Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan? If you're planning to go to Mazar-e Sharif, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Mazar-e Sharif
- Important essentials for Mazar-e Sharif
- Activities for Mazar-e Sharif
- Mazar-e Sharif in January: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in February: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in March: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in April: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in May: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in June: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in July: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in August: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in September: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in October: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in November: weather and what to pack
- Mazar-e Sharif in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan
Based on the climate and weather in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan, the best time to go is October. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Mazar-e Sharif, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan by month
January
If you go to Mazar-e Sharif in January, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain regularly and snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Most 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 work in most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
February
In February, Mazar-e Sharif is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Mazar-e Sharif, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: here
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
March
March in Mazar-e Sharif is cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
April
If you visit Mazar-e Sharif during April, you might notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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 Mazar-e Sharif. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
May
May is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
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 get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
June in Mazar-e Sharif can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin short sleeve shirts
It's important pack extra, since these get wet or dirty.
Insulated water bottle
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to help you stay cool and can provide UV protection.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are developed to keep you cool:
UV protecting pants
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Sunglasses
this
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the necessary kind. A lot of 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 should be sufficient for most countries.
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
July
Traveling to Mazar-e Sharif in July, you will notice that it is a scorcher and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 100s F (high 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
our recommendation
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
like this one
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
One of these:
Thin tank or crop tops
100% UV protection sunglasses
We suggest:
Insulated water bottle
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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 Mazar-e Sharif. 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.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
August
If you visit Mazar-e Sharif during August, you may notice that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thin short sleeve shirts
Do bring extra, since these are likely to get wet or dirty.
Protecting legwear
These will keep your legs safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Insulated water bottle
this
Skirts
Sunglasses
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed for cooling:
Waterproof sandals
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to cool you and can provide UV protection.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to pick the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change 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
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
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
September
Traveling to Mazar-e Sharif in September, you will notice that it can be sweltering and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans dangerous contaminants:
this
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like 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. Avoid surcharges with this
October
October in Mazar-e Sharif is warm and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Light skirts
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little 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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
November
November in Mazar-e Sharif is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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 airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
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. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
December
If you visit Mazar-e Sharif during December, you will probably notice that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Mazar-e Sharif. 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.
Given current world events, Afghanistan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to find the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
What to do in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan
Mazar-e Sharif, located in the northern province of Balkh, Afghanistan, is a city rich in cultural and historical significance. Known as the "Noble Shrine," Mazar-e Sharif is home to some of the most important historic and religious sites in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world. Here are the top tourist attractions in Mazar-e Sharif.
1. The Blue Mosque
The famous Blue Mosque, also known as the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, is the most visited tourist attraction in Mazar-e Sharif. The mosque is an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate blue-tiled decorations and a gold-plated dome. The shrine is the final resting place of Hazrat Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad and a revered figure in Islam. The Blue Mosque is one of the holiest sites in Afghanistan and attracts pilgrims from all over the world.
2. Balkh Citadel
Located about 25 kilometers from Mazar-e Sharif, Balkh Citadel is an ancient fortress that dates back to the 4th century BC. The citadel is one of the largest and most impressive structures of its kind in Central Asia. Once a major trading center on the Silk Road, the citadel is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists who are interested in exploring the ruins of an ancient civilization.
3. The Tomb of Khwaja Parsa
The Tomb of Khwaja Parsa is a popular tourist spot in Mazar-e Sharif. The site is dedicated to the memory of Khwaja Parsa, one of the greatest Sufi saints of the 15th century. The tomb is located on a hilltop in the center of the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
4. The Mausoleum of Sultan Ali
The Mausoleum of Sultan Ali, also known as the Kohe Ghar Mosque, is a stunning monument located on a hilltop in Mazar-e Sharif. Built in the 15th century, the mosque is one of the finest examples of Timurid architecture in the region. The building boasts intricate tile work and a towering blue dome, attracting visitors who are interested in the history and architecture of Afghanistan.
5. The Shrine of Hazrat Imam Ali
The Shrine of Hazrat Imam Ali is another holy site in Mazar-e Sharif. The shrine is dedicated to the memory of Hazrat Imam Ali, the fourth caliph of Islam and a revered figure in Shi'a Islam. The site features a beautiful mosque and a mausoleum housing the remains of Hazrat Imam Ali's son, Hazrat Imam Hasan. The Shrine of Hazrat Imam Ali attracts visitors who are interested in exploring the rich tradition and history of Shi'a Islam.
6. The Gardens of Babur
The Gardens of Babur, located about 10 kilometers from Mazar-e Sharif, are an elegant oasis of beauty and serenity. The gardens were first designed in the 16th century by Babur, the first Mughal emperor, and were restored in the 20th century. The gardens feature a variety of trees, fountains, and flowers, making them a popular spot for local families and tourists alike.
In conclusion, Mazar-e Sharif is a city rich in cultural and historical significance, offering visitors a chance to explore the country's ancient landmarks and religious sites. From the Blue Mosque to the Gardens of Babur, the top tourist attractions in Mazar-e Sharif are a testament to the country's rich and diverse past. Anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture should definitely consider visiting Mazar-e Sharif.

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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