Iran's natural landscapes are vastly diverse, encompassing lush forests, arid deserts, and rugged mountains.
* **National Parks:** **Golestan National Park** in the northeast is the oldest, featuring a mix of temperate rainforests and semi-arid landscapes. **Kavir National Park** is often called "Little Africa" for its safari-like desert wildlife. * **Wildlife:** Iran is the last stronghold of the critically endangered **Asiatic cheetah** (found in reserves like Turan). Other native species include the Persian leopard, brown bears, and the Persian onager. * **Urban Parks:** Cities are heavily populated with well-maintained public parks. Tehran's **Mellat Park**, **Jamshidieh Park**, and **Laleh Park** serve as vital community gathering spaces for picnics and evening strolls.