Qeshm Island- A UNESCO Global Geopark and Exceptional geological features
Qeshm Island
Qeshm Island is the largest island in the Persian Gulf, located in the south of Iran. It is approximately 135 kilometers long and 40 kilometers wide, with an area of 1,491 square kilometers. The island is part of Hormozgan Province and is known for its unique natural and cultural attractions. Qeshm Island is home to diverse ecosystems, including mangrove forests, salt caves, and several protected areas. The island’s geopark, which covers about 60% of its area, is recognized by UNESCO as a global geopark due to its exceptional geological features.
The island is also known for its cultural heritage, including the traditional way of life of its inhabitants and its unique handicrafts, such as the weaving of traditional carpets and the production of distinctive pottery. Qeshm Island Iran is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to enjoy its natural beauty, unique culture, and historical sites.
Geology
Qeshm Island UNESCO Global Geopark is part of the Zagros mountain range, which has been deformed and folded as the result of the last phase of the Alpine orogeny in the Plio-Pleistocene. The geological formations of this mountain belt belong to the Late Precambrian to Cambrian (480 million years old) and include salt diapirs attributed to the Precambrian period called Hormoz Series.
Qeshm Island Iran is known for its unique geology, which includes a variety of rock formations and geological features. The most common is karst topography, which is characterized by the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone and dolomite. This process has created a variety of unique geological formations on the island, including caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers.
Hormuz island- Hormuz Island, also known as “Rainbow Island,” is a small island located in the Persian Gulf. The island is part of Hormozgan Province and is approximately 42 square kilometers in size. The island is known for its colorful mountains and rock formations, which include hues of red, orange, yellow, and purple. These striking colors are due to the presence of various minerals in the rocks, such as iron oxide, copper, and sulfur. Hormuz Island has several beautiful beaches, including the red and black beaches, which are named after the color of their sand.
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Qeshm island attractions
Qeshm Island has many attractions for visitors to explore. Here are some of the top attractions on the island.
Hara Forests-The mangrove forests on Qeshm Island are unique ecosystems that are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and crustaceans.
Stars Valley-A natural wonder on the western side of Qeshm Island, the Stars Valley features beautiful rock formations, valleys, and gorges.
Chahkooh Canyon-This beautiful canyon features unique rock formations and a winding path that leads to the sea.
Namakdan Salt Caves-These natural salt caves, located in the southern part of the island, are a unique attraction featuring beautiful salt formations and underground saltwater lakes.
Hengam Island-Located just a short boat ride from Qeshm Island, Hengam Island is home to beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and a variety of marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles.
Traditional villages- Qeshm Island has several traditional villages that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage, including the village of Tala, which is known for its traditional pottery.
Historical sites- Qeshm Island has a number of historical sites, including the Portuguese Castle, which dates back to the 16th century, and the old city of Shib Deraz, which was an important trading hub in ancient times.
Persian Gulf beaches- Qeshm Island has several beautiful beaches with clear water and white sand, including the popular Khorbas beach.
Travelers can also enjoy water sports, such as snorkeling and scuba diving, and explore the island’s local cuisine, markets, and handicrafts.
Qeshm island tourism and Activity
Qeshm Island is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world who come to enjoy its natural beauty, unique culture, and historical sites. Here are some of the top tourist attractions and activities on Qeshm Island.
The island’s clear waters and beautiful beaches make it an ideal destination for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and boating. The island is home to a unique culture with a rich history and heritage. Visitors can explore the island’s traditional villages, markets, and handicrafts, including weaving, pottery, and basketry.
The delicious seafood and unique Persian Gulf cuisine are simply amazing. Travelers can enjoy fresh fish, shrimp, and other local specialties at the island’s restaurants and markets. These are just some of the many activities available to visitors on Qeshm Island. With its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality, Qeshm Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Iran.
How to reach Qeshm island Iran
Qeshm Island is located in the Persian Gulf, off the southern coast of Iran. Qeshm International Airport has regular flights to and from major cities in Iran, including Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Mashhad. Qeshm Island is connected to Bandar Abbas, the largest port city in Iran, by a ferry service. Apart from this, the place is accessible by private boat or yacht.
