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Getting Around Kabul

Getting Around Kabul

Kabul Kabul, Afghanistan Travel Guide

Local Transit Options

Kabul'the city's public transportation network is informal and lacks the structure found in most capital cities.

No metro or tram system exists. Main public transport includes limited bus networks (government-run and private minibuses) and informal shared taxis, locally known as "Saracha" or "Taxi."

Operating Information

  • Formal route maps are scarce and generally inaccessible to foreigners.
  • Fares are cash-only, paid directly to driver/conductor (AFN 10-50).
  • Services operate early morning to late evening (around 8-9 PM). Frequency is inconsistent. Night travel is unsafe.
  • Not accessible for travelers with mobility challenges.

Bus Network

Government-run and private minibuses operate on fixed, informal routes between major city points.

Shared Taxis

Informal shared taxis, known locally as "Saracha" or "Taxi," serve various city areas.

Public Safety

These mass transit options are generally not safe or recommended for foreign visitors due to security risks and language barriers.

Navigation Tips

General Advice
  • Confirm destination with driver.
  • Have small denominations of Afghani ready.
  • Maintain heightened situational awareness.
Safety First
  • Travel only during daylight hours.
  • Avoid public transport for foreigners due to security risks.
  • Consider language barrier when interacting.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Hailing

Taxis are typically yellow or white cars, often not formally regulated.

Fares

Fares must be negotiated before starting your journey. Meters are rare.

Payment

Payment is strictly cash, accepted in Afghani (AFN) or US Dollars (USD).

Ride-Sharing

International ride-sharing apps are unavailable; local apps are undependable and pose significant security risks.

Caution with Taxis

Taxis present a significant security risk for foreigners. This includes risks of robbery, kidnapping, and being targeted for other crimes.

Hailing & Fares

  • Taxis are typically yellow or white cars. They often lack formal regulation, and meters are rare.
  • Fares must be negotiated before starting your journey. Short rides within central Kabul can range from AFN 150-350.
  • Longer rides or those demanding more security awareness will be higher. Payment must be strictly cash.
  • Use with extreme caution.

Safety & Apps

  • Strongly use pre-arranged, trusted private vehicles with a known driver, ideally with security personnel. DiscoverCars.com
  • Major international ride-sharing apps (Uber, Lyft) are unavailable. Local apps are unreliable and risky.
  • Avoid solo travel in taxis, especially for women travelers.
  • Pre-arranged hotel transfers or private security company vehicles are the only recommended option from KBL.

Rental & Self-Driving

  • Car rentals for self-driving by foreigners are generally not available and highly discouraged.
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not available or advisable for foreigners.
  • Traffic conditions and security risks make such transport extremely dangerous.
  • Bicycle sharing programs and rentals are not available.
  • Cycling is not a safe or common mode of transport for foreigners due to traffic hazards and security concerns.
  • If a vehicle is mandated, secure it exclusively through a private driver, often with a security detail.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Laws

Driving laws are loosely enforced, leading to chaotic traffic.

Conditions

Road conditions are poor, featuring a lot of unpaved sections and potholes.

Navigation

Navigating these conditions as a foreigner is extremely challenging and dangerous.

Walking & Cycling Warnings

Walking and cycling are generally not safe activities for foreigners in Kabul.

Pedestrian Risks

  • Kabul has limited pedestrian-friendly areas.
  • Walking poses risks due to crime, chaotic traffic, and pervasive security threats.
  • Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
  • Crowded markets present pickpocketing and other crime risks.

Restricted Zones

  • Virtually all public areas outside highly secured compounds are high-risk for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Formal walking tours for tourists are generally not available or recommended due to severe security risks.
  • Self-guided walking is even more dangerous.
  • Always consult your security team regarding safe zones and movement protocols.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are not available.

  • Leisure sightseeing tours
  • Concept does not apply
  • Current environment
Water Transport

Boat taxis and water transportation methods are not applicable.

  • Kabul is a landlocked city
  • No suitable waterways
  • For this type of transport
Unique Transport

Cable cars, funiculars, or unique local transport are not available.

  • No such infrastructure
  • For public use
  • In the city

Accessibility Notice

Limited Services
  • No dedicated accessibility services exist for public or private transport.
  • The city's infrastructure is not designed for disabled access.
  • Travel remains extremely challenging for individuals with mobility needs.
Infrastructure Challenges
  • Sidewalks and pedestrian areas are uneven and difficult to navigate.
  • Vehicles often lack accessibility features.
  • Independent movement for those with mobility issues is severely restricted.

Final Recommendation for Local Travel

Secure, private transport with vetted drivers is the only advisable method for movement within Kabul.

Prioritize pre-arranged transfers and constant communication with your security team or area contacts.