Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan? If you're planning to go to Band-e Amir National Park, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Band-e Amir National Park
  2. Important essentials for Band-e Amir National Park
  3. Activities for Band-e Amir National Park
  4. Band-e Amir National Park in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Band-e Amir National Park in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Band-e Amir National Park in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Band-e Amir National Park in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Band-e Amir National Park in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Band-e Amir National Park in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Band-e Amir National Park in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Band-e Amir National Park in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Band-e Amir National Park in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Band-e Amir National Park in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Band-e Amir National Park in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Band-e Amir National Park in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan

Based on the climate and weather in Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Band-e Amir National Park, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan by month

January

Traveling to Band-e Amir National Park in January, you will notice that it can be bitter cold. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost almost every day of the month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February for Band-e Amir National Park is beyond freezing. Temperatures average in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

March

March for Band-e Amir National Park is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about two thirds of the time. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

April

April in Band-e Amir National Park can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the right type. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you go to Band-e Amir National Park in June, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

July dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

August

August for Band-e Amir National Park very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

September

If you are traveling to Band-e Amir National Park in September, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

October

October here is cold. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November in Band-e Amir National Park can be brisk. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

December

December here is frigid. Temperatures average in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Afghanistan has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Band-e Amir National Park. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the correct type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

What to do in Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan

Band-e Amir National Park is known to be one of the most pristine and picturesque natural areas in Afghanistan. The park, which was established in 2009, is situated on the southern end of the Hindu Kush Mountains in the Bamyan Province. Its jewel is the chain of six deep blue, turquoise lakes linked by waterfalls and cascades. The unique natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this area allow it to draw in thousands of tourists every year. Here are the top tourist attractions in Band-e Amir National Park, Afghanistan:

1. Band-e Amir Lakes:

The lakes in Band-e Amir National Park are the main attraction. The crystal-clear, blue-colored water gives the lakes a surreal and captivating quality. The colors of the lakes change according to the time of day and weather conditions, making them a treat for the eyes. Visitors can swim in the emerald blue waters, rent a rowboat or relax on the shore.

2. The Cliffs and Caves:

The area surrounding the lakes is home to caves and tall cliffs that offer a breathtaking view of the lakes. The cliffs form a natural amphitheatre around the upper lakes, which make for some fantastic photographic opportunities.

3. Wildlife Safari:

Band-e Amir National Park is home to several species of animals, including the Afghan snow leopard, ibex, lynx, and wolves. Visitors can take a guided wildlife safari and explore the magnificent flora and fauna of the region.

4. The Blue Mosque of Mazar-e-Sharif:

Just outside the park’s boundaries, visitors can visit the iconic Blue Mosque of Mazar-e-Sharif, located in the northern Balkh province of the country. The mosque is known for its azure dome, and visitors can witness thousands of pilgrims who come to pray here.

5. The Shrine of Hazrat Ali:

This is also located outside the park, in the city of Mazar-e-Sharif. The Shrine is known to be the last resting place of Hazrat Ali or Ali ibn Abi Talib, the fourth caliph of Islam. The shrine is a significant pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims from Afghanistan and around the world.

In conclusion, Band-e Amir National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The park offers enchanting views of its lakes, cliffs, and wildlife. Visitors can also explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and witness the traditional life of the locals. The park’s natural beauty and serenity make it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. A visit to Band-e Amir National Park will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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