Cars, Getting Around and Transfers in Qeshm
Qeshm is the largest island in the Persian Gulf and its sights are spread far apart, so without a transport plan much of a trip goes on waiting and travelling. This page summarises how to reach the island and move around it. MyQeshm does not sell cars or transfers itself; to browse and order you continue on QeshmOff.
Reaching Qeshm: ferry, landing craft and airport
Qeshm is not joined to the mainland by a bridge, so the main ways in are by sea and by air. Most visitors cross from Bandar Abbas by ferry or passenger boat, and the crossing is short.
If you bring your own car, it is carried across on a landing craft from Pol port on the mainland side. Departure times and capacity depend on sea conditions and seasonal crowds, so check the day's situation before setting out.
Qeshm also has an airport with passenger flights, a direct option for people travelling from distant cities; take the flight schedule from airlines and official sources.
Passenger ferry
From Bandar Abbas or Shahid Zakeri jetty, for people without a car.
Landing craft
To carry a private car from Pol port; check the day's conditions first.
Qeshm airport
A direct flight for farther travellers; continue by transfer or car after landing.
See departures and route status in the MyQeshm ferry section
Taxis and transfers in Qeshm
Phone taxis and transfers are common in Qeshm and are the easiest way to get between the airport or jetty and your stay, or to make a short tour. For a larger party, a van or bigger vehicle is usually easier than several separate taxis.
To avoid misunderstandings, agree the destination, time and price before getting in, and if your arrival time is fixed, arrange the transfer in advance.
Phone taxi
For short trips inside town and between villages.
Airport and jetty transfer
Timed to your flight or ferry arrival.
Van for groups
For big families and groups of friends travelling together.
Touring the island: your own car, a rental, or a one-day tour
Qeshm's sights are scattered across the island, from the Hara forest and Chahkuh canyon to the Stars Valley, Naz island, the villages of Hengam and Laft and the Dargahan bazaar. Reaching them all on foot, or only by short taxi hops, is hard on a short trip.
There are three common approaches: bring your own car, get a car in Qeshm and drive yourself, or take a one-day tour that arranges the route and driver for you. Each depends on budget, party size and how much you enjoy driving.
With only a few days and no local knowledge, a one-day tour is usually the least hassle; if you stay longer and like the roads, a car gives more freedom. Ask the lessor about rental terms (licence, insurance, deposit) before signing.
The car market in Qeshm
Qeshm is a free zone and its car market is well known: imported cars with free-zone plates and several showrooms operate on the island. QeshmOff has a car-market section that gathers listings and showrooms in one place.
The rules on taking a free-zone plated car to the mainland (clearance, permitted travel, plate changes) have changed over time. This page cannot state them as final; before any purchase contact customs, traffic police or the Qeshm Free Zone organisation, and rely only on official sources.
Tips for driving on the island
- Coastal roads have bends and sand; slow down, and do not assume an unmarked roadside is a safe place to park.
- Some routes are dimly lit or unlit at night; where possible cover distant routes by day.
- Animals, including goats and camels, sometimes cross the road, especially between villages; be ready to brake.
- Fuel stations are not everywhere; fill the tank before heading to remote spots and carry water.
- Wind and heat affect driving and the car; in the hot season check the tyres and coolant.
Frequently asked questions
Can I come to Qeshm in my own car?
Yes. Cars are carried to the island by landing craft from Pol port. Ask port staff about departure times and cost before you go.
Where do I board the landing craft?
Cars normally cross from Pol port on the mainland side. Passenger ferries are separate and leave from jetties such as Shahid Zakeri; confirm each with an official source.
Can I rent a car in Qeshm?
Yes, there are lessors and agencies that provide cars to visitors. Ask about rental terms, licence, insurance and deposit before signing.
What is the status of a Qeshm free-zone plate in Tehran or other cities?
Rules on travelling with and clearing a free-zone plated car on the mainland have changed over time. Get a definite answer only from customs, traffic police or the free-zone organisation.
How do I get from the airport or jetty to my stay?
A phone taxi or a pre-arranged transfer is the usual way. If your arrival time is fixed, arrange it in advance and agree destination and price before leaving.
Are the sights in Qeshm far apart?
They are spread across the island and visiting them all in one day takes planning. Depending on your plans, a car or a one-day tour is easier than hailing a taxi between each stop.
Does MyQeshm sell cars or transfers?
No. MyQeshm is a guide and does not sell or take bookings; go to QeshmOff to see cars, taxis and tours.