Afghanistan
Weekend in Bamiyan
Bamiyan and Bandi Amir
5 days, Kabul to Bamiyan and Bandi Amir
2005 has seen the publication of a new travel guidebook (Odyssey Guides), and for the first time in over a quarter of a century, the north of Afghanistan is once again considered safe for travellers. Enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery of the Hindu Kush, and the wonderful hospitality of the Hazara people on this weekend escapade to Bamiyan and Bandi Amir !
Despite its apparent isolation, Bamiyan is actually at the crossroads of Afghan history. This is where Buddhism famously took hold, and was the cradle of the Kushan civilization that took the faith to China. The serene valley still speaks to why a people would carve giant statues of Buddha into a mountainside. This is also where Genghis Khan came, conquered, and destroyed, and the ruins of the Red Fort still evoke the destruction wrought by the Mongol hoards.
Nearby, the Bandi Amir lakes seem to never have experienced a moment of anger or violence. The stark beauty of the lakes is driven by their deep blue waters, contrasting with the barren mountains that seem to hover over the edge of the lakes.
Route
This tour begins in Kabul. The route works its way to Bamiyan through the high mountain passes of the Hindu Kush. We will use Bamiyan as a base to tour the sites around the valley. After a day trip to Bandi Amir, we will return to Kabul.
SUMMARY ITINERARY:
Security
Great Game Travel puts a strong emphasis on security during out trips. Travel in Afghanistan, if not done properly, can be risky, and there are areas of the country that are definitely no-go areas. In order to protect our customers, we have a full-time security officer who has 18 years of experience in security matters in Afghanistan. He is in constant contact with local power brokers and officials to make sure that we avoid any areas that might be experiencing difficulties. Further, our drivers and guides have all been trained in security measures as well as first-aid, and defensive driving. We are careful in choosing only the safest routes and destinations. If you travel with Great Game you can rest assured that we will take very good care of you. To note, our Security Officer reserves the right to alter your tour at any moment in order to protect you during your trip. Please note, taking pictures of women is a very sensitive cultural issue, and can cause the local population to react in violent anger. We ask that you respect the local culture′ s sensitivity toward taking pictures of women. In the past we have had customers disregard our guidelines, and have had serious problems with the local population and local authorities. Please help us avoid security issues in the future by planning to be circumspect in your picture taking, especially of women. Our guides have been instructed by our security officer to cancel the remaining part of the trip with no refund for anyone that is endangering their own presence or that of our guides by their behaviour.
Price Quotation
| 1 pax | 2-3 pax | 4-6 pax | 7-9 pax |
| $1375 USD pp | $1150 USD pp | $1100 USD pp | $750 USD pp |
This tour can be customised.
Normally we include the following services in our quotation:
- All documentation and paperwork (visa support, registration, all government taxes and licenses for Afghanistan).
- Vehicles and drivers.
- English-speaking guide/interpreter. (Please enquire for languages other than English).
- Accommodation and full board