Bewitching Shidvar Island protecting nature, promoting sustainable tourism
There are numerous islands in Hormozgan Province, including Lavan, Hendurabi, Larak, Abu Musa, Kish, and Qeshm, which are well-known for their tourism and recreational opportunities within the Middle East. However, among these, there is a small island covering an area of just one square kilometer called Shidvar, or Marou, renowned for its pristine condition and being an ideal destination for a one-day excursion.
This untouched island is situated approximately 1.5 kilometers from Lavan Island and is part of the Shibkuh district of Bandar Lengeh. Visits are permitted only in groups and require prior approval from the local Department of Environment, IRNA wrote.
Since the island has no air or rail connections, reaching it involves traveling by road from Bandar Abbas, heading roughly 358 kilometers west towards Bandar-e Moqam. From there, visitors can take a boat to Marou Island.
Fauna
The island is a protected wildlife refuge, home to various species including hawksbill turtles that lay eggs there, along with seabirds such as terns. Because bird nesting occurs in May and June, it is highly recommended to plan visits during this period. To observe turtle nesting, you can take an early morning boat trip to explore the beaches. Dolphins and sharks are also frequently seen around the island.
Furthermore, the island hosts several venomous snakes, notably rattlesnakes, which have led locals to refer to the island as Maran or Marou (Mar means snake in Persian). Safety precautions are advised when exploring the area.
Flora
Marou Island is inhabited by a variety of salt-tolerant plants that are resistant to drought, some reaching heights of up to one meter. Portions of the rocks and cliffs are also covered with moss and green algae, which, during cooler months, adorn the beaches with a lush appearance. As temperatures increase, these algae change color and dry out.
A significant portion of the island is covered by the Shidvar Wetland, which has been registered as one of Iran’s Ramsar international wetlands. The island remains uninhabited and features sandy beaches approximately 200 meters long. Walking along the shoreline, climbing small hills, and observing the unique flora and fauna are among the most attractive aspects of ecotourism on the island.
Activities such as diving, swimming, and walking are especially enjoyable in pleasant weather and away from noise pollution, offering visitors a tranquil experience. Additionally, fishermen operating around the island often sell fresh fish, which can be grilled in nature over a campfire, adding to the outdoor experience.
Another highlight of Marou Island is the lighthouse, which visitors can ascend to enjoy panoramic sea views and watch the sunset.
Important recommendations:
Avoid approaching nesting sites during bird migration periods.
Turtles lay their eggs exclusively on this island. Your presence near nesting sites can cause stress to the animals and may prevent them from returning in future seasons.
Refrain from collecting soil from the island.
Minimize your environmental impact by limiting your presence, as there are no facilities for extended stays.
Do not leave litter behind, including plastic bags and other waste.
For leisure, it is best to visit from mid-fall to late winter. Since turtles lay their eggs in May, access to the island is restricted during that period.