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HomeRoad TripsAsiaCentral AsiaAfghanistanAfghanistan
Afghanistan road

Afghanistan Road Trip

Kabul - Bamiyan - Chaghcharan - Chishti Sharif - Herat - Dizak - Gereshk - Kandahar - Ghazni

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Historical sites Historical sites
Urban life Urban life
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Wildlife Wildlife
Afghanistan Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages9 km1,953 h/stage5.0

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Afghanistan Road Trip in Afghanistan?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,800EUR drive & more 263EUR sleep & more 1,320EUR eat & more 240EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,823EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,623EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 5,400EUR drive & more 350EUR sleep & more 1,980EUR eat & more 360EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,690EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 8,090EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 7,560EUR drive & more 475EUR sleep & more 2,640EUR eat & more 480EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 3,595EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 11,155EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,250EUR drive & more 525EUR sleep & more 550EUR eat & more 240EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,315EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,565EUR
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Afghanistan Road Trip Itinerary

Take the Afghanistan Road Trip and explore the country's diverse landscape and culture. This 10-day trip starts and ends in the city of Kabul, and covers a distance of approximately 2004km. Along the way, you'll visit major towns such as Bamiyan, Chishti Sharif, Dizak, and Kandahar. Bamiyan is home to the famous Buddhas of Bamiyan, two monumental statues carved into the side of a cliff, and the nearby Bamiyan Valley, with breathtaking views of the Hindu Kush mountain range. Chishti Sharif is a holy city, with traditional mud-brick houses and the Shrine of Khwaja Abdullah Ansari. Dizak is a beautiful, rural town surrounded by lush green hills, and Kandahar is the birthplace of the Afghan nation, with a rich cultural heritage. The best time of year to take this road trip is during the spring and fall months, when the weather is mild and the roads are in the best condition. However, be aware that the roads are still partly curvy and narrow, so it's important to drive with caution. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be completed on a budget.
number of days 10 number of days
route length 1,953 km route length
budget low budget
good for survivalist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level extreme accident level

START Kabul

Distance 1,953 km Driving time 44.9 h Pace: slow 449.2 kWh Airports KBL
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Kabul, Afghanistan is the perfect starting point for the Afghanistan Road Trip. Located in the heart of the country, it offers easy access to the rest of the country. The city is full of fascinating sights, from ancient monuments to bustling markets. The most impressive monument in Kabul is the Darul Aman Palace. Built in the early 1920s, it is an impressive example of traditional Afghan architecture. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens and is a great place to explore. The Kabul Museum is another must-see in Kabul. Located in a historic building, the museum houses a collection of artifacts from Afghanistan’s rich history. Its exhibits include religious artifacts, ancient coins, and weapons. The city also boasts several bazaars, where you can purchase traditional Afghan handicrafts and souvenirs. The most popular bazaar is the Kabul Bazaar, which is located in the center of the city. The closest international airport is Kabul International Airport (KBL). From here, car rentals are available, making it easy to explore the rest of the country. Kabul is an exciting city with a lot to offer. It is the perfect starting point for the Afghanistan Road Trip, allowing travelers to explore the country’s fascinating culture and history. With its convenient airport and car rental options, it is easy to get around and explore the city and beyond.

1 Kabul - Bamiyan

Distance 181 km Driving time 4.9 h Pace: slow 41.6 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended scenic road interesting  historic site accommodation options UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Kabul, Afghanistan and ending in Bamiyan! This 181 km journey will take you less than 5 hours to complete and is one of the most beautiful drives in the country. It is recommended to use a 4WD car to make the most of this trip, as parts of the route are on unpaved roads. Along the way, you will have the chance to visit some of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Minaret of Jam and the Buddhas of Bamiyan. This route offers breathtaking views of the Afghan countryside, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenery. You will also come across some historical sites, such as the ruins of the ancient city of Balkh, which is believed to be the birthplace of Zoroastrianism. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an amazing road trip experience!

2 Bamiyan - Chaghcharan

Distance 306 km Driving time 8.1 h Pace: slow 70.4 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended limited number of petrol stations scenic road sections of narrow road interesting  historic site UNESCO World Heritage Site
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip that starts in Bamiyan, Afghanistan and ends in Chaghcharan? This 306km-long journey will take you less than 9 hours to complete, so get ready for an amazing adventure! For this route, we recommend you rent a 4WD car, as some sections of the road can be quite narrow. Keep in mind that gas station availability may be limited, so it's best to fill up when you have the chance. Along the way, you can visit some of the UNESCO Heritage sites, such as the Minaret of Jam and the Buddhas of Bamiyan. Make sure to admire the breathtaking scenery of the Hindu Kush mountain range, and don't forget to take some pictures! At the end of the trip, you will arrive in Chaghcharan, where you can explore the ancient ruins and explore the local culture. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you have an amazing journey!

3 Chaghcharan - Chishti Sharif

Distance 214 km Driving time 6.8 h Pace: slow 49.3 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road limited number of petrol stations scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on an amazing road trip from Chaghcharan to Chishti Sharif! This 214 km journey will take you less than 7 hours, and you will be able to witness some breathtaking scenery. We recommend that you take a 4WD vehicle for this journey as it is the best way to enjoy the winding roads. Be aware that there may be a lack of gas stations along the way, so make sure you plan accordingly. As you drive, keep your eyes open for interesting sights and attractions, such as the ancient hilltop fort in Chishti Sharif. You can also explore the vibrant markets in Chaghcharan and Chishti Sharif. For more information on attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

4 Chishti Sharif - Herat

Distance 177 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: modest 46.1 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road scenic road interesting  historic site
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Chishti Sharif to Herat! This 177 km journey is full of fascinating sites, and can be completed in less than 4 hours. Along the way, you’ll be able to admire the beautiful scenery, as well as explore some of the historical sites. A 4WD car is recommended to make the most of this journey. Begin your adventure in Chishti Sharif and visit the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, the son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. This shrine is a large complex, with a mosque, a tomb, and a small museum. After exploring this site, drive through the desert and stop at the Shrine of Khwaja Abdallah Ansari. This shrine is also known as the Shrine of the Afghan Sultan. Continue your drive and make a stop in the city of Shindand. Here, you can visit the ruins of the ancient city of Zohak, which date back to the 3rd century BC. Next, make your way to the city of Kushk, where you can explore the ruins of Kushan, an ancient city that was once part of the Kushan Empire. Finally, make your way to the city of Herat. Here, you can explore the Citadel of Herat, a fortress that was built in the 11th century. You can also visit the Minaret of Jam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built in the 12th century. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

5 Herat - Dizak

Distance 209 km Driving time 3.3 h Pace: fast 62.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues interesting  historic site
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Are you ready for an incredible road trip that starts in Herat, Afghanistan and ends in Dizak? This 209 km journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete and you will have the opportunity to experience some of the most amazing historical sites in the region. You will start your journey in Herat, a city with a long and rich history. While there, you should visit the Citadel of Herat, the Great Mosque of Herat, and the Shrine of Hazrat Ali. All of these attractions are steeped in history and provide a unique glimpse into the past. Your next stop is the city of Chishti Sharif, where you can visit the Shrine of Khwaja Abu Nasr Parsa. This site is an important pilgrimage site for Sufis and a great place to learn about the culture and history of the region. Finally, you will end your journey in Dizak, which is home to some of the most beautiful mosques in Afghanistan. Be sure to visit the Great Mosque of Dizak and the Shrine of Imam Ali. This is just one stage of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your road trip today!

6 Dizak - Gereshk

Distance 239 km Driving time 4.0 h Pace: modest 62.2 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Dizak to Gereshk? This route is 239 km long and will take you less than 4 hours. You'll be able to visit some of the most interesting places in Afghanistan along the way. Start your journey in Dizak, where you can explore the ruins of the old city, the ancient fortifications, and the beautiful mosque. Then, head to Gereshk, where you can visit the old market, the local museum, and the stunningly beautiful mosque. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore the beauty of Afghanistan on this amazing road trip from Dizak to Gereshk!

7 Gereshk - Kandahar

Distance 126 km Driving time 2.8 h Pace: modest 32.8 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended scenic road sections of narrow road
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Embark on an exciting road trip between Gereshk and Kandahar, two vibrant cities in Afghanistan! The journey is just 126 kilometers and can be completed in less than 3 hours. For this route, a 4WD car is recommended due to some narrow sections of the road. Along the way, you can enjoy the picturesque views of the stunning Afghan countryside. Make sure to stop at the bustling Gereshk market to pick up some souvenirs and explore the ancient ruins of the city. If you’re looking for a fun activity, you can take a camel ride at the nearby oasis. From there, you can continue your journey to the city of Kandahar. Make sure to check out the city’s iconic monuments, such as the Chilzina Monument and the Shrine of the Cloak. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!

8 Kandahar - Ghazni

Distance 350 km Driving time 7.2 h Pace: modest 91.0 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip through Afghanistan? Start your journey in Kandahar and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the country as you drive to Ghazni. This 350km journey will take you less than 8 hours and it is advisable to use a 4WD car for the trip. On the way, make sure to visit the majestic Kandahar Citadel, the former residence of the Afghan kings. The view of the city from the citadel is breathtaking. Additionally, you can also visit the Shrine of the Cloak, a sacred place for Muslims, located in the city. Continue your journey to Ghazni and visit the famous Ghazni Minaret, a 12th century minaret located in the city. Admire the intricate designs on the minaret and take a look at the nearby archaeological site, which is a part of the Ghazni Historical Park. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey and explore the wonders of Afghanistan!

9 Ghazni - Kabul

Distance 150 km Driving time 3.7 h Pace: modest 39.0 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Embark on a fun-filled road trip from Ghazni to Kabul, a journey of only 150km and a driving time of fewer than four hours. This is one of the most interesting stages of your tour, as you will be able to visit some of Afghanistan's most iconic historical sites. A 4WD car is recommended for this route, as it will be able to traverse the country's winding roads. Start your journey in Ghazni, a city known for its ancient citadel and for being the site of the Battle of Ghazni in the 11th century. Visit the Ghazni Citadel, a fortification built by the Ghaznavid dynasty, and the Mausoleum of Sultan Mahmud, a tomb built in honour of the Sultan of the Ghaznavid Empire. Continue your journey to Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan. Visit the National Museum of Afghanistan, located in the old city, and the Kabul Zoo, the largest zoo in the country. Then, explore the ancient ruins of the Kabul Citadel, a fortification built in the 5th century, and the Minar-e-Istiqlal, a tower built in honour of Afghanistan's independence. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Have a safe and happy journey!

  Kabul

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Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan and the end of the "Afghanistan Road Trip", is an ancient city with a rich history. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, with artifacts from the Bronze Age and a long history of rulers, from Alexander the Great to Genghis Khan. Kabul is a great place to explore, with plenty of historical sites, markets, and museums. The Kabul Citadel is a must-see, an ancient fortress with a history stretching back to the 5th century BC. The National Museum of Afghanistan is an excellent place to get a glimpse of the country's art and culture, with artifacts from the Bronze Age to the present day. Kabul also has many bazaars and markets to explore, with a variety of goods and souvenirs. For those traveling by car, the main routes into Kabul are the Kabul-Kandahar Highway, the Kabul-Jalalabad Highway, and the Kabul-Herat Highway. All of these are safe to travel along, and offer stunning views of the Afghan landscape. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Kabul International Airport (KBL), with regular flights to major cities in the region. Kabul is an exciting place to visit, with plenty of history, culture, and sights to explore. Whether you're looking to take in the sights or shop in the bazaars, Kabul is sure to be a memorable part of the "Afghanistan Road Trip".

Afghanistan Road Trip at a glance

Hopefully, our itinerary idea gave you plenty of inspirations for your future travels.
The plan we’ve prepared can be used as a template that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with diverse attractions.
If car travel is a travel option you prefer, there are a number of essential traffic regulations to follow and a number of things to be mindful of to make your road adventure smooth and safe. These tips will also become useful for tourists who are interested in car hire or camper hire.
When on a tour around Afghanistan, there are numerous traffic rules to be mindful of. Alcohol is best to be avoided at all costs while driving. Holidaymakers should remember that the allowed blood alcohol level is very low and is only 0‰. When it comes to driving in urban areas, it is best to never exceed 50km/h. When it comes to rural areas, you should be mindful of the fact that the maximum permissible speed is 80km/h. On motorways, 100km/h is the allowed speed that you should never exceed. Driving with your headlights on at daytime and equipping your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit heavily increase your safety.
The majority of travellers are also interested in the travel expenses of the whole road trip. Well, depending on the budget option that interests you, the money that you have to spend on your travel expenses may differ. Let’s have a look at the budget options.
We estimate that the cheapest option when it comes to fuel to cover the planned 10 stages while travelling around Afghanistan will cost roughly 263 EUR. Within the economy offer, accommodation options will cost around 1,320 EUR. Tourists who go for this option will spend around 240 EUR on restaurants and food. Travellers will have to pay about 1,800 EUR if they go for the cheapest car hire option as well. Thus, going for car rental will increase the expenses of the road trip from approximately 1,823 EUR to approximately 3,623 EUR.
Holidayers who are looking for greater comfort and the standard option will pay about 350 EUR for the fuel needed to cover the itinerary. Cost amounting to 1,980 EUR can be expected by all holidayers who are considering standard accommodation. Travellers can expect that the standard option in terms of restaurants and food will cost around 360 EUR. Travellers who want to cover the trip in a standard hire car should expect a cost of roughly 5,400 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 8,090 EUR for travellers who would like to try car hire and 2,690 EUR for those who are not interested in renting.
Holidaymakers who would like to benefit from the highest level of convenience will be pleased with the premium option. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total about 11,155 EUR for drivers who are considering vehicle hire and 2,690 EUR for those who do not want to rent. Travellers who would like to cover the itinerary in a premium hire car should expect a cost of more or less 7,560 EUR. In the top standard option of the tour, you will pay approximately 475 EUR for fuel. Holidayers who would like to go for top services in all aspects of their tour should expect to pay roughly 2,640 EUR for accommodation and roughly 480 EUR for food and restaurants.
Our trip will also cater to the needs of all camper enthusiasts. If you choose this travel means, you will pay up to around 2,250 EUR. Gasoline to tank a camper for the whole trip will cost more or less 525 EUR. Drivers who opt for camper rental should expect to pay around 550 EUR for overnight stays and roughly 240 EUR for expenses connected with food.
The section Road Trip Costs shows all the mentioned details in a simple way.
The period between June and November is superb to visit the part of Afghanistan described in our adventure idea. There are plenty of thrilling adventures that we offer on our website if you’d like to see other of our road trip opportunities. The broad spectrum of road trips will definitely live up to the expectations of the most demanding holidaymakers.

Facts for safer driving in Afghanistan

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 80 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 100 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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