Description
Tajikistan & Afghanistan Expedition: Lakes, Legends & Living History
Step into one of the world’s most remarkable frontiers with this 12-day journey through Tajikistan and Afghanistan. From alpine lakes and ancient fortresses to bustling bazaars and cultural encounters, this expedition invites you to explore the heart of Central Asia in all its raw beauty and complex charm.
Begin in Kabul where you'll wander through bird markets and hillside gardens before continuing to Bamiyan, home of the fabled Buddha niches and the stunning sapphire lakes of Band-e-Amir National Park. Explore Balkh, one of the oldest cities in the world, and visit the shimmering Hazrat Ali Shrine in Mazar-i-Sharif.
Each stop is an invitation to connect - with locals, landscapes and stories that rarely reach the rest of the world. Cross into Tajikistan through the mountains to discover a country rich in history, resilience and soul. Explore Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s leafy capital, before passing Hisor Fortress en route to our multi-day trek through the stunning Fann Mountains.
This journey also supports our Sawyer water filtration initiative in rural Afghanistan, with 5% of every booking funding the delivery and implememntaiton of safe drinking water systems for remote communities.
Enjoy the scenic flight through the Hindu Kush as you fly into Kabul. Meet our local team and change into your perahan tunban (local clothing) before heading out to explore the bustling bird market, historic Babur Gardens, and catch sunset views from a scenic lookout before wandering Chicken Street.
Overnight: Kabul (hotel)
Travel through central Afghanistan to Bamiyan. Visit the Citadel of Zohak, the City of Screams, the Buddhas of Bamiyan, Soviet tank graveyard, and local markets. Relax in the evening as the locals come out for volleyball in the main park after dinner. We will also visit some of the villages to distribute and install Sawyer water filtration kits as part of our social development project.
Overnight: Bamiyan (hotel)
Day trip to Afghanistan’s first national park. Swim in the azure waters of the seven lakes, explore aboard swan pedal boats, and relax at stunning Band-e-Amir’s sapphire lakes. Return through the rugged mountains to Kabul in the evening.
Overnight: Kabul (hotel)
On the last full day in Kabul, visit the National Museum, the historic Ali Cloak Mosque, and the Chehelston Gardens. Have your picture taken with the famed Haji Meezerman and his 100-year old wooden box camera for a true souvenir to savour!
Overnight: Kabul (hotel)
Take a short flight to the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif. Mill about the market streets, tasting delicious Afghan cuisine with a pomegranate juice in hand. Sit back and relax in the afternoon for some well deserved rest and relaxation.
Overnight: Mazar-i-Sharif (hotel)
Morning trip to ancient Balkh, one of the oldest cities in the world. In the afternoon, visit the striking blue Hazrat Ali Shrine. Evening food, markets, and jewellery shops as the city comes to life after dark.
Overnight: Mazar-i-Sharif (hotel)
Drive early from Mazar-i-Sharif to the border at Shir Khan Bandr. Arrive in Dushanbe before the afternoon. Explore the local Mehrgon markets and enjoy a relaxed city stroll before gathering for a welcome dinner and drinks in Dushanbe’s bustling centre.
Overnight: Dushanbe (hotel)
Tour the capital with stops at the National Flagpole, Hissar Mosque, main square, and lunch at a favourite local spot. Pass through the famed Hisor fortress en route to the trekking capital of the country, Artuch.
Overnight: Artuch (hotel)
Begin your 2 day trek through the breathtaking vistas of the Fann Mountains. Skirting Kulikalon lake as you find yourself deep in the wilderness, blanketed by stars as night falls.
Overnight: mountain cabin
Continue the trek across the Alauddin pass before a short drive to the beautiful alpine lake of Iskanderkul. Enjoy short hikes or lakeside relaxing amidst the towering peaks before returning to Dushanbe. Splurge on afternoon tea at the famous Rohat Teahouse.
Overnight: Dushanbe (hotel)
Tour the remaining stops in the capital with an afternoon of free time to explore or relax with a spa session.
Overnight: Dushanbe (hotel)
Enjoy breakfast together before final goodbyes and airport transfers and departures. Flight to Tashkent for those continuing onto Central Asia II itinerary