Exploring Afghanistan: Navigating Travel Possibilities In A Complex Environment

Afghanistan is a landlocked country in Asia, bordering Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. The country has been in a state of turmoil for the past four decades, owing to major wars and the rise and fall of the Taliban. The security situation in Afghanistan is extremely volatile, with a high risk of terrorist attacks, and the country is considered a war zone.

The US and other countries have issued travel advisories against all travel to Afghanistan. The country is extremely dangerous for tourists, with a high risk of violent crimes, including muggings, burglaries, and carjackings. Women travellers, in particular, are advised against visiting the country due to the conservative cultural and religious beliefs prevalent in Afghanistan. Additionally, there is a heightened risk of arbitrary detention of foreign nationals.

Furthermore, Afghanistan's infrastructure is undeveloped, with about 79% of roads being unpaved dirt roads. Public transportation is often overcrowded and unsafe. Natural disasters such as flooding, earthquakes, snow avalanches, landslides, and droughts are also common due to the country's geographical location and environmental degradation.

Overall, while there may be some safe areas in Afghanistan, the country as a whole is not recommended for tourists due to the high security risks, poor infrastructure, and potential cultural and religious sensitivities.

Safety and security

Afghanistan is a dangerous place to visit, and many governments advise their citizens not to travel there. The country is considered a war zone, with a high risk of terrorist attacks and an overall sense of lawlessness. The security situation is extremely volatile, with the constant threat of the Taliban and other hostile groups. Violent crimes such as muggings, burglaries, and carjackings are common, and the risk increases after dark. Women, in particular, are advised not to travel alone and to avoid remote streets.

If travel to Afghanistan is absolutely necessary, there are several safety precautions that should be taken. It is recommended to avoid staying in or near hotels and to exercise extreme caution in your movements. It is best to fly between cities instead of travelling by road, as the highways are under constant threat by the Taliban. When travelling by road, it is safer to stick to well-worn paths and avoid touching anything that looks suspicious, as landmines and unexploded devices are widespread.

It is also important to be aware of local laws and customs in Afghanistan, which is a Muslim country governed by Sharia law. Women are advised to dress conservatively and cover their legs, arms, and head. During Ramadan, it is considered offensive to eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours. Additionally, it is illegal to import and use narcotics, alcohol, and pork products, and photography of certain buildings and local people is not allowed without permission.

Travellers should also take standard safety precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight, leaving a copy of important documents with someone at home, and obtaining comprehensive travel insurance.

Travel and transport

Afghanistan is a landlocked country in Asia, bordered by Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China. The country has experienced decades of war and political upheaval, resulting in a volatile security situation and widespread poverty. Due to safety concerns, many governments advise their citizens against all travel to Afghanistan, and some embassies have been closed. Here is an overview of travel and transport considerations for Afghanistan:

Air Travel

Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul is the main entry point to Afghanistan. Several airlines offer flights to and from Kabul, including Ariana Afghan Airlines (the national carrier), Safi Airways, Kam Air, Air Arabia, Pakistan International Airlines, Air India, SpiceJet, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Fly Dubai. However, the availability of flights may vary due to the unstable situation in the country.

Road Travel

Afghanistan's road infrastructure is underdeveloped, with approximately 79% of roads being unpaved dirt roads. Travel by road can be dangerous due to the presence of the Taliban, who control many highways connecting major cities. Road travel after sunset is especially risky. It is advisable to fly between cities instead of travelling by road.

Public Transport

Public transportation in Afghanistan is often overcrowded, with people, animals, and goods packed into small spaces on buses and trucks. This mode of transport may not offer a comfortable or safe journey.

Taxis

Taxis in Afghanistan are typically yellow and easily identifiable. Negotiate the fare with the driver before getting into the taxi, as there are no metered taxis in most parts of the country. Fares can vary, but a rough estimate is around AFN50 (USD1) for 2-3 kilometres.

Driving

Driving in Afghanistan is not recommended due to poor road conditions and low driving standards. Most roads are in poor repair, and military convoys and heavily loaded trucks dominate some routes. The standard of driving is generally poor, and most local drivers are uninsured. If you choose to drive, obtain an international driving permit, adequate insurance, and familiarise yourself with local driving practices.

Visas

A visa is required for entry into Afghanistan, and you should ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Visa applications can be made at Afghan embassies or consulates, and some visas may require additional documentation. Visa rules can change, so it is essential to check the latest information before planning your trip.

Safety Considerations

Afghanistan is considered a war zone, and the security situation is extremely volatile. Terrorist attacks, crimes such as muggings and carjackings, and landmines pose significant risks. Women travellers, in particular, should take extra precautions and avoid travelling alone. It is crucial to stay up to date with travel advisories and avoid areas deemed unsafe by official sources.

Local laws and customs

Afghanistan is a Muslim country and an Islamic body of law, Sharia law, is implemented in the regions controlled by the Taliban. This means that certain behaviours and ways of dressing are expected and enforced. During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims are not permitted to eat, drink or smoke during daylight hours. To avoid offence, you should not eat, drink or smoke in public during this time.

Afghanistan is a mostly tribal society with different regions of the country having their own subculture. Despite this, nearly all Afghans follow Islamic traditions, celebrate the same holidays, dress the same, and listen to the same music.

The Taliban has decreed strict codes of behaviour and dress for both men and women. In public places, women are expected to be fully covered, including their faces. Their bodies, arms and legs must be concealed by loose clothing, their hair covered with a headscarf and a veil must cover their face. Men are expected to dress modestly and remain sensitive to Islamic culture. This includes not wearing clothing items such as sleeveless shirts or shorts.

Homosexuality is illegal in Afghanistan and female visitors can face particular issues around security and cultural beliefs. It is forbidden to seek to convert Muslims to other faiths.

You are not allowed to use, or bring into the country, narcotics, alcohol or pork products.

Photographing certain buildings in Afghanistan, including government or Taliban buildings, military installations and palaces is not allowed and may lead to detention. It is also not permitted to photograph local people without their agreement.

Gifts are a common part of Afghan culture. When visiting someone's home for the first time, it is appropriate to bring a small gift. If you are invited to lunch or dinner, bring fruit, sweets or pastries.

The family is the most important unit in Afghan culture. Men and women's roles are much more defined along traditional lines, with women typically taking responsibility for household duties, and men taking the role of breadwinners.

Afghanistan is a dangerous place to visit, with a volatile security situation and a high risk of terrorist attacks. Foreign nationals have been detained without due process, and there is a heightened risk of arbitrary detention.

Visas and passports

Afghanistan is a dangerous place to visit, and many governments advise their citizens not to travel there. The country is considered a war zone, and there is a high risk of terrorism and violent crime. If you do decide to go, you will need a visa and a passport. Here is some information about the requirements for both.

Visas

All visitors to Afghanistan need a visa, except for those born in the country or to Afghani parents. You can apply for a visa at an Afghan embassy or consulate, or online. The type of visa you need depends on the purpose of your visit. Here are some of the visa options:

• Tourist visa: Issued to foreigners coming to Afghanistan for personal reasons or tourism. Usually single-entry and valid for three months, with a one-month authorised stay. Cannot be renewed while in Afghanistan.
• Multiple-entry visa: Issued to foreigners working with organisations or corporations registered with the Afghan government or with ISAF. Valid for six months.
• Official visa: Issued to those holding an official passport. Valid for six months, or for the duration of the stay if less than a year.
• Diplomatic visa: Issued to those holding a diplomatic passport. Valid for one year, or sometimes six months or less.

Passports

Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in Afghanistan. Some sources recommend travelling with a passport that has a longer validity than six months to avoid the risk of it expiring while abroad. Your passport also needs to have at least two blank pages.

Health and safety

Afghanistan is considered extremely dangerous to visit, with many governments advising their citizens not to travel there. The country has been in a state of chaos for the last few decades due to war and conflict, and the security situation is extremely volatile. There is a high risk of terrorist attacks and violent crime, including muggings, burglaries, and carjackings. The risk of crime increases after dark, so it is advised to avoid going out at night. In addition, there is a heightened risk of arbitrary detention of foreign nationals.

If travel to Afghanistan is absolutely necessary, it is important to exercise extreme caution. Here are some health and safety precautions to consider:

• Have adequate and continuous professional close security arrangements and ensure they are regularly reviewed.
• Avoid staying in or near hotels.
• Do not travel to areas of Wuristan, Kabul, and the Khyber Pass, as these are active areas for remaining Taliban fighters, Al-Qaeda, drug lords, gangs, bandits, and tribal warriors.
• Be wary of landmines and other unexploded devices, which are widespread throughout the country. Stick to well-worn paths and do not touch anything that looks suspicious.
• Avoid displaying valuables such as cameras, money, credit cards, or expensive jewelry when out in public.
• Dress modestly and conservatively, especially if you are a woman. Women are advised to cover their legs, arms, and head.
• Do not walk alone at night or in quiet areas.
• Do not leave food or drinks unattended.
• Be cautious when driving in Afghanistan. Most road surfaces are in very poor condition, and the standard of driving is generally poor. Most local drivers are also uninsured.
• Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers all your planned activities, including medical costs, evacuation, and loss of valuables.
• Get necessary vaccinations and be aware of health risks such as respiratory diseases, food-related illnesses, and malaria.
• Bring any prescription medications you need from your home country, as they may be hard to find locally.
• Use bottled water or purify your own water to avoid water-borne illnesses.
• Be prepared for dusty conditions, even in major cities.

Frequently asked questions