Iran eco-tourism operators warn of closures as travel dries up

June 12, 2026 - 11:25

Eco-tourism operators across Iran are sounding the alarm over a sharp downturn in travel, warning that many businesses may be forced to shut their doors. Hoteliers, lodge owners, and tour guides report empty rooms and mounting financial losses as rising living costs make domestic travel unaffordable for most households.

The crisis has deepened over recent months, with operators in rural and desert regions hit hardest. These areas rely heavily on seasonal visitors seeking nature-based experiences, but bookings have dried up even during peak periods. Some businesses have already cut staff, and others say they are under growing pressure to lay off more workers just to stay afloat.

Industry insiders point to a combination of factors: soaring inflation, stagnant wages, and a sharp drop in foreign tourists due to geopolitical tensions and visa restrictions. Even domestic travelers, once a reliable source of income, are now prioritizing basic needs over leisure trips. A lodge owner in the Zagros Mountains described the situation as unsustainable, noting that many small operators are now operating at a loss just to keep their doors open.

Without a significant change in economic conditions or government support, the sector faces a wave of closures. For now, eco-tourism in Iran remains a fragile industry struggling to survive.