Explore Baltoro Glacier in Karakorum ranges of Pakistan
OVERVIEW K2 BASE CAMP TREK
Embark on a breathtaking trek to K2 Base Camp by the Baltoro Glacier and cross the Gondogoro La in Pakistan’s Karakoram range. Traverse dramatic valleys, icy glaciers, and remote mountain passes with panoramic views of some of the world’s highest peaks, including K2. This challenging journey offers a unique experience for seasoned trekkers, combining awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural encounters with local communities.
Highlights
- Arrive to K2 Base Camp
- Cross Gondogoro La 5,585m
- Explore the Karakorum
- Trekking in small private groups
ITINERARY K2 BASE CAMP TREK
Arrival to Islamabad. Transfer to the hotel. Free afternoon.
In the morning, transfer to the airport and 1-hour flight to Skardu. In case of bad weather, ground transportation to Chila by jeep will be provided.
Day free at Skardu or drive from Chilas to Skardu (8-10 hrs)
Drive by jeep from Askole to Askole, 3.000m (6-7 hrs). The last inhabitance on our way.
Trek to the Dumurdo River crossing at Jhula, where a traditional rope bridge supported by a wooden basket was once used. Nowadays, a wooden bridge has been built to make the crossing easier.
Distance: 20.7Km / Elevation: +500 -400 / Time: 6-7h
Trek to Paiyu, a green oasis along the Braldu River under the shadow of Paiju Peak (6610 m), involves a series of ascents and descents on the right bank of the river. This route offers impressive views of Baltoro South, the towering Cathedral Peaks, and a distant glimpse of the K2 triangle. We will camp in Paiyu with the stunning Cathedral Towers as our backdrop.
Distance: 16,6Km / Elevation: +600 -375 / Time: 5-7h
Free day at Paiyu (3600 m) for rest and acclimatization, offering time to enjoy the surrounding landscape.
Start the trek to Urdukus with an early morning departure, heading towards Khuburtze. This journey involves a gradual ascent along the southern edge of the Baltoro Glacier, mostly following the crest of the lateral moraine. For the first time, we’ll step onto the glacier, initially traversing its left side before moving to the right amid large crevasses. The route is manageable, as the glacier is covered with rocks and sediment, making crampons unnecessary. Along the way, we’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Paiyu Peak, Chorichi, the Trango group—including the iconic Trango Tower (6,363 m)—and Uli Biaho (6,417 m). We’ll set up camp at Khuburtze (4,200 m), with the impressive views of Trango Towers, Uli Biaho, and the distant Broad Peak (8,051 m), the 12th highest mountain on Earth.
Distance: 10,8Km / Elevation: +700 -300 / Time: 6h
Short stage with the aim of acclimatizing above 4.000 meters, we’ll reach the impressive balcony over the glacier where Urdukas is located. Day to continue enjoying the views towards the Trango towers.
Distance: 5,1Km / Elevation: +400 -160 / Time: 3-4h
We’ll continue trekking along the icy Baltoro Glacier, now moving through its central section. The first hour involves navigating challenging side crevasses, but the path becomes smoother and easier in the middle. Along the way, we’ll cross two lateral glaciers descending from the north face of Masherbrum (K1, 7,821 m), with views of Gasherbrum IV (7,925 m) and Broad Peak in the distance. We’ll stop for lunch at Goro I before reaching our campsite at Goro II, set in the center of the glacier at 4,500 meters, where we’ll spend the night on the ice.
Distance: 12,4Km / Elevation: +500 -275 / Time: 4-5h
After an early breakfast, we’ll embark on a 5-6 hour trek along the Baltoro Glacier towards Concordia, a major junction of the Baltoro, Abruzzi, and Godwin Austen glaciers at 4,700 meters. Along this spectacular route, the iconic peaks of the Karakoram reveal themselves like a natural gallery. To the left, we’ll see Mustagh Tower (7,776 m), followed by Crystal Peak (6,252 m) and Marble Peak (6,256 m), while to the right stands Mitre Peak (6,025 m). As we approach Concordia, the magnificent pyramid of K2 dominates the view. We’ll camp at Concordia with a breathtaking panorama of some of the world’s highest peaks.
Distance: 13,0Km / Elevation: +520 -220 / Time: 5-6h
Depending on weather and physical condition, the day offers several options. We can set out early to trek to one of the base camps, such as Broad Peak (4800 m) or the more distant K2 Base Camp (5100 m). Starting after breakfast, we’ll navigate through crevasses and small meltwater rivers on the Godwin-Austen Glacier, reaching Broad Peak base camp in about three hours, with views of K2, Mitre Peak, and Bride Peak. Continuing for another three hours along the boulder-strewn moraine, we arrive at K2 Base Camp, the traditional base for climbers. Alternatively, we can take the day to rest at Concordia, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Trek back to Concordia and rest
We set out southeast, trekking along the upper Baltoro Glacier toward the confluence with the West Vigne Glacier, following a less-traveled route decorated with erratic boulders. The conditions vary based on snow; from June to late August, we usually hike on stable ice, making the trek easier. In case of snow or large crevasses, we may use crampons and rope up for safety. After over five hours, we reach Ali Camp, a high moraine site named after Ali, a local porter who first crossed Gondogoro La. Here, under the watchful presence of K2, we’ll settle in for an early night, preparing for the following day’s main challenge.
Distance: 10,9Km / Elevation: +460 -100 / Time: 5-6h
The challenging day begins early, with team members waking around 1 a.m. After breakfast, we put on harnesses and crampons and set out across the West Vigne Glacier, initially staying on the lateral moraine to avoid crevasses. At Gondogoro La’s base, we assess conditions: depending on weather and snow, we may proceed roped as a single unit or unroped on the lower slopes. Fixed ropes help us navigate the steep sections under massive seracs. Reaching the summit around sunrise, we’re rewarded with spectacular views of four 8,000-meter peaks: K2, Broad Peak, and Gasherbrum I and II. After photos and a short rest, we begin the descent, carefully managing loose stones and using fixed ropes as needed. Once the gradient eases, we follow a scenic path along Gondogoro Valley above Trinity Glacier, finally reaching the oasis-like campsite of Khuspang (4,600 m) with grassy patches and small pools.
Distance: 11,6Km / Elevation: +710 -950 / Time: 8-10h
The descent from Keuspaang to Saicho takes you through diverse terrains, from rocky slopes to glacial moraine, as you gradually leave behind the towering views of Laila Peak and the high Karakoram. This section is less technical but still requires steady footing, as the trail can be rocky and uneven. The journey down to Saicho offers beautiful views of the surrounding valleys, and the altitude decrease makes breathing easier, adding to the enjoyment of this scenic trek to Saicho (3,350 m). This campsite, nestled along a glacial river at the meeting point of the Charakusa and Gondogoro valleys, offers a refreshing change of “oxygen-rich” air and views of K7, providing a peaceful night’s rest. The difficulty Level is Moderate; suitable for trekkers with basic experience, though the rocky terrain requires caution
Distance: 16Km / Elevation: +500 -1250 / Time: 6-8h
After breakfast, we’ll set off along the left side of the Hushe River on an easy path for our final trekking day, a triumphant walk toward Hushe village. Upon arrival, we’ll camp near the fields, surrounded by welcoming children eager to greet us with smiles and high-fives. This joyful arrival marks the memorable end of our adventure through the Karakoram mountains—an experience we will carry with us for years to come.
Distance: 9,3Km / Elevation: +100 -320 / Time: 3-4h
We’re picked up by jeeps, driving along the Hushe and Shyok rivers. This scenic route takes us through small agricultural lands and mountain villages, eventually reaching the suspension bridge over the Shyok River. From Khaplu, the road becomes smoother, allowing us to gain speed as we follow the Shyok River to its confluence with the Indus. We arrive at our partner hotel in Skardu, where a warm shower and a hearty meal await—our first comforts in over two weeks. A free afternoon offers time to relax and reflect on the unforgettable K2 Base Camp Trek.
For such a long route it is necessary to save a day for contingencies. So if we have to stop to rest for a day or we have had a day of bad weather we can finish the route without problem. Rest day in Skardu.
Fly to Islamabad. In case of bad weather, Early morning drive for Chilas. On arrival transfer to hotel and check in. Overnight stay in hotel at Chilas.
Contingency day for flight cancellations. In case of flight cancelation: After breakfast we will depart from Chilas to Islamabad via babusar pass. On arrival transfer to hotel, overnight stay in hotel at Islamabad.
Transfer to the airport and return flight Islamabad-City of origin. We hope you enjoyed this great adventure
WHAT'S INCLUDED K2 BASE CAMP TREK
The Cost Includes
- 2 nights hotel in Islamabad (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
- 1 nights in hotel Chilas (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
- 2 nights in Skardu (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
- Pick up from group when arrive and drop to airport when group Departure Air-condition van from Islamabad –Skardu-Gilgit-Islamabad
- Flight Tickets Islamabad-Skardu
- Arrange transport on briefing and debriefing occasion
- Sightseeing the capital city of Islamabad
- Jeeps from Skardu to Arandu
- Food (during the Trek (we will serve breakfast, lunch and Dinner)
- Carry on member personal equipment, foods stuffs and camping crew etc. All porters insurance
- 16 Kg porter facility for member’s personal gear. (Above 16 Kg will be separately charged from member on spot, as per porter rate per Kg)
- Guide Cook and assistance cook wages, camp food, transport and their insurance
- Mess tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent mattress, chairs, Tables
- Complete kitchen utensils (crockery)
- Tips for baggage handling at airport & at hotels
- Fee: (CKNP, Bridge crossing, cable crossing, camping)
- International flights tickets re-confirmations
- Custom clearing assistance
- Material and technical advice
The Cost Excludes
- International flight tickets
- Helicopter emergency rescue fees Members any climbing gears
- Member personal insurance
- Sleeping bag and all personal expenses such as telephone calls, fax, email charges, liquor or soft drinks,
- Room service, gratuities for personal services, items of a purely personal nature
- Any unforeseen expenses (just like road block extra hotel stay or if members stay more days at Base Camp) then members will be pay according to the numbers of days bases.
- Any service not described in the "Included Section"
MAP K2 BASE CAMP TREK
TOUR DETAILS K2 BASE CAMP TREK
Welcome to the definitive epic of adventure in the majestic heart of the Karakoram: the Baltoro Trek! This transformative journey begins in picturesque Askole and takes you through a fascinating labyrinth of alpine landscapes to reach the unrivaled heights of the K2 and Broad Peak base camps, two of the most challenging peaks in the world.
Imagine walking along ancient trails, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of snow-capped peaks and glacial valleys. You will discover the pulse of nature in the very heart of the Earth, while you cross the amazing Gondogoro glacier, a spectacle of ice and light that will leave its mark on your adventurous soul.
But this is not just a trip for mountain lovers; It is an experience that immerses you in the local culture, sharing smiles with the communities along the way and discovering the authenticity of the region. From the warm hospitality of Askole to the serenity of Hushe, every step is a connection to the richness of life on high.
On this journey, each day is a new page in an adventure book full of intense emotions and landscapes that defy description. Experience the grandeur of nature and the indomitable spirit of the mountains as you immerse yourself in the grandeur of Baltoro Trekking. Get ready to buy not just a trip, but a journey that will leave you breathless and make you want to relive it again and again.
The Baltoro awaits you, ready to unleash your exploring spirit!
You need a minimum level that allows you to do a mountain route of 1250m of elevation gain in one day. It is a demanding route. Some days are interspersed with short walks or breaks to ensure good acclimatization and recovery from the days of trekking. During the trek we can carry a small backpack with the things we will use during the day. The porters will carry our backpacks to the next camp. We will cross glacial terrain, snowy passes and sleep in a tent. This is a demanding trek.
Our trainer Mr. Pablo Ral, graduate in Physical Activity Sciences, Master in High Performance, Chilean Ski Mountaineering Coach and specialist in endurance sports… can make you a specific personal training plan for this trip.
- Standard training plan (one-time payment): 99€ (Fill out online form, 30 min personal interview (to adjust the plan and resolve doubts), Receive your personalized plan)
- Premium training plan (monthly): 130€ (Fill out online form, 1h personal interview (to adjust the plan and resolve doubts), Receive your personalized plan. Weekly monitoring of your progression and monthly readjustment of the training plan)
You can request your training plan at the time of booking your trip or later. (Standard training plans are valid for a maximum of 3 months)
FUNCTIONAL CLOTHING:
● Gore-Tex or waterproof and breathable jacket
● Waterproof rain pants
● Warm jacket – down jacket or preferably primaloft (as they can handle water)
● Lightweight fleece lining
● Breathable, easy-drying short-sleeved T-Shirts
● Stretch pants, a little thicker, days or nights colder
● Trekking pants
● Shorts
● Thermal pants and t-shirt set
● Undergarments (non-cotton recommended)
● Swimwear
HEAD
● Lightweight running cap
● Wool beanie
● Neck Gaiter
● Sunglasses.
HANDS
● Thin fleece gloves & thick waterproof gloves.
● Walking poles (Recomended)
FEET
● Thin socks (non cotton)
● Thick warm socks (non cotton)
● Lightweight trail shoes and hiking boots (better to take both)
● Hiking sandals with heel strap (Optional)
BACKPACKS
● Mountain backpack 20/35 liters
● Rain backpack cover
● Small travel bag (for documentation and wallet)
● Duffle bag (better than suitcase)
LODGE MATERIAL
● Sleeping bag (3 seasons)
● Hut sleeping bag made of silk (optional)
● Earplugs
TECHNICAL MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT
● Ice axe
● Crampons
● Climbing harness
● Carabiner (screwgate type x 2)
● Climbing helmet
● Sling (120 cm)
ACCESSORIES
● Headlamp and battery or spare batteries
● Sun cream, lip cocoa and after sun
● Mosquito repellent.
EAT/DRINK:
● Hydration System minimum 1l (Camelbag, canteen or flexible bottle)
● Thermo Flask (optional)
● Snacks, nuts, gels, hydration and sufficient power bars, protein bars, trail mix, magnesium tablets and recovery supplements
TRAVEL EQUIPMENT
● Casual clothes
● Passport, Visa, cash, insurance documentation, vaccination card.
● Microfiber towel
● First aid and medication kit
● Thermal blanket
● Mobile phone and watch with the route track
● Powerbank, camera, charging cables, headphones, selfie stick…
Food
The Itinerary explains what meals are included each day according to the program. If you have allergies or preferences, let us know on the registration form and we will take it into account.
We always recommend that you bring your own energy bars, nuts… so that you can eat while doing the activities.
Accommodation
The first and last night we will stay in Islamabad. The other nights we will sleep in the different lodges in the route to the trekking. During the trekking you sleep in a tent.
The program provides accommodation in shared rooms (Hotels). If you want a single room, please indicate this at the time of booking.
We believe solo travelers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travelers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
In case you wish that we can look for the best flight combination tickets from your nearest airport to the destination you can add this service in “extra services” on the checkout before booking the trip and will give you the best proposal beforehand and once accepted buy it for you. This service includes monitor the flight prices over time to get the best deal when prices are low and check in of your flight. The administrative fee for this service is 35€ + the flights cost that will be invoice to you afterwards.
We offer you a 5% discount on your IATI travel insurance. The discount is just valid if you buy the travel insurance policy after clicking on the link.
In case you wish that we can look for the best travel insurance that covers the trip destination/activity with your nationality. You can add this service in “extra services” on the checkout before booking the trip and will give you the best proposal beforehand and once accepted buy it for you. The administrative fee for this service is 15€ + the insurance cost that will be invoice to you afterwards.
The client is informed that B4Experience will issue the trip without including a cancellation, repatriation or accident policy, unless it is explicitly included in the trip contract and paid in the first payment.
Rescue insurance: Recommended
Rescue insurance is highly recommended on all active trips. It must be taken into consideration that these insurance policies are specific for each type of activity (hiking, climbing…)
The user is informed that the GUARANTEE COMPANY that covers the risks of contractual liability and guarantee against insolvency is MARKEL INSURANCE SE. Our trips are covered by Civil Liability insurance.
Visas, and Entry Requirements
Certainly! It is important to have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity when traveling to any country.
To enter Pakistan you need a VISA which must be processed before arrival. We recommend that you apply for the VISA 3 months in advance to ensure that you will not have any problems. You can directly apply for the electronic Visa through this official web link.
To know the specific visa requirements for your trip, it is recommended to contact your local embassy or consulate, or consult with your travel agent. Remember that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements can vary based on your nationality and your destination. While we strive to keep our information updated, visa rules can change unexpectedly. Therefore, it is crucial that you verify the information yourself and understand that you are accountable for meeting your own visa requirements.
Vaccines
For each trip, clients are solely responsible for having the mandatory and/or recommended vaccines required in each region or country. Consult with your doctor to have all vaccinations before the start of the trip.
Initial Reservation: To secure your place, an initial payment of 30% of the total amount of the trips is required at the time of making the reservation.
Final Payment: The remaining amount, equivalent to 70% of the total, must be paid no later than 60 days before the departure date.
Extras: Additional travel costs, such as insurace, flights and other options services, must be paid in full at the time of booking.
Cancellation insurance: The client can take out trip cancellation insurance to be able to obtain payment of the entire amount paid (according to its conditions).
The end user may withdraw from the contracted trip, having the right to a refund of the amounts paid, except for the indicated penalties, but must also satisfy the Agency in the amounts indicated below once the trip has been confirmed. If it is not carried out due to not reaching the minimum necessary places, the client can save the credit for future trips or request a full refund of the reservation.
Cancellation Policy 3:
- FULL REFUND UP TO 24H AFTER PURCHASE
- Up to 60 days before the trip 100% refund of the trip amount.
- Up to 45 days before the trip Refund of 50% of the trip amount.
- For terms shorter than those described in the cancellation policy, the amount already paid will not be paid.
*€250 management fees apply
* Cancellation fees will not be paid for reservations already issued. If there are other non-refundable expenses already issued, these will not be paid either and will be deducted from the amount to be paid.
* The cost of cancellation of issued flights is 100% of the amount.
EXEMPTION OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
B4Experience offers active trips for different sports and Outdoor activities, as well as information related to these activities through our web platform www.b4experience.com and other channels.
The practice of any activity in nature carries a risk for those who do it, with most of these activities being considered high-risk sports. Each one must know and apply their limits and be aware that regardless of the technical training and physical level one has, their practice can lead to accidents or even death.
The in-person activities and trips offered by B4Experience are carried out on land and activities that may inherently involve risks for those who carry them out and thus clients are informed that they contract them.
DOSSIER DISCLAIMER
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print/ download a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
ITINERARY DISCLAIMER
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. On all Outdoor trips, the routes will be adjusted depending on the weather, the level of the group participants and the risks assessed by the guide/trip leader.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
OUR TRAVEL EXPERTS K2 BASE CAMP TREK
You might travel with…
KARIM HUSHEVI
Certificate Pakistan Guide, over 15 years of experiences. All major trails have been led by him.
