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Kish Island Travel Checklist

Kish Island Travel Checklist

Kish Island The Persian Gulf, Iran Travel Guide

Advance Planning Outline

A structured approach to your pre-trip activities makes for a smooth journey.

Key Pre-Trip Actions

From passport checks to initial bookings, these steps ensure readiness.

1

Three+ Months Ahead

Passport Validity Check

Six months beyond departure.

Visa Requirements Research

Kish visa-free, mainland visas use authorization codes.

Book Major International Flights

Secure better prices early.

2

One-Two Months Ahead

Book Accommodations

Useful during high season or Nowruz.

Book Domestic Flights

If connecting via mainland Iran.

Consult Doctor for Vaccinations

Schedule appointments and receive recommendations.

3

Two-Four Weeks Ahead

Arrange for Cash

US Dollars or Euros are accepted. No international cards.

Download Essential Apps

Snapp!, Google Translate, offline maps.

Purchase Power Adapter & Power Bank

Universal travel adapter for 220V. High-capacity portable power bank.

Required Bookings & Pre-Trip Knowledge

Secure essential reservations and gather useful information prior to travel.

Confirmations & Cultural Insights

  • International and domestic flights require early booking.
  • Hotel accommodations are useful, especially during peak seasons.
  • Specific tours like diving or boat trips benefit from advance booking.
  • Check government travel advisories for Iran. Kish is secure.

Home Departure Readiness

Ensure your home is managed and contacts are informed for peace of mind.

Household & Communications

  • Secure your home: mail, plants, pets, locks.
  • Manage utilities: turn off unnecessary services.
  • Arrange for bill payments while absent.
  • Inform trusted contacts of your travel plans.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Reiterate and internalize information for a respectful and smooth journey.

Political Situation

  • Check your government's travel advisories.
  • Kish is safe, yet broader context is important.
  • Stay informed from reputable sources.
  • Understand local governance and regulations.

Cultural Norms & Dress Code

  • Mandatory dress code for women is important.
  • Men should dress respectfully in public.
  • Familiarize yourself with local customs.
  • Read up on Taarof, Iranian hospitality.

Currency Situation

  • Iran operates on a cash-only system.
  • Bring sufficient USD or EUR.
  • Understand Rial vs. Toman for transactions.
  • International credit/debit cards do not function.

Pre-Travel Advisory

International credit cards do not function in Iran. Carry sufficient cash, preferably USD or EUR.

Arrival & Departure Routines

Smooth transitions upon arrival and departure frame a positive travel experience.

Arrival Essentials

  • 1
    Passport Control

    Obtain 14-day visa-free stamp for Kish.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Retrieve checked baggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card

    Purchase Irancell or MCI SIM at kiosks (passport needed).

Orientation & Initial Spending

  • Familiarize with Hotel Surroundings

    Explore nearby amenities, shops, and safe routes.

  • Exchange Initial Cash

    At airport for immediate needs like taxi fare or water.

  • Purchase Bottled Water

    Stay hydrated immediately upon arrival.

Departure Considerations

Souvenir & Shipping

Complete souvenir shopping a day or two before departure.

Inquire about shipping large items like carpets in advance.

VAT Refund

Kish is a Free Trade Zone; no specific VAT refund system for tourists.

Duty-free prices are typically applied directly at purchase.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow 1.5-2 hours for domestic, 2-3 hours for international check-in.

Return rental car with full tank, allow ample time for process.

Last-Minute Reminder

On departure day, have all travel documents readily available for smooth check-in and security processes.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure enough local currency and reconfirm travel schedules for a seamless journey home.

Financial Wrap-up

  • Ensure sufficient local currency for airport or port transfers.
  • Keep some small denominations for last-minute purchases.
  • Plan for any final tips or snacks.
  • Keep important receipts organized.

Travel Confirmations

  • Double-check your flight status a few hours prior to leaving.
  • Verify ferry schedule before heading to the port.
  • Account for any unexpected travel changes.
  • Keep your passport and boarding pass readily accessible.

Airport Departure Checklist

Ensure all necessary steps for a smooth departure are covered.

Final Checks

  • Check-in counter open:1.5-3 hours before departure
  • Security screening:Allow ample time
  • Gate number:Confirm on boarding pass
  • Baggage allowance:Verify limits

Rental Car Return

  • Return car with a full tank as per agreement.
  • Allow enough time for the return process.
  • Complete any inspection or paperwork.
  • Plan taxi or shuttle from car rental to terminal.

Smooth Exit

Reconfirm your flight or ferry details. This step prevents unexpected issues.