Photo Credit: Carl Montgomery

Afghanistan has four distinct seasons, with the hottest temperatures exceeding 120°F during the summer months (especially in lower elevations like Mazar-e Sharif and Jalalabad). At higher altitude like Kabul, temperatures reaches 90°F June through August. Summer is not the best time to visit, as it can get extremely hot almost everywhere, except in mountain towns. Sandstorms are prevelant during this time too, which affects air travel. Fall lasts from September through November and sees weather that is pleasant and dry, with Afghan fruit is at its peak. Winter sets in at the end of November, when roads and mountain passes are particularly tricky to navigate and lows around 30°F. There are fewer transportation options to and from remote regions during this time of the year. Spring is between March and May, and is another pleasant period to visit due to the mild weather.

Best Time to Visit Afghanistan

It is best to make travel plans for the spring or fall, particularly from April to June or from September to October. Spring is a pleasant season especially across north Afghanistan as the desert and hills turn a lively green. Fall is the harvest time in the Shomali Plain and elsewhere. Summers and winters are harsh, with extreme temperatures on both ends of the scale.

Afghan New Year celebrations are held March 21, when many festive events commence, like tournaments for the national sport, buzkashi. Avoid visiting during Ramadan, as most restaurants and facilities are closed during the month-long fast.

Click here to learn about Afghanistan's Festivals and Events