Last Updated on April 20, 2024 by Christine Kaaloa
The Pakistan Adventure:
Note: Read thoroughly and if you’re interested fill out my linked Guest Interest Form as a precursor to booking.
Trip Overview
Trip Dates: October 9-20, 2024
Arrive: Islamabad, Pakistan
Depart: Lahore, Pakistan
Hotels: Double Occupancy. Single room upgrades available at an extra cost
Spots: Minimum of 8 pax needed to operate this trip. Max 12 pax
Route: 📍 Islamabad 📍 Rawalpindi 📍 Hunza Valley / Gilgit-Baltistan📍 Lahore
Highlights: A great balance of everything you want in an adventure! Epic natural landscapes, urban city highlights, food explorations, off-the-beaten path villages & light hikes!
I’m going back for my second Pakistan adventure to have more Heaven on Earth experiences. will you join me?
Pakistan was on my bucketlist for years for its heavenly beauty, unique culture and delicious food. When I finally visited it last year, it did not disappoint. The travelers on my group adventure raved about what they were seeing and experiencing in Pakistan. It was certainly a different picture than what you hear in the media.
Pakistan has been quietly growing in the adventure travel scene. In fact, tourism in Pakistan has risen 317% since 2016, putting it on the cusp as being one of the next big destination. With stunningly pristine nature, epic mountains, and the contagious warmth and hospitality of Pakistani people.
This Best of Pakistan Adventure is for the culturally-adventurous traveler, who thrives off urban culture, off-the-beaten-path village explorations and local interactions, food adventures and …a bit of culture shock (culture shock is so necessary for a fun adventure!).
You’ll experience popular Pakistan urban highlights, from Islamabad’s modern culture and mosques, Rawalpindi’s street foods to historical Lahore’s Old City. Then we escape into northern Pakistan to experience it’s surreal and epic landscapes, towering mountain peaks, glaciers, pristine and lush valleys, ancient forts and rustic villages.
Pakistan is a male hierarchical society, so we will be supporting female entrepreneurial programs and marginalized communities. We will have a minimal negative impact on the natural environment, while endorsing sustainable programs. Our female tour leader and local guides will show us how to navigate Pakistani local customs and decode their environments through their personal stories.
Adventure Style & Pace:
We are traveling at a relaxed pace. This trip is a balanced blend of cultural, city and off-the-beaten path villages and nature exploration. You will explore the diverse and priceless gems of Pakistan’s beauty and culture. We have fun and sustainable activities in the schedule and enough leisure time for you to explore on your own.
All levels of trekking experience okay. The hikes we’ll do are not considered strenuous or extreme; but it is best to be in good health as we will be in higher altitudes. You should be able to walk rocky paths for a couple of hours (with breaks of course!)
The Pakistan Adventure Itinerary
Day 1: Islamabad : Pre-Arrival Day
As it’s recommended to come one day in advance, we have a complementary pre-trip hotel stay in Islamabad for guests to recover from jetlag and acclimatize.
We will be providing airport transfers on this day as the adventure begins tomorrow. Most flights will commonly arrive in the middle of the night or early morning.
🧘♂️Inclusions: Islamabad Airport pickups. Hotel checkin 2p
Note: No meals covered.
Day 2: Welcome Islamabad & Rawalpindi
Welcome to Islamabad, the City of Peace! After your breakfast, we’ll head out for a tour of the city, visiting famous sights such as Pakistan monument and Faisal Mosque- the largest mosque of Pakistan!
As the capital of Pakistan, Islamabad has a modern and posh sensibilities. We’ll visit Islamabad’s splashiest super mall where you’ll have time to shop for local clothes, such as the Salwar Kameez, a long pants and long shirt worn by both Pakistani women and men.
Next we’re off to Rawalpindi, a hustling bustling market, where we’ll sample street foods that will ignite your tastebuds!
At night we’ll meet for our welcome dinner at one of the poshest restaurants in Islamabad, known for its aerial view of Islamabad city and its high quality cuisine.
This is a special evening as you’ll meet your entire travel crew!
🧘♂️Inclusions: All main meals ( street food tour is noted as a meal) + dinner at Monal
Day 3: Chilas, Karakoram Highway
Buckle up, we’re departing early morning in our private bus (or coaster). This is going to be a long driving day. The Karakoram Highway is one of the highest paved roads in the world and passes through the Karakoram mountain range. It is sometimes referred to as the Eighth Wonder of the World.
We’ll take breaks along the way for photo stops, snack runs and chai.
The road is bumpy and winding. Note: Route may change according to weather conditions.
🧘♂️Inclusions: All main meals, picnic lunch and chai
Day 4: Drive to Gulmit, Nanga Parbat views
It’s another driving day but not to worry, there’s striking viewpoints we want to stop for along the way, such as Nanga Parbat and Rakaposhi view points, and a junction spot where we can witness the world’s three highest mountain ranges.
Nanga Parbat (nicknamed ‘Killer mountain’) is the 2nd highest mountain in Pakistan after K2.
Finally we arrive in Gulmit village in heavenly Hunza Valley (the start of our next adventure of seeking out Heaven on Earth!). We’ll have a hearty meal and tuck in for the evening.
🧘♂️ Inclusions: All main meals.
Day 5 : Gulmit village
Gulmit is a tranquil village surrounded by picturesque mountains and glaciers. You’ll visit Gulmit’s oldest house and a carpet-weaving center run by the local women of the village. You will get to make up for those long drives by stretching your legs with a short hike up to Ondra Fort for a breath-taking 360 degree view of Gulmit Valley to Passu Cones! Then take a relaxing stroll back through lovely Kumaris village and experience a traditional Wakhi lunch at a female-run restaurant.
🧘♂️Inclusions: All main meals, guided village exploration, community visit + guided hike
Day 6 : Aliabad & Hunza Valley highlights
After breakfast, you visit Hussaini suspension bridge is a 660 foot bridge of 472 wooden planks. It’s an unreal span over a surreal landscape and it is described by some as the most dangerous bridge in the world.
You’ll take a short rest to enjoy the Borith Lake, a peaceful lake in Gojal. Maybe even take in a boating activity. Then you’re off to witness the striking cone-shaped natural beauty of the Passu Cones.
Arriving into Passu village, you’ll be surrounded by farm fields, fruit trees. You will taste the regional speciality of this area.. apricot cake.
In the evening, we’ll relax to a traditional musical performance by local musicians to experience the local arts and culture of Gulmit.
🧘♂️Inclusions: All main meals, regional sightseeing, guided hiking, food tasting, evening performance.
Optional activity: Kayaking or paddle boarding
Day 7: Attabad Lake and historical Hunza Valley
Attabad Lake is s a popular lake renowned in Pakistan for its insanely aqua waters! Baltit and Altit Forts have stood well preserved in the region for over 700 years and then, we’ll head to the town for exploration. We’ll lunch at a cafe run by local women’s empowerment community.
We’ll visit the earliest forms of petroglyphs in the Hunza area and end the day with a visit to Karimabad market, a cute cobblestone street town where you’ll have leisure time to shop and explore.
🧘♂️Inclusions: All main meals
Optional: Boat ride
Day 8: Hopar Glacier & Valley
Today, we’re off to visit the ancient Ganish village. Over 1000 years old, this small working community was the first settlement on the Silk Road.
Next we’ll ascend to the beautiful Hopar Valley to visit its glacier, have lunch and explore the local village.
🧘♂️Inclusions: All main meals
Day 9: Naran (or Beshan) to Lahore
Sadly, our romance of the mountain peaks and glaciers has to come to an end!
Much like the drive up north, our drive down south will be long. However, it’s a more scenic drive with a smoother road. Ready those road trip games, load up those music playlists and Pakistani snacks, we’re hitting the road.
Drive to Naran or Besham, depending upon weather
🧘♂️Inclusion: All main meals
Day 10: Naran (or Beshan) to Lahore
We’re half way there and this still the adventure and reality of traveling Pakistan! We depart in the morning.
This is your last stop to pick up snacks and souvenirs before we get to the big city. We will keep making stops along the way to break up the journey, so we don’t go stir-crazy.
🧘♂️Inclusion: All main meals
Day 11: Lahore
Today we explore the City of Gardens, Lahore! It’s a city with gorgeous architecture dating back to Mughal, Sikh and British times. We’ll spend the day touring city highlights on foot, such as the famous walled city, Badshahi Mosque and more! We’ll weave and dodge through the market, and experience the buzz of Lahori life.
Lahore is known as a foodie capital of Pakistan, so we’ll also explore Lahore street foods as we sightsee! Yum!
In the afternoon, we take a trip to the India-Pakistan border to watch the Wagah Border Ceremony. This involves a lot of bizarre pomp and pageantry and cheering crowds. Both sides put on quite a peculiar show!
In the evening, we’ll say our farewells over a delicious family dinner on Lahore’s most famous food street.
🧘♂️Inclusion: All main meals, farewell dinner
Day 12: Lahore
Time flies so fast when you’re having fun! It’s time to say goodbye to your travel family with memories of a lifetime.
Airport drop-offs to Allama Iqbal Airport, Lahore.
🧘♂️Inclusions: Breakfast, Lahore Airport drop-off
Optional Add-on: Take a private car service to Islamabad airport.
Additional hotel stay-add on to explore Lahore for another day.
Note: This video was originally created for my first tour which was 15 days. Some of this itinerary has changed.
If photos are not loading, see the slide show at the top!
What is included?
Inclusions
- Letter of Invitation for your Pakistan tourist visa
- Airport pickup from Islamabad Airport
- Airport drop-off at Lahore Airport
- Complementary pre-trip hotel check in a day before the tour start (meals are not covered)
- Double Occupancy Accommodation in 3-4* boutique hotels.
- Private coaster/van and Jeep (if needed) with experienced driver
- Translators for all jurisdictions
- All Main Meals + welcome dinner at Monal restaurant + Farewell dinner + breakfast on final departure day
- Any entrance fees, UNESCO site and attraction fees, and cultural event fees
- Guided city, village and food tours
- Tolls and Pakistani taxes (on food, hotels, etc…)
- Basic first aid
- A trip deck with itinerary
- Facebook Group to connect with your travel family pre-trip
- Whatsapp Group during the trip
- Trip Assistance from Christine and the local operator
- Christine will help photograph you to make sure you have loads of selfies!
*Exclusions
- International flights to / from Pakistan
- Visa fees
- Pakistan Departure tax is 2,800 Pakistan Rupees (approx. USD 20). You will need cash for this.
- Travel Insurance (medical aid, and helicopter rescue coverage)
- Travel vaccinations and/or COVID tests
- Processing fees of credit/debit cards, overseas bank transfers, or other third-party platforms.
- Porters for carrying personal equipment
- Tips and gratuities for guides, tour manager, driver
- Snacks and extra bottles of water while trekking and traveling
- Hotel room service or extra snacks/amenities/laundry
- Alcohol
- Souvenirs & personal shopping expenses
- Any services not mentioned in the plan
- Airport drop-off at Islamabad
- Extra hotel nights
Highlights: Unpacking this Pakistan Adventure Trip
Read my Pakistan Travel Tips
Our Pakistan Trip Reviews
These are the raves our travelers had to say about this trip!
And one of our travelers, Mona P, impressively documented each day of our Pakistan adventure trip here.
Are you a good fit for this adventure?
Traveling the best of Pakistan is not going to be every traveler’s cup of tea. While it may excite adventurous travelers who have been to India, Nepal or Vietnam, it may challenge your comfort zone if you’ve never traveled to a developing country.
If you can embrace an “adventure-ready and open mindset” then this trip will accelerate your growth as an adventure traveler. You’ll experience the thrill and culture shock of this dazzling and jaw-dropping country a protective, nurturing setting with myself, our travel family and our female tour leader.
This isn’t just a trip; it’s an adventure for open hearts and minds. We welcome travelers who:
✅ Embrace cultural differences: You understand that infrastructure may differ from home, and embrace this as part of the experience.
✅ Roll with the punches: Travel, like weather, can be unpredictable. We adapt plans as needed, prioritizing safety and maximizing exploration.
✅ Embrace the unexpected: You know that hot water may not always available, as some areas we visit have electrical outtages. Remote locations may lack mobile and land WiFi.
✅ Respect local customs: Our hotels offer Western-style bathrooms with occasional variations, like pour-flush toilets or hand-held bidets. On our road trip, you might encounter the iconic squat toilet (fear not, ladies! My Squat Toilet Tips are here to help here and here).
✅ Mindful gastronomy: Food is prepared with local love and we have local experts to guide us, but hygiene standards may still vary. Drinking tap water is not advisable and experiencing an upset stomachs are a travel possibility.
✅ Mindful of peak performance: We will be visiting places as high as 3600 meters above sea level. This has a potential to cause altitude sickness (AMS) despite your physical level.
✅ Respect religious etiquette: You’re aware Pakistan is a strong patriarchal and Muslim culture. Women must dress modestly and may still get stares.
✅ Cultivate a respectful spirit: Treating everyone – staff, workers, and fellow travelers – with respect fosters a joyful, inclusive atmosphere. We embrace diversity and forge friendships through shared experiences. Therefore, we have a strict zero-tolerance policy for harassment or disrespectful behavior.
Who would not be a good fit
This isn’t a “white glove” luxury experience, nor is it a budget backpacking adventure. We’ll stay in well-chosen, charming boutique hotels, enjoying comfortable adventures with a healthy dose of walking. If you demand personalized service, love to complain, or find fault in every detail, this might not be the perfect fit. Larger tour companies might cater better to your temperament.
We’ll spend 12 days together, so we seek flexible souls who value collaboration and inclusivity. We’re a family on this journey, and everyone deserves to feel welcome and respected.
PAWS-itive Impact Promise
I want our travels to create direct positive impact for animals in Pakistan. If we meet our guest minimum of eight people to operate this trip, I will donate $2.00 a day – on behalf of each guest- to an active street animal rescue organization in Karachi, ACF Animal Rescue. They rescue street dogs, donkeys and animals from sickness, injury, hit-n-run, mistreatment and cruelty cases while educating the Pakistani public. $2.00 a day isn’t much but with enough travelers and days, it adds up and it makes a difference to rescue organizations with many injured stories to heal.
Trip Price:
How to join this adventure trip
I’d love to have you on this adventure, but I want to ensure you are a good fit for this trip.
Click on the button below and fill out the form to let me know a little about you.
$2,900 Shared Room
Frequently Asked Questions
This adventure tour need not be only solo travelers.
No, friends and partners are welcome! Just let us know if you’d like to room together. This is a small group tour for like-minded travelers who enjoy exploring with a creator and meeting others.
Do I book my own flights?
Yes, you’re responsible for booking flights to and from the tour start/end points. You can arrive/depart earlier/later at your own expense.
Here are my booking hacks for finding cheap fares
I reserved my spot. Should I book my flight now?
Once we reach the minimum group size (45 days before the tour), I’ll notify everyone to proceed with flight bookings.
Is Pakistan safe?
When we traveled Pakistan, our travelers felt safe. Whenever in doubt it is advised to always check your government website to read the latest news or travel warnings on Pakistan and research the etiquette of the culture. Media around Pakistan will not be favorable as it borders countries where there is high tension. We will not be traveling to zones of conflict. However, please do your own research in Pakistan travel groups to feel out your comfort level.
This is an organized group trip led by a licensed female tour business focused on responsible/sustainable tourism with safety in the forefront. I believe our female local experts are the best to show us how to navigate this beautiful but complex and misunderstood country.
Above all, travel is unpredictable. Any trip has potential to go awry, as we are at the mercy of flight cancellations, weather, traffic, festival season, COVID, other people, etc… This is why travel insurance is mandatory.
What are the Covid restrictions in Pakistan?
For the safety and easy passage of all, all guests on this trip are required to be Covid vaccinated and will be asked to provide proof of vaccination.
What type of hotels are we staying in?
We’re staying in proper hotels. These picks are of the best in the location (especially regarding remote areas) and they accommodate western travelers. Our accommodations are 3*-4* hotels by Pakistan standards, which is quite good. Remote locations may be a little basic, a little older and can be subject to power cuts. As a result, we may experience a lack of hot water and WiFi. We may also occasionally encounter a pour water to flush toilet- a standard for regions/countries where pipes are old and there is not a strong tourist infrastructure. Traveling north, we will not require air conditioning as the temperature drops in those environments.
Hotels are subject to change. If that happens, one of equal or better standard will be given. I would like to get as many folks on board early so we can secure our first pick hotel spots. You will get full details when we are close to a greenlit trip and upon final payment.
Do I need to get trip insurance?
1000% Yes! Without it, you cannot join this adventure. Your trip insurance must cover all the trip dates and you will be asked to show proof and your policy number.
Your insurance policy must cover Pakistan. If you’re uncertain, then ask your insurance provider.
I recommend you get trip insurance that covers trip/ flight cancellations, delays, medical and emergency coverage, as well as quarantine/cancellation in the case of COVID. While Pakistan has medical facilities comparable to the west, we will be in remote areas and high altitudes for part of the time. You may want to make sure your insurance covers things like medivac.
Most credit card travel insurance policies, tend to be basic, so you will need to call and ask your credit card company about their policy.
You can also use this recommended trip insurance finder tool to do your own policy comparison according to your budget. I use World Nomads for all my international trips which entail adventure activities. The Standard Plan coverage was enough for me but you if you have specific preferences, budget or medical specifications, then use the trip insurance finder tool and read my blog on trip insurance options for U.S. travelers.
Will there be downtime on this tour?
Yes. Although there is much we will experience, we will have time for self-explorations.
Do I need a Pakistan Tourist Visa?
Yes. Our local operator will supply you with a Letter of Invitation so you can apply for your Pakistan Tourist Visa. It will be issued to you once the trip is greenlit and only after your final payment is made. It is recommended to apply for the visa 3 months in advance.
This is why your final payment is due 120 days before the trip’s start date. We need to issue you this ASAP so you have time to apply for it.
Can I stay in Pakistan longer (after the tour or arrive earlier)?
Absolutely. Our local operator can book pre and post trip hotel options and airport transportation back to Islamabad Airport, for an extra fee.
Is my deposit non-refundable?
The deposit to reserve your spot is $600.
Your deposit is refundable for the first 30 days. After that, it is non-refundable. If you received an Early Bird Discount, that cannot be gotten back should you change your mind. However if we do not make our minimum for operation, your deposit is refunded minus processing fees
There is nothing I want more than to provide you with a memorable trip experience. The reason for this is that booking secures your spot, incurring costs like processing fees, vendor payments, and administrative fees. However, if the minimum group isn’t reached, your deposit will be refunded (minus processing fees). We recommend bank transfers to avoid credit card fees. Please refer to my T&Cs .
How to make payments?
This adventure trip has specific payment requirements due to its proximity. Payments are split into two installments: a deposit to secure your spot and a final payment for the balance. Missing the final payment deadline may result in your place being canceled.
While we strive to reach the minimum guest requirement, here’s our payment structure:
- Deposit: Secure your spot with a deposit.
- Greenlight notification: Once the minimum is met (60+ days before the trip), you’ll receive an email to pay the remaining balance.
- Final payment deadline: This is due 45-60 days before the trip (depending on when we reach the minimum).
- Flexible options: If payment needs splitting, let us know.
When will we be notified if the adventure will go through?
I’ll notify all guests approximately 90 days before the tour date, as we’ll need that time allowance for securing our Letters of Invitation.
Is there a waitlist?
Yes, if the tour is sold out. Spots are filled in the order they’re received, and released 45 days before the tour if unpaid.
As you are being issued a last-minute spot on the trip, you must be able to pay the trip payment in full and you are fully responsible for making sure you get your tourist visa before the start of the trip.
What happens if the tour minimum guest requirement isn’t met?
We offer a “Solo Traveler Option” for a smaller group minimum at a reduced fare. This provides an alternative for travelers committed to visiting India during this timeframe. The tour would run under my itinerary with my tour leader and operator, but without me.
- This option requires selection during booking.
- It’s suitable for those seeking security and expertise from a reputable operator. I’ve personally vetted this company for its Western client experience.
- This option is only available for tours designed to operate with or without me. For customizable tours, inquire about individual options.
Can I customize this tour as a private tour?
Absolutely! The itinerary is adaptable for private groups. To explore options and pricing, complete the initial questionnaire form and indicate your interest or shoot us an email at trips~at~grrrltraveler.com. Our team will design an itinerary based on your preferences and dates. Please note additional fees and availability limitations may apply.
- It’s suitable for those seeking security and expertise from a reputable operator. I’ve personally vetted this company for its Western client experience.
- This option is only available for tours designed to operate with or without me.
Special diets
Although some dishes in Pakistan are similar to Indian food, Pakistan is a meat loving country. Vegan is not a concept here. There may be spots where special diet travelers may feel their options are basic and bland compared to their carnivorous counterparts.
Please let me know of any special dietary restrictions at booking. Our tour manager and local experts will be informed and this will help them find suitable restaurants and/or substitutes when ordering. Check out my blog post on Food Safety.
How are we making a positive impact through this trip?
We prioritize supporting programs that positively impact India and sustainable tourism. Here’s how:
- Female-owned and operated: We partner with a female-owned operator and have a female tour leader for a nurturing experience and alignment with causes important to GRRRLTRAVELER.
- Sustainable & community practices: I believe opportunity is empowerment and we may have family members, friends and female guides in training as our local experts, whom under the wing of our tour manager.
- Supporting NGOs: We’ll visit empowering NGOs like a women’s carpet weaving initiative and a woodworking workshop that employs women to raise awareness about women’s empowerment in Pakistan.
- Authentic experiences: We introduce you to artisans, performances, and craft workshops, thoroughly researched for high quality and authenticity. Any shopping directly supports the communities we visit.
- PAWSitive Impact Promise: GRRRLTRAVELER will donate $2 per day from each guest to an animal rescue sanctuary which does incredible work in Karachi.
What if I need to cancel my booking?
Please read our Terms & Conditions in full.
More Trip Questions?
Feel free to ask them on the signup form.
A Word about this Adventure from your Host
I’m excited to share this Pakistan group adventure with you! We are going to have an incredible and memorable time and I cannot wait to meet you.
It has been one of my dreams to visit Pakistan and to experience it’s heavenly beauty and delicious food.
Pakistan has been quietly growing in the adventure travel scene. In fact, tourism in Pakistan has risen 317% since 2016, putting it on the cusp as being one of the next big destination. With stunningly pristine nature, epic mountains, and the contagious warmth and hospitality of Pakistani people… I’d like to travel there before the western tourist crowd hits !
This is a bespoke adventure trip through a responsible and sustainable Pakistan tour operator and female-owned business. (More details upon final booking.) Pakistan is a largely male hierarchical society, so I’m thrilled that our adventure will be giving opportunity to empower female businesses and remote communities. We will have a minimal negative impact on the natural environment, while endorsing sustainable programs. We will be guided to be respectful of local customs and supportive of local economies.
This adventure trip will be filmed to the best of my ability for YouTube, so you’ll see behind the scenes of how I work.
Who am I: Between the curious Hawaii girl next door and solo female travel YouTuber, Christine of GRRRLTRAVELER takes you inside the “adventure of solo travel,” food, and culture, one destination at a time. Join me as I show you how to survive travel by going local and creating a memorable and exciting adventure!
Pakistan Photo credits:
All photos sourced via Pexels, Pixabay and Creative Commons Wiki license
Gilgit meadows, Aakash Ashraf
The Danyore Suspension Bridge in Gilgit-Baltisan, Adnan Temur
Shahir Amid
Attabad lake gilgit baltistan, Yaqs Muheza
Suspension bridge in Gilgit, Shaharyar Afzal
Karimabad, Irfan Baigkuz
Faisal Mosque, Islamabad, My Dogar
Badshahi Mosque, Lahore, Aitizaz Naqvi
Pakistan tricycle tuk tuk, Photomandi
Hunza River, Rizwan Saeed
Killer Mountain by Muhammad Ashar at Creative Commons Wiki license
CC license: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en
