Exploring Afghanistan: A Journey Through Its Rich Culture and History
**Travellers should avoid all travel to Afghanistan due to the security situation, terrorist attacks, ongoing armed conflict, risk of kidnapping and high crime rate.
Afghanistan is a landscape of dramatic lush green mountains that become snow-capped in winter, sapphire lakes overflowing into tumbling waterfalls and a wealth of ancient historical and religious sites. Tragically, it nowadays evokes images of war-torn cities, dilapidated buildings and a nation grappling to come to terms with a violent political history and uncertain future.
Afghanistan is an unusual choice of travel destination. But exploring this old and humble land will certainly enrich the lives of those who visit, few and far between as they may currently be. Although some of its famous cultural sites, such as the ancient statues of the Bamiyan Valley, have been damaged or destroyed, there are still fascinating places to explore, including the glorious Band-e-Amir National Park and the Panjshir Mountains north of Kabul. The capital city itself boasts interesting palaces, mosques and markets.
Unfortunately, most governments advise against all travel to Afghanistan as the country is currently considered one of the most dangerous in the world and is the site of ongoing conflict. No part of Afghanistan is considered safe for travel, and those brave enough should be extremely careful to honour the country’s predominantly Muslim beliefs and traditions.
Afghanistan is a country rich in not only culture, but also breathtaking wilderness that hopefully will once again entice intrigued travellers with itchy feet. But until further notice, it seems most foreign visitors to this country will be aid workers or soldiers.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Pashto and Dari are the official languages of Afghanistan, and the most widely spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
The Government of Afghanistan collapsed in August 2021. Since then, all travel to and out of the country has been severely restricted. Borders are closed or may close suddenly. Regular entry and exit requirements may not apply at this time, and they could also change without notice. The situation is volatile and shifts quickly; travellers should avoid visiting to Afghanistan.
- Currency:
The use of foreign currency is banned and payments need to be settled in the Afghan afghani (AFN). Credit cards are not widely accepted for payment and, though some ATMs and banks function, there are restrictions on the levels of cash withdrawals.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 220 to 240 volts, 50Hz. Plugs with either two or three round pins are standard.
Health Notes when travelling to Afghanistan
Diarrhoeal diseases and other gastrointestinal infections are common causes of ill health, with outbreaks of acute watery diarrhoea, measles and other viral infections regularly occuring around the year. The dry dusty conditions in summer and winter can cause irritation to the eyes, throat, nose and skin; malaria is present except in the high mountainous regions of the country and in winter.
Health care is inadequate and may be completely unavailable. If available, health-care facilities are not appropriately sanitised, meaning patients requiring medical treatment for incisions or wounds run a significant risk of infection. Prescription medications are not available.
Safety Notes when travelling to Afghanistan
The security situation is highly volatile and the potential for further attacks remains extremely high. Violent incidents could occur across the country. Travelling throughout the Afghanistan is extremely dangerous, including in Kabul. There are checkpoints on all roads and throughout cities. Some borders are closed or may close without notice; border crossing is risky.
Customs in Afghanistan
Afghanistan is an Islamic country and visitors should be respectful of religious traditions and laws, particularly during the month of Ramadan. Homosexuality is illegal, as is taking pictures of government buildings, military installations and palaces, and the locals don’t always appreciate being photographed either. It’s illegal to buy or export historical antiquities without a receipt from an authorised dealer and travellers may be asked for proof of purchase when leaving the country.
Duty Free in Afghanistan
Visitors may import reasonable quantities of tobacco products and alcoholic beverages for personal use without charge, and there are no restrictions for perfume. Import of film cameras is only possible with a license.
Doing Business in Afghanistan
English is understood by many but not all Afghan business people and, as Afghanistan is an Islamic State, visitors should respect Muslim customs. Women are expected to dress conservatively and have a scarf draped on the shoulders when attending meetings; Western attire is acceptable.
Communication in Afghanistan
The international access code for Afghanistan is +93. It is often cheaper to get a local sim card than to pay international roaming costs. Free WiFi is available in hotels in Kabul.
Tipping in Afghanistan
Tipping is not mandatory nor expected, though it’s always very much appreciated.
Passport/Visa Note
The Government of Afghanistan collapsed in August 2021. Since then, all travel to and out of the country has been severely restricted. Borders are closed or may close suddenly. Regular entry and exit requirements may not apply at this time, and they could also change without notice. The situation is volatile and shifts quickly; travellers should avoid visiting to Afghanistan.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
Nationals of the USA need a passport that is valid for six months at the time of entry, and a visa.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Nationals of Canada need a passport valid on arrival, and a visa.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British nationals need a passport that is valid for six months at the time of entry, and a visa.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Nationals of Australia need a passport valid on arrival, and a visa.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Nationals of Ireland need a passport valid for six months after the period of intended stay, and a visa.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
Nationals of New Zealand need a passport valid on arrival, and a visa.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
Nationals of South Africa need a passport valid for six months after the period of intended stay, and a visa.
Afghanistan Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Afghanistan, Washington: (202) 483 6410
- In Canada:
Afghanistan Embassy, Ottawa: (613) 563 4223
- In the United Kingdom:
The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, London: (020) 7225 4743
- In Australia:
Embassy of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Deakin: (61) 26282 7377
Foreign Embassies in Afghanistan
- American Embassy
Embassy in United States, Kabul: (93) 70 010 8001
- Canadian Embassy
Embassy of Canada, Kabul: (93) 70 110 8800
- British Embassy
British Embassy, Kabul: (93) 0 700 102 000
- Australian Embassy
Australian Embassy, Kabul: (61) 2 6261 3305
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Embassy, Kabul: (93) 700 102 000
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
