We’re going to Pakistan!
Come and discover the incredible beauty of Pakistan with me, from 11 – 23 October, 2024!
From majestic mountain peaks to bustling ancient bazaars, Pakistan offers a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled hospitality.
Traverse breathtaking landscapes, connect with local communities, and discover the exquisite flavours of Pakistani cuisine on a boutique group trip that combines soft adventure with cultural immersion.
(we’ll be going here!)
Ditch the Tourist Hordes & Embrace the Authentic
When you join my Pakistan tour, you won’t be squished onto a coach with 50 other tourists and a tour guide waving an umbrella around at the front.
We will travel as a small group (8 – 15 people) of likeminded souls who all want one thing – a deeper connection to the places we’re travelling.
Expect a mix of carefully curated, immersive experiences that go beyond the surface, along with private transportation, luxury accommodation, and a professional tour guide who has spent the last decade changing the way people view Pakistan.
What to Expect
Adventure beyond the ordinary
On this exclusive trip, you’ll discover a hidden gem unlike any other.
Hike through towering mountains, wander through vibrant bazaars overflowing with spices and treasures, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this welcoming nation.
Local expert knowledge
I’ve partnered with a local Pakistani guide to put together this trip.
Not only has Usman crafted the perfect itinerary full of unique experiences; he has also been showing tourists around his homeland for more than a decade, and he knows exactly what works and what doesn’t.
By joining this trip, you are supporting a small local business, not a multi-national corporation running tours here, there, and everywhere.
Soft adventure & cultural immersion
This trip caters to those seeking a blend of soft adventure and cultural exploration.
We will be visiting cold deserts, mystical lakes, and snow-capped mountains, but we won’t be doing anything to push the limits (and trust me – my limits are low!).
When we aren’t awe-struck by all of that natural beauty, we’ll be immersing ourselves in local culture, from bustling markets to rural villages.
Connecting with local people and learning about how they live their lives is very important to me, and you’ll see this reflected in the way we travel.
Everything taken care of
The only things you need to prepare yourself for this trip are your flights, and securing your tourist visa for Pakistan (which we’ll go into later).
Everything else will be taken care of for you, from the moment you land, to the moment the trip comes to an end.
You don’t have to navigate public transport, create your own itinerary, plan your own sightseeing, book your own hotels, or source your own food.
All you need to do is relax and enjoy the adventure!
Limited spots available
While small groups are superior to large group tours in just about every way, this does unfortunately mean that places on this trip are incredibly limited.
I have an absolute maximum of 15 spaces on this trip, and you’ll need to act fast and lock your place in early if you don’t want to miss out.
Pakistan Tour Itinerary
Main tour details
Dates: 11 – 23rd October, 2024 (12 nights/13 days). If you wish to arrive on October 10, your hotel for this first night will also be included.
Tour start: Islamabad, Pakistan
Tour end: Lahore, Pakistan
Itinerary
Below you can find our itinerary. Please click on each day to expand the section and view a detailed description of what we will be doing on that day!
Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
We will start our adventure in Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan. Islamabad is a beautiful and modern city nestled in the foothills of the Margalla Hills. We will visit Faisal Mosque, the national mosque of Pakistan, and one of the largest mosques in the world! Its intriguing architectural design was inspired by a Bedouin tent.
We will also visit the Pakistan Monument, which is a four-petal flower symbolising the unity and solidarity of Pakistani people. The monument is located on a hilltop overlooking the city and offers panoramic views.
Finally, we will visit Saidpur Village, a historic village on the outskirts of Islamabad. Saidpur Village is said to be over 500 years old and is known for its traditional crafts such as pottery and woodwork. This is a great place to experience Pakistani culture and see a different side of Islamabad.
We will spend our first night in our hotel in Islamabad.
Day 2: Exploring the sights of Skardu
Today we will take a domestic flight to Skardu, a town hidden amidst the majestic peaks of the Karakoram mountains.
Home to awe-inspiring waterfalls, breathtaking landscapes, and historical forts, Skardu is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
After we check-in to our hotel, we will explore the wonders of Skardu. We will visit the Upper and Lower Kachura Lakes, a series of turquoise coloured lakes surrounded by lush green meadows.
We will also head off the main tourist trail to Soq Valley, a remote and tranquil escape that most people never get to see.
The Katpana Cold Desert is also on our list. We will head to one of the highest deserts in the world, home to 100m tall sand dunes surrounded with snow-capped mountain peaks.
We will spend the night in Skardu.
Day 3: Deosai National Park
We will spend our second day in Skardu exploring even more of its exquisite nature.
We will first head to Deosai National Park, making several stops along the way to admire Satpara Lake and the picturesque streams of Bara Pani and Kala Pani.
Deosai National Park is an alpine wonderland home to a variety of wildlife, including Himalayan brown bears, marmots, and golden eagles. Here, we will visit the scenic Sheosar Lake.
We will spend the night in our Skardu hotel.
Day 4: Basho Valley
Basho Valley is a hidden gem surrounded by mountains, lush pine forests, and glaciers. This valley is off-the-beaten-path, and offers serenity and stunning scenery in equal measures.
We will spend the day exploring its natural beauty, before staying overnight in our hotel in Skardu.
Day 5: Shigar Valley
The Shigar Valley is a picturesque valley known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and traditional way of life. The Shigar Valley was once an important stop along the ancient Silk Road, and is home to several historical sites such as the Shiger Fort, which we will be visiting!
On the way to Shigar Valley, we’ll make a stop at Blind Lake, and we will also pay a visit to Sarfaranga Cold Desert, which is cold year-round and boasts dramatic natural landscapes.
We will spend the night in Skardu, before our next destination tomorrow!
Day 6: Journey to Hunza
Today we will make the journey to Hunza, stopping along the way to admire several jaw-dropping viewpoints, including Nanga Parbat (the ninth tallest mountain in the world), and Rakaposhi, which is another stunning mountain peak.
Upon our arrival in Hunza, we will check into our new hotel and relax for the evening.
Day 7: Altit Fort, Ganesh Settlements, Eagle’s Nest
Today we will discover some fascinating cultural sites in the Hunza Valley.
Altit Fort is a magnificent 11th-century watchtower overlooking the Hunza River. Steeped in history, it served as a defensive structure and the residence of the former rulers of Hunza. The fort was renovated in the 20th century and is now a museum showcasing the region’s history and culture.
The Ganesh Settlements are a cluster of traditional stone houses carved into the cliffs. These settlements are believed to be over 2,000 years old and were inhabited by the Wakhi people, an ethnic minority group residing in the region. While some of the settlements are now abandoned, others are still inhabited! We will learn about the traditional way of life of the Wakhi people, and marvel at some of the most unique architecture in the world.
Located high above Karimabad, Eagle’s Nest is the perfect spot to appreciate the beauty of the Hunza Valley. The viewpoint provides a sweeping panorama of the entire valley, showcasing the lush green fields, the Hunza River snaking through the valley, and the towering mountains in the background.
Day 8: Attabad Lake, Hussaini Bridge, Passu Cones
In 2010, a massive landslide blocked the flow of the Hunza River, creating a new lake named Attabad Lake. While the event caused destruction and displacement of local communities, the lake has become a popular tourist attraction due to its scenic beauty, and we are going to experience that beauty first-hand!
We will then head to the nearby Hussaini Suspension Bridge, an iconic bridge over the Hunza River. This rickety bridge connects the villages on each side of the river, and crossing it is certainly an adrenaline rush!
After we’ve crossed the Hussaini Bridge, we will marvel at the grandeur of Passu Cones, a group of three magnificent pyramid-shaped peaks, and enjoy the incredible views of Passu Glacier.
We will then return to our hotel in Hunza where we will spend the night.
Day 9: Naltar Valley
Today we will leave Hunza and head to Gilgit, stopping on the way at Naltar Valley.
Beautiful lakes, fresh mountain air, and traditional villages with friendly locals are what we can expect from Naltar Valley, and we’ll soak it all up before continuing on to Gilgit, where we will spend the night.
Day 10: Gilgit to Lahore
Today we will enjoy breakfast in our hotel before taking a domestic flight to Islamabad, and then driving to Lahore, where we will spend the night.
Day 11: Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, Wagah Border
Today we will explore the wonders of Lahore, starting with Lahore Fort.
Lahore Fort was built in the 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan (who built the Taj Mahal!), and this architectural wonder is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located right next to Lahore Fort, the Badshahi Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. Completed in 1673, it’s another Mughal masterpiece known for its red sandstone façade, towering minarets, and vast prayer hall.
One of the most special things we’ll experience on the entire trip is the flag ceremony at the Wagah Border. The Wagah Border marks the only land border crossing between Pakistan and India. Every evening before sunset, a colourful and energetic flag-lowering ceremony takes place on both sides of the border and is supposed to represent cooperation and brotherhood between the two nations.
Price
What’s Included?
Aside from small personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks etc.), this is an all-inclusive tour package!
Included in the price:
- Invitation letter (for visa application)
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Domestic flights (Islamabad-Skardu and Gilgit-Islamabad)
- 12 nights deluxe accommodation in 4-5* hotels (sharing with one other person). If you arrive in Islamabad the day before the tour begins, your hotel for this first night will also be included. If you wish to have your own room, a £220 supplement will be charged.
- All transportation, including Jeeps or 4X4 where required
- Private driver
- Professional tour guide who will be with us for the entire trip
- Entrance tickets to all sights and excursions listed on the itinerary
- ALL MEALS
NOT included in the price:
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, snacks etc.)
- Flights to/from Pakistan
- Travel insurance
- Any additional sightseeing not listed on the itinerary
- Visa application fee
EARLY BIRD SPECIAL (before June 30)
If you book BEFORE JUNE 30, the total cost of the tour is just £1560!
This special early bird deal is ONLY VALID before June 30, after which the price will increase.
A 40% deposit of £624 will need to be paid at the time of confirmation.
The remaining £936 needs to be paid by the beginning of September.
Regular price (from June 30)
The total cost of the trip will be £1660.
A 40% deposit of £664 will need to be paid at the time of confirmation.
The remaining £996 needs to be paid by the start of September.
How to Book
To secure your spot on my boutique Pakistan tour, please click on the ‘book now’ button and fill in the form below.
Once I have received your application, I will then email you with payment instructions. The email will come from my email address (danielleroseleigh@gmail.com). If you don’t receive an email within 48 hours, please check your spam folder, and if you still don’t find anything from me, please reach out directly via email or social media.
Please note that your spot is only secured once you’ve transferred the deposit. Please do not book your flight until you hear from me.
Group discounts
Want to bring a friend?
If you bring a friend on the trip, you can both enjoy a 10% discount of the tour cost, and if you bring 3 or more friends, you will ALL receive a 12.5% discount!
Please reach out to me if you want to join the tour as a group of 2 or more.
Useful Information
Pakistan visa
Visiting Pakistan requires a tourist visa. Please note that visa fees, application submission, and timely approval are your responsibility. The application process varies by nationality.
For many nationalities, including those from the UK, a Letter of Invitation is required, which we will happily provide.
Applying for the visa is a relatively simple process, but if you get stuck, we’ll be here to help you at every step of the way.
You can find further information and apply for your Pakistan visa on the official Pakistan Online Visa System website.
Important Note: Unfortunately, due to visa restrictions, this tour is currently unavailable for Indian nationals.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is very good in the big cities, and we will even have Wi-Fi in Skardu and Hunza, although patchy service is expected when up in the mountains.
Our tour guide will also have a portable Wi-Fi device at all times, even while we are driving, although if the internet is down in the region (due to adverse weather conditions, for example), then unfortunately, this device won’t work either.
In a nutshell, we should have Wi-Fi for the vast majority of our tour, but please don’t book this trip if you need constant connection, as it cannot be guaranteed.
Refunds and cancellations
Please note that all payments are non-refundable.
If you have to cancel, please get in touch with me ASAP and I will do everything I can to resell your place. If I am successful, I will refund any money already paid (minus the original deposit), but please bear in mind that this is not a guarantee, and may not be possible.
Minimum Requirements for the Tour to Run
I need a minimum number of 7 guests in order for this tour to be able to run. Please do not book your flights until you have received confirmation from me that the tour will definitely be going ahead.
If you have paid a deposit and the tour is unable to go ahead, I will refund everything in full.
FAQs
What are the tour dates?
The dates of the tour are 11 – 23 October, 2024. We will be beginning our tour in the morning, so you might want to arrive the night before. If you decide to do this, we will include the hotel at no extra cost.
Where to I need to fly to?
Our tour begins in Islamabad and ends in Lahore. You will need to fly INTO Islamabad, and OUT OF Lahore. Please note that international flights are not included in the tour price.
Who is this tour for?
As long as you’re over the age of 18, you’re invited on this tour! There is no upper age limit. While this is not an adventure tour, there will be some small hikes and places where we have to walk. Please bear this in mind when applying.
Do you cater for vegans?
Of course! If you have any dietary requirements, please let me know on the booking form.
Do I have to share a room?
Our prices are based on two people of the same gender sharing a room. If you would like your own room, there is an extra charge of £220. Please let me know in the application form if this is the case.
What are the hotels like?
We will be staying exclusively in 4 and 5* hotels, so you can rest assured that we will be looked after. However, as the hospitality industry in Pakistan is still growing, the hotels might be slightly below the standards you will see in the West.
Is Pakistan safe?
Pakistan is a HUGE country, and the vast majority of Pakistan is safe for travellers. The parts where there are safety risks are a) very remote places that we will not be travelling to, and b) not places foreigners are even allowed to access without special permissions! We will only be travelling to very safe areas.
Will you be on the tour?
Yes, absolutely! I will be travelling with you throughout the entire time we are in Pakistan.
Can I bring a friend?
Of course! If you bring one person, you can both enjoy a 10% discount from the final price, and if you bring 3 friends, you can all enjoy 12.5% off!
Any Questions?
If you have any questions, please email me at danielleroseleigh@gmail.com or reach out to me on any of my social media accounts.
