The Best Time to Meet Iranian Nomads
You can find and trace Iranian nomads throughout the whole year and get to see their unique lifestyle synchronized to the symphony of nature in each season of the year. Depending on the tribe you’re interested in and the weather or climate, you can meet Iranian nomads at different times of the year. However, the best seasons to experience the life of these kind-hearted people are the warm spring and summer.
What You Will Experience
Featured Tour
Who Are the Iranian Nomads?
Bakhtiari Tribe
One of Iran’s largest tribes, the Bakhtiari have been migrating over the Zagros mountains for hundreds of years. A humble tribe, they are an integral part of Iranian culture. Twice a year, the Bakhtiari nomads travel 300km across the mountains and highlands, to search for grass for their animals: it’s an epic adventure.
Qashqai Tribe
From Turkic origins of Central Asia, the Qashqai tribe chose Iran’s south-western desert lands as their home during the 11th and 12th centuries. Every year, they move between the pastures in the north of Shiraz to the south of the country, near the Persian Gulf, where it’s warmer for the winter. Their epic journey is about 480km.
Shahsavan Tribe
Of unknown origin but most probably Azeri, the Shahsavan are a group of nomadic tribes living in the Mugan Plain. Whatever the origin story, one thing is certain: they are a free, traditional group of people, traveling in the highly-fertile plains of Mugan plains in the northwest of Iran.
FAQs
- I’m worried. Is there anything I should know before joining a Nomad Tour?
Nomads of Iran are a group of open-minded hospitable people who love meeting people from outside of Iran. They will treat you as guests. However, just like any polite guest, you should observe their cultural traditions and respect them. Just remember, to be polite and ask before you act. Read about their ways of living and if you need more information, just ask us! We’ll answer you promptly.
- Is it possible that I may be harmful to the nomads and their environment as a person who is not familiar with this type of lifestyle?
Having lived in the mountains for so long, the Iranian Nomads have learned how to be one with nature and not destroy it. We, the sedentary people living in cities, might not be as adaptable as the nomads when they are out in nature. So, remember, nature is their home and environmental issues are of much importance.
- Is everything about time and itinerary fixed or I should be planning more flexibly for this tour?
Migration with the Iranian Nomads is not an ordinary tour. Most of the time, we can’t tell you exactly what time the nomads of Iran will start their Kouch (migration). However, we do have rough dates and hours. So, it’s important you have a flexible mind and timeline before starting the tour.
- How demanding and challenging is this tour?
Being on the road on an Iran Nomads Tour can be a bit challenging at times. No 4G or high-speed WiFi, no YouTube, no sofa and TV, and no news from the world. Add the physical activity of migration, which sometimes includes climbing. These can be a bit difficult for some people. However, what we do have in a Qashqai or Bakhtiari Nomad Tour is love, understanding, the beauty of nature and the Zagros mountains, and the perks of living life as a free nomad.