Tour Overview & Experience
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Custom pacing, private certified native guides & tailored group itineraries.
Every trip helps support Conservation
Fair-wage porter insurance, Leave-No-Trace practices & local community aid.
Seamless travel, every detail perfected
All permits, deluxe accommodations, private transport & 24/7 expert logistics.
The Karakoram Grand Traverse covers Gondogoro La, Concordia, K-2 Base Camp, the Baltoro Glacier, and the Biafo and Hispar Glaciers. It is by far one of the most rewarding glacial traverses in the Karakoram.
Outside the Polar Regions, this glacier system is the longest, covering over 140 kilometers of glacier. The Biafo Glacier (37 miles long) and the Hispar Glacier (38 miles long) meet at the 5,151 m Hispar Pass to form one of the longest glacial systems outside the Polar Regions. This highway of ice connects two ancient mountain kingdoms: Hunza in the west with Shigar Baltistan in the east.
This trek requires a good degree of physical fitness, as variable weather conditions make the crossing of the pass quite challenging—but all the more rewarding. We recommend starting the trek from Askole, as groups can reach Concordia while seeing the major Baltoro peaks and return by the same route in case of extreme snow or unkind weather conditions. We also recommend that members bring crampons and an ice axe.
Hunza Adventure Tours is among the foremost tour operators in Northern Pakistan and the first eco-responsible tour operator in Pakistan, with offices in Skardu, Karachi, Islamabad, and Chitral. Our clients are predominantly from Western countries. We have been in the travel business for well over a decade, and our services are manifold: hiking, paragliding, trekking, expeditions, jeep safaris, boating, fishing, cultural tours, study tours, wildlife tours, white-water rafting, and many more.
Our marketing has so far relied on word-of-mouth contacts and returning esteemed guests. That is one reason we are able to operate classic, high-standard tours at very nominal costs.
“Along the ancient Silk Road, every fortress, stone bazaar, and welcoming mountain hearth tells centuries of timeless history and vibrant living heritage.”
Tour Highlights
- Experience two treks of the world’s top 5 walks on this planet Walking in Concordia and the Baltoro Glacier.
- Picturesque valleys of Shigar, Khapulo, Hushe, Nagar and Hunza.
- Concordia, Biafo and the Baltoro Glacier.
- Stunning views of 8000 m Peaks of K2, Broad Peak, Hispar, Snow Lake, Masherbrum, Trango towers and Leila peak among many others.
- Climb Gondogoro La, Hispar La & visit K2 & Broad Peak Base Camps.
Day-by-Day Itinerary (33 Days)
Arrive Islamabad and Transfer to Hotel.
You will be greeted by the team of Hunza Adventure Tours at Islamabad International airport. Then transfer you along with your luggage to centrally located hotel in Islamabad.
Fly to Skardu or Drive to Chilas (Mini Van 480 km).
a) Weather permitting, we take a spectacular flight to the high mountain region of Baltistan in the north east. On a clear day we should be able to see Nanga Parbat (8124m) and K2 (8611m) towering above all other mountains. (It is quite possible adverse weather in Islamabad or Skardu may affect our flight plans and make it necessary to drive by the Karakoram Highway to Skardu, a journey of approx. two days).
b) In case of cancellation of flight drive 10-12hrs by air-conditioned coach/car to Chilas (480km) on the Karakoram highway. Overnight in Chilas.
Drive to Skardu from Chilas In case of flight cancellation (275 km).
a) Overnight stay in Skardu. Preparations for our trek and depending on our time of arrival into Skardu, there may be time to visit the town and possibly an excursion to Kachura Lake situated at the edge of the valley. Skardu is the regional capital of Baltistan, lying at the edge of a broad floodplain that is the confluence of the Shyok, Indus and Basha Rivers.
b) If we are driving the road journey today will be 7-8 hrs. to Skardu (275km) or 10-12 from Chilas. On route are spectacular views of Nanga Parbat (8125m) overnight stay in Skardu.
SKARDU - HUSHE
After considerable organisation of equipment, supplies and porter loads for the journey ahead, we commence trekking towards Jhola. The valley opens out to reveal the Biafo Glacier flowing for more than 50 kilometres from the Hispar La pass to the Braldu. We have our first taste of moraine walking as we cross the snout of the glacier and descend to our lunch spot beside the river. We also experience the harsh, stark environment that forms the base of these great mountains.
Our route takes us to the confluence of the Braldu and Dumordo Rivers where the infamous flying fox or 'jola' is located. It is still there, however a footbridge has now been built making the passage much easier by every perspective. (Consider individual passage of 50 to 70 people with loads, compared with walking straight across a steel bridge!). In past years it was necessary to make a high traverse across a rocky face and descend steeply to the riverside of the Dumordo to gain the flying fox. There is now a safe and pleasant pathway above the river. It is this valley, fed by the Panmah Glacier that was once a passage between Baltistan and Yarkhand across the West Mustagh Pass (5370m) into China. Once across, we descend beside the river to the Braldu and then follow along its banks to our camp.
HUSHE – SAITCHO
Today we leave the last inhabited village Hushe. Porters are assembled to carry our luggage for the next section of the journey. For the remaining portion of our journey, we rely on our porters who carry our food and equipment and sustain our grand trek. After a short trek of about 4 hours, we will reach a beautiful campsite named Saitcho, located among shady trees on a sandy plain beside the river at the junction of the Charakusa and the Gondogooro valleys. Before the camp there is a wonderful view of the impressive Charakusa Spire and from the camp we get excellent views of the peak of Nameka and the rock pillars of K7.
SAICHO -- DALSANGPA
Resume trek from Saicho alongside the Gondogoro Glacier following a path on a wooded moraine crest which ascends to the summer pasture of Gondogoro Village. After lunch here we will scramble down onto the glacier and trek along the edge of the glacier for a short distance to bypass a steep rock section before finally scrambling up a rocky gully to reach our spectacular campsite at Dalsangpa, an amazing place having spectacular views of a range of snowy peaks including the spectacular summit of Mashabrum. Along with two small tranquil lakes.
DALSANGPA - KHUSSPANG
Today morning we will drop back down onto the glacier walking on snow and icc, following the central section, for Gondogoro La base camp namely Khuspang. Crevasses on this section of the glacier are small and easy to see. This trek route has impressive views as we move along the glacier, most particularly the beautiful spire of the Laila peak and Ninchi peak. We will camp at Khuspang (4800m), a grassy field beside a small lake and towering spires.
KHUSSPANG - ACCLIMATIZATION DAY
Today is a rest and acclimatization day learning some skills and safety procedures for ascending on the pass using fixed ropes and moving rope.
KHUSSPANG – GONDOGORO LA –ALI CAMP
A long and tiring ascend early morning marks the toughest and most challenging days of the trek. The basic theme behind the early walk to reach the top of the Ghondogoro Pass 5700 meters is that in the morning snow will be soft and we will not get tired quickly as the sun is not strong, but as sun gets strong snow get soft. Snow going to be melted and bring water and stones, also the chance of ice falls or avalanches. Our guides will fix ropes to safeguard this ascent and descent on the other side for both the porters and clients. On the top of Ghondogoro La you will find the most spectacular view on earth. From here you can see the K2, Broad peak, G1, G2, Muztagh Tower, Chogolingsa. Our descend is slightly trickier and we will need to move roped together as precaution against the crevasses which are found on the descent of an hour to the Vigne Glacier. After a three and half hour of trekking we will reach to Ali Camp, situated on a rocky site overlooking the long ridge running from Masherbrum to Chogolingsa.
ALI CAMP - CONCORDIA
Trekking to the campsite at Concordia, we trek onto the Vigne Glacier, mostly walking on moraine. Concordia, a huge junction of Baltoro, Abruzzi & Godwin Austin Glaciers at 4000 meters. Within a short radius of 15 Kilometers, stand 41 peaks over 6500 meters including 04 peaks above 8000 M. The 360-degree view offers a panorama of peaks nowhere to be found on this planet.
CONCORDIA - FREE DAY
There is plenty of time to admire the scenery and find the best vantage points from which to take photographs of the surrounding peaks. Concordia, the confluence of five glaciers, offers unprecedented views of the Karakorum peaks. Within a radius of nine miles rise 41 peaks above 21,000 feet, almost half of them still unnamed and unclimbed. Some team members may wish to make the return journey to K2 Base Camp in a single day (10 hrs. round trip). Others may choose to explore base camps or just sit and watch K2 all day long and sip tea; or go to the other way towards the Gasherbrum peaks. The choice is yours! Overnight at Concordia.
CONCORDIA – GORO
From Concordia we commence the descend down on the icy Baltoro Glacier, traveling on the glacier all the time now, it is an all-day walk over the boulder-strewn glacier to the campsite at Goro. Today we pass through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the world; a huge junction of Baltoro, Abruzzi & Godwin Austin Glaciers at 4000 meters.
GORO - KHOBURSEY
Today continuing down the Baltoro Glacier we trek across increasingly rough piles of glacial moraine where in places the path is quite indistinct. To make up for this we have the spectacular backdrop of Cathedral Peak and Lobsang Spires opposite of us. Our first campsite situated off glacier for many days is at Khoborssey, this camp has superb views across the Baltoro Glacier to the Trango peaks, having view of Paiu Peak, Chorichi, Uli Biaho, Trango Tower and so on.
KHOBURSEY - PAIU
Today we resume trek with a gradual descend up to Paiu. We are now trekking off the glacier following fairly good paths. In some places they are cut spectacularly into the steep rock walls which rise above us. We regain the glacier for a short distance in order to cross the snout, and so reach the green grass campsite at Paiu, the last grove of trees before the trail moves onto the glacier, Paiu 6611 M.
PAIU – JULA
Today we trek along the Braldu River skirting around the impressive Paiu Peak to Jula (wire rope bridge supported by a wooden basket). The water is often not good here so we may choose to walk off the main route for approximately 30 minutes to another campsite with clear water beside a torrent facing the Bakhordas peak.
JULA - NAMLA
After breakfast at campsite, we start our trek into an incredible wilderness of ice and rocks along the Biafo glacier by an easy route. The Biafo glacier is a huge river of ice, 63 Km long, which descends from the central Karakoram peaks and flows east, into the Braldo valley.
NAMLA - MANGO
Today our trek follows a series of moraine ridges which run along the centre of the glacier. We trek along 3 or 4 hours until we reach a point where the glacier becomes contorted, at which point the route finding becomes quite tricky as we work our way off the glacier and up to another pleasant meadow in a green ablation valley named Mango, giving us a fantastic view down the valley and where yak herders from Askole live in summer.
MANGO - BAINTHA
We continue along the glacier on a somehow more difficult trail by working our way through a maze of jumbled boulders to reach the central moraines which provide an easier route along the centre of the glacier. Hispar pass can be viewed while walking on trail. We will establish our campsite in a grassy area dotted with bushes, very near the junction of Biafo and Baintha glaciers. May be lucky enough to spot mountain ibex at nearby crags.The traffic becomes more chaotic as we approach Rawalpindi and one feels the temperatures of the plains once again. Should we be able to fly, the additional time will be well spent in 'Pindi; shopping and sightseeing. The Bazaars have endless numbers of streets to explore and traders to bargain with.
BAINTHA – FREE DAY
Rest day for acclimatization and contingency preparations.
BAINTHA - NAPINA
Today walk through a crevassed iced field, by roping up to safe-guard against hidden crevasses towards the junction of Biafo and Simgang glaciers to Napina, a grassy campsite in an ablation valley with fresh water and wild flowers.
NAPINA – SIMGANG
This is a steady walk on snow covered ice to the Sim Gang Basecamp, closer to Hispar La. Today we get incredible views on our way, most impressive is the Sosbun Brak and Snow Lake, marking out the intersection of Biafo and Hispar glacier. The name snow lake was given in 1892 by W Martin Conway the first foreign visitors. This huge basin of snow and ice (about 9.5 Km) circled with snow-capped granite peaks, offers a breathtaking panorama.
SIMGANG (SNOW LAKE) FREE DAY
Rest day to explore the snow lake and acclimatization. Snow Lake, a vast basin of ice at 16,000 feet ringed by saw tooth peaks that explorer Martin Conway described as "beyond all comparison the finest view of mountains it has ever been my lot to behold, nor do I believe the world can hold a finer." From here treks lead to Shimshal valley as well.
SIMGANG – HISPAR-LA
Today we have an early start, climbing steadily towards the vast pass plateau. Today we will use our crampons and ice axe and need to travel roped together to negotiate the central section of the Hispar Glacier, where several giant crevasses exist. Then a fairly gentle climb to the crest of the pass rewards us with one of the most incredible views at campsites with stunning views straight down the Hispar Glacier to the mountains of the Nagar region. Great expanse of the Sim Gang basin and the mighty peak of the Ogre are the mesmerizing views on Shigar side.
HISPAR-LA – KHANI-BASA
Today descending to Khanibasa again requires to be roped up from the crest of the pass. After about one hour or two the glacier flattens out and soon, we leave the snow and can unropes. The trail carries on through scree and moraines, flanked with iced-falls to reach our campsite Khani Basa, situated in an ablation valley by the Khani Basa glacier.
KHANI-BASA - JUTMAL
Today we cross the Khani Basa glacier and get superb views of smooth white dome Kanjut Sar at 7760 m. There are some awkward moraines to cross, and several small streams which are best crossed as early in the morning as possible before the glacial waters begin to flow. Our campsite is at Jutmal, on a flat sheltered field in the ablation valley with running water, with bushes and wild flowers in surrounding.
JUTMAL - PUMARI
We cross some ice walls and crevasses along the way to Yutmaru glacier, a tributary of Hispar glacie having views of Kanjut Sar, Pumari Chish and Kunjang Chish after some walk from Yutmaru glacier. Beyond Yutmaru path follows a series of pleasant meadows with streams flowing through them. Water is needed to be filled in bottles as there is no water along the trail.
PUMARI – DACHIGAN
Today after breakfast trek begins by crossing an awkward moraine, before we reach the confluence of the Hispar and Pumari Chish Glaciers. We cross the glacier on moraines and follow a steep path on the west side of the glacier, finally reaching our campsite at Dachigan.
DACHIGAN – HISPAR VILLAGE
This is an easy day of walking through pastures crossing a number of streams, whose water swell considerably once the afternoon snow melt has flowed into them. We cross the Kiang Glacier and have a steep climb to join the path which leads through the pastures of Daltanas and Falolingkish. Crossing several deserted dwellings we reach at Hispar Village, highest village of Nagar valley with blossoming orchards and terraced fields
HISPAR VILLAGE – KARIMABAD
After breakfast descend in jeep along a bumpy road for about 2 hours until we reach the Karakoram Highway (KKH). We then turn north and drive along this great road for a while until we come to the town of Karimabad on Karakoram Highway. Towering over the green and fertile oasis of the Hunza valley are the ice ridges and peaks of one of the giants of Karakoram, Rakaposhi (7788m). In the evening we will watch sun set panorama at Duikar.
HUNZA – FREE DAY
DAY After breakfast full day tour of Hunza including Baltit Fort & Hoper. Karimabad is the delightful old capital of the Hunza Kingdom. From Karimabad, with its souvenir shop, post office and tea shop, you can obtain a magnificent view of the valley laid out below you and of the peaks behind. The Aliabad / Karimabad area is sprinkled with wild flowers and blossoming fruit orchards. We will spend half our day in these two towns enjoying the greenery and delighting in the sound of babbling brooks. We also visit Altit, Baltit and Ganish village. Baltit fort was the old palace of the Mirs of Hunza and was inhabited until 1960. It is about 400 years old. Baltit is a curious rambling old place, four storey high, sturdily built of stones, sun - dried mud and timber. Baltit is built on a cliff edge; behind it is a ravine and then the Ultar glacier glinting in the sunshine. The architecture here reflects a Tibetan influence. The view from the top of the fort is well worth the climb.
HUNZA – BESHAM
After breakfast drive to Riakot on Karakoram Highway as it carves a swathe through the meeting points of world three largest congregation of mountains at Shigarpa before Juglot, is an adventure in itself. Then further drive to Besham.
BESHAM - ISLAMABAD
Trip Concluded in Islamabad.
After breakfast you will transfer to the airport for your return flights
What's Included & Excluded
Package Inclusions
- Transport & Transfers: All domestic flights and ground transportation included.
- Accommodations: Twin-sharing hotel stays and high-grade trekking camps (including D3V sleeping tents, toilet tents, and shower tents).
- Meals & Catering: Full board (daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner) prepared by our dedicated camp cook and kitchen staff.
- Permits & Official Fees: Complete government trekking permits, official paperwork, bridge tolls, campsite fees, and mandatory waste management dues.
- Logistics & Camp Gear: Comprehensive trekking logistics, communal gear, and non-personal equipment.
- Dedicated Crew: Licensed professional mountain guide, kitchen assistants, and porters (up to 15 kg personal luggage allowance per guest).
- Safety & Emergency Support: Comprehensive first-aid medical kit and satellite phone connectivity for emergency communication.
Package Exclusions
- Travel & Visas: International airfare, airport departure taxes, and Pakistan visa fees.
- Insurance: Comprehensive personal travel, medical, and emergency evacuation insurance.
- Accommodations & Upgrades: Single room supplement (available upon request).
- Separate Transfers: Airport transfers for participants arriving or departing outside the group schedule.
- Personal Gear & Expenses: Sleeping bags, room service, laundry, phone/internet charges, beverages (soft drinks, mineral water, and alcoholic drinks), and items of a purely personal nature.
- Custom Activities: Optional excursions, extra sightseeing, or custom deviations from the fixed itinerary.
- Gratuities: Tips for mountain guides, camp staff, porters, and drivers.
- Unlisted Services: Any expense or service not explicitly specified in the "Included" section.
Trek & Route Map
Interactive geographical route & terrain map for The Karakoram Grand Traverse
Terms & Conditions
Hunza Adventure Tours promulgates its terms and conditions for all tours, treks, expeditions, and safaris operated by the company in Pakistan.
Reservation & Advance Payment Requirements
- 50% advance deposit is required upon confirmation to secure permits, hotel rooms, transport, and certified mountain guides.
- The full balance settlement must be cleared upon arrival in Pakistan before departure.
- Advance deposits can be directly wired to our official corporate bank account at Bank Alfalah.
Official Corporate Bank Account Details
Direct all international wire transfers to our official account at Alfalah Bank Pakistan:
A 50% advance deposit is required upon confirmation. Deposits are non-refundable in case of client cancellation, but 100% refundable if the company encounters unforeseen logistical impediments.
All tour packages provide hotel rooms on a twin-sharing basis. A single room supplement charge applies for single occupancy requests.
No refunds will be made to participants who voluntarily leave the tour before completion for any unused nights, transport, or meals.
Our certified tour directors hold complete operational authority. Disruptive or unlawful behavior may result in immediate dismissal from the tour group.
All participants are advised to secure comprehensive international travel insurance covering emergency medical expenses and trip cancellation prior to arrival.
Passports must be valid for at least 6 months. We issue official DTS-licensed LOI documentation for the Pakistan online eVisa portal within 24 hours of booking.
Packing & Travel Essentials
- Sturdy trekking boots / trail walking shoes
- Comfortable slip-on shoes for camps & lodges
- 3-4 pairs of wool/synthetic socks
- Thermal base layers & warm fleece jacket
- Waterproof & windproof outer shell
- Sun hat, warm beanie, and lightweight gloves
- High SPF 50+ sunscreen & polarized sunglasses
- Camera / action cam with extra batteries
- Portable power bank & universal adapter
Frequently Asked Questions
Can We Customize Trips?
We loves to customize personal trips for you, your friends, or organization. Our published land costs are typically based on number of individuals, so the number in your party may affect your land costs. Just give us a call/contact us and let us know what you’re interested in, and we’ll do our best to Make It Happen.
What if i want to arrive earlier or depart later than the trip dates?
We are happy to help you arrange accommodations before and after your trip. We can recommend side excursions and restaurants for the extra time.
Who will be picking me up and where?
Our guide or representative will pick you up at the airport on the scheduled arrival date. We can help you arrange accommodations if you arrive earlier, and we are happy to make suggestions for transportation, restaurants and sightseeing.
Who will my guide be?
All of our guides are highly skilled experienced professionals who have been selected based on their careful judgment, local knowledge, understanding of our client’s needs, patience and supportive guiding styles, and great personalities. In addition to their impressive personal achievements in the field, our guides bring a wealth of natural history, cultural anthropology and linguistic knowledge for their group’s enlightenment. Our international guides and staff surpass the needs of our clientele and make the trip enjoyable beyond expectations.
Who will i meet on my arrival in Pakistan?
You will be greeted by our representative at airport on your arrival. He shall be holding a placard of your name for identification. We shall also provide you list of emergency 24 hours contact numbers for any emergency.
Reserving a trip: how quickly do the trips fill up?
There is no way to know how quickly our trips are going to fill up. Many of our trips fill up months in advance. So send in your application and a deposit as soon as you have decided which trip date you want.
Do I need a visa to travel to Pakistan?
This must be obtained before arrival and we recommend that you contact your local Pakistani embassy or consulate when planning your trip.
How is Gilgit Baltistan as a destination? Which places can we see in winter?
Gilgit Baltistan is a beautiful destination. So much so, that one should definitely plan a visit. With beautiful lakes and treks to offer, Gilgit Baltistan is a must-visit place to go to. In winter, the temperature in Gilgit Baltistan drops down severely and becomes even more picturesque. One can visit the frozen lakes , if not the Baltoro trek, one can do the trek in Hunza Valley, visit Gilgit Baltistan festivals that help you interact with the locals as well.
What do i need to bring?
A complete clothing and equipment list specific to your trip will be sent to you in a dossier. Every year, after assessing feedback from our clients and guides, we review and update our lists so they are as complete and up-to-date as possible. Every list has a description of each item, however feel free to call us if you have questions or need help locating any of the items on the list. It is extremely important that you adhere strictly to the equipment list.
Can i request single accommodations?
All accommodations are based on double or triple occupancy. If you are traveling solo and wish to share accommodations, we will pair you with another traveler of same gender. If you request single accommodations or a roommate cannot be assigned, you will be responsible for paying the single supplement fee.
Are there any restrictions for the Photography in Pakistan?
Pakistani people love to take pictures and photograph themselves !
Do not forget your camera !
Photography is a great fun in Pakistan as you will have enough sunlight most of the time. In some of the monuments one has to pay fee for the photography. Our guide will suggest you where it is worth to photograph and where not. At some of the locations photography is not allowed. It is prohibited to photograph military installations, which can include some the train stations, bridges and airports also.Do not photograph these objects otherwise your film can be confiscated.
Should I tip my guide?
Tipping is always a personal choice, but is greatly appreciated by your guides. Check your departure packet for details.
How do i sign up for a trip?
You can sign up for the trip directly on our website. To secure your place on this trip, please click on the BOOK NOW button at the side of the page, or the dates tab to the right. You will also need to have the below information to hand:
• Name as per Passport
• Home Address
• Email Address
• Telephone Number
• Date of Birth
Before you embark on your trip, it is essential that we receive your passport, travel insurance, next of kin, medical details and dietary requirements (if applicable). If you have any medical conditions to declare or are over the age of 65, you will be required to complete a medical declaration form, signed and stamped by your GP. If you don’t have all this information to hand, you can still register your place today, and then re-log into the form before you depart by using your email address and the password you create upon registration.
What is the deposit amount to hold my space?
For the trip confirmation you need to pay us the 40% payment in advance and the remaining 60% payment on arrival in Pakistan and for an
application alone won’t reserve a space
What happens if Hunza Adventure Tours has to cancel my trip?
If we cancels a trip due to any reason, you will receive a full refund.
Is it safe to travel in the Karakorum region?
The incidence of personal violent crime is certainly almost none despite sensational headlines and occasional saber rattling. The Karakorum region is known for centuries of peaceful coexistence.
The incidence of personal violent crime is certainly almost none than in anywhere in the world despite sensational headlines and occasional saber rattling. The Karakorum region is known for centuries of peaceful coexistence.
we have continued to operate trips in the region each year and we are confident that these regions remains one of the most beautiful, compelling and welcoming places on earth.
The major concentrations of troubles are in the western parts of Pakistan and 100s of miles to the Islamabad. Their major concentrations are in areas which have had little or no tourism (investment, hard currency, etc) which is one of the reasons that their message has played well in these very poor districts. By comparison, the K2 Region is a very well and worldly part of Pakistan.
That said, whenever you travel in Pakistan (or anywhere in the world for that matter), you should definitely use personal caution. We avoid any known dangerous situations. We monitor political situations posted by the government Office and ground reports from our staff and network of contacts. As when traveling in any region, make sure to keep an eye on your possessions and take certain common-sense measures to prevent theft or dangerous situations.
The first rule of trekking K2 Base Camp is to step to the wall side when you meet a mule, since otherwise you can be knocked off the edge.
The main danger for most people doing the straight-in, straight-out route is altitude sickness(AKA Acute Mountain Sickness or AMS). For most people, this can be avoided by sleeping no more than 300 metres higher than you did the night before and taking an acclimatisation day every 1000 metres. Serious AMS is more common in folk doing group tours than in independent trekkers.
Other common injuries are twisted ankles and sprains. Rock falls, moraine and glacier crossings add significant risk to longer treks involving crossing high passes such as the Gondogoro-La. As always, it’s unwise to trek solo in case you fall and can’t extricate yourself: Do note, that it is illegal to trek solo.
What is the recommended age and denomination of USD bills?
There is no specific age of USD bills, however, we recommend the guests to carry new crisp bills when traveling. All denominations are acceptable, however, it is easier if you have smaller denominations of 5’s, 10’s and 20’s.
Can i drink the tap water ?
Pakistani tap water is not safe to drink. Bring water purifying tablets or a water purifying stickto save money and the environment. Note that at higher elevations during the coldest times of year the water will freeze, so you’ll need to use boiled water.Buy a decent thermos flask or plastic water container, so that you can top up with hot, boiled water at the beginning of the day – starting with hot water will stop it freezing.
Can I extend my trip ?
Yes – why not stay on and explore more of what Pakistan has to offer! We can request with to change your return date with the airline. Places are limited and all arrangements are subject to availability.
How is Hunza Adventure Tours able to offer such competitive prices?
Our unique style of off the beaten track, face-to-face travel is the only way to really experience a destination, but it also serves to keep the costs down. We spend your money providing an authentic experience, instead of on lavish hotels and expensive western-style meals. We pass these savings on to you with our low prices. Another thing you’ll notice are the inclusions. While we don’t include everything, we do throw in the major highlights of a destination, the things that everyone goes to see. On every trip page we show you the ‘Included Highlights’ of your trip, things that many other companies charge locally for. We leave many other activities as options, to provide you the freedom and flexibility to choose what you want to do on a daily basis.
What is a customized itinerary?
In brief a customized itinerary is an itinerary prepared according to your personal needs. After all, you would have requested this to us as part of the process of customization. Your specific interest, preferences and needs are weighted with our knowledge of logistics and highlights of the area.
What currency is used in Pakistan and where can I exchange money?
The Pakistani currency is the rupee, which is made of 100 paisa. Major currencies such as US dollars, British pounds and Euros are easily exchanged throughout Pakistan. Most international airports of the country have the money exchange counters, and also some selected larger hotels and resorts have this facility to their customer.
Can I use my credit card in Pakistan?
Of course the most regularly used cards are Visa and MasterCard, but neither American Express nor Dinner’s Club are broadly accepted in Pakistan. While you are going out of the main cities to the small places, it is recommended that you carry enough Pakistani currency for purchasing and tipping purpose.
Is Pakistan a good destination for family traveler?
With its many diverse landscapes and attractions, Pakistan is an admirable destination for the family traveler. Some of the good options are beach holidays and wildlife adventures in the national parks, while many monuments have sight and light shows that will capture children’s imagination. For teenagers, the many outdoor activities, such as camel safari and trekking, are an illustrative card. Without the second thinking, the big challenge for families travelling in this country might be the distances that need to be covered between cities. Air travel and railway journeys are usually the most comfortable forms of traveling, and are strongly recommended to those with the young children.
What kind of food will I be able to eat in Pakistan?
Pakistani cuisine has several variations, with each region famous for its own techniques, ingredients and spices. In northern regions, meat dishes are very popular, which are usually made with chicken, mutton or lamb whereas in southern part vegetarian cuisine is most favored. In addition, seafood is also readily available, particularly at the coast. While Pakistani cuisine tends to be spicy, most restaurants will gladly prepare a milder variation of the meals on the request of their customer.
Do you have experienced guides in different cities of Pakistan ?
We have English speaking guides all over Pakistan. At many places , we also have french , German , Spanish ,Italian and Japanese and other language speaking guides. We can also provide accompanying foreign language speaking tourist guides for individuals and groups. The availability of foreign language speaking guides can be confirmed at the time of reservation.
Can women travel alone?
Every year hundreds of women travel alone into the remote valleys of Pakistan. Many of them can be seen in the streets of Hunza, Gilgit and Baltistan. To take a safer holidays in Pakistan we advice you to wear modest dress which cover whole of their body. Secondly before starting a trek or tour with local guide in the wilderness, please report about your program to the nearest police station or to your embassy with the identity/contact of your local guide/company.
How do I communicate?
English is Pakistan’s official language and widely spoken throughout Pakistan. Most of the signboards are in English. All our drivers, guides and even peoples in the remote valley can understand and speak English.
How to get information about the Weather?
The weather report can be obtained online from internet you can seach the destinations where you will be going.
What is the distance of hotel from the Airport?
Normally it takes 15-30 minutes from the Islamabad International Airport to the city hotels. However it depends upon the condition of the traffic at the time of the day. The distance varies from 15 to 30 kilometers.
What to bring?
Hunza Adventure Tours will provide all necessary accommodation, meal and transportation requirements outlined in the specific tour itineraries (exceptions will be notified). For our trekking and climbing programs, trekkers will be requested to provide personal equipment, appropriate mountain attire and medical supplies.
Who will brief the guests about their further program at the destination?
Our local agent or their representative or the guides will inform the guest’s of their further program at the destinations on daily basis mostly in the evening about the next day’s program.
How much tips to be given to the porters, drivers and the guests?
Tips are dependent of the services provided. A small amount of money can be given at each service to insure prompt and reliable service. For guides it depends on how informative, knowledgeable, helpful they are.
Whether it is good and cheap to eat outside the hotel (restaurants)?
Some of the restaurants are cheaper and frequently visited by the local people. So sometimes yes, it is a good experience to eat outside the hotels and get to meet the local population.
If the domestic air tickets for all sectors are confirmed and in case any sector is waitlisted, what alternate option we will give them?
We offer alternative arrangements in case the flight tickets are not confirmed nor have no chances of getting confirmed. Railway Journey or by surface. We always look at various factors such as the condition of the roads, time of travel and the time taken to cover the distance, comfort and offer the best possible option with consultation, acceptance and agreement with the guest.
About the bank processing charges?
Bank Processing charges are levied on the payment collected on or through the credit cards. It is usually 3.5% of the total amount to be collected or of the invoice raised by us.
How to go about the procedures to get the lost baggage?
In case a bag is lost in transit by the airlines. We file a lost baggage report with the airlines. If the guest continues with the journey, we collect the baggage from the airlines for the guest. For the collection of a lost baggage we need the following: We need an authorization from the guest authorizing Hunza Adventure Tours, and their representative to collect the baggage on their behalf.
A photocopy of the passport of the guest, a letter addressed to the Superintendent customs. The keys of the lost bag for custom clearance.
The original copy of the lost baggage report lodged with the airlines. We will deliver the bag at the doorstep and bill the guest for the services provided. The amount of the invoice can be collected from the airlines at home.
Will the airline pay for the damage and temporary compensation?
Yes, the airlines pay an inconvenience allowance to buy personal effects. They even offer the baggage delivery charges or sometimes offer to deliver the baggage by themselves at the doorstep.
How to take the claim for the damages?
Before walking through the airport exit gates, you must locate your airline's Baggage Service Counter or Lost and Found Desk in the arrivals area.