Major Highways & Driving Tips in Herāt, Herāt, Afghanistan

1. Herat-Mazar-i-Sharif Highway

Longest major highway in western Afghanistan, connecting Herat to Mazar-i-Sharif. Offers scenic views and historical sites along the route.

Scenic Drive: Enjoy beautiful landscapes of mountains, deserts, and villages.
Historical Sites: Stop by ancient cities like Takht-e Rustam and Balkh on your journey.
Safety Considerations: Driving at night may be risky due to poor road conditions and lack of street lighting.

Modern highway connecting Shindand Airport with Herat city, providing convenient travel for both tourists and locals.

Convenient Travel: Direct access to the airport makes travel easier.
Modern Road Conditions: Good asphalt and fewer potholes compared to other highways.
Traffic Congestion: Peak travel times can cause traffic jams, plan your trip accordingly.

Connects Herat to Kandahar via the western route, offering travelers a glimpse of Afghanistan's diverse landscapes.

Long Distance Travel: Plenty of rest stops and fuel stations along the way.
Scenic Vistas: Pass through mountains, valleys, and desert landscapes.
Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary greatly depending on weather and maintenance.

Circular highway surrounding Herat city, designed to reduce traffic congestion and improve commuting.

Reduced Congestion: Easier commute and fewer traffic jams.
Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Road Safety: Avoid accidents by following traffic rules and driving cautiously.

Connects Herat to Farah city via the west, offering travelers a glimpse of Afghanistan's rural beauty.

Rural Scenery: Pass through villages, farms, and rolling hills.
Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary depending on weather and maintenance.
Safety Considerations: Driving at night may be risky due to poor road conditions and lack of street lighting.

Connects Herat with Badghis province via the northwest, providing access to historical sites like Qala-i-Naw city.

Historical Sites: Stop by ancient cities and forts along the way.
Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary depending on weather and maintenance.
Safety Considerations: Driving at night may be risky due to poor road conditions and lack of street lighting.

Connects Herat with the Wakhan Corridor via the northeast, offering travelers a unique experience.

Scenic Drive: Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and mountain views.
Unique Cultural Experiences: Interact with the diverse ethnic groups in the Wakhan Corridor.
Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary depending on weather and maintenance.

The main border crossing between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan, offering travelers easy access to Central Asia.

Central Asian Access: Travel onwards to cities like Samarkand or Bukhara.
Border Crossing Procedures: Be prepared for customs and immigration formalities.
Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary depending on weather and maintenance.

Another border crossing between Afghanistan and Turkmenistan, offering travelers a different route into Central Asia.

Central Asian Access: Travel onwards to cities like Ashgabat.
Border Crossing Procedures: Be prepared for customs and immigration formalities.
Road Conditions: Road conditions can vary depending on weather and maintenance.

Understanding local traffic rules is essential for safe driving in Herat city.

Right-Hand Drive: Drive on the right side of the road.
Speed Limits: Observe posted speed limits for safety.
Road Signs and Markings: Familiarize yourself with local road signs and markings.

Locating fuel stations is important for long distance travel in Herat.

Fuel Availability: Some stations may be out of fuel, plan ahead.
Payment Methods: Bring cash as credit cards are not always accepted.
Station Security: Be aware of your surroundings and secure your vehicle while refueling.

Rest stops provide essential services like food, restrooms, and parking for travelers.

Food and Drink: Simple meals and refreshments are available at most stops.
Restrooms: Facilities may be basic, so come prepared with hand sanitizer and toilet paper.
Parking Security: Secure your vehicle and belongings when stopping at rest stops.

Car rentals are available for travelers who prefer self-drive options.

Vehicle Conditions: Check the condition of the vehicle before driving away.
Insurance Coverage: Ensure the rental agreement includes insurance coverage.
Rental Return Conditions: Understand the conditions for returning the vehicle.

Taxis are readily available in Herat for travelers who prefer not to drive.

Public buses offer an affordable travel option for budget-conscious travelers.

Fare Costs: Buses are generally the most affordable transportation option.
Route Information: Understand bus routes and destinations before boarding.
Safety Considerations: Maintain awareness of your surroundings and personal belongings.