Question 1

Is it safe to travel the Pamir Highway?

Daniel · Accepted Answer

We are often asked the question: Is it really safe to travel along the Pamir Highway given its proximity to Afghanistan and remote location?

We understand the concerns given its location, but traveling the Pamir Highway with an experienced operator is generally very safe.

The region’s remoteness means you won’t encounter much crime as the the small communities you pass through respect and value guests. Our drivers/guides are familiar with the route, the different communities, the vehicle, and emergency procedures. We use well-maintained 4×4 vehicles use to this terrain, carry basic first aid and communications, and we always register or inform local authorities when required. In addition, we do not drive at night or in dangerous weather. We monitor any advisories closely.

As for being near Afghanistan: along the Wakhan Valley, the road runs parallel to the Afghan border for a day or two (separated by the Panj River). This Afghan region is known as the Wakhan Corridor and is a peaceful, isolated part of Afghanistan. There’s no active conflict anywhere near the Pamir Highway route. Both the Tajik and Afghan governments maintain a stable situation in that border zone because it’s important for local trade. Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan have resolved earlier border closures and the Pamir Highway border crossings and route is fully open and safe for foreigners.

We stay on the Tajik side for the entire journey and there is no crossing into Afghanistan except the optional Afghan Market in Ishkashim which is held on a neutral place between the two countries.

The Pamir Highway is in a remote and somewhat wild place, which adds to its allure and adventure. But when you travel on our Pamir Highway tours you’ll be in good hands with experienced drivers/guides and hosts. Thousands of adventure travelers safely do a Pamir Highway road trip each year and we hope you will join them!

Question 2

Is it safe to travel the Pamir Highway?

Daniel · Accepted Answer

We are often asked the question: Is it really safe to travel along the Pamir Highway given its proximity to Afghanistan and remote location?

We understand the concerns given its location, but traveling the Pamir Highway with an experienced operator is generally very safe.

The region’s remoteness means you won’t encounter much crime as the the small communities you pass through respect and value guests. Our drivers/guides are familiar with the route, the different communities, the vehicle, and emergency procedures. We use well-maintained 4×4 vehicles use to this terrain, carry basic first aid and communications, and we always register or inform local authorities when required. In addition, we do not drive at night or in dangerous weather. We monitor any advisories closely.

As for being near Afghanistan: along the Wakhan Valley, the road runs parallel to the Afghan border for a day or two (separated by the Panj River). This Afghan region is known as the Wakhan Corridor and is a peaceful, isolated part of Afghanistan. There’s no active conflict anywhere near the Pamir Highway route. Both the Tajik and Afghan governments maintain a stable situation in that border zone because it’s important for local trade. Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan have resolved earlier border closures and the Pamir Highway border crossings and route is fully open and safe for foreigners.

We stay on the Tajik side for the entire journey and there is no crossing into Afghanistan except the optional Afghan Market in Ishkashim which is held on a neutral place between the two countries.

The Pamir Highway is in a remote and somewhat wild place, which adds to its allure and adventure. But when you travel on our Pamir Highway tours you’ll be in good hands with experienced drivers/guides and hosts. Thousands of adventure travelers safely do a Pamir Highway road trip each year and we hope you will join them!