Afghanistan, Tajikistan · Rural Experiences

12-Day Wakhan Corridor and Kabul Tour with Lakes and Hot Springs

12 Days Round trip from Kabul Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Kabul's historic sites like Babur Garden and Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque
02 Discover the serene Qargha Lake and scenic Paghman Valley
03 Engage with Wakhi and Kyrgyz communities in the breathtaking Wakhan Corridor
04 Trek through Wakhan National Park with its unique wildlife and pristine landscapes
05 Visit ancient sites like Yamchun Fortress and relax at Bibi Fatima Hot Springs

Embark on a 12-day adventure through Afghanistan, beginning in Kabul with visits to historic landmarks such as Babur Garden, Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque, and Chicken Street. Continue through the scenic Paghman Valley and Qargha Lake before travelling across the Hindu Kush to the remote Wakhan Corridor. Discover ancient settlements like Qala-e-Panja, explore Wakhan National Park, visit Chaqmaqtin and Zorkul Lakes, and tour Yamchun Fortress before unwinding at Bibi Fatima Hot Springs. The journey returns through Faizabad and the scenic Salang Pass, ending with more of Kabul's cultural and historical highlights, including Kart-e-Sakhi Shrine and Nader Khan Hill.

Unwind at the Bibi Fatima Hot Springs, which are said to have curative properties.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 12 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Kabul, Fayzabad, Ishkashim, Wakhan Corridor

Languages Arabic, English, Hindi, Persian, Turkish, Urdu

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kabul and Historic City Sights

Arrive at Kabul airport and greet your guide.
See the historic sites of Babur Garden, Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque, and the legendary Chicken Street.
See the markets and experience the local culture.

Day 02

Paghman Valley and Qargha Lake Excursion

Drive to the Paghman Valley, famous for its green scenery and scenic vistas.
See Qargha Lake and relish its serenity.
Walk around the surrounding area and return to Kabul at night.

Day 03

Journey to Faizabad

Start your trip to Faizabad, the capital of Badakhshan province.
Walk around the lively bazaar in Faizabad.
Check out local attractions and hear about the history of the area.

Day 04

Through the Hindu Kush to Ishkashim

Travel further through the stunning Hindu Kush mountains.
Arrive in Ishkashim, an important town on the road to Wakhan.
Walk around the local community and meet the local people.

Day 05

Into the Wakhan Corridor

Travel through the breathtaking scenery of the Wakhan Corridor.
Stop at Qala-e-Panja, an ancient town famous for its history.
Encounter Wakhi and Kyrgyz people and learn about their traditional lifestyle.

Day 06

Explore Wakhan National Park

Explore Wakhan National Park, a nature reserve famous for its wildlife and natural attractions.
Spend the day exploring the park and enjoying the high-altitude scenery, varied flora, and fauna.

Day 07

Chaqmaqtin Lake Exploration

Go to Chaqmaqtin Lake, famous for its untouched beauty and serene surroundings.
Walk around the lake and absorb the peacefulness of the area.

Day 08

Excursion to Zorkul Lake

Travel to Zorkul Lake, a secluded and picturesque place in the Wakhan Corridor.
Experience the unspoiled natural beauty of the lake and the mountains around it.

Day 09

Yamchun Fortress and Bibi Fatima Hot Springs

Tour the historic Yamchun Fortress on a hill overlooking the Wakhan Valley.
Visit the fortress and learn about its background, dating back to ancient times.
Unwind at the Bibi Fatima Hot Springs, which are said to have curative properties.

Day 10

Return to Faizabad

Return to Faizabad and visit any remaining sites of interest.
Explore the colourful local markets and spot genuine Afghan handicrafts.

Day 11

Drive Across Salang Pass to Kabul

Drive over the scenic Salang Pass, which offers breathtaking views.
Return to Kabul and see any remaining sights, including the Eid-Gah Mosque and Kabul Old Bird Market.

Day 12

Kabul Cultural and Historical Highlights

See famous places like Kart-e-Sakhi Shrine, Nader Khan Hill, and others.
Shop for souvenirs and immerse yourself in the local culture on the last day.
Leave Kabul in the evening.

Where this trip takes you

Wakhan Corridor high valleys, Chaqmaqtin Lake shores, Yamchun Fortress hilltop, Bibi Fatima Hot Springs

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kabul 4 cities · 12 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

2 provinces
37+ touristic places
Kabul airport pickup and drop-off
Standard accommodation
Private transportation
Fluent English, Urdu, Hindi, and Chinese tour guides
Professional driver
Invitation letter and documents for the visa process
Permission letters and government taxes inside Afghanistan
3 meals a day
Water and soft drinks
SIM card/internet
Touristic place entrance fees and photo permissions

What's Not Included

Visa fee
Personal shopping
International flights
Travel insurance

What to bring

Bring your backpack.
Bring some warm clothes.

Know before you go

Travel Documents - Ensure your visa and passport are valid for Afghanistan. We can provide guidance on the visa process if needed.
Security & Safety - Your safety is our top priority. We closely monitor the situation and take all necessary precautions to ensure a smooth and secure journey.
Weather & Clothing - The Wakhan Corridor can be cold, especially at higher altitudes. Pack warm clothes, comfortable trekking shoes, and weather-appropriate gear.
Packing Essentials - You only need to bring your backpack and personal items. We provide transportation, accommodation, meals, free water, cold drinks, and coffee. Travel light and enjoy the experience.
Physical Fitness - Some parts of the journey involve long drives and light trekking. While the tour is not extremely difficult, a reasonable level of fitness will help you enjoy it more.
Connectivity & Electricity - Internet and phone signals are limited in remote areas. Bring a power bank and be ready for digital disconnection in some locations.
Local Culture & Etiquette - Afghanistan has a rich cultural heritage, and respecting local customs, dress codes, and traditions is essential. Our guides will help you navigate cultural norms.
Cash & Payments - ATMs are scarce in remote areas, and card payments are often not accepted. Bring enough cash for personal expenses and souvenirs.
Health & Medication - If you take medication, bring enough supply for the trip. Altitude sickness tablets and personal hygiene items are recommended.
Food & Dietary Needs - We provide fresh and locally sourced meals during the tour. If you have any dietary restrictions, let us know in advance so we can make arrangements.
By keeping these points in mind, you can have a comfortable, safe, and unforgettable journey through Kabul and the Wakhan Corridor.