Tourism in Afghanistan was at its best in the 1970s, when over 90,000 tourists a year came from all over the world to see the country’s unique beauty and experience the hospitality of its people. Today, despite decades of war, Afghanistan remains a fascinating country that embraces both the old and the new.
It is good to travel with a tourist and travel company registered with the Ministry of Information and Culture of Afghanistan for more assurance and security. Make sure the company is official in advance.
Entering Afghanistan
Every tourist must have a valid passport and must obtain an Afghan visa before entering. We send you an invitation letter and a copy of our licence for your visa application once your booking is confirmed.
Local customs
- Islam. Afghan culture is deeply Islamic.
- Hospitality. It is one of the key tenets of Afghan life.
- Afghan clothing. For both men and women it typically consists of forms of shalwar kameez, especially perahan tunban and khet partug. Women normally wear a chador as a head covering; some women, typically from highly conservative communities, wear the burqa, a full body covering. The chapan is a popular coat. The karakul is a hat made from the fur of a regional breed of sheep, and the pakol is a traditional hat from the far east of the country.
- Food and drink. Drinking alcohol is illegal. Eating in public during Ramadan, the holy month of Islam, is illegal, because Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke during daylight hours.
- Photography. Taking pictures of government areas and buildings, military installations and palaces — or of women and other local people without their agreement — is not allowed and is illegal.
- Currency. The local currency is the Afghani, and cash is used across Afghanistan. US dollars and euros are also available. Western Union and ATMs operate, but their availability cannot be relied upon.
- Family. The family is the mainstay of Afghan society and is often headed by a patriarch.
- Rural life. In villages, families typically live in mudbrick houses or compounds with mudbrick or stone walls. Villages usually have a headman (malik), a master of water distribution (mirab) and a religious teacher (mullah). About 15% of the population are nomadic, locally called kochis; when they pass villages they buy tea, wheat and kerosene, and villagers buy wool and milk from them.
Note: Travel payments should be made in hundred-dollar bills, because smaller notes lose value when exchanged.
Afghanistan Attractions team