Top Things To Do In Buzkashi Matches (Mazari-Sharif) In 2026 - 2027

Cultural & Sporting Venue

Top 5 things to do in Buzkashi matches

1. Chasing the Buzkashi
Buzkashi, often described as Central Asia’s most dangerous sport, is an enthralling and rugged equestrian game played predominantly in Afghanistan, with a history spanning centuries. In this activity, you will join the local crowd to witness teams of horsemen, known as chapandaz, as they showcase their strength and skills trying to grab a headless goat or calf carcass and gallop through the opponents to drop it in a scoring circle. The game is full of adrenaline-pumping action, where riders fiercely battle for possession of the carcass, often performing astonishing feats of horsemanship. The activity offers an unparalleled cultural immersion, allowing you to experience the passion and excitement that Buzkashi stirs among its spectators. Remember to keep your camera ready, but also to watch out for stray horses or an unexpected turn in the match.
Duration: 2-4 hours · Price: Free to Spectate
2. Meet a Chapandaz
This exclusive encounter allows you to meet with a professional Buzkashi rider, or chapandaz, to gain deeper insights into what it takes to compete in this perilous sport. A seasoned chapandaz will walk you through the preparation involved – from training incredibly strong horses to mastering the intense physical skills necessary for the game. You’ll learn about the rules and strategies of Buzkashi, the significance of the sport in Afghan culture, and possibly even the personal stories and challenges faced by the riders. A professional translator may accompany you to facilitate the conversation, ensuring you fully grasp the complexities of the sport and the dedication of these athletes. This immersive interaction provides a rare chance to understand the sport from an insider’s perspective.
Duration: 1 hour · Price: $30 per person
3. Cultural Buzkashi Tour
Embark on a comprehensive cultural tour that includes attending a vibrant Buzkashi match as its climax. Your day begins with a visit to local landmarks in Mazar-i-Sharif, absorbing the history and architecture of this northern Afghan city. Next, you'll enjoy traditional Afghan cuisine in a popular local restaurant, with the opportunity to try dishes such as kebabs and pulao. The tour culminates with experiencing a Buzkashi match, where your guide will explain the intricacies of the game and the cultural significance it holds. Throughout the day, you'll have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their customs and way of life. This all-encompassing tour not only provides excitement but also a wealth of cultural knowledge.
Duration: Full Day · Price: $100 per person
4. Horse Riding Experience
Get a taste of the equestrian skills that Buzkashi players must master with this guided horse riding experience. Under the tutelage of an experienced instructor, you'll learn the basics of horseback riding and even practice some of the maneuvers used in Buzkashi games. The activity caters to a range of skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning environment for everyone. Practicing in a controlled setting away from the intensity of a real match, you’ll gain appreciation for the chapandaz’s abilities and the deep bond they share with their horses. Safety gear will be provided, and the instructor will tailor the session to suit your experience, with the primary focus on ensuring you have a fun and memorable ride.
Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: $50 per person
5. Traditional Attire Photoshoot
Commemorate your visit to a Buzkashi match with a traditional Afghan attire photoshoot. This activity offers you the chance to dress up in customary clothing worn by chapandaz and locals, including elaborate embroidered vests, turbans, and boots. A professional photographer will guide you through a series of poses, capturing your experience against the backdrop of the thrilling Buzkashi action. These photographs make for unique souvenirs that reflect the vibrant culture and traditions of Afghanistan. The activity includes a fitting session to ensure the attire compliments you comfortably, followed by the photoshoot that results in a collection of high-quality images for you to cherish.
Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: $40 per person

Other Places to Visit in Mazari-Sharif

View all places to visit in Mazari-Sharif

Religious Site

Blue Mosque (Shrine of Ali)

Qalae-Jangi

Balkh Museum

Ancient city of Balkh

Religious Site

Green Mosque

5.0(5 reviews)

Historical Landmark

Tomb of the poet Rumi

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Other Suggested Reads for Buzkashi matches

Top 5 things to do in Buzkashi matches

1. Chasing the Buzkashi

Buzkashi, often described as Central Asia’s most dangerous sport, is an enthralling and rugged equestrian game played predominantly in Afghanistan, with a history spanning centuries. In this activity, you will join the local crowd to witness teams of horsemen, known as chapandaz, as they showcase their strength and skills trying to grab a headless goat or calf carcass and gallop through the opponents to drop it in a scoring circle. The game is full of adrenaline-pumping action, where riders fiercely battle for possession of the carcass, often performing astonishing feats of horsemanship. The activity offers an unparalleled cultural immersion, allowing you to experience the passion and excitement that Buzkashi stirs among its spectators. Remember to keep your camera ready, but also to watch out for stray horses or an unexpected turn in the match.

Duration: 2-4 hours · Price: Free to Spectate

2. Meet a Chapandaz

This exclusive encounter allows you to meet with a professional Buzkashi rider, or chapandaz, to gain deeper insights into what it takes to compete in this perilous sport. A seasoned chapandaz will walk you through the preparation involved – from training incredibly strong horses to mastering the intense physical skills necessary for the game. You’ll learn about the rules and strategies of Buzkashi, the significance of the sport in Afghan culture, and possibly even the personal stories and challenges faced by the riders. A professional translator may accompany you to facilitate the conversation, ensuring you fully grasp the complexities of the sport and the dedication of these athletes. This immersive interaction provides a rare chance to understand the sport from an insider’s perspective.

Duration: 1 hour · Price: $30 per person

3. Cultural Buzkashi Tour

Embark on a comprehensive cultural tour that includes attending a vibrant Buzkashi match as its climax. Your day begins with a visit to local landmarks in Mazar-i-Sharif, absorbing the history and architecture of this northern Afghan city. Next, you'll enjoy traditional Afghan cuisine in a popular local restaurant, with the opportunity to try dishes such as kebabs and pulao. The tour culminates with experiencing a Buzkashi match, where your guide will explain the intricacies of the game and the cultural significance it holds. Throughout the day, you'll have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their customs and way of life. This all-encompassing tour not only provides excitement but also a wealth of cultural knowledge.

Duration: Full Day · Price: $100 per person

4. Horse Riding Experience

Get a taste of the equestrian skills that Buzkashi players must master with this guided horse riding experience. Under the tutelage of an experienced instructor, you'll learn the basics of horseback riding and even practice some of the maneuvers used in Buzkashi games. The activity caters to a range of skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning environment for everyone. Practicing in a controlled setting away from the intensity of a real match, you’ll gain appreciation for the chapandaz’s abilities and the deep bond they share with their horses. Safety gear will be provided, and the instructor will tailor the session to suit your experience, with the primary focus on ensuring you have a fun and memorable ride.

Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: $50 per person

5. Traditional Attire Photoshoot

Commemorate your visit to a Buzkashi match with a traditional Afghan attire photoshoot. This activity offers you the chance to dress up in customary clothing worn by chapandaz and locals, including elaborate embroidered vests, turbans, and boots. A professional photographer will guide you through a series of poses, capturing your experience against the backdrop of the thrilling Buzkashi action. These photographs make for unique souvenirs that reflect the vibrant culture and traditions of Afghanistan. The activity includes a fitting session to ensure the attire compliments you comfortably, followed by the photoshoot that results in a collection of high-quality images for you to cherish.

Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: $40 per person