So, you’ve planned your dream skitrip to Iran, marking every must-see location on your itinerary. But wait, you suddenly realize you’ve overlooked one crucial detail: currency exchange. If you’re heading to Iran, this can be a bit of a puzzle. But don’t fret; we’ve got you covered!
Navigating Currency in Iran: Rial or Toman?
You might have heard of the Rial, the official currency not just in Iran but also in countries like Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Qatar, and Oman. However, these currencies may share a name but are entirely different in terms of banknotes and usage.
In Iran, while the Rial is the official currency used in formal transactions and documents, the locals predominantly use the Toman in everyday dealings. Confused? Here’s a simple trick: Toman has one less zero than Rial. So, if you’re ever puzzled about which is which, just knock off the last zero from the Rial amount, and voila, you’ve got the Toman!
Commonly Used Banknotes and Chek-pul
In today’s Iran, the banknotes you’ll most frequently encounter are 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000, 500,000, and 1,000,000 Rials. Coins are pretty much a thing of the past.
Chek-pul, a form of money check, was initially designed to make it easier to carry large sums of money. However, due to inflation, chek-puls like 500,000 and 1,000,000 Rials have become as common as regular banknotes.
Understanding Exchange Rates in Iran
The exchange rate in Iran can be volatile, so it’s essential to consult reliable sources before making any exchanges. Iran has two types of rates: the Government Official Rate and the Market Rate. Opt for the Market Rate as it’s generally higher.
You can exchange your currency at the airport, banks, or specialized exchange offices known as “Sarrafi.” We recommend the latter, as they offer the most competitive rates. Websites like Bonbast.com can provide up-to-date market rates.
Where to Find Reliable Exchange Offices
You can find trustworthy exchange offices in major Iranian cities like Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Yazd. Your hotel’s reception can also guide you to the nearest and most reliable options. Ofcourse, when you travel with Skioneers, our guides make sure you will have the best rate!
Pro Tips for a Hassle-Free Experience
- Credit cards like MasterCard and Visa are not accepted in Iran, so you’ll need to carry cash.
- If you need immediate cash upon arrival, exchange a small amount at the airport and save the rest for the city where rates are better.
- Always opt for reputable exchange offices for the best rates.
- Don’t exchange money with individuals loitering around exchange offices.
- Limit the amount of cash you carry when you’re out and about.
Skioneers Makes It Even Easier!
During our tours, the Skioneers guide will assist you in exchanging your Euros or Dollars into the local currency, making your trip more comfortable.
Mah Card: Your Travel Debit Card in Iran
Mah Card offers a seamless solution for tourists. You can preload this travel debit card with your preferred currency, which will then be converted into Rials at the market rate. The card can be used at almost all stores in Iran and even allows you to withdraw cash from ATMs. If you lose the card, it can be easily deactivated and replaced, ensuring your money’s safety. However, the rate is often less then dealing in cash.
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide has answered all your questions about currency exchange in Iran. If you have any more queries, feel free to reach out to us. Your feedback is invaluable, so don’t hesitate to leave a comment or share your experiences. Thank you for sticking with us till the end of this article. Safe travels!
