Road Trips in Afghanistan

Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, is one of the top-rated attractions while travelling around this mountainous country. With such highlights as Kabul Museum, Sultani Museum, National Archive, and Omar Land Mine Museum, the city is a treasure trove of information concerning the country’s eventful and violent past. 

Another interesting place worth visiting is Bamiyan, a Buddhist pilgrimage place historically. Its top-rated attractions are the Buddhas of Bamiyan carved into the side of a towering cliff. These monuments date back to the 4th and 5th centuries AD. 

The beauty of Afghanistan can be further explored through such places as Herat. It was the capital of the Timurid Empire in the past and can boast such stunning landmarks as the Mausoleum of Gowhar Shad, Herat Citadel, and Friday Mosque. Don’t forget to check out the city’s Old Town which will captivate you with excellent architecture. 

When it comes to the northern part of the country, Mazar-i-Sharif is the largest city in this region. From there, it is possible to get to the beautiful area of Samangan. Those who would like to venture into the southern regions of Afghanistan should see Kandahar which dates back to the 4th century BC.

Recommended Road Trips in Afghanistan

• Kabul to Bamyan: This road trip takes you through the heart of Afghanistan, starting in the capital city of Kabul and ending in the remote and historic province of Bamyan. Along the way, you can see the stunning Hindu Kush mountain range, visit traditional villages, and explore the famous Buddhas of Bamiyan, two ancient Buddhist statues carved into a cliff face.

• Herat to Farah: This road trip takes you through the western region of Afghanistan, starting in the city of Herat and ending in Farah. Along the way, you can visit the Citadel of Herat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the rugged mountain scenery and traditional villages of the region. You can also visit the ancient city of Bost, which has a history dating back over 2,000 years.

• Kandahar to Lashkar Gah: This road trip takes you through the southern region of Afghanistan, starting in the city of Kandahar and ending in Lashkar Gah. Along the way, you can visit the historic city of Qalat, which has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its stunning architecture and explore the rugged mountain scenery and traditional villages of the region. You can also visit the city of Zaranj, which is located on the border with Iran and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historic monuments.

Travelling around Afghanistan is not an easy task at all as the government has little control over many parts of this country. With terrorism being a huge problem in most of Afghanistan, it’s best to stay extra cautious while travelling around this place. A rental car can be hired only at major international airports. The road state in many regions leaves much to be desired and the land areas adjacent to many roads are dangerous due to landmines and various explosive devices.

When taking a road trip in Afghanistan, it is important to be aware of the security situation. Afghanistan remains an active war zone and there are ongoing security threats, including attacks by insurgent groups, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and kidnapping. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid travel to areas that are considered to be particularly dangerous.

It is also important to be aware of the road conditions, which can be poor in many areas of the country. Many roads are in disrepair, and travelers should be prepared for long, slow journeys and be equipped with spare tires and other necessary supplies.

Visitors to Afghanistan should also be aware of the local customs and traditions, as some areas may be conservative and travelers should dress modestly and respect the local culture. Additionally, travelers should be aware of the potential for health risks, such as food and water-borne illnesses, and take appropriate precautions.

In general, it is advisable to check the latest travel advice from your government's foreign office before traveling to Afghanistan and to be vigilant and take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

The best time of year to take a road trip in Afghanistan due to weather conditions is typically from May to October when the weather is relatively mild and there is less risk of heavy snow and rain, which can make roads impassable. During these months, temperatures are generally pleasant and the scenery is lush and green.

However, it is important to note that even during the "best" time of year for weather, road trips in Afghanistan can still be challenging due to poor road conditions and ongoing security threats. Before planning a road trip, it is advisable to check the latest travel advice from your government's foreign office and to take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety.