accessible Travel
Iran is improving accessibility with ramps at key sites and wheelchair-friendly transport in cities. Tourism offices provide guides, though some historical areas have steps. Plan ahead for inclusive family trips.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: RAI offers wheelchair spaces and assistance; book ahead for ramps at stations.
- City Transport: Tehran metro has elevators; buses low-floor in select routes.
- Taxis: Accessible vans via apps; standard taxis fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Imam Khomeini Airport provides full assistance and priority services.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Palaces: Golestan Palace has ramps and audio guides; elevators in modern sites.
- Historic Sites: Persepolis partially accessible; Isfahan square wheelchair-friendly.
- Nature & Parks: Mellat Park paths paved; cable cars at Tochal accommodate wheelchairs.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for adapted bathrooms.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) for mild weather and flowers; autumn (Sept-Nov) avoids summer heat.
Winter for skiing in north; summers hot in south, so plan indoor activities.
Budget Tips
Family tickets at sites save 20-30%; use local buses over taxis.
Picnics with bazaar buys keep costs low for picky eaters.
Language
Persian official; English in tourist spots. Kids' friendliness breaks ice.
Basic phrases appreciated; apps help with translation.
Packing Essentials
Light layers for varied climates, modest clothing, sun protection.
Pets: food, leash, muzzle, records; heat-resistant gear for summer.
Useful Apps
Snapp for taxis, Google Translate, local maps for navigation.
RAI app for trains; pet care via social media groups.
Health & Safety
Iran safe; bottled water advised. Pharmacies for minor issues.
Emergency 115; insurance covers family and pets.