2025 Peaks of Pakistan: Group Trekking Expedition

Pakistan is a country that will captivate you from the get-go and leave you breathless in every sense of the word. From its untouched and rugged mountain landscapes to its diverse and colorful cultures, taking on the challenge of traveling through Pakistan is an immensely rewarding experience. There is nothing I look forward to more each year than hosting this trip and sharing my love for Pakistan, its landscapes, and its people with a group of travelers from across the world. The first four years of hosting this trip has been wildly fulfilling with countless unforgettable moments, and I’m beyond excited to be running this trip of a lifetime again in 2025.

Pakistan is another world waiting to be explored, a stunning country rarely visited by travelers and often misjudged and misrepresented globally. We’re here to shatter those perceptions of Pakistan and show you what this criminally-overlooked destination is all about. From its snow-capped peaks to turquoise lakes, its rich cuisine and the unending hospitality of its people, I can guarantee that this country will surprise you. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect on this expedition.

I’ll be bringing up to 15 fellow adventurers with me for two unforgettable weeks of otherworldly landscapes, intense cultural immersion, and one heck of a good time with myself and the best crew you could imagine.

Recognize a once-in-a-lifetime adventure when you see one? Type in your name, email, and introduce yourself on the sign-up form at the bottom of this page. If you’re a good fit, we will send you an information packet and the next steps to secure your spot on this epic adventure. If you’re a harder sell, keep reading.

Expedition Dates: September 23rd to October 5th, 2025

The dates for this expedition will be from September 23rd to October 5th, 2025. This trip caters more towards hikers and will be more physically challenging than our classic highlights of Pakistan trip. To view the itinerary for the classic expedition, click here.

We also offer an add-on for those interested in extending the trip to spend two days in Lahore after the trip officially concludes in Islamabad.

Peaks of Pakistan Group Expedition: Tentative Itinerary

This is the tentative itinerary. Certain routes and areas may also be closed or become inaccessible at any time. We will always supplement with alternative activities, treks, or routes where possible. We’ve dealt with road closures, landslides, flight cancellations, and many other of Pakistan’s surprises. We always have a Plan A to Plan Z, so just go with the flow and trust in our local guides and experts.

Day 1: Welcome to Pakistan! Start Tour in Islamabad (Arrive Before 12 PM)

Assalamu-alaikum! Urdu and English are the national languages of Pakistan, although an estimated 80 different languages are spoken throughout the country.

Chalo! One of our guides will snag you from Islamabad International Airport and transfer you to our hotel. After everyone gets settled in, we will head for lunch, followed by a visit to the iconic Faisal Mosque, the Pakistan National Monument, and dinner in the quaint village of Saidpur in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Accommodation: Hotel – Islamabad

Day 2: Not Your Average Road Trip: A Scenic Journey to the North

Our journey north begins. The drive through the stunning Babusar Pass will take us through several national parks, including Kaghan Valley and Naran Valley. Stops will be made at the Babusar Top at an altitude of 4,170 meters and the beautiful Lulusar Lake. Before long, we merge onto the Karakoram Highway, sometimes called the Eighth Wonder of the World, due to its jaw-dropping beauty and the seemingly impossible conditions for this 1,300 kilometer-long highway to be built. We’ll arrive at our accommodation in the evening and have dinner before packing in preparation for our two-night escape into the mountains.

Driving Time: Approximately 10 – 12 hours
Accommodation: Guesthouse – Jaglot

Day 3: Into the Himalayas: Jeep Ride, Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat

Killer Mountain: 8,126 meter (26,660 feet) tall Nanga Parbat’s lethal nickname comes from its death rate of 21 climbers per 100 successful summits.

Rise and shine! We head to the Raikot Jeep Point, where we hop on 4x4s and take on one of the world’s most dangerous roads. It’s a bumpy, winding ride of two hours with sheer cliffside drops and dramatic views. It can be terrifying, but remember, this is the daily commute for these guys. No sweat. After reaching the trailhead to Fairy Meadows, we begin the three hour hike to our cabins, stopping halfway for chai and a light lunch. Upon arriving at camp, we can relax and get settled in our cabins before heading to the Reflection Lake for a “killer” view of Nanga Parbat for sunset. Don’t be surprised if the locals invite you to a game of cricket or polo. Feast up on a home-cooked dinner before joining the local villagers around the bonfire for some music and dancing.

Driving Time: 2 hours
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Elevation Gain: 600 meters (2,600 meters -> 3,200 meters)
Accommodation: Cabins – Fairy Meadows

Day 4: Trek to Base Camp of Nanga Parbat, the 9th-Tallest Mountain in the World

We start early to trek to the base camp of Nanga Parbat, the 9th-tallest mountain in the world. Reaching base camp is optional and there will be plenty of stunning viewpoints to stop at if the challenge proves to be too much. We’ll pass through Beyal Camp, the Pakistani Viewpoint, German Viewpoint, and cross a glacier along the way. The altitude at Nanga Parbat Base Camp is 3,980 meters. For those aiming to reach base camp, prepare for a lengthy trek in increasing altitudes. No matter where you end up, today will be one of the most epic days of your life. After everyone’s back at camp, we feast yet again and head to the bonfires for more dancing, if your legs have anything left in them.

Hiking Time: 4 hours roundtrip to Pakistani Viewpoint, 8 – 10 hours roundtrip to Nanga Parbat Base Camp
Elevation Gain: 780 meters to Nanga Parbat Base Camp (3,200m -> 3,980m)

Accommodation: Cabins – Fairy Meadows

Day 5: Depart Fairy Meadows, Drive to Karimabad, Explore the Silk Road Bazaar Town

We say goodbye to Nanga Parbat and retrace our steps, with two hours of hiking down and the 4×4 ride back to the Karakoram Highway. From here, it’s a two-hour drive to our lunch spot, where we’ll chow down on delicious Central Asian food. Lunch will be traditional-style, sitting on mats outdoors with stunning views of the mountains. After lunch, we drive to Karimabad, a charming bazaar town that was once part of the Old Silk Road. We’ll check in to our hotels before heading for a dinner of traditional Hunzai food. Afterwards, you are free to explore the bazaar and shop ‘til you drop.

Driving Time: 2 hours on 4x4s, 3 hours by bus
Hiking Time: 2 hours downhill
Accommodation: Hotel – Karimabad

Day 6: Explore Karimabad, Depart for Rakaposhi, Camp at Hapakun Meadows

After spending the night back in civilization, it’s time to hit the trails again. You have the morning to explore Karimabad further before we drive to the trailhead of Rakaposhi Mountain, the 27th tallest peak in the world. Camp is a steep three hour climb away, but the views will be worth it. We set up camp at the lush Hapakun Meadows, have dinner, and relax around the bonfire.

Accommodation: Camping – Hapakun
Driving Time: 1 hour
Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
Elevation Gain: 950 meters (2,000m -> 2,950m)

Day 7: Rakaposhi Base Camp, Hike Down, Drive to Eagle’s Nest for Sunset Views, Yak Barbecue and Local Moonshine

pakistan group tours trekking expeditions

Time to hit the ground running. After about an hour of hiking, Rakaposhi starts to peek out behind the hills. Another hour later, and the surreal Diran Glacier comes into view. Keep pushing those legs. Another hour and we’ve made it to base camp of Rakaposhi. Personally, she might be the most beautiful mountain I’ve ever laid eyes on. Soak it all in. If time allows, we can quickly hike down to Diran Glacier before hightailing it back to the trailhead. We then drive to Eagle’s Nest for panoramic views of a dozen snow-capped peaks at sunset. Finally, we head to the hotel for a much deserved bonfire and barbecue, featuring yak and local moonshine.

Hiking Time: 6-8 hours roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 550 meters (2,950m -> 3,500m) then descend to trailhead at 2,000 meters
Driving Time: 1.5 hours
Accommodation: Hotel – Eagle’s Nest

Day 8: Boat Ride on Attabad Lake, Bascochi Meadows Hike, Local Village Homestay

Hope the moonshine didn’t hit too hard last night, but it’s okay if it did. We have a slow morning before a short drive to the Bascochi Meadows trailhead. The view of Attabad Lake from the top is simply unforgettable. After hiking back down, we head to the shores of the lake itself for some snacks and a boat ride with some breathtaking views. Afterwards, we head to the village of Ghulkin, where we’ll be staying with a local family on their apricot farm. This rural town is excellent for stargazing and cozy vibes.

Driving Time: 2 hours
Hiking Time: 3 hours
Accommodation: Homestay – Ghulkin

Day 9: Trek across the Black Glacier, Swim in Borith Lake, White Glacier Viewpoint, Hanging Bridge and Passu Cones

Don’t look down! The Passu Hanging Bridge is 900 feet long and is one of the most dangerous footbridges in the world.

Whew, we’ve got a jam-packed day today. Hiking from Ghulkin village, we traverse the treacherous Black Glacier, as challenging mentally as it is physically. No worries, once we’re through with that, we dive into Borith Lake and swim, paddle board, or kayak while flanked by towering peaks. We make a quick detour to a viewpoint of the vast White Glacier and then treat ourselves to a well-deserved lunch. Then, we cross the Passu Bridge, a hanging bridge straight out of Indiana Jones. We wrap up the day with a visit to the iconic Passu Cones for some picture-perfect photoshoots before heading back to the homestay for a home-cooked dinner and stargazing.

Hiking Time: 4-5 hours total
Driving Time: 1-2 hours
Accommodation: Homestay – Ghulkin

Day 10: Drive to Skardu, Kachura Lakes and Sarfaranga Cold Desert

We depart Ghulkin village and drive to Skardu, retracing our steps past Attabad Lake, Rakaposhi, and Nanga Parbat on the way. The drive will take about 6-8 hours and we will arrive in Skardu in the afternoon. We make a stop at the beautiful Kachura Lakes before reaching Skardu. Afterwards, we will visit one of the highest deserts in the world. The Sarfaranga Cold Desert sits at 7,300 feet (2,226m) above sea level. With temperatures in the winters reaching – 13F (-25C), the dunes are often covered in snow. There’ll be an option to go dune buggying, horseback riding, paragliding, and more (at additional cost).

Driving Time: 6-8 hours
Accommodation: Hotel – Skardu

Day 11: Marsur Rock Hike

Ready for the last hike of the trip? It’s going to be a good one. About an hour from Skardu is the trailhead to the iconic Marsur Rock, jutting high above the epic landscapes of Skardu Valley. From the top, one can see the powerful Indus River, the Sarfaranga Cold Desert, and towering snow-capped mountain ranges. The hike will take most of the day, after which we will head back to our hotel for dinner and a bonfire.

Driving Time: 2 hours
Hiking Time: 6-8 hours
Elevation Gain: 900 meters (starting: 2400m, top: 3300m)
Accommodation: Hotel – Skardu

Day 12: Fly from Skardu to Islamabad, Islamabad Exploration Day

It’s time to say goodbye to the mountains. From Skardu Airport, we fly back to Islamabad, taking arguably the most beautiful flight in the world. We don’t simply fly over the mountains, we fly with them. On a clear day, one can see Nanga Parbat in all of her glory, among hundreds of other mountains, valleys, and lakes. Upon arriving in Islamabad, we’ll have lunch and head to our accommodation. Today’s a fairly chill day, but we’ll find something to keep you busy, perhaps some last-minute souvenir shopping at Lok Virsa or a meeting with a Sufi Guru. We’ll play it by ear before gathering for our last night together for a chilled-out farewell party.

Flight Time: 1 hour
Accommodation: Hotel – Islamabad

Day 13: Airport Drop-offs in Islamabad International Airport or Continue to Lahore

It ain’t goodbye, it’s see you later. My favorite thing about these trips is watching the members reunite elsewhere around the globe, from Kyrgyzstan to Singapore to Mexico. We’ve truly become a family over the last two weeks, and the goodbyes will no doubt be teary-eyed. We’ll be doing airport drop-offs at Islamabad International Airport throughout the day.

For those sticking around for the Lahore add-on, here’s the plan:

Lahore Add-on (2 Nights)

October 5th: We will drive from Islamabad to Lahore. After checking in to our hotel in Lahore, we will explore the bustling bazaars in the Walled City of Old Lahore and visit the Wazir Khan Mosque and roam around the bustling Delhi Gate market area. We will head back to the hotel to freshen up before heading for dinner at a covert bar.

October 6th: Today is a jam-packed day, starting with a guided tour of Mughal-era sites like Lahore Fort, the Palace of Mirrors (Sheesh Mahal), and the magnificent Badshahi Mosque. We will have lunch overlooking the mosque and bustling streets of Old Lahore. Afterwards, we depart for the one-of-a-kind Wagah Border Ceremony taking place at the India-Pakistan border. We will head back to the hotel before heading out for dinner, with an optional visit to the underground bar.

October 7th: Check out and airport drop-off at Allama Iqbal International Airport.

Lahore add-on includes all transportation, guides, activities, meals, accommodation, and airport drop-off at Allama Iqbal International Airport.

How Much Does the Expedition Cost?

The total cost for the expedition is $2750 USD.

$750 non-refundable deposit to secure your spot on the trip

$1000 second installment six months before the expedition
$1000 remaining balance paid at least three months before the expedition
$250 for the Lahore add-on

What’s Included in the Cost?

Pretty much everything! All accommodation, transportation within the country, meals, and activities are included. It is a jam-packed trip, squeezing in a ton of activities, including plenty of local experiences unique to our trip. We work exclusively with local guides, families, and businesses, so the brunt of the cost goes towards supporting Pakistan’s incredible people and blossoming tourism industry.

All local staff, including guides, drivers, and auxiliary help

We’ve got a team on the ground with years of experience to make sure everything goes smoothly and to adjust for when things don’t. At all times, you will have three experienced guides plus our private driver for the entirety of the trip to make sure everything goes smoothly. For certain treks, we will also have auxiliary trekking guides with us.

All accommodation, ranging from hotels to local home stays

We stay at a variety of accommodation styles, and always opt to stay at the best accommodation available. Hotels, guesthouses, cabins, tents, home-stays, we truly stay in it all. If you are coming on the trip alone, you will be paired with other solo travelers for shared accommodation. We often mix up the room assignments so that everyone gets to know each other and become friends.

Three Nutritious Meals A Day

Despite all the hiking, you might find yourself gaining weight on this trip. Pakistani food is phenomenal, and there will be no shortage of it during our meals. We’ll keep you fed with a variety of food from different regions of Pakistan and Central Asia. Although Pakistan has a meat-heavy diet, we can accommodate for vegetarians, vegans and travelers with other dietary restrictions and allergies, including nuts and lactose.

All transportation, ranging from internal flights to off-road jeeps and our air-conditioned private bus

From the moment you land to the moment you fly out, you won’t have to worry about getting around. We will have a private, comfortable and spacious air-conditioned bus so we will be traveling in style. We will also be traveling to some difficult to reach places that you otherwise won’t be able to reach on your own, so get hyped. One domestic flight is included in the cost.

Lifelong Friends and Travel Buddies

For me, the best part of these trips is watching a group of strangers become family. All the awkwardness seems to melt away before the first day even wraps up. By the end of the trip, you’ll be leaving with lifelong friends that you know will always be down for an adventure. Seriously, there has yet to be a last night on any of my trips where the tears weren’t flowing. This trip may have an end date, but the friendships and relationships formed will endure through the years.

What’s Not Included?

International Flights: You will be flying in and out of Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport. Each traveler is responsible for booking their own flights, but we are happy to help with finding the best flights. Let me know your preferred flight path, and I’ll keep tabs on any good flights that pop up.

Visas: In prior years, Pakistan required a visa application and charged a $60 application fee. As of September 2024, that entire process has been scrapped and most countries no longer need to go through the application process. Here is a full list of the 122 countries exempt from the application and visa fee, including the U.S. and most European countries. Travelers will still need to fill out this application at least 24 hours prior to their arrival in Pakistan in order to receive their Visa Grant Notice.
Spending money: You’ll surely want to walk away with some souvenirs from this amazing country. We recommend about $200 USD in spending money, or maybe more if you’re fond of jewelry, rugs, shawls, and more. If you’re not much of a shopper, you’ll only need money for water, other drinks, and snacks.
Travel Insurance: We require you to obtain travel insurance, and we will need a copy of your insurance policy.

Tips: During the trip, the team will be covering tips for meals, drivers, and auxiliary guides. You won’t need consider tipping throughout the trip. At the end of the trip, we will pass around an envelope to tip our guides and driver. This is encouraged but not required.

Meet The Team: Who Will Be Leading This Expedition?

Eli Solidum

Hey, that’s me! I’m an adventurous spirit who lives for experiences far outside of my comfort zone and feel most alive in the mountains. I have traveled to over 70 countries, sharing my unfiltered experiences for the last eight years as a full-time nomad and travel blogger. I’ve led seven expeditions to Pakistan now and it is always the highlight of my year. My goal is to inspire people to step outside of their comfort zones, and I’m beyond excited to be doing this trip together with you all.

Imran Khan

Imran is our man on the ground in Pakistan, and an experienced tour operator with years and years of guided tours under his belt. Imran hails from Islamabad, but has traveled extensively and even managed a hostel in Cambodia. Between his experience in Pakistan and the global backpacking culture, Imran serves as an excellent bridge between your culture and his.

Team of Local Guides

We have a small team of local guides, of which one or two will be with us all the way. Essar and Mansoor are two expert hikers who hail from Karimabad. Ali is the eldest son of the family who hosts us in Ghulkin. Ashar hails from Lahore but thrives in the mountains. One of Irfan, Popeye, or Babar will join us at the helm of the bus as our experienced drivers.

What Kind Of Traveler Is This Expedition For?

Let me be blunt. This trip is not for everyone. This won’t be your cushy, five-star resort vacation. This will be an adventure of a lifetime, and oftentimes, adventures can be challenging and uncomfortable. You don’t need to be an experienced traveler or trekker, but you do need to have an open mind, a good attitude, and a willingness to step outside of your comfort zone.

Open-minded and eager for new experiences, cultures, and people
Comfortable with getting uncomfortable (squat toilets, bumpy roads, cold showers, or none at all)

A big love for the outdoors, hiking, and mountains (with preferably some trekking experience)
Fun, easy-going, and willing to go with the flow.
The general demographic of the group ranges from early 20s to late 30s. All ages are welcome, but must be comfortable with this age range being the brunt of the group.
All nationalities are welcome, and travelers from over 20 countries have joined prior expeditions. The trip will be conducted in English.

If you have any concerns or questions, feel free to reach out to ensure that you are an ideal candidate for the trip. Since this is a group trip, I want there to be good chemistry shared between all members. We will be together for two weeks straight, often doing things that push us to our limits. It isn’t going to be easy at times, and we’ll need all hands on deck to support each other. I want everyone to be confident that everyone on the trip will be a team player and a lifelong friend long after the trip is done.

The maximum group size of this expedition is fifteen and will be first-come, first-serve in terms of booking.

How In Shape Do You Have To Be For The Trip?

There will be a decent amount of trekking on this trip, although nothing that requires any technical experience. You don’t need to be an athlete by any means, and obviously, we won’t leave anyone behind. Myself or one of the other guides will always stay at the back of the group. However, the more comfortable you are with trekking, the more you’ll enjoy the overall experience.

This is an adventure and things aren’t always straight-forward. When that happens, we’re there to make sure your adventure goes as smoothly and efficiently as possible. You will get out of this trip what you put in: a positive attitude, willingness to get to know the locals, and enthusiasm are all as important as hiking ability.

Up for the adventure of a lifetime? If you’re interested, fill out the form below to express your interest in being a part of the Pakistan expedition.

Enter your name and email, and include a brief introduction of who you are and why you want to join the trip. I will get back to you with the next steps for joining us on our Pakistan trip. This won’t lock you in just yet, but we expect this trip to fill up pretty quickly. If this is something you’d even remotely consider going on, sign up!

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Testimonials

“Pakistan pushed me beyond my comfort zone in ways I didn’t even know I could be pushed. It has opened my eyes to bigger adventures and new perspectives. I am beyond grateful to Eli and the team for creating an environment where we could explore this country locally and in a beautiful way.” – Emily, 24, USA

“It really was a trip of a lifetime for me because I left feeling so connected to my heritage and feeling proud of my Pakistani identity. I never would have thought as a kid growing up in the UK that a day will come where I’ll be touring Pakistan with a bunch of non-Pakistanis who will embrace the culture I am from. It honestly filled me with pride and I have you to thank for that. Please keep doing what you’re doing and continue to show the world what Pakistan really has to offer.” – Zainab, 27, UK

“Finding out about you and this trip online was the biggest blessing for me this year. Thanks for doing what you do, you really bring the best people together.” – Lucy, 25, South Korea

“Thank you for all the hard work that went behind planning this expedition. It was full of joy, challenges, and a whole lotta laughs” – Leanna, 22, USA

“The most incredible trip of my life with the most incredible people.” – Julia, 26, UK

“Visiting Pakistan was the trip of a lifetime and I’m so happy I went with a fun and positive group of people. The hikes were breathtaking and I loved exploring the cities and mountains of Pakistan. I felt safe the entire time and everything was well taken care of. I enjoyed my trip so much and can’t wait to go back!” – Brooklyn, 20, USA