Discovering the Islands of the Persian Gulf
The islands of the Persian Gulf are an ideal summer vacation destination, offering a true escape from everyday life, thanks to their historical remains and unique landscapes.
The Persian Gulf islands are an ideal summer vacation destination, offering a true escape, thanks to their historical remains and unique landscapes. Keen to discover the red sand beach of Hormuz Island or the silver beach of Hengam? To explore the Qeshm geopark and the ancient city on Kish Island? An overview of the most beautiful Iranian sites in the Indian Ocean gulf!
Qeshm Island: A Geopark Inscribed in UNESCO's World Heritage
This splendid island, situated off the southern coast, is Iran's largest island. With a coastline of 200 kilometers, it is renowned for its magnificent Qeshm Geopark. A member of UNESCO's Global Geoparks Network since 2017, this natural masterpiece is the subject of a "sustainable tourism" program, designed to meet visitors' needs while preserving the environment.
The Valley of Stars
Located near the village of Berkeh-ye Khalaf (within the geopark), the Stars valley is said, according to legend, to be the result of a meteor strike on Earth… Regardless of its origin, the site's beauty attracts travelers from around the world, who come to admire its unusual rock formations!
Namakdan Salt Cave
Recognized as one of the world's longest salt caves, Namakdan salt cave is a dome of incomparable beauty, stretching nearly 6,400 meters! Inside, you will discover underground landscapes adorned with stalactites, stalagmites and salt crystals. Note that visits to this winding circuit are limited. The reason? Conditions are difficult there, particularly due to saturated air. However, the section open to the public promises an unforgettable experience.
Hengam Island: The Sparkling Jewel of the Persian Gulf
Located south of Qeshm, Hengam Island has three villages spread across 37 km². Due to its strategic location, it was once the object of numerous desires. Colonized several times, the island was notably governed by the Portuguese in the 16th and 17th centuries, then by the British in the 19th century and early 20th century. From this history-laden past, Hengam preserves a rich heritage, including a Portuguese ship lying on the beach.
Silver Beach, or the "Silver Shore"
Silver Beach is one of the country's most famous beaches. Located in Hormozgan province, this jewel of nature is literally dazzling in its beauty and silvery sparkle. A secret? When the sea's waves reach the shore, the glints multiply!
The Dolphins of Hengam Island
Bordered by coral reefs, cliffs and turquoise-watered beaches, Hengam Island promises moments of relaxation amid its idyllic landscapes. Leisurely days, scuba diving, fishing or swimming: the coast offers many attractions. The most spectacular? Undoubtedly the ballet performed by the dolphins of the island, which can be regularly observed near the shore!
Kish Island: Snorkeling and an Ancient City on the Agenda
Explore the Island's Natural Treasures
Located 18 kilometers from the mainland, Kish Island covers nearly 92 km². Situated on a narrow strip of tropical vegetation, it is home to unique flora consisting of fig trees, date palms, red gum trees, and more. Prefer water activities? The island is also an ideal spot for scuba diving, snorkeling and kitesurfing!
Visit the Ancient City of Harireh
The island preserves ancient remains, including the incredible ancient city of Harireh! The numerous ruins of this 8th-century city attest to its prosperous past. Indeed, Harireh was once an essential trading route. History enthusiasts will appreciate this heritage inherited from ancient Persia.
Hormuz Island: A Volcanic Land with Red Sand
The Red Sand Beach
Nestled between the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, Hormuz Island (also called "Hormoz") is renowned for its volcanic landscape and its famous red beach – resulting from a high concentration of iron oxide. Situated at the foot of mountains, this unusual beach offers color variations, thanks to its black and yellow pigments!
Portuguese Castle
Also known as the "Fort of Our Lady of the Conception," this fortress from the early 16th century is one of the last remaining monuments of Portuguese colonization in the Persian Gulf. Built on a rocky promontory at the extreme north of the island, the castle was once separated from the rest of the island by a moat, traces of which still remain… This historic site offers breathtaking views of the island and the sea!
Persian Gulf Islands: A Circuit to Discover These Treasures of Nature
From Qeshm to Hengam, passing through Kish and Hormuz, explore these four Persian Gulf islands thanks to a circuit dedicated to these natural treasures. An opportunity to discover their exceptional reliefs and heritage, while relaxing on their magical beaches…
Frequently asked questions
The best time to visit the Persian Gulf islands (Qeshm, Kish, Hengam, Hormuz) is autumn and winter, between October and March, when temperatures are milder (20-28°C). Summers are very hot and humid, with temperatures exceeding 45°C, making visits difficult.
Certain Iranian islands in the Persian Gulf, such as Kish Island and Qeshm Island, benefit from a free trade zone status allowing nationals of many countries to stay there without an Iranian visa, for a limited period. Check with the Iranian embassy or a travel agent specializing in Iran before you depart, as conditions may change.
Qeshm Island is accessible by air from Tehran, Isfahan or Shiraz, with regular flights to Qeshm Airport. It is also possible to take a ferry from Bandar Abbas, the nearest port city. The boat crossing takes approximately 30 minutes.
Yes, Hengam Island is renowned for its dolphins, which can be regularly observed near the shore. Boat trips are organized to observe these cetaceans in their natural habitat, in the turquoise waters bordering the island. The best time to observe them is in the morning, in calm seas.
The famous red beach of Hormuz Island (also called Hormoz) owes its unique color to a high concentration of iron oxide in the volcanic soil. The sand also features color variations with black and yellow pigments, depending on the beach areas. This geological feature makes it one of Iran's most photographed beaches.
To comfortably visit the 4 main Persian Gulf islands — Qeshm, Hengam, Kish and Hormuz — it is recommended to allow between 8 and 12 days. Plan 3 to 4 days for Qeshm (the largest island with many natural sites), 1 to 2 days for Hengam, 2 to 3 days for Kish and 1 to 2 days for Hormuz.
