How to get to Herat

If you are planning a visit to Herat, prepare to encounter an ancient city situated in a fertile valley in western Afghanistan. This historical centre offers guests a unique immersion into the region's culture, and it can be reached via various means. When preparing for your journey, it is important to study how to get to Herat by choosing the optimal route using air travel or ground transport.

For the majority of travellers, the main aerial gateway to the region is Herat International Airport. This transport hub receives regular flights and features a convenient location, allowing tourists to reach the central part of the city from the terminal quickly and comfortably.

If a direct flight does not suit your itinerary, you may consider arriving at airports in neighbouring countries located relatively close to the border. The nearest alternatives are the Iranian cities of Mashhad and Birjand, as well as Mary in Turkmenistan, located within a radius of 320–370 kilometres.

There is currently no direct passenger railway service to Herat, as the city does not have an active station for receiving tourist trains. Rail travel enthusiasts will need to plan a combined route: first travelling by rail to major transport hubs in neighbouring countries, and then transferring to alternative ground transport.

The nearest accessible stations are located across the border, in the territories of Iran and Turkmenistan. You can consider the Iranian city of Mashhad or the Turkmen city of Mary as convenient transit points. The remaining part of the journey, approximately 320–360 kilometres long, will need to be covered by bus or taxi, which will allow you to additionally observe the region's landscapes.

Bus services connect the city with major settlements in neighbouring states, offering travellers the opportunity to enjoy the region's authentic scenery. A popular choice is the route from Mashhad in Iran, located approximately 370 kilometres away; the trip usually takes between 6 to 8 hours. An alternative departure point is Birjand, from where the journey of about 330 kilometres will take a similar amount of time.

Travellers heading from the north can use transport coming from the Turkmen city of Mary. The distance to the destination is about 360 kilometres, and the travel time varies from 7 to 10 hours depending on border formalities. This method of travel allows for a deeper immersion into the atmosphere of Asia and a chance to observe the lives of local residents from the bus window.

Travelling by car to Herat provides freedom in route planning and allows you to appreciate the landscapes of Central Asia. A popular route runs from the Iranian city of Mashhad: the distance of 382 kilometres can be covered in approximately 5.5 hours. Another sought-after option is the road from Birjand, taking about 6.5 hours to cover 467 kilometres.

If you are departing from the direction of Turkmenistan, the city of Mary serves as a convenient landmark, located 432 kilometres away; the drive from there will take about 6 hours. It is recommended to use the services of an official taxi or book a private transfer. This ensures greater comfort on the road, and the cost of the trip can often be negotiated with the driver in advance.

A trip to Herat will provide a unique cultural experience if you prepare for the nuances of the local lifestyle in advance. This ancient city in western Afghanistan lives by conservative traditions; observing them will ensure you earn the respect of the locals and enjoy a comfortable stay.

1. Dress Code. Appearance plays a key role. Women are advised to wear loose, opaque clothing that fully covers the arms, legs, and figure, and it is mandatory to cover the head with a headscarf (hijab). Men should choose long trousers and shirts; shorts and sleeveless tops are unacceptable here.
2. Finances. Bank cards from international payment systems are practically not used in the city. It is necessary to carry a sufficient supply of cash (US Dollars or Euros), which can be exchanged for local Afghanis at banks or official exchange offices. Banknotes must be crisp, new, and undamaged.
3. Urban Transport. It is best to use official taxis to move around the city. Public transport can be difficult to navigate without knowledge of the language. The fare should be agreed upon with the taxi driver in advance, before getting into the car.
4. Water and Hygiene. Tap water is not suitable for consumption. Use exclusively bottled water with an intact factory seal for drinking and brushing your teeth. Given the dry and dusty climate, it is useful to carry moisturisers and sunglasses.
5. Language Barrier. The main language of communication is Dari. Few people speak English, so it is recommended to download an offline translator or phrasebook. Learning a few basic phrases of greeting and gratitude will help you build rapport with people faster.
6. Etiquette Rules. Be sure to remove your shoes when entering a home or a mosque. Greetings between men and women who are not related are usually limited to a verbal greeting without handshakes. It is customary to pass food and money with the right hand.
7. Photography. Treat photography with caution. Strictly avoid photographing government institutions and strategic objects. Local residents may only be photographed with their explicit permission, and photographing women is strongly discouraged.
8. Shopping and Souvenirs. Herat is renowned for its blue glass, handmade carpets, and saffron. Bargaining is customary in the bazaars—it is part of the culture and polite communication. Purchasing items from local artisans makes an excellent contribution to the city's economy and serves as a memory of your trip.

Following these recommendations will help avoid awkward situations and allow you to focus on exploring the rich history and architecture of the region. Locals appreciate guests who treat their customs and culture with understanding.