Welcome to Afghanistan 😊

Quick Facts About Afghanistan

Money and Finances

The currency in Afghanistan is the Afghan afghani, which is divided into 100 pul. The notes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000, while coins are available in 1, 2, 5 and 10 afghanis.

ATM Network

ATMs are relatively scarce in Afghanistan and are mostly found in major cities.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Afghanistan, with cash being the preferred method of payment. Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX are only accepted at a few upscale hotels and restaurants in major cities.

Internet and Phones

The average internet speed in Afghanistan is slow, with an average download speed of 2.2 Mbps and an average upload speed of 1.3 Mbps. There are occasional disruptions to internet access due to government restrictions.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

Afghanistan has multiple telco providers, including Afghan Wireless, Roshan, and MTN. Mobile phone plans are relatively inexpensive, with some plans starting at about $3 per month. However, it can be difficult for foreigners to get a SIM card due to strict identification requirements.

Dialling to Afghanistan

To call Afghanistan from another country, dial the country code +93, followed by the area code and phone number. Within Afghanistan, area codes include 20 for Kabul, 30 for Kandahar, and 40 for Herat.

Transport Around Afghanistan

Air Travel

Afghanistan has several major airports, including Kabul International Airport, Kandahar International Airport, and Herat International Airport.

Train Travel

Afghanistan has limited inter-city train network. However, a new railway, the Afghan-Uzbek Railway, is currently under construction, which will connect Afghanistan to Uzbekistan. Ticket prices and journey times are unavailable at this time.

Metro / Local Trains

There is currently no subway or local train system in Afghanistan.

Buses

Afghanistan has a limited bus network, with most buses operating within cities rather than between them. Example ticket prices and journey times are unavailable at this time.

Rideshare

There are a few rideshare companies operating in Afghanistan, such as Careem and Uber. Average travel prices vary depending on the city and distance travelled.

Driving by Car

Driving in Afghanistan can be challenging due to poor road conditions and heavy traffic. The speed limit is generally 60 km/h in urban areas and up to 80 km/h on highways outside cities. Afghanistan uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Afghanistan, tipping is not common. Locals greet each other with a handshake or hug, and it is customary to remove shoes before entering a home or mosque. It is important to dress conservatively and modestly, especially for women. Men and women generally do not touch or make prolonged eye contact with each other in public. It is also considered rude to speak loudly or aggressively in public spaces.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The health system in Afghanistan is underdeveloped and faces many challenges, including lack of resources, inadequate infrastructure and limited access to medical care in many areas. Private hospitals and clinics are available but can be expensive. Visitors are recommended to have travel health insurance, as healthcare costs can be high for foreign nationals. A general visit to a doctor in Afghanistan can cost around $30-$50 USD.

COVID Situation

Afghanistan has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic due to its fragile health system. The country has reported high numbers of cases and deaths, and the actual figures are believed to be much higher due to the limited testing. As of September 2021, the spread of coronavirus remains a major concern.

Common Health Risks

Visitors to Afghanistan should be aware of the high risk of infectious diseases, including malaria, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A, and tuberculosis. Food and waterborne illnesses are also common, so it's important to practice good hygiene and avoid consuming food and drinks from unhygienic sources. The risk of terrorist attacks and violent crime is also a concern, especially in certain regions of the country. Visitors are advised to stay informed and take appropriate precautions.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is illegal in Afghanistan, and violators can face severe punishments, including fines and imprisonment.

Recreational Drugs

Afghanistan is known for producing opium, and drug trafficking is a significant issue. All recreational drug use is illegal and can result in severe penalties.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are not recognized in Afghanistan's conservative society, and individuals engaging in such relationships can face legal repercussions.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex relationships are illegal in Afghanistan, and individuals found engaging in such relationships can face imprisonment or even the death penalty.

Firearms / Guns

Licensed firearm ownership is possible in Afghanistan, but obtaining a license can be difficult. Possession of firearms without a license can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.