Tourist Visa for US citizen

Surely you should believe the word of the people who are actually issuing the visa.

A tour doesn't have to cost $4,000.

But virtually every site on the Web addressing Iranian visas says a friend's invitation works. Nonetheless, what is an inexpensive tour?

Did the letter of invitation come from you friends or from Iran? Your friends are supposed to apply for an invitation letter from Iran. They can't just write you a letter inviting you to come stay with them. Does that make sense?

So they went to the Iranian Foreign Office in Tehran and were told they were missing some paper so they went home, got it, and went back. They were then told that I would have to go through a tour. What is it that they are supposed to request, and can they do it by mail? I still have 2 months' time.

Hm, it's possible they've changed the rules. Maybe try contacting this company to see if they can help? http://www.travisa.com/

They have a section about Iran: http://iran.travisa.com/TVSVisaInstructions.aspx?CountryID=IR&CitizenshipID=US&ResidenceID=US&TravelerTypeID=TO&PartnerID=TA&GLID=AUS

As an american who wanted to visit Iran, i signed up for a group tour with Uppersia for a 6 day trip "Highlights of Iran", the total cost (including single supplement, but not including meals) was $1300. on this trip, which was more upmarket, we stayed in nicer hotels, which would be considered 2- 4 stars. they even have a 8-day budget trip that costs $750.
Uppersia is run by an experienced travel professional, so you know things will go smoothly. the guides i met were younger, well-educated Iranians who are passionate about showing off their countries fascinating history, antiquities and other treasure and introducing to the unique Persian culture to visitors. Our guide, Tiam, had studied archeology which came in handy at numerous historical sites. since the group was small, she was able to improvise our schedule sometimes based upon our group's interest. she also set up a visit to an Iranian family's home that was celebrating a national holiday, which was unforgettable.
Our group consisted of me, two other americans and one Canadian, so the group was small enough to be intimate, but also more dynamic and social than taking a one-on-one private tour. On the private tour(required for US, Canadian and British citizens) you are not hog-tied to your guide and you have have some afternoons and evenings free to explore the iranian city that you are visiting. Check out their numerous tours at uppersia.com

Sweet! I have tour scheduled with Uppersia in March, glad to hear about your positive experience!

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