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Rasht Travel Checklist

Rasht Travel Checklist

Rasht Gilan Province, Iran Travel Guide

Essential Preparations Overview

Organize your preparations into a manageable timeline for a stress-free trip.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your trip planning into manageable phases.

3+

Months Before

Apply for Iranian visa

Required, especially for US, UK, or Canadian citizens; the process may take time.

Book international flights

Secure your flights to Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) in Tehran.

Research tour operators

Begin researching and booking now if you are planning on using a guided tour.

1-2

Months Before

Book domestic transport

Secure internal transportation to Rasht, especially during peak seasons.

Book accommodations

Reserve your hotels or guesthouses in Rasht.

Arrange Travel insurance

Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies and trip disruptions in Iran.

1

Week / Day Before

Confirm bookings

Reconfirm flights, hotels, and tours; exchange foreign cash, inform your bank.

Pack & Prep Devices

Refer to Section 3 for detailed guidance; recharge your gadgets, organize documents.

Home Preparation

Inform family of itinerary, suspend mail, secure your home.

Pre-Trip Planning

Important actions to take well in advance for a smoother journey.

Required Advance Bookings

  • Iranian visa application.
  • International flights.
  • Major domestic transport, especially during holidays.
  • All accommodations and any specialized tours.

Deep Dive Research

Thorough research ensures you are well-informed and prepared.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

  • Deep dive into visa regulations and local customs.
  • Understand currency (Toman vs. Rial) and transportation options.
  • Read travel blogs and forums for recent traveler experiences.
  • Learn basic Farsi phrases using Language learning resources.

Packing Essentials

Ensure you have everything you need for your Iranian adventure.

Documents & Money

  • Passport and visa.
  • Copies of all important documents.
  • Sufficient USD/EUR cash for exchange.
  • Local currency (Tomans/Rials) for daily spending.

Clothing & Personal Items

  • Modest clothing adhering to local dress code.
  • Headscarf for female travelers.
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Packing organizers for productivity.

Health & Tech

  • Basic first-aid kit.
  • Any personal medications with prescriptions.
  • Smartphone with offline maps and translation apps.
  • VPN installed on all devices.

Important Note

Always carry sufficient cash (USD/EUR for exchange, and local Tomans/Rials for daily spending) as international cards do not work in Iran.

Upon Arrival & Departure

Navigating your arrival and ensuring a smooth departure from Rasht.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Passport Control & Visa Check

    Complete immigration procedures upon landing.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your bags from the carousel.

  • 3
    Exchange Initial Cash

    Exchange some foreign currency at the airport (if the rate is reasonable) or a city Sarrafi.

Orientation & Departure Tips

  • Purchase Local SIM Card

    Buy and register a SIM card (e.g., Irancell) at the airport or an official store.

  • Transportation to Accommodation

    Utilize a pre-booked taxi, an airport taxi, or Snapp! For a direct transfer.

  • Departure Readiness

    Arrive at the airport 3-4 hours before international flights; confirm return plans.

Departure Preparation Details

Souvenir & Shipping

Ensure all purchases are allowed for export from Iran and import into your home country.

Be aware of restrictions on certain goods (e.g., antiquities, carpets above a certain size).

VAT Refund Procedures

Iran does not have a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.

Factor this into your budget calculations.

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive at the airport or station with ample time (refer to Section 4.4 for specifics).

For international flights from IKA, arrive 3-4 hours before departure.

Final Reminders

Confirm your return flights and pack any last-minute items. Ensure you have local currency for final expenses or small notes for tips.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home and inform contacts to ensure peace of mind while you travel.

Inform & Secure

  • Inform someone you trust about your travel plans.
  • Suspend mail or newspaper deliveries.
  • Secure your home (lock windows, turn off unnecessary appliances).
  • Consider a house-sitter or trusted neighbor to check on your home.

Digital Home Security

  • Ensure smart home devices are properly secured or turned off.
  • Backup important digital files before leaving.
  • Update antivirus software on all devices.
  • Set up out-of-office replies for work emails.

Budget Management

Keep track of your expenses for a worry-free financial experience.

Financial Overview

  • Planned daily budget:$XX
  • Actual daily spend:$XX
  • Remaining budget:$XX
  • Exchange rate used:1 USD = XXXX IRR

Contact Information

  • Hotel contact: [Hotel Name, Phone Number]
  • Local guide: [Guide Name, Phone Number]
  • Emergency family contact: [Name, Phone Number]
  • Local clinic/hospital: [Name, Phone Number]

Final Thoughts

Thoughtful preparation allows you to fully engage with the rich culture and stunning landscapes of Gilan Province from arrival to departure.

Embrace the unique experiences Gilan Province offers.