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
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Arrive to K2 Base Camp
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Cross Gondogoro La 5,585m
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Explore the Karakorum
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Trekking in small private groups
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.
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.
Free day at Paiyu (3600 m) for rest and acclimatization, offering time to enjoy the surrounding landscape.
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. 
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
