Is It Safe to Travel to Iran Right Now? What Tourists Need to Know

Planning a trip to Iran in 2025? Due to escalating regional conflict, recent civilian detentions, and restricted airspace, safety concerns are stronger than ever.

As of March 31, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for Iran, citing high risks of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and wrongful detention—particularly targeting U.S. and dual nationals. The Canadian and Australian governments echo similar warnings, recommending against all travel.

In mid‑June 2025, Israel launched a large-scale aerial campaign against Iranian military facilities, causing civilian casualties and widespread damage. Internet blackouts and ongoing protests have added to the instability, with over 150 cities experiencing unrest.

Travelers should avoid demonstrations, which are met with harsh crackdowns, and refrain from photographing sensitive sites. U.S.–Iranian dual nationals face particular danger, including the possibility of detention without consular access.

Healthcare remains accessible in major cities, but emergency services are strained. Evacuation insurance is highly recommended.

Recent visitors have reported stark contrasts—some experienced warm hospitality, while others were detained or had to evacuate early due to escalating conflict.

Overall, Iran in 2025 is not considered safe for tourism. Risk-averse travelers should avoid visiting entirely, while even risk-tolerant tourists should exercise extreme caution.

Resources:
- U.S. State Department Iran Travel Advisory
- Government of Canada Travel Advice
- Australian Smartraveller
- People.com, Wikipedia

Iran has long held a fascination for travelers due to its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. However, as of 2025, Iran poses serious safety concerns that all potential visitors must carefully evaluate before booking a trip.

The political situation has become more volatile following a series of international incidents. In June 2025, military operations between Iran and Israel escalated dramatically, with missile strikes targeting both military and dual-use facilities across Iranian cities. These strikes caused widespread damage, injured civilians, and prompted waves of retaliatory responses throughout the region. In response, Iranian authorities instituted a near-total internet blackout, disrupting communication within the country and preventing travelers from contacting family or accessing embassy information.

For travelers, one of the gravest concerns is the risk of wrongful detention. Iran has a long history of detaining foreign nationals—especially dual citizens—for extended periods under charges related to espionage or political offenses. Governments from the United States, Canada, and the UK have publicly warned citizens to avoid travel. In some cases, individuals were detained for acts as innocuous as photographing buildings, communicating with Western journalists, or attending local protests.

While the country’s cultural sites—such as Persepolis, the bazaars of Isfahan, or the poetry houses of Shiraz—are world-renowned, the risk of being caught in an unexpected situation remains high. Strikes, protests, and economic instability affect transportation systems, accommodation availability, and even access to basic services.

Local law enforcement and the judicial system operate under opaque processes, and travelers accused of crimes have little recourse. Embassies frequently report that their access to detained nationals is restricted or denied altogether. This lack of transparency adds a significant layer of risk for tourists, particularly solo travelers and journalists.

Medical care in major cities such as Tehran or Mashhad is generally adequate for routine treatment, but emergency care access may be hampered during unrest. In rural areas, facilities are much more limited. Travelers are strongly advised to carry international travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. Additionally, there may be shortages of prescription medications due to international sanctions and import issues.

Transportation has also been affected. Flights in and out of Iran have been reduced, and neighboring airspaces—particularly over Iraq and Syria—are subject to closures and reroutes. This can make it more difficult to leave the country quickly in an emergency. On-the-ground transport, including buses and taxis, may be delayed or halted during city-wide strikes.

Travelers should avoid public demonstrations or large gatherings. Even peaceful protests can turn violent or attract arrests. Many travelers have reported being followed, questioned, or asked to hand over devices for inspection. Using VPNs or encrypted messaging services can also raise suspicion. These actions, while standard for many international travelers, may be interpreted as subversive in Iran’s current climate.

Social norms are another critical consideration. Dress codes, gender interactions, and media consumption are tightly regulated. LGBTQ+ travelers face heightened risks due to criminalization of same-sex relationships, and open expression of these identities can lead to arrest.

The hospitality of everyday Iranians remains genuine and warm. Many tourists who visited prior to the escalation in 2025 recall kindness, hospitality, and intellectual curiosity from local residents. Unfortunately, these positive interactions do not eliminate the systemic risks posed by the broader political and security environment.

Solo traveler Donta’ Broussard’s visit to Iran in May 2025 captured some of this duality. In a recent interview, he described being welcomed by locals and enjoying cultural sites before narrowly avoiding the June 2025 bombings that left parts of Tehran damaged. On the other hand, travelers such as Craig and Lindsay Foreman were arrested in January 2025 on ambiguous political charges and have yet to be released. Their case has become emblematic of what human rights groups call “hostage diplomacy.”

As of August 2025, the U.S. government reiterates that it cannot provide consular services in Iran. American citizens traveling there must accept that they may be on their own in the event of detention, illness, or political crisis.

So, is it safe to travel to Iran in 2025?

In short, no. While the nation remains culturally compelling and its people remarkably resilient, the dangers presented by the current climate far outweigh the rewards for most travelers. Unless you have an urgent reason to travel, or you're an experienced crisis-zone journalist, the advice is consistent across the board: do not travel to Iran right now.

Even risk-tolerant travelers should reconsider. The risk of arrest, injury, or getting stranded is substantial. Tourism to Iran should be delayed until regional tensions ease and government advisories change their tone.

For those still considering a visit, consult all relevant advisories, secure emergency insurance, avoid land borders, and create a detailed exit strategy before departure.