Crossing the Afghanistan-Iran Border at Islam Qala/Dogharoun (January 2026 Update)
The Islam Qala (Afghanistan) – Dogharoun (Iran) crossing remains the primary and most reliable land border for foreigners traveling between Herat (Afghanistan) and Mashhad (Iran). As of early 2026, it is operational for tourism and trade, though it experiences periodic tensions, temporary closures (e.g., due to skirmishes or regional conflicts in 2025), and heavy traffic from Afghan returnees/deportees from Iran.
This is still considered the safest of Afghanistan’s three Iran borders for foreigners—the others (Milak-Zaranj and Abu Nasr Farahi/Mahirood) see less tourist traffic and may involve riskier routes.
Safety Note (2026): The Herat-Mashhad route is generally stable for this region, but Afghanistan travel carries high risks (terrorism, kidnapping, arbitrary detention). Most governments advise against all travel to Afghanistan. Check current advisories and local conditions before attempting.
Visas (2026 Requirements)
- Afghanistan Visa: Required for nearly all nationalities. Tourist visas are issued by Taliban-controlled embassies/consulates (e.g., in Dubai, Islamabad). Apply in person; processing can take days. Validity typically 30-90 days.
- Iran Visa: Most nationalities need a visa in advance—no Visa on Arrival at land borders. Apply via e-visa.mfa.ir for authorization code, then collect at an embassy. Exceptions/exclusions apply (e.g., US/UK/Canada often require guided tours). Afghan citizens need a visa but have special arrangements.
Crossing from Herat (Afghanistan) to Mashhad (Iran)
- From Herat: Arrange a shared taxi (∼1,100 AFS/seat or charter ∼4,400 AFS) via your accommodation. Departs mornings; journey to border ∼1.5-2 hours on mostly paved road.
- Afghan Exit (Islam Qala): Body search, then immigration. Show passport + Iran visa. Fingerprinting common. Process straightforward but expect questions.
- No-Man’s Land: Short drive to Iranian side.
- Iran Entry (Dogharoun): Immigration (stamp on paper, not passport for many), bag X-ray/laptop check, then customs search.
- To Mashhad: Continue in same taxi (∼4 hours total, with possible meal stop). Dropped at your accommodation.
Crossing from Mashhad to Herat
Minibuses or shared taxis depart Mashhad terminal (when full, often early morning). Process reverses; similar checks.
Practical Tips (2026)
- Hours: Daylight only (∼7 AM-5 PM local time; same timezone GMT+4:30).
- Money: Exchange at border (rates variable); possible to use AFS in Iran near border.
- Transport Alternatives: Shared taxis most common; buses less frequent.
- Current Issues: High volume of deportees/returnees can cause delays. Biometrics increasingly used on Iran side.
For the latest, consult recent traveler reports or local contacts—the situation can change rapidly. Safe travels if you proceed!