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.

• Bird Market of Kabul – centuries‑old bazaar alive with chirping cages and traditional commerce

• Sakhi Shrine – dazzling blue‑tiled sanctuary, one of Afghanistan’s most revered religious sites

• Babur Garden – Mughal emperor Babur’s terraced gardens and tomb, now Kabul’s green oasis

• Darul Aman Palace – neoclassical landmark symbolizing Afghanistan’s modern aspirations and resilience

• Qargha Lake – popular Kabul getaway for lakeside strolls and mountain views

• Band‑e‑Amir National Park – six cobalt travertine lakes framed by stark limestone cliffs

• Buddha Niches of Bamyan – the vast cliff alcoves where the world‑famous Buddhas once stood

• Shahr‑e Zuhak & Shahr‑e Gholghola – red‑hued Silk Road fortress and dramatic “City of Screams” ruins

• Blue Mosque of Mazar‑e‑Sharif – radiant Shrine of Hazrat Ali, centerpiece of northern Afghanistan

• Ancient City of Balkh – cradle of early Zoroastrian, Buddhist, and Islamic civilizations

• Haji Piyada (Noh Gonbad) Mosque – Afghanistan’s oldest surviving Islamic structure, 9th century

• 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