Is Kandahar Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Kandahar is a major city in the South of Afghanistan.

The city is one of the largest of Afghanistan’s thirty-four provinces and is located in the southern region of the country.

Kandahār is a border province connecting the south area to Pakistan’s Balouchistan province through Chaman and used to be the capital of Afghanistan until the late 17th century.

Travelers come here to visit here Kandahar Museum, with paintings of Ghiyassuddin, regarded as one of the essential Afghan painters of all time; Mausoleum of Baba Wali (Baba Saab); and Mosque of the Cloak of the Prophet Mohammed.

Warnings & Dangers in Kandahar

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Traveling to Kandahar is not recommended for tourists. In addition to the high probability of military action or terrorist attacks, the city has a high crime rate. You can travel in Kandahar, only using increased measures to ensure your safety.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

There is no public transport in Kandahar. Most likely, you will use a taxi or personal transportation. Be sure to discuss the price with the taxi driver before getting into his car. If the cab does not have a taximeter, tourists can be cheated with overpricing.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpocketing is common in the country and in Kandahar too. However, pickpocketing will worry you the least in that area. To protect yourself from minor thefts, take care of your belongings, do not carry valuables and do not leave personal things unattended.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

Afghanistan is vulnerable to numerous natural hazards, including earthquakes, flooding, drought, landslides, and avalanches. Explore natural disasters before visiting Kabul.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Armed robberies in Kandahar are a widespread occurrence. You should also be aware that the abduction of tourists is often possible. the government is inclined to ignore this information, so you may not hear about it in the media. Do not walk around the city streets at night and travel in groups.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Terrorism in Afghanistan is the leading and real problem. Military operations and terrorist operations can be in Kandahar as well. Avoid mass gatherings, mosques, and embassy buildings - as these are the primary targets for terrorists.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Scam in Kandahar happens and is usually directed against tourists. Avoid drinking in bars - someone can add drugs to your drink. Do not buy anything from street vendors and watch your pockets while talking to them.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

Women must cover their heads with a handkerchief and wear modest, closed clothes in Kandahar. It is not recommended to walk unaccompanied, preferably male. Do not stay in the streets of the city after sunset, and do not ride in a taxi alone.

So... How Safe Is Kandahar Really?

As of 2013, the city center of Kandahar is quite safe.

Bomb attacks or other mass-casualty incidents are sporadic.

Targeted assassinations are only a danger to those associated with the government.

Nevertheless, the crime index here is quite high.

Most crimes involve armed assaults and robberies, car thefts, theft of personal belongings, vandalism, and corruption.

In general, most governments of the world do not recommend visiting Kandahar for tourism purposes.

If you still need to get there, consult your local consulate on security in Afghanistan.

In any case, try not to be on the streets of Kandahar alone, do not wander around the city after sunset.

Beware of drinking in local bars – it is common when locals pour opiates into tourist’s drinks for robbery or violence.

Women are required to cover their heads with headscarves during their entire stay in Kandahar.

Wearing modest clothes is a must also for women. It is not recommended that women travel by themselves in this city.

If you drive a rented car- be especially careful around the city.

Dirt roads are hazardous and should be avoided as land mines are not necessarily evident in many rural areas.

Avoid contact with military and armed people

How Does Kandahar Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Citizens of all countries require a visa to visit Afghanistan. The only exemptions are travelers born in Afghanistan, born to Afghan parents, or with parents born in Afghanistan. Visa exemption applies to holders of diplomatic or service passports of China, India (diplomatic only), Indonesia, Iran, Tajikistan, and Turkey for visits up to 30 days.

Currency

The afghani is the currency of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, which is issued by the nation's central bank called Da Afghanistan Bank. It is nominally subdivided into 100 puls, although there are no pul coins currently in circulation. It has a sign: Afs and code: AFN.

Weather

In March and November in Kandahar is good weather with pleasant average temperatures 20-25 degrees Celsius. The hottest season/summer is in April, May, June, July, August, and September.

Airports

Kandahar International Airport is located about 17 km south-east of the city Kandahar in Afghanistan. It serves as the nation's second main international airport and as one of the largest military bases, capable of housing up to 250 aircraft of all types.

Travel Insurance

The travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.

Kandahar Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

Afghanistan - Safety by City