Iranian and Pakistan visa

[Story Leavesley]

Hi folks,

Does anyone have information about an American getting an Iranian and Pakistan visa?

I've been in contact with Magic Carpet Travel in the UK. They've quoted me a price of $300 for the Iranian visa. Plus I have to pre-book my hotels and possibly pay a "guide" for some numbers of days. I may have to take this offer if I can't acquire the visa on my own.

Has anyone been able to get an Iranian visa on their own? Can you advise me on the procedure and time required? And if it's possible, what's the best place to try - Delhi or possibly Bangkok? Or should I just bite the bullet and go with one of these visa agencies? If so, is there a better agency than Magic Carpet (cheaper and/or more certain of getting the visa)?

How about a Pakistan visa? I've read that the Pakistan visa should be easier to acquire. Has anyone recently gotten one in Delhi? What's the procedure and time for this visa?

Thanks for any help. These two visas appear to be the most difficult for me to acquire on my RTW so I appreciate any help.

Story

[Bikesonworldtour]

Hi jab, we just have crossed Iran and Pakistan. We as Germans were often times asked what nationality we were. Some people esp. in Pakistan thought we were Americans and said we are killing their brothers in Afganistan. They hated Americans. It was a scrarry athmo sometimes. But with the right arguments you can stand this. Iran is not that bad. Maybe you want to prepare yourself for these kind of situations. But of course experience comes with practice.
More info? Kai & Ulike
www.bikesonworldtour.de