Afghanistan is slowly opening up to tourism, with visitors arriving by plane, motorbike, and even bicycle.

The Taliban government, eager to boost the economy, is promoting the country’s scenic and historic sites despite ongoing security concerns.

Tourist numbers remain modest but growing, with nearly 9,000 visitors last year.

While violence has dropped since the Taliban takeover in 2021, attacks still occur, including a deadly assault on tourists in Bamiyan in May 2024, the Associated Press has reported.

The government sees tourism as a vital source of revenue and a way to showcase Afghan culture and hospitality.

Written by B.C. Begley