DRAG
Afghan Adventures

Through the Heart of Afghanistan

Overview

On this trip, you will follow a route that connects Afghanistan’s most important historical regions and cultural landmarks. Beginning in Kabul, the journey moves through the central highlands to Bamiyan and Band-e Amir National Park, continues to the remote Minaret of Jam, and then heads west to Herat. The route then turns south across desert landscapes to Lashkargah and Kandahar, before returning to Kabul via Ghazni. The trip combines visits to major Islamic and pre-Islamic sites with time in both urban and rural areas, offering a clear and well-rounded introduction to Afghanistan’s history, geography, and cultural diversity.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kabul – Arrival & Orientation

Arrive in Kabul and transfer to your hotel, where you will have a short briefing about the journey ahead. You will be given an Afghan outfit to blend with the local culture. In the afternoon, explore the Bird Market, a lively part of the city, and visit the Sakhi Shrine, a quiet and historic Shia Mosque. This first day gives a gentle introduction to Kabul’s culture and history.
Overnight in Kabul.

Depart early from Kabul for Bamiyan, driving through scenic mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, visit the Buddha Niches, the remnants of monumental statues carved into cliffs, and explore Gholghola (City of Screams), a historic site with an intriguing past.
Overnight in Bamiyan.

Spend the day at Band-e-Amir, Afghanistan’s first national park, known for its series of blue lakes surrounded by cliffs. Visit Dara-e-Ajdahar (Dragon Valley), a peaceful area with natural beauty. This day combines sightseeing with opportunities to walk and enjoy the surroundings.
Overnight in Bamiyan.

Drive toward the Minaret of Jam, passing through valleys and small villages. Take short breaks at scenic viewpoints along the way. Arrival is in the late afternoon, giving time to rest before exploring the area the next day.
Overnight near Minaret of Jam.

Spend the day visiting the Minaret of Jam, a 12th-century UNESCO World Heritage site. Observe the detailed brickwork and inscriptions while taking in the quiet surrounding landscape.
Overnight near the site.

Embark on a long drive to Herat, about 10 hours, with pauses along the way to rest and enjoy the changing landscapes. Arrival in Herat is in the evening.
Overnight in Herat.

In Herat, visit the Ancient Tile Factory, where traditional Afghan ceramics are made, and Masjidi Jami (Friday Mosque), a 12th-century architectural site. Walk through the city’s streets and visit the Citadel of Herat, a 13th-century fortress with a view of the city. Overnight in Herat.

Continue exploring Herat with the Minarets of Herat and the Mausoleum of Gohar Shad, a 15th-century queen and poet. Later, stroll along Bam-e Herat, a terrace offering views of the city and daily life. Overnight in Herat.

Depart Herat and visit Pule Malan, an ancient bridge from the Timurid period. Continue across the deserts of Farah and Nimruz toward Lashkargah. The drive highlights Afghanistan’s varied landscapes.
Overnight in Lashkargah.

Visit the Fortress of Bost, an 11th-century fortress featured on Afghan banknotes. Continue toward Kandahar, passing desert landscapes and small villages along the way. Overnight in Kandahar.

Explore Kandahar’s main historical sites: the Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Durrani, the Shrine of the Cloak of the Prophet, and the Mausoleum of Mirwais Hotak. End the day at Chil Zena (Forty Steps), offering views over Kandahar city. Overnight in Kandahar.

Drive approximately seven hours to Ghazni via Zabul Province, passing through rural landscapes and small settlements. Arrival in Ghazni is in the evening.
Overnight in Ghazni.

Visit the Minarets of Ghazni, the Citadel of Ghazni, and the Mausoleum of Sultan Mahmud Ghaznawi. In the early afternoon, depart for Kabul, reflecting on the country’s history and landscapes.
Overnight in Kabul.

If time allows, visit Chicken Street or the War Museum. Transfer to the airport for your departure, concluding your journey through Afghanistan.

Departure Dates and Prices

Departure Date

Return Date

Price per Person

Apr 8, 2026

Apr 22, 2026

$3850

May 10, 2026

May 24, 2026

$3850

Jun 6, 2026

Jun 20, 2026

$3850

Jul 9, 2026

Jul 23, 2026

$3850

Aug 11, 2026

Aug 25, 2026

$3850

Sep 4, 2026

Sept 18, 2026

$3850

Oct 7, 2026

Oct 21, 2026

$3850

Information

Included

Excluded