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Safety

Is Northern Pakistan safe? Our honest answer

What the security situation is really like in Gilgit-Baltistan, what the real risks are in the mountains, and exactly how we look after you.

The security situation

Gilgit-Baltistan, home to Hunza, Skardu, Fairy Meadows and K2, is widely regarded as one of the safest regions of Pakistan, and thousands of foreign travellers visit every year. Local people are famously hospitable to guests.

Government travel advice is written by district and changes over time, and some parts of Pakistan outside Gilgit-Baltistan carry stronger warnings. Before you book, read your own government's current advice (for example the UK FCDO or the US State Department) and check that your travel insurance covers every area on your route. We will tell you exactly which districts your itinerary passes through.

Police checkpoints and registration

On the Karakoram Highway and other main roads, foreign travellers are often asked to show their passport and visa at police checkpoints. This is routine. Your driver handles it, and it is the reason we ask you to carry several photocopies of your passport and visa.

Restricted areas, including the Baltoro Glacier route to K2 Base Camp, need trekking permits that we arrange in advance through the proper channels.

Mountain roads, weather and flights

The biggest real risks in the mountains are roads and weather, not crime. Landslides can close roads for hours, and domestic flights to Gilgit and Skardu are cancelled whenever clouds cover the mountains.

  • Experienced drivers who live in Gilgit-Baltistan and drive these roads every week
  • Vehicles checked before every trip, and 4x4 jeeps for unpaved tracks
  • No driving after dark on mountain roads
  • Daily checks on road and weather conditions, with routes changed when needed
  • A road plan ready for every domestic flight, so a cancelled flight never strands you

Altitude

Our itineraries gain height gradually, visit the highest points such as the Khunjerab Pass and Deosai as day trips, and include acclimatisation days on treks. Guides watch for signs of altitude sickness and descend immediately if someone is unwell.

Our emergency plan

  • Our team is reachable 24/7 by phone and WhatsApp throughout your trip
  • Guides carry a first-aid kit, and treks beyond mobile coverage carry a satellite phone
  • We know the nearest clinics and hospitals on every route, with district hospitals in Gilgit and Skardu
  • Serious cases are taken to Islamabad by road, flight or, where needed, helicopter rescue
  • We stay with you and keep your family and insurer informed until you are safe

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is required for every guest. It must cover medical treatment and evacuation in Pakistan, and for treks and high passes it must cover helicopter rescue up to the highest altitude on your itinerary. Please send us your policy details before you arrive.

Women and solo travellers

Many women travel with us, solo and in groups. Hunza and Baltistan are relaxed and welcoming, especially in the villages. Modest clothing helps you feel comfortable, and we are happy to arrange a female guide on request where available.

Still have a question? Our team replies to every message within 12 hours.

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Last updated: October 2026

Questions travellers ask us

Is Hunza safe for foreign tourists?

Hunza is one of the most visited and relaxed places in Pakistan for foreign travellers. Always check your own government's travel advice before booking.

Is the Karakoram Highway dangerous?

The main risks are landslides and weather. We use experienced local drivers, never drive mountain roads after dark, and change routes when roads close.

What happens if my flight to Skardu or Gilgit is cancelled?

We switch to the road plan the same day so your tour continues. Cancelled flights are common in the mountains and every itinerary allows for them.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. It must cover medical care and evacuation in Pakistan, including helicopter rescue for treks and high-altitude trips.