Blogs

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
• Since the Taliban takeover, the country is officially named The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan
• The tricolor flag has been replaced with a white Taliban flag, now seen everywhere

Afghanistan’s Ethnic Diversity
• Pashtuns: 42%
• Tajiks: 27%
• Hazaras: 9% (Shia Muslims with Mongolian features; mostly in Bamyan)
• Uzbeks: Mostly in Mazar-i-Sharif and nearby areas

Languages Spoken
• Dari (a form of Farsi): spoken by ~80% of the population
• Pashto: official but used mainly by Pashtuns
• Iranians and Afghans can generally understand each other

Language Barriers in Rural Areas
• In remote regions, even sign language might not work due to limited exposure to outsiders

Staying Connected in Afghanistan
• Wi-Fi: Unreliable in most places, especially outside major cities
• SIM Cards:
• Available at official branches (open 8am–4pm)
• Major providers: MTN, Roshan, Afghan Wireless, Etisalat, Salaam
• Coverage varies by region — MTN works best in major cities
• Internet Speed: Only 3G (no 4G support)

Use a VPN
• Protect your privacy on public networks
• Access blocked or censored websites
• Recommended: ExpressVPN for fast, reliable connections

Traveling by Plane in Afghanistan
Domestic flights are a practical way to move between cities. Main airlines include:
• Kam Air (book online or in physical offices)
• Ariana Afghan Airlines (frequent delays, less reliable)

Important Flight Info
• Most domestic flights go through Kabul (e.g. Herat to Mazar requires a transfer in Kabul)
• Flights cost: $60–$120 one way
• Book locally if you’re already in Afghanistan to avoid online booking issues

Booking Tip
• Online payments may not always go through—always double-check and follow up with the airline office if needed

Airport Security
• Be prepared for multiple security layers: body searches, bag checks, and document inspections
• Arrive at least 2 hours early before domestic flights

Managing Money in Afghanistan: Currency, Costs & Payment Tips

Afghanistan’s Currency
Afghanistan uses the Afghani (AFN).
Current exchange rate: $1 = approx. 72 AFN

Afghan or Afghani?
• Afghan = a person from Afghanistan
• Afghani = the currency

Exchanging Money
• You can easily exchange USD, Euros, or even Pakistani Rupees in places like Shahr-e Naw (Kabul).
• Local money changers offer competitive rates and quick service.

ATMs & Cards
• ATMs (especially Afghan International Bank) work with international cards.
• However, cards are not accepted in most shops and restaurants — carry cash at all times.

Daily Expenses in Afghanistan
• Breakfast (eggs, bread, tea): 100 AFN
• Local lunch/dinner: 200–300 AFN
• Mid-range restaurant meal: 400–600 AFN

Transportation Costs
• Taxi (short ride): 50 AFN
• Taxi (long ride): 200–250 AFN
• Half-day private taxi: $20
• Airport to city center (Kabul): 500 AFN
• Domestic flight: $60–$120
• Round-trip to Panjshir: $50
• Local city bus: 5 AFN

Accommodation Costs
• Mid-range hotel: $30–$50/night (basic, clean, secured)
• Budget hotels are cheaper but may lack security