Grand Afghanistan Autumn Tour

Tuesday 29th September – Dubai, UAE – Kabul, Afghanistan

Morning

• We can assist with arranging your Afghan tourist visa collection in Dubai on Monday 28th September, and we recommend booking and boarding Kam Air flight RQ902 departing from Dubai at 3:05am and arriving into Kabul at 6:15am.
• On arrival, meet our guides at the airport and be transferred to our guest house.
• Pre-tour meeting held at our guest house at 9:30am, you’ll have tea followed by a briefing with your guides. This includes local customs and laws. Please remember that during the tour your guides have the final say, this is for your own and the group’s safety.
• In light of Afghanistan’s long and devastating conflict, particularly the years of war involving the US and other forces, we’ll visit the OMAR Landmine Museum – run by the Organization for Mine Clearance and Afghan Rehabilitation. This important museum offers a sobering look at the deadly legacy of landmines that continue to affect the country. On display are 51 different types of landmines and various pieces of military hardware, illustrating the wide range of explosive devices that have been used in the region. The museum serves as both an educational centre and a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges Afghanistan faces in rebuilding and ensuring safety for its people.

Afternoon

• We’ll have lunch at a local spot in Kabul, here’s a perfect way to people watch and embrace the adventure ahead.
• Visit the Kabul Museum – no trips to Kabul complete without visiting which is considered one of the finest despite many artefacts being destroyed and looted. The collection spans over several millennia and is the perfect example of various civilizations and cultures that settled and thrived in the region.
• Next, we visit Darulaman Palace, the former residence of the Emir and King of Afghanistan – Amanullah Khan. The palace architecture is built in a European neoclassical style and was heavily damaged during the 1990s civil war, thankfully it was fully restored to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Afghan independence.
• We’ll continue to explore Kabul further by visiting Bibi Mahru Hill – many local residents come here to relax and pass time. The hill has an Olympic size swimming pool built by the Soviets, however during the war the site had a more sinister side to it where executions took place.
• Once we’re ready we’ll head to a local restaurant and try some popular local cuisines that Kabul has to offer – we recommend trying Kabuli pulao.
• Overnight stay in Kabul

Wednesday 30th September – Kabul – Herat

Morning

• Early morning start with breakfast at our guest house before our flight to Herat.
• Once we arrive in Herat we’ll check into our hotel and start exploring the city which is heavily influenced by being the heart of intellectual and artistic life in the Islamic world during the Timurid dynasty.
• We’ll visit the Great Mosque of Herat – the impressive bright coloured mosque has survived many foreign powers residing in the region.
• Afghanistan has a history of conflict – we’ll visit the Jihad Museum and learn about the past conflicts, which is important as the younger generations are unaware why the Afghans fought the Soviets

Afternoon

• After a busy morning, we’ll head out for lunch at a local restaurant.
• We’ll make the most of our time in Herat and continue to explore the old town having opportunities to take photos.
• Afghanistan previously had major trade routes steaming from the Silk Road bringing traders and travellers alike would often find refuge in Caravanserai – these were often located in rural areas. We’ll come and relax in Herats Caravanserais like those weary travellers back in the day.
• After a busy day with an early start, we’ll have dinner in Herat
• Overnight stay in Herat

Thursday 1st October – Herat

Morning

• Early morning start; we’ll have breakfast at our hotel before we head out to explore more of Herat.
• We’ll explore the Herat Citadel – also known as the Citadel of Alexander, one of the most iconic and imposing landmarks in the city. Originally believed to have been founded by Alexander the Great himself during his campaign through the region in 330 BC, the fortress has been rebuilt and expanded multiple times over the centuries by various empires, including the Timurids.
• We’ll also visit the Musalla complex where five Minarets are still standing, unfortunately major parts of the complex were damaged or destroyed during the 1885 Panjdeh incident and with the war and natural disasters further damaged has occurred.

Afternoon

• We’ll stop for lunch downtown. A perfect spot to sample some authentic southern Afghan cuisine – try the famous Kandahari Kabab, tender lamb grilled over open flames with a flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and soft in the middle.
• Visit the Gawhar Shad Mausoleum – more commonly known as the Tomb of Baysunghur. The royal tomb was built in the 15th century for the final resting place for family members of the Timurid dynasty.
• Next we’ll visit one of Afghanistan holiest sites, The Shrine of Khwaja Abd Allah – locally known as Gazur Gah. The famous site and final resting place for Abdullah Ansari who was a Muslim Sufi saint renowned for his poetic talents.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Herat

Friday 2nd October – Herat – Kandahar

Morning

• After breakfast at our hotel in Herat, we begin the long but visually striking journey southeast toward Kandahar – Afghanistan’s second-largest city and a place of deep political, historical, and cultural significance. Known today as the de facto headquarters of the Taliban, Kandahar has long played a central role in the country’s modern narrative.
• The drive itself is an experience, cutting through vast stretches of desert, rugged mountain passes, and remote villages that offer an unfiltered view of rural Afghanistan. It’s a lengthy road trip, so we’ll break up the journey with refreshment stops in small towns and scenic pullovers ideal for photography.

Afternoon

• We’ll stop at a settlement and have lunch before we continue our journey onwards
• Arrive into Kandahar – originally called Alexandria in Arachosia when it was founded by Alexander the Great.
• After a long day on the road, we’ll settle in Kandahar with a well-earned dinner, tonight is your chance to try local specialties like Kandahari Kabuli Pulao – rice cooked with tender lamb, raisins, and spices.
• Overnight in Kandahar

Saturday 3rd October – Kandahar

• Breakfast at the hotel and head to the Forty Stairs – known locally as Chil Zena. A historic site perched on a rocky hill overlooking the city. The site takes its name from the stone staircase carved into the hillside, leading to a commanding viewpoint and an ancient rock inscription. This site marks the eastern extent of Emperor Ashoka’s Mauryan Empire, with an inscription in Greek and Aramaic dating back to the 3rd century BCE – a rare testament to his rule in the region. Centuries later, the site fell under destruction by Nader Shah, the Persian conqueror who left his mark across much of Afghanistan. The view from the top offers not just sweeping panoramas of Kandahar, but a chance to reflect on the layers of empires that have risen and fallen across this landscape.
• We’ll visit the Ahmad Shah Durrani Shrine – the most important historical and deeply revered site for Afghans across the country. This striking blue-domed mausoleum is the final resting place of Ahmad Shah Durrani, also known affectionately as Ahmad Shah Baba – the “Father of the Nation.” From 1747 to 1772, he ruled a vast empire from Kandahar, laying the foundation for modern Afghanistan after uniting the Pashtun tribes and expanding his domain into what is now parts of Iran, Pakistan, and India.

Afternoon

• We’ll find a nice quiet spot to have lunch at a local restaurant where we can try some Pashtun cuisines – we definitely recommend trying Chapli kabab or Aushak (suitable for vegetarians).
• Visit Mirwais Hotak Shrine – another significant historical and cultural landmark in Kandahar. Mirwais Khan Hotak was a powerful Afghan tribal leader from the Ghilji Pashtun tribe and the founder of the Hotak Dynasty in the early 18th century. Often referred to as Grandfather Mirwais, he’s remembered as a national hero for leading a successful revolt against the Safavid Empire and establishing Afghan independence in the region.
• No trips to Kandahar complete without visiting the local bazar, here you can find locals trading textiles, fruits and tobacco.
• As there are many food options to choose from in the bazaar we’ll go by the recommendation by our local team for dinner.
• Overnight stay in Kandahar.

Sunday 4th October – Kandahar – Kabul

Morning

• Enjoy a leisurely morning with breakfast at our hotel before catching our flight to Kabul
• On arrival we’ll check in to our hotel before heading out to explore the capital.
• We begin our tour by visiting the city’s famous bird market. Tucked away in a narrow alley of the old city, this bustling market is one of the oldest in Kabul and offers a fascinating glimpse into Afghan daily life and traditions. Bird cages line the pathways, filled with everything from humble pigeons to rare and exotic songbirds, with prices ranging from just $1 to well over $1000. For many Afghans, bird keeping is a cherished hobby that reflects both patience and pride. In the past, cockfighting was a popular, but it has since been officially banned.

Afternoon

• Our local guide will take us to a restaurant located near the markets, here we can enjoy some traditional cuisines and relax.
• Experience the Babur’s Gardens, an oasis of tranquillity tucked away from the busy city life of Kabul. The garden was built to house the tomb of the founder and first Mughal emperor – Babur established his rule in present day India after his victory in first Battle of Panipat. Despite the significant influence Babur had on the Indian subcontinent locals come here to relax and play in the park not realising who lays here.
• Visit the Sakhi Shah-e Mardan Shrine – a well-known mosque, where Mohammed’s cloak is said to have been brought.
• We’ll head out for dinner and share our highlights of the day.
• Overnight stay in Kabul

Monday 5th October – Kabul – Bamian

Morning

• A hearty breakfast at our guesthouse followed by an early departure, our 180km journey to Bamiyan – also referred to as Bamyan or Bamian. Your road trip will take you north across the Shomali Plains passing over the Shibar Pass (3285m). We’ll make stops along the way to pick up supplies and stretch our legs and of course to enjoy the breath-taking scenery.

Afternoon

• We’ll have lunch along the journey, and we’ll have time to relax.
• Onwards we’ll pass by the watershed of the Indus and Oxus River systems where we can stop for a photo opportunity before finally reaching Bamiyan.
• Visit Soviet-era tanks abandoned during the withdrawal of the Red Army in the late 1980s. These rusting relics of the Soviet-Afghan War now stand as haunting yet fascinating landmarks. Many are adorned with graffiti, serving as stark reminders of Afghanistan’s turbulent history. Their presence in the peaceful Bamiyan landscape offers a surreal juxtaposition of past and present.
• We’ll take a short hike to a former Taliban lookout post and take some photos and enjoy the vantage point.
• Drive out to the Valley of the Dragon ‘Darya Ajdhahar’ – this massive rock formation is alleged to be the remains of a dragon that persecuted the villagers until Hazrat Ali, the cousin and son- in-law of the Prophet Mohammed killed it. The story is reminiscent of St George and the Dragon.
• Check into our hotel and head out to dinner.
• Overnight in Bamian.

Tuesday 6th October – Bamian

Morning

• Breakfast at the hotel and a great chance to catch locals doing their morning routines.
• We’ll take a short drive to the base of the Shahr-E-Golgola also known as the ‘City of Screams’. Genghis Khan sent out his grandson with an army to capture Bamiyan, the people bravely resisted and killed Genghis’s grandson. Genghis was enraged and besieged and destroyed Golgola in 1221. We’ll also climb the remains of Shah-e Zohak – the red fort where you can get an amazing view overlooking the valley.

Afternoon

• We’ll have lunch here and try some of the cuisines that the locals are enjoying.
• A genuine highlight of our tour will be visiting the Buddhas of Bamiyan – magnificent monumental statues carved directly into the cliffs around the 6th century. These towering figures stood as silent witnesses to centuries of changing empires and cultures that passed through Afghanistan, embodying the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. In March 2001, the statues were destroyed by the Taliban. Today, the empty niches remain a powerful symbol of resilience.
• Head into the Bazaar for some souvenir shopping and interacting with the friendly local community!
• Dinner in town and overnight in Bamian

Wednesday 7th October – Bamian – Band-e-Amir National Park – Kabul

Morning

• Early departure for a scenic drive to Band-e Amir, we’ll make stops along the way to stretch our legs and pick up supplies.
• Once we arrive to Band-e Amir National Park the first think you’ll notice is the high peaks of the Hindu Kush and the stunning turquoise lakes.
• You can enjoy the lake more by getting a swan shaped paddle boat – for an additional fee, we highly recommend this option!

Afternoon

• Return to Bamiyan for lunch near the local market, where you can sample delicious traditional Afghan cuisine.
• We then continue with an epic drive back to Kabul; this road trip is a perfect example to experience the majestic mountains and valleys of Afghanistan. We’ll make stops along the way for those perfect photo opportunities.
• After arriving in Kabul, we’ll head to Chicken Street, a unique place where you find interesting souvenirs; the area has a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where you can interact with the local store owners.
• Visit the legendary Bookseller of Kabul – a shop made famous by the bestselling book of the same name. This unassuming bookstore has become a symbol of education, and cultural preservation in Afghanistan. Here you may explore the shelves stacked with titles in Dari, Pashto, English, and Arabic.
• For dinner we’ll find a nice spot in Kabul followed by some local ice-cream from street vendors.
• Overnight stay in Kabul

Thursday 8th October – Kabul – Mazar-i-Sharif

Morning

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Group A members: tour concludes with airport transfers arranged. We recommend taking an early morning flight out of Kabul.
• Group B members: tour continue with a Kabul city tour and boarding an afternoon flight to Mazar-i-Sharif – with our local guide.

Afternoon

• On arrival we’ll check in into our hotel and head out to the Blue Mosque or ‘Shrine of Hazrat Ali’ – the most famous building in Afghanistan. The mosque is located in the heart of Mazar-i-Sharif and is one of the reputed burial places of Ali ibn Abi Talib, cousin and son-in law of Prophet Muhammad.
• Dinner and overnight stay in Mazar-i-Sharif.

Friday 9th October – Mazar-i-Sharif – Balkh – Mazar-i-Sharif

• Breakfast at our hotel before we drive to Balkh
• Our continues further into Islamic architecture when we visit Haji Piyada Mosque also commonly known as Noh Gonbad Mosque – the 9^th century mosque is considered one of the earliest constructed in the region built. With current excavation going on evidence suggests the mosque was built on top of Buddhist monastery.
• Visit the Shrine of Khwaja Abu Nasr Parsa – constructed around 1598 the stunning complex features striking white Arabic writing amongst the blue tiles.

Afternoon

• Lunch un Balkh before we return to Mazar-i-Sharif
• Explore Mazar bazaar – this bazar is not only famous for producing beautifully crafted rugs in Afghanistan but considered the rug hub of all of Central Asia
• While we can appreciate the craftsmanship of the bazaar, we’ll make time for lunch and explore the old town.
• On our arrival we’ll head into the old town for dinner and see the spectacular blue mosque in a beautiful nightly setting.
• Overnight stay in Mazar-i-Sharif.

Saturday 10th October – Mazar-i-Sharif – Samangan – Kabul

• Breakfast at our hotel before we begin our epic road trip back to Kabul.
• We’ll make a stop at Tashkurgan – this ancient town is known as Kholm/Khulm. Dense and heavily populated with the local community it’s known for trading sheep and wool.
• Our journey will lead us into deep ravines which we’ll drive through and we’ll take the opportunity to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Next we’ll visit Zahir Shah – the last king of Afghanistan hunting lodge, used a summer palace for its cooler climate in the summer.

Afternoon

• In the afternoon we’ll find a local spot to have lunch and relax before we continue our scenic journey.
• Along the journey we’ll visit Takht-e Rostam – Buddhist monastery with several cave complexes constructed in the 3rd-4th century AD. With the conquest of Islam into Afghanistan the monastery had lost its purpose yet it’s still impressive.
• Our journey will take us through the Hindu Kush via the 3363 m high Salang Tunnel – built by the Soviets from 1958 and opened in 1964. In 1979 the Soviets used it to transport their tanks over the Hindu Kush before the advance on Kabul. The tunnel has now been repaired and allows an easy crossing.
• On our arrival into Kabul we’ll check into our hotel and freshen up before our farewell dinner.
• Overnight stay in Kabul.

Sunday 11th October– Kabul

• Breakfast at the hotel – tour concludes with airport transfers arranged.