Who should come on this trip?

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This trip is going to be incredible - but it's not for everyone. We're looking for people who are comfortable being a bit uncomfortable. You don't need to have a bunch of trekking experience, but you should come with an open mind! This trip will be immensely rewarding for those who approach it with a great attitude, a willingness to step outside of their comfort zone, and an appetite for real adventure.

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This trip will bring you to the edge of modern civilization. You'll stay in rural villages almost completely off the grid, you may go a few days without a hot shower, and you'll get really comfortable using a squat toilet! This is about as far as it gets from mass tourism, but that's part of what makes the experience so unique and rewarding.

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While we will do our absolute best to stick to the itinerary as closely as possible, there is always the possibility that conditions on the ground may force us to adjust our plans. Regardless, the trip is going to be great.

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All in all, if you're looking for the adventure of a lifetime, then you're in the right place.

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Is it safe to visit Pakistan?

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Yes. Pakistan has been portrayed negatively by the international media, but it has so much to offer tourists, and can absolutely be visited safely. The Pakistani people are incredibly hospitable, and welcome visitors to their country with warmth and kindness. Throughout the duration of the trip, you will be accompanied by highly experienced and professional American and Pakistani guides. If you have more specific questions about safety & security in Pakistan,  get in touch with us. 

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Who are the guides?

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The trip will be led by American and local Pakistani guides.

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Doug Barnard is an American traveler and YouTuber. He has traveled extensively throughout South Asia and the Middle East, and has led trips in Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, and Georgia. See his experience in Pakistan on his YouTube channel.

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Imran Khan hails from Islamabad, Pakistan, and has years of experience guiding tours all over Pakistan. Also an avid traveler, Imran has spent time living and working abroad, and often travels internationally when he's not guiding tours.

 

Aziz Ali grew up in northern Pakistan's beautiful Hunza Valley, so he knows this area of the country like the back of his hand. A talented musician but an even better guide, Aziz is the perfect local expert to introduce you to northern Pakistan.

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How intense is the trekking? Do I need to have prior experience?

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We'll be doing a fair amount of trekking on this trip, and while prior trekking experience isn't required, a basic level of physical fitness will go a long way to making the trip enjoyable for you. No technical climbing experience is required, it may be helpful to do a bit of hiking before the trip to prepare for it. Of course, no one will be left behind, and one of the guides will always stay at the back of the group.

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What are the accommodations like?

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We will be staying in a variety of different accommodations on this trip, ranging from mountain cabins, to tents, to local hotels and home-stays. Most of the rooms are shared twin rooms, meaning that if you're traveling solo, you'll be paired up with a roommate.

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What is the food like?

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Pakistani food is delicious and we'll be eating a lot of it! Pakistanis eat a meat-heavy diet, but there will always be vegetarian dishes available as well. All meals are included in the price of the trip, and most will be served family style. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies so we can accommodate you!

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What's the best way to get to Pakistan?

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The trip starts and ends in Lahore. You should book your arrival and departure flights to/from Lahore's Allama Iqbal International Airport. Depending on where you're coming from, you may transit through Dubai, Doha, Istanbul, or another location. We're happy to assist if you'd like help finding flights.

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Have more questions? Email trips@dougbarnardtravel.com and we'll get back to you ASAP!