Iran

Landscape

Iran is dominated by an interior plateau surrounded and crossed by mountain ranges. The Zagros runs through the west and southwest, while the Alborz rises south of the Caspian Sea. Basins between the mountains include extensive arid land.

The Lut Desert contains striking wind-shaped rock forms and sandy landscapes. In contrast, the southern Caspian margin is relatively wet and supports forest. Coasts on the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman add further environments beyond the central plateau.

Climate & seasons

Much of Iran is arid or semiarid. The Caspian coast is more humid, while elevation produces colder conditions in the mountain ranges.

Water & mountains

Much of Iran has limited rainfall, making mountain catchments and groundwater important. Snowmelt supplies some rivers and valleys. Conditions vary sharply between humid coastal strips, high mountains and dry interior basins.