Day 1: Arrival in Kabul – Old City Wonders
Arrive in Kabul, where your local guide will welcome you and escort you to your hotel.
**Highlights:**
– Bird Market – Wander the vibrant lanes of Kabul’s oldest bazaar, where birdcages dangle from every storefront in a kaleidoscope of colors.
– Sakhi Shrine – One of Afghanistan’s most sacred sites, beautifully adorned with intricate blue tiles and vibrant Islamic architecture.
**Overnight:** Hotel in Kabul
Day 2: Road Trip to Bamyan – Valley of Ancient Giants
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Bamyan, a region known for its cultural legacy and dramatic mountain landscapes.
**Highlights:**
– Shahr-e-Zuhak (Red City) – Explore the ancient red mud-brick fortress perched above a deep valley, once guarding the Silk Road.
– Shahr-e-Gholghola (City of Screams) – Visit the haunting ruins of a city destroyed by Genghis Khan in the 13th century.
– Buddha Niches of Bamyan – Stand before the massive empty alcoves that once housed the tallest Buddha statues in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
**Overnight:** Noorband Qala Hotel, Bamyan
Day 3: Band-e-Amir – Afghanistan’s Grand Natural Marvel
Today, experience one of the most stunning natural wonders in Central Asia.
**Highlights:**
– Band-e-Amir National Park – Marvel at Afghanistan’s first national park, home to a chain of six deep-blue lakes separated by natural travertine dams.
– Optional activities: Boat ride, light hiking, or picnic by the lake.
**Overnight:** Noorband Qala Hotel, Bamyan
Day 4: Journey to Mazar-e-Sharif – Across the Northern Plains
Depart Bamyan and travel across dramatic highlands and sweeping valleys toward Mazar-e-Sharif.
Enjoy a scenic drive with cultural commentary from your guide and short stops for photos and refreshments.
**Overnight:** Arsalan Hotel, Mazar-e-Sharif
Day 5: Explore Balkh – The Cradle of Civilizations
A day trip to the nearby ancient city of Balkh, a center of Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, and early Islam.
**Highlights:**
– Haji Piyada Mosque – Also known as “Noh Gonbad,” this is the oldest Islamic structure in Afghanistan, dating to the 9th century.
– Bala Hisar of Balkh – The crumbling citadel walls of an ancient fortress offering panoramic views.
– Tomb of Rabia Balkhi – Visit the resting place of Afghanistan’s first female poet, a symbol of strength and beauty.
– Blue Mosque of Mazar-e-Sharif – End the day at one of Central Asia’s most photogenic spots: the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, a dazzling architectural masterpiece and spiritual heart of the region.
**Overnight:** Arsalan Hotel, Mazar-e-Sharif
Day 6: Return to Kabul – Culture & Panoramas
Morning flight back to Kabul. Spend your final full day exploring the cultural heart of the city.
**Highlights:**
– Shah Do Shamshira Mosque – A unique two-story yellow mosque influenced by Italian architecture.
– Babur Garden – Lush Persian gardens built by the Mughal Emperor Babur, now a peaceful retreat with historic tombs.
– Bibi Mehro Hill (Flag Hill) – Enjoy sweeping views of Kabul and its surrounding mountains.
– Darul Aman Palace – Explore the neoclassical ruins of this iconic palace, a symbol of past glory and resilience.
**Overnight:** Hotel in Kabul
Day 7: Departure – Khodahafez Afghanistan
Our team will ensure a timely transfer to the airport for your international flight.
Cherish the memories of ancient cities, smiling locals, and incredible landscapes as you depart this unforgettable journey.
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Bird Market of Kabul – centuries‑old bazaar alive with chirping cages and traditional commerce
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Sakhi Shrine – dazzling blue‑tiled sanctuary, one of Afghanistan’s most revered religious sites
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Babur Garden – Mughal emperor Babur’s terraced gardens and tomb, now Kabul’s green oasis
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Darul Aman Palace – neoclassical landmark symbolizing Afghanistan’s modern aspirations and resilience
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Qargha Lake – popular Kabul getaway for lakeside strolls and mountain views
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Band‑e‑Amir National Park – six cobalt travertine lakes framed by stark limestone cliffs
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Buddha Niches of Bamyan – the vast cliff alcoves where the world‑famous Buddhas once stood
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Shahr‑e Zuhak & Shahr‑e Gholghola – red‑hued Silk Road fortress and dramatic “City of Screams” ruins
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Blue Mosque of Mazar‑e‑Sharif – radiant Shrine of Hazrat Ali, centerpiece of northern Afghanistan
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Ancient City of Balkh – cradle of early Zoroastrian, Buddhist, and Islamic civilizations
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Haji Piyada (Noh Gonbad) Mosque – Afghanistan’s oldest surviving Islamic structure, 9th century
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Tomb of Rabia Balkhi – resting place of the legendary 10th‑century poetess, a cultural icon
- Accommodation in secure, comfortable hotels
- All transportation (including domestic flights)
- Local English-speaking guide
- All meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Entry tickets to all sites
- Local SIM card
- Airport transfers
- International flights
- Visa costs
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, soft drinks, etc.)
- Optional add-ons
Embark on a seven‑day dash along Afghanistan’s Silk Road, starting amid Kabul’s kaleidoscopic Bird Market and Mughal‑era Babur Garden before crossing to Bamyan’s vanished Buddhas and the cobalt lakes of Band‑e‑Amir.
Swing north to the turquoise‑domed Blue Mosque of Mazar‑e‑Sharif and the storied ruins of ancient Balkh, then finish at Kabul’s neoclassical Darul Aman Palace—3,000 years of history and raw mountain beauty packed into one unforgettable week.
