South Khorasan, Iran Unveils Hidden Tourism Potential Through FAM Tour of Deyhuk District’s Villages and Cultural Treasures

Published on December 6, 2025

In order to boost local tourism and introduce the hidden gems of South Khorasan province, a group of 15 official tour guides participated in a specialised familiarisation (FAM) tour, which aimed to highlight the Deyhuk district in Tabas. The FAM tour is a tried-and-true method of tourism marketing that gives guides and industry professionals firsthand experience with a destination’s attractions, thereby increasing promotion and awareness. South Khorasan is an Iranian province that, while less well-known than some of its counterparts, provides visitors with a wealth of natural beauty, cultural depth, and history that has largely gone untapped in the global tourism industry.

The tour lasted two days and brought together some of the province’s most experienced tour guides, who were given the opportunity to explore the region’s landscapes as well as its cultural and historical offerings. On the first day of the tour, the guides visited the picturesque tourist village of Nayband, which is known for its hot springs, agricultural fields, and lush palm groves. The village is home to the renowned Dig-e Rostam hot spring, a hidden natural treasure that has the potential to attract both domestic and international tourists looking for therapeutic experiences.

The FAM tour also included a visit to Mokshur Castle, an ancient structure steeped in history, as well as an opportunity to explore the local protected area, which provides a glimpse into the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit the region. This varied itinerary provided the tour guides with an opportunity to experience the region’s natural and historical riches while also learning more about local customs and handicrafts.

On the second day, the focus shifted to Esfandiar village, another stunning gem in the Deyhuk district. Esfandiar, a village known for its ancient terraced houses, water mills, and rich agricultural traditions, was the perfect stop on the FAM tour. The guides were able to witness the intricate craftsmanship involved in local handicrafts as well as the village’s vibrant cultural life, which is frequently overshadowed by more popular attractions. One of the highlights of the trip was the first-ever saffron festival in Esfandiar, which commemorated the region’s historical connection to saffron cultivation. Locals and visitors alike enjoyed the festival, which highlighted the area’s agricultural prowess.

The FAM tour was more than just sightseeing; it also gave the tour guides an invaluable opportunity to share their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for developing tourism in South Khorasan. Following the tours, the guides met to discuss their observations, make suggestions for improvements, and share ideas on how to better promote the province’s tourism assets. The collaborative nature of this meeting was an important step in developing sustainable tourism strategies for the area, ensuring that the region’s tourism potential can be realised in a way that benefits local communities.

The Significance of FAM Tours in Boosting Rural Tourism

The concept of FAM tours is not a new one in the tourism industry, but its importance cannot be overstated, especially in lesser-known destinations like South Khorasan. These tours allow tourism professionals to immerse themselves in a region, gaining a genuine understanding of its attractions, services, and potential for growth. Through the experiences of these professionals—ranging from tour leaders to travel bloggers—the region’s unique qualities can be promoted to a wider audience. The guides who participated in this tour are in the perfect position to share their firsthand experiences with tourists, effectively becoming ambassadors for the region.

In the case of South Khorasan, the FAM tour served as a critical tool for raising awareness about the region’s potential for sustainable tourism. As tourism experts, the guides not only discovered the beauty of the area but also observed the challenges faced by local communities in terms of infrastructure, services, and the preservation of cultural heritage. This knowledge allows them to give informed recommendations to tourists, ensuring that their experiences in South Khorasan are authentic and enriching.

By introducing South Khorasan’s tourism potential to a select group of experts, the provincial tourism authorities are taking a crucial step towards increasing domestic tourism and attracting foreign visitors. Given the province’s diverse offerings, from historical sites to natural attractions, the future of tourism in South Khorasan looks promising, provided that the area’s unique identity is preserved and promoted in a sustainable manner.

Tourism Development in South Khorasan: Challenges and Opportunities

While South Khorasan has much to offer, its tourism infrastructure is still in the early stages of development. Unlike more established tourist destinations, the region has yet to capitalize on its potential to attract international tourists. However, this presents an exciting opportunity for those willing to explore the path less travelled. With the support of the government and local communities, the region can position itself as a unique cultural and adventure tourism destination.

The FAM tour has provided crucial insights into how South Khorasan can attract more visitors while maintaining its authenticity. For example, Esfandiar village, with its terraced houses and traditional water mills, could become a hub for cultural tourism, attracting visitors interested in rural life, history, and the arts. Similarly, Nayband’s hot springs and lush landscapes offer opportunities for wellness and ecotourism, which are growing sectors in the global travel industry.

Efforts are also underway to improve accessibility, accommodation options, and visitor services to ensure that South Khorasan becomes a more attractive destination for both domestic and international travelers. By addressing these challenges and promoting sustainable tourism, the region could become a key player in Iran’s tourism sector, drawing visitors seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

A Bright Future for South Khorasan’s Tourism

The FAM tour of South Khorasan was critical in revealing the untapped potential of the Deyhuk district and its villages. This initiative has brought the region’s tourism assets into sharper focus, enabling the development of tailored strategies to promote local heritage, natural beauty, and cultural traditions. As tourism professionals share their experiences and insights, South Khorasan is expected to become a popular destination for travellers seeking authenticity, adventure, and cultural immersion in Iran.

By encouraging collaboration among local stakeholders, tourism experts, and the community, the region is making significant progress towards establishing a sustainable and thriving tourism industry. With its distinct blend of history, nature, and culture, South Khorasan is poised to become one of Iran’s most exciting emerging destinations.