South Asia
Afghanistan
Taliban-ruled and fighting Pakistan since February 2026, with Islamic State attacks and arbitrary detention of foreigners. A few guided tours still run, but women face severe restrictions and the risks are extreme.
- US travel advisoryLevel 4Do not travelDetails
- Visa0 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyAFNUS$1 ≈ ؋64.91Details
- Price level17%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English1/5Rare
- PlugsType C, F220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency119Police 119 · Ambulance 102
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledTap water is unsafe; drink sealed bottled water and avoid ice.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedTaliban courts have publicly flogged people for same-sex relations.Details
- Internet6 MbpsMedian fixed broadband · mobile 19 MbpsDetails
- DrivingOn the rightNot advisable to drive: checkpoints, attacks and poor roads. Tours use local drivers.
Where to go in Afghanistan
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KabulCapital city | 1/5 | — | Apr–May, Sep–Oct | — |
When to visit Afghanistan
April–June and September–October; winter snow closes mountain passes, and summers are very hot in Kandahar and the south.
Good to know
Entry
- Visa required from Afghan missions run by the Taliban; many embassies abroad are closed.
- Land borders close at short notice; Pakistan crossings are disrupted by the 2026 war.
- Cash limits: USD 5,000 through airports and USD 500 overland.
- A polio vaccination certificate may be checked when you leave.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing Taliban checkpoints, government buildings or palaces can mean arrest.
- Alcohol, pork and narcotics are banned.
- Non-Islamic religious activity or proselytising is severely punished.
Etiquette
- Men shouldn't initiate contact with Afghan women; greet men with hand on heart.
- Dress conservatively; men avoid shorts and sleeveless shirts.
- Don't photograph women or Taliban fighters without clear consent.
Tipping
Small tips for drivers, guides and hotel staff are appreciated.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Afghanistan
- Speedtest Global Index: Afghanistan
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.