Is Traveling To Kabul Safe?

The US State Department has issued a Level-4 Travel Advisory for Afghanistan, advising against travel due to terrorism, risk of wrongful detention, civil unrest, kidnapping, and crime. The country’s border crossings remain volatile, and safe travel across the country is also extremely dangerous. The Taliban often searches people and their mobile phone content at checkpoints and in the streets. The Travel Advisory for Afghanistan remains Level 4, stating “Do Not Travel” due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict, and COVID-19.

Overland travel is extremely dangerous, including in Kabul, with banditry by armed groups common. Terrorist and criminal groups may set up fake checkpoints and continue to search people and their mobile phone content at checkpoints and in the streets. While Afghanistan is a reasonably safe place to visit, there are usual dangers of crime and terrorism, so travelers should remain vigilant and cautious.

Travel in government-controlled areas was relatively OK, but suicide bombings occurred every other day and violent crime in cities like Kabul were kind. While travel to Kabul is safe, it is best to maintain a low profile while staying vigilant. There is a risk of violent street crime and home invasion, including armed robbery in Afghan cities.

Road travel in Afghanistan is extremely dangerous, including in Kabul, with suicide bombers in vehicles having attacked international convoys. To ensure a safe travel experience, it is essential to follow essential safety tips, which include which areas are safe to travel and the latest security situation.

Can you legally travel to Afghanistan?

A tourist visa is issued to foreigners visiting Afghanistan for personal or tourism reasons. To apply, foreigners must provide a statement describing their travel purpose. If applying after being issued an entry visa, a letter from the Ministry of Tourism or the Ministry of Information and Culture is required. Tourist visas are usually single-entry, valid for three months with a one-month authorized stay.

Afghan visas are valid for one period of time, with a shorter duration of stay starting upon the first arrival. If you plan to leave and return after more than three months, a new visa is required. To extend or renew your visa, apply at the General Passport Office in Kabul.

U. S. citizens born in Afghanistan (dual citizens) who do not have an Afghan passport should submit an application for an entry permit, which can be found on the Afghan Embassy’s website.

What does 39 mean in Afghanistan?

The curse of 39, also known as triakontenneaphobia, is a fear of the number 39 in Afghanistan, which is believed to be associated with prostitution. The origin of this superstition is unclear, but it is often linked to a pimp named “39” who lived in the western city of Herat. Some believe the number translates into morda-gow, a slang term for a pimp. Corrupt police officials have been accused of spreading the rumor to charge $200-500 for changing a “39” plate. Car dealers and those working for the mafia have been blamed for starting the rumours to buy cars with 39 plates cheaper and sell them back for higher prices after changing the plates.

Can you drink alcohol in Kabul?

Afghanistan is one of 16 countries where drinking alcoholic beverages at any age is illegal for most citizens, with locals subject to punishment in accordance with Sharia law. Alcohol consumption in Afghanistan is officially almost nonexistent, with total consumption being around zero during 2003-05 and recorded consumption at 0. 7 liters per capita during 2008-10. Enforcement of the law is inconsistent, and alcohol is widely available on the black market, particularly in Kabul and Herat. In the northern part of the country, alcohol smuggling via Uzbekistan is a large business, with Mazar-i-Sharif being more widely consumed.

Since the fall of the Taliban, various bars and outlets in Afghanistan have begun to offer alcohol to foreigners and tourists. Kabul has an active and colorful nightlife, with a large expatriate community of young diplomats, security staff, and international aid organizations. However, in 2010, some outlets were searched and Ukrainian waitresses were arrested as prostitutes.

Before the Taliban took over in August 2021, foreign tourists were permitted to import two bottles or two liters of alcoholic beverages when entering Afghanistan.

Is Afghanistan safe for female tourists?

Traveling in Afghanistan is highly dangerous, with checkpoints on roads and cities, and women often facing difficulties at checkpoints. Border crossings are also risky due to criminal groups and smugglers. It is crucial to exercise caution, be aware of surroundings, and use your judgement to decide the best time and safest exit. Staying informed about developments and decrees is essential. The Embassy of Canada in Afghanistan has suspended operations, and the Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular assistance is limited. If you need consular assistance, contact the nearest Canadian office.

Is alcohol allowed in Kabul?

Afghanistan is one of 16 countries where drinking alcoholic beverages at any age is illegal for most citizens, with locals subject to punishment in accordance with Sharia law. Alcohol consumption in Afghanistan is officially almost nonexistent, with total consumption being around zero during 2003-05 and recorded consumption at 0. 7 liters per capita during 2008-10. Enforcement of the law is inconsistent, and alcohol is widely available on the black market, particularly in Kabul and Herat. In the northern part of the country, alcohol smuggling via Uzbekistan is a large business, with Mazar-i-Sharif being more widely consumed.

Since the fall of the Taliban, various bars and outlets in Afghanistan have begun to offer alcohol to foreigners and tourists. Kabul has an active and colorful nightlife, with a large expatriate community of young diplomats, security staff, and international aid organizations. However, in 2010, some outlets were searched and Ukrainian waitresses were arrested as prostitutes.

Before the Taliban took over in August 2021, foreign tourists were permitted to import two bottles or two liters of alcoholic beverages when entering Afghanistan.

Is Russia safe to visit?

Russian security services have arrested US citizens on false charges, denied fair treatment, and convicted them without credible evidence. They have also opened questionable investigations against US citizens engaged in religious activities. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has destabilized southwestern Russia, leading to martial law in border areas with Ukraine. Under martial law, authorities can set curfews, seize property, and restrict movement. U. S. citizens should avoid travel to these areas.

Russian authorities have questioned, detained, and arrested people for “acting against Russia’s interests”, targeting individuals for posting on social media or supporting anti-Russian groups. The current “LGBT propaganda” law bans discussion of LGBTQI+ related topics, and the Supreme Court labeled the “international LGBT movement” as extremist in November 2023.

Terrorists continue to plan attacks in Russia, targeting tourist areas, transport hubs, markets, government buildings, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, events, schools, and airports. U. S. government employees under Embassy security responsibility are not permitted to travel to the North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mt. Elbrus.

Is it safe to visit Moscow in 2024?

The US government has advised against travel to Russia due to the ongoing invasion of Ukraine by Russian military forces. US citizens may face harassment, detention, arbitrary local law enforcement, limited flights, and potential terrorism. The US Embassy has limited assistance in Russia, and the Department has determined that there is a risk of wrongful detention. Citizens residing or traveling in Russia should leave immediately.

The US Embassy is operating with reduced staffing, and all US consulates in Russia have suspended operations. Drone attacks and explosions have been reported near the Ukraine border, and in emergencies, local authorities should be followed and shelter sought.

Can people leave Kabul?

Afghanistan’s government has announced that Afghans can travel abroad, leave the country at any time, and exit Afghanistan via any border crossing, including the reopened Kabul airport. The Taliban has pledged to ensure the safe and orderly departure of Afghans and foreign nationals. However, it remains to be seen if they will adhere to these commitments. On 5 September, Kandahar airfield resumed daily flights from Kabul and Hirat provinces, while the Spin Boldak border crossing remained open to Pakistani identification card holders, Afghans with Pakistani visas, and commercial truck movements.

Are tourists welcome in Afghanistan?

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has advised against all travel to Afghanistan due to the volatile security situation, the risk of British nationals being detained, and the potential invalidation of travel insurance if travel is against their advice. The FCDO’s ability to provide assistance is limited, and in-person support is not possible in Afghanistan. Travelers should be aware of the potential for months or years of imprisonment if detained in Afghanistan. The FCDO’s advice is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.

Is Kabul safe for tourists?

Travel to and within Afghanistan is highly dangerous due to violent incidents and potential closure of border crossing points, especially during crowds or increased attack risks, and it is advised against all travel.

Do tourists have to wear a hijab in Afghanistan?

Women are expected to wear a loose hijab type headscarf in public, long trousers and sleeves, and an abaya, although it’s not mandatory, but many visitors prefer to buy a shalwar-kameez upon arrival.