Margoon is not a river waterfall — it’s a towering spring that pours in narrow threads, stays icy cold and sits amid orchards and highland air that make it feel otherworldly.
Margoon is something else — a waterfall that ranks at the top among the world’s spring waterfalls and draws visitors from Iran and beyond. If you want to meet a unique natural spectacle without leaving Iran, Margoon is the example. Join me to learn about Margoon’s features and how to plan a visit from SaedNews Travel Magazine.
In lists of spring waterfalls worldwide, Margoon often appears first. This is the tallest spring waterfall on Earth; even in high summer its water temperature remains below 10°C. Unlike most falls that come from rivers, Margoon is spring-fed — water issues directly from mountain springs and plunges to the valley below.
Margoon is about 70 metres high and roughly 100 metres wide. Around the site there are visitor facilities — parking, toilets and shaded pavilions — so tourists can relax without worrying about their vehicle or finding shade.
As noted, there is no single river behind Margoon; several mountain springs feed the cascade. The spring flow is abundant enough that the stream continues toward Sepidan. Located at around 2,200 metres above sea level, Margoon’s climate is cold; in winter the waterfall can form icicles that add to its beauty.
Around the Margoon stream you’ll find apple orchards, hawthorn, barberry bushes and many forest trees — a near-heavenly landscape. Local villagers speak Luri and are known for warm hospitality and welcoming visitors.
You may wonder about the name. Margoon resembles a snake: its water falls in many thin, long strands, not one broad sheet, so locals likened those strands to a serpent — hence Margoon.
Because the region receives substantial precipitation and sits at altitude, Margoon supports plant life not common elsewhere in Iran. Farmers have planted many fruit orchards beside the stream; wild tree species also give the place a rare look. Winters bring mixed rain and snow here, and the average temperature is about 10°C. Be mindful: in severe winter cold the waterfall can freeze.
Margoon’s elevation and water abundance mean the area stays cool. Late autumn and winter bring bone-chilling cold, which may discourage some visitors — though winter icicles can be spectacular. Spring is especially beautiful when orchards and the waterfall are green and flowing; summer is also popular as Margoon is an excellent escape from heat. Choose spring/summer for greenery and running water, or winter for ice formations — but pack warm clothing and basic equipment (e.g., a camping stove) in cold months. In winter check that the village roads are open — heavy mountain snow can block access.
There’s more than one thing to do once you reach Margoon:
Photography — The waterfall and surrounding orchards are prime photo subjects. Exercise caution on wet rocks.
Picnicking — Bring a mat and enjoy a picnic under the trees while listening to the water.
Walking — Follow trails along the stream to enjoy plants and wildlife; you may spot animals coming to drink.
Camping — Flattened camping areas exist for overnight stays beside the river; they make for memorable nights.
Orchard walks — Stroll the local fruit gardens (do not damage trees).
Local authorities have added visitor conveniences: a 24-hour paid parking lot, marked camping sites, separate toilets for men and women, and lighting poles to reduce complete darkness at night.
Margoon lies in northern Fars Province, roughly 130 km from Shiraz — about a two-hour drive after you finish Shiraz sightseeing. The waterfall’s address: 48 km north of Sepidan, near Margoon village.
The access road is mostly paved with a short dirt section suitable for regular cars. You cannot drive to the waterfall’s foot; park in the site parking and walk. The walk from the parking area to the fall is short — about 5 minutes — and comfortably reachable on foot.
Margoon’s surroundings host other sights you can visit with more travel:
Margoon Protected Area — roughly 3,200 m² (registered in 1999) with fauna including brown bear, hyena, goat, fox, wolf, badger and hedgehog; take safety precautions and avoid wandering at night.
Puladkaf Ski Resort — an international piste near the route, reaching about 3,200 m elevation.
Komehr orchards — fruit gardens in the Komahr area fed by Margoon’s river.
Margoon’s beauty is best understood in person. Whether you want green springs in spring or ice formations in winter, Margoon offers a powerful nature experience. If you think I missed anything about Margoon, share it in the comments.
[Image omitted — original included photos of the waterfall, orchards, camping and nearby scenery.]
Item | Detail |
|---|---|
Location | Margoon, ~48 km north of Sepidan, Fars Province (≈130 km from Shiraz) |
Elevation | ~2,200 metres above sea level |
Height / Width |
|
Water source | Spring-fed (no upstream river) — water often <10°C |
Facilities | Paid 24-hr parking, toilets (M/F), camping places, picnic shelters |
Best seasons | Spring & summer (greenery); autumn also pleasant; winter for ice displays (road checks advised) |
Tip | Quick note |
|---|---|
Clothing & gear | Water is cold (<10°C) and altitude is ~2,200 m — bring warm layers even in summer; in winter carry extra warm clothing and basic camping gear. |
When to go | Spring and summer for greenery and comfortable hiking; autumn is pleasant too; winter offers icicles but may have road closures. |
Road & access | Road mostly paved with a short dirt section; park in the site lot and walk ~5 minutes to the fall. |
Facilities | There is paid parking, separate toilets, marked camping areas and lighting posts. |
Wildlife caution | The Margoon protected area hosts wild animals (e.g., brown bear, wolf, hyena) — avoid night wandering and keep food secured. |
Safety advice | In winter verify road openings before departure; use caution on wet rocks near the falls to avoid slipping. |
