Small Group • 12 Days • Multi-city
12-Day Afghanistan Group Tour
12 days
Full loop
1–12
Guests per group
4 flights
Time-saving
All in
Guides • Meals • Permits
The world has few places left that still feel like a true adventure. Afghanistan is one of them — a land of breathtaking beauty, ancient history, and warm, resilient people. This is your chance to experience it — safely, comfortably, and with a small group of like-minded explorers.
From Kabul to Herat, Kandahar, Bamiyan, Balkh and Mazar — a carefully crafted route that blends history, culture, mountains and markets, with every detail handled so you can simply enjoy the journey.
Recent groups on the road
🔥 Why This Tour Sells Out Fast
Join us for an unforgettable 12-day journey through Afghanistan — a carefully crafted adventure that blends history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, with every detail planned so you can simply enjoy the experience.
- All the Highlights in One Trip — From Kabul’s shrines to the Blue Mosque of Mazar, Bamiyan’s cliffs to the lakes of Band-e Amir.
- Safe, Well-Organized Travel — Trusted local partners, experienced guides, and private transport.
- Small Group Energy — Limited spots for a more personal, friendly atmosphere.
- Domestic Flights Included — Save time and energy, see more in fewer days.
- Deep Cultural Immersion — Meet locals, share tea, visit markets, and hear real stories.
- Expert Tour Leaders — Travel with people who know the land, history, and culture intimately.
- No Guesswork — All permits, hotels, and arrangements are taken care of.
👥 Who This Tour is For
Our 12-Day Afghanistan Group Tour takes you beyond headlines and into the heart of the country — meeting its people, exploring its history, and discovering its beauty in a safe, well-organized, and unforgettable way.
Step into a land where ancient empires rose and fell, caravans crossed the Silk Road, and traditions remain as vibrant as the mountains and deserts that surround them.
This isn’t for everyone. But if you…
- Feel bored with the same touristy destinations everyone else is posting on Instagram.
- Want to see a place the news never shows in its full beauty.
- Crave the thrill of exploring ancient cities, untouched valleys, and vibrant markets.
- Love meeting people with real stories and proud traditions.
…then this is for you.
Map of Your Journey 🗺️
Itinerary — Day by day
Day 1 — Welcome to Kabul
After landing in Kabul from Dubai in the early morning, our team will be waiting at the airport to welcome you. We’ll transfer to the hotel so you can freshen up before we start our first exploration. At 11:00, we begin with Sakhi Shrine, a deeply important religious site where you’ll see locals praying and paying respects. Our path then takes us to the Shah Do Shamshira Mosque, an unusual two-story mosque with a European-inspired façade, built in memory of a legendary Arab general. Wandering through the Bird Market, you’ll hear the sounds of caged finches, parakeets, and doves, continuing a Kabul tradition that has existed for generations. We end with the Timur Shah Durrani Mausoleum, final resting place of the ruler who made Kabul Afghanistan’s capital in the 18th century. Walking these streets is like opening the first page of a living history book. You’ll experience the spiritual atmosphere of shrines, the hum of everyday life in the market, and the grandeur of royal history. Your first impressions will be a blend of bright colors, warm smiles, and the scent of fresh bread drifting from roadside bakeries.
Day 2 — Herat, Jewel of the West
After breakfast, we head to Kabul airport for our flight to Herat, once a jewel of the Silk Road. Our first stop is the Malan Bridge, an ancient crossing that has carried caravans for centuries. At the Herat Citadel, originally built by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BCE, you’ll walk the same walls where Timurid rulers once looked over the city. The National Museum reveals layers of history through pottery, manuscripts, and weapons. The Friday Mosque, with its blue-tiled courtyards, offers an unforgettable view of Islamic artistry, followed by a stroll through the city’s bustling market. In Herat, you’ll sense the mix of Persian, Central Asian, and Afghan influences. The air is filled with the scent of saffron, the sound of merchants bargaining, and the sight of centuries-old tilework glowing in the sun. It’s a perfect place to see how trade and faith have shaped Afghan identity.
Day 3 — Sufi Saints & Buddhist Echoes
We start the day at the Tomb of Khwaja Abdullah Ansari, a revered 11th-century Sufi poet whose writings still inspire many. Nearby lies the Tomb of Mirwais Sadiq Khan, a modern memorial that speaks to Herat’s more recent history. Late in the morning, we head to the airport for our return flight to Kabul. Upon arrival, we visit the Shewaki Buddhist Stupa, a 1st–2nd century Kushan-era monument that reminds us of Afghanistan’s role in the spread of Buddhism. The contrast between Islamic shrines and Buddhist relics in one day offers a powerful sense of Afghanistan’s layered past. From the quiet courtyards of a Sufi master to the windswept hill where Buddhist monks once gathered, you’ll witness the country’s remarkable cultural crossroads.
Day 4 — Kandahar: Birthplace of a Nation
Today we fly south to Kandahar, a city central to Afghanistan’s modern history. We begin with the Ahmad Shah Durrani Mausoleum, honoring the founder of the Afghan state in 1747. The Mirwais Hotak Shrine recalls the leader who rose against Persian control in the 18th century. We’ll pause at the Red Mosque, known for its striking color and design, before climbing Chihil Zina, a rock-cut staircase offering panoramic views and Mughal-era inscriptions. Kandahar’s atmosphere is both historic and proud. Walking here feels like stepping into the birthplace of Afghan identity, where stories of unity and resistance echo through the landmarks. You’ll feel the warmth of local hospitality and see the resilience that defines the city.
Day 5 — Return to Kabul
We spend the morning in Kandahar, leaving time for relaxed exploration or photography before heading to the airport. Our midday flight returns us to Kabul, where the afternoon is free to rest or explore at your own pace. This slower day is a chance to recharge, reflect on what you’ve seen so far, and prepare for the road journey ahead. It’s also a good time to enjoy a casual tea in a local chai khana (tea house) or walk through nearby shops.
Day 6 — Ghazni Towers to Bamiyan
Our drive begins toward Ghazni, once the capital of a powerful Islamic empire. We visit the 12th-century minarets, beautifully decorated with intricate brickwork, and the Ghazni Citadel, a stronghold that has guarded the city for centuries. At the Military Open Air Museum, you’ll see Soviet-era tanks and equipment, reminders of Afghanistan’s more recent conflicts. We then continue into the mountains, reaching Bamiyan by evening. The day’s journey shows Afghanistan’s diversity — from the plains of Ghazni to the mountain valleys of Bamiyan. It’s a mix of medieval grandeur and raw, modern history, ending in a region famous for its natural beauty and ancient Buddhist heritage.
Day 7 — The Lost Cities of Bamiyan
We explore Zuhak Ancient City, a red-clay fortress overlooking the Silk Road, and Gholghola, a city destroyed by Genghis Khan in 1221. In the Kakrak Valley, you’ll see Buddhist cave paintings over 1,000 years old. The day’s highlight is the site of the Ancient Buddhas, colossal statues carved in the 6th century, tragically destroyed in 2001. We end with tea in a local cave house, meeting a Bamiyan family. This day connects you deeply with Bamiyan’s history — from Mongol invasions to the peaceful rhythm of rural life. The views, the stories, and the human encounters here create lasting memories.
Day 8 — Band-e Amir’s Blue Lakes
A 4WD drive takes us to Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan’s first national park, with six deep-blue lakes surrounded by cliffs. Local legend says the lakes were created by Hazrat Ali. Returning to Bamiyan, we explore the market and visit an English school, meeting students eager to share their dreams. This is a day of nature and community. You’ll see landscapes that feel almost unreal, then return to the warmth of Bamiyan’s people — a reminder that beauty here is both natural and human.
Day 9 — Takht-i Rustam to Mazar
We leave early for Takht-i Rustam, a rock-carved Buddhist stupa and monastery from the 4th–5th century. Nearby, the Cave Bazaar shows how ancient trade routes once passed through here. By evening, we arrive in Mazar-e-Sharif. The journey blends archaeology and travel across changing landscapes. Standing at Takht-i Rustam, it’s easy to picture the monks and traders who once passed this way.
Day 10 — Balkh & Mazar
We travel to Balkh, known as “The Mother of Cities.” Here we visit the Khoja Parsa Mausoleum, Bala Hisar fort, and the No Gombad Mosque, Afghanistan’s oldest mosque from the 9th century. Back in Mazar, the Blue Mosque dazzles with turquoise tiles, while the Baba Mazari Mausoleum and bazaar offer both reflection and lively street life. This is a day of contrasts — ancient ruins, sacred shrines, and the pulse of a modern Afghan city. The colors, history, and energy of Mazar will stay with you.
Day 11 — Kholm Palace & Flight
A short trip takes us to Bagh-e Jahan Nama Palace in Kholm, a 19th-century royal retreat surrounded by gardens. We return to Mazar for our flight to Kabul, with the evening free. It’s a gentle day, giving you time to enjoy one last taste of northern Afghanistan’s charm before returning to the capital.
Day 12 — Farewell Afghanistan
We visit the National Museum of Afghanistan, home to treasures from across the country’s history. The Gardens of Babur offer peace and greenery, as well as the tomb of the first Mughal emperor. Finally, we see the Id Gah Mosque, one of Kabul’s largest and most important. After lunch, we head to the airport for our flight to Dubai. It’s a fitting farewell — history, beauty, and reflection before leaving a country that has shared so much over the past days.
What’s Included in the Tour Package
This all-inclusive package is designed for a smooth, enriching travel experience:
Airport Transfers and Accommodation
- Meet-and-greet service at Kabul Airport for a stress-free arrival.
- Accommodation in shared double/twin (single supplement available), well-rated hotels with daily breakfast included.
Private Transport and English-Speaking Guide
- Private transport (sedan or van) with a professional driver for all transfers.
- Full-time local guides to provide cultural and historical insights throughout the tour.
Domestic Flights
- Round-trip flights between Kabul and Herat for your convenience.
Band-e Amir 4WD Adventure
- A thrilling off-road day trip to Band-e Amir National Park, featuring breathtaking blue lakes.
Meals and Entry Fees
- Lunches and soft drinks at local restaurants.
- Entry tickets and photo permits for all attractions included in the itinerary.
Government Permits
- All necessary tourist permits and government taxes included.
Tour Pricing
Price Per Person (USD): $2,500
During the low season, it’s possible that you might be the only participant in the group.
All participants are provided with a shared room with a bathroom. If you prefer to private room, we apply a single room supplement at an extra cost. If you’re traveling with someone and would like to share a room, please let us know if you prefer a room with two single beds or one with a larger double bed.
Accommodation:
- Kabul » Khyber Hotel
- Herat » Sadaf Hotel
- Kandahar » Continental NFC Hotel
- Bamiyan » Bamyan Royal Hotel
- Mazar-e-Sharif » Arsalan Guest House
Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s included in the price? The price covers accommodations, domestic flights, guides, transportation, meals (breakfast and lunch), sightseeing fees, and taxes.
- Are there guaranteed departures? Yes! The tour departs every month, ensuring availability year-round.
- Can I travel solo? Absolutely. Solo travelers are welcome and will enjoy the same high-quality experience.
- Last-minute changes: Please keep in mind that the itinerary could be subject to change due to factors like weather conditions, temporary security updates, flight delays, or last-minute logistical adjustments. If, by any chance, there is a last-minute Herat flight cancellation, we will substitute the itinerary with a day trip to Panjshir Valley on Day 2 » 6:30 » Kabul » Panjshir Valley (Khwaja, Rukha, Mahalah) » Kabul and a day trip to Jalalabad on Day 3 » 6:30 » Kabul » Tang-e Gharu Gorge » Sorubi Valley » Jalalabad city tour (King Amanullah Khan Mausoleum, Seraj-ul Emorat Gardens, Hada Museum, Bazaar) » Kabul.
Are you ready?
“Most people will only see Afghanistan in the news. You can see it in person. Join this journey and experience a country that will change the way you see the world — forever.”
