k2 base camp trek pakistan

K2 Base Camp Trek

• K2 & Gondogoro La Trek
• Continue Shopping
• Your Cart is Empty
• USD CAD INR GBP AUD EUR JPY

Fixed Departures 2024-25

Baltoro Glacier & Concordia Trek

World's 5th longest non-polar glacier

K2 Gondogoro La Trek

View 4 eight-thousanders from Gondogoro Pass

Welcome to Karakoram, Pakistan.

Welcome to Skardu, Pakistan

We are a hometown company providing dedicated and complete destination services for K2 base camp trek, Gondogoro La Trek and additional trails (including numerous mountain passes) in the Karakoram Range. For the love of our mountains, we do our best to provide reliable information, meaningful guidance, user-friendly online booking system and complete logistics for full-board treks via Baltoro Glacier to Concordia, K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La/Pass.

K2 base camp trek mainly involves walking over and marching along the world’s 5th longest non-polar glacier i.e. Baltoro glacier (63 km). At the end of Baltoro glacier is Concordia which is known as “Throne Room of Mountain Gods”. It is the supreme point for views of K2 (world’s second tallest mountain) and other mighty peaks above 8000 m.

It is a legend that one night under the grand mountains in Concordia adds to life span of any soul by one year. Concordia is a glacial confluence of the Baltoro Glacier with the Glacier of Godwin Austen. Trek to K2 base camp and Broad Peak base camp is altogether a one day return trip from Concordia on the Godwin Austen glacier.

Trekking from Askoli (first camp) over Baltoro glacier to Concordia offers views of several famous 6000 m and 7000 m peaks, several glaciers (including Biafo – world’s 3rd longest non-polar), glacial lakes etc. You can easily access the itinerary for the trek to K2 base camp.

There are two options on return to Concordia after trek to K2 base camp. One is taking the same route back home and the second is crossing a mountain pass for more adventures.

When K2 base camp trek is extended from Concordia towards Hushey valley over Gondogoro La (Pass), the comprehensive trek is then commonly referred to as “Gondogoro La Trek” and also “K2 Gondogoro La Trek”. It is a strenuous but an action-packed and demanding circular trek ( Gondogoro La Map ).

K2 Gondogoro La Trek involves trekking first over the Upper Baltoro glacier and later on the Vigne glacier before ascending and crossing the Gondogoro la/pass (5585 m). The top of the pass is a broad area offering breathtaking views of 4 eight thousand meter peaks.

After descending the pass, the walk mostly continues over glaciers (including Gondogoro glacier) and lateral moraine. The trek offers views of new landscape including pastures, glaciers and gorgeous peaks until the downstream journey is made to Hushey valley.

These two incredible trekking routes mentioned above which were once considered harsh proposals are now considered good challenges by hiking and trekking enthusiasts from around the world. On this dedicated website we offer fixed departures for trekking to K2 base camp and K2 Gondogoro La Trek. We also welcome personalized plan requests from groups and individuals.

We are the base camp for trekking in the Karakoram mountains. Book with us now!

FROM KARAKORAM,

How to get ready for K2 Base Camp Trek?

View full article →

Why is Karakorum Safe for Trekkers?

Why is Karakorum Trekker’s Paradise?

• Who are we?

Email: [email protected]

Tel: 0092 346 1153423 Head-Office: Office No.4, 3rd Floor, Bizzon Plaza, Islamabad - Pakistan Field-Office: Building No.4 (adjacent House Finance Building), Kushu Bagh, Skardu, Pakistan

News & Updates

Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more …

Pick a currency: USD CAD INR GBP AUD EUR JPY

© 2024 K2 Base Camp Trek .

Trekking to K2 base camp in Pakistan: everything you need to know

Jan 12, 2021 • 7 min read

The trek to K2 basecamp is one of the most rewarding journeys in the world © Peter Watson / Lonely Planet

The K2 base camp trek in Pakistan is one of the great hikes on earth. Trekkers follow a rocky trail that winds up the mighty Baltoro Glacier, passing through a colossal amphitheater of sky-scraping summits – including seven of the 19 highest mountains on the planet – en route to the base of the world’s second highest peak. Feet twitching? Here’s everything you need to know about hiking to K2 base camp.

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

Introducing the Karakoram

The spectacular Karakoram mountains of Pakistan are home to some of the wildest landscapes on Earth. And while tides of eager walkers flood the trails of Nepal , Pakistan receives just a trickle of trekkers in comparison. But the Greater Ranges of Asia span many borders. While the classic Himalayan routes of Everest and Annapurna may steal the limelight, the Karakoram trails of northern Pakistan are no less magnificent.

The crown of the Karakoram is K2. At 8,611m (28,251ft) it is the world’s second-highest mountain and an expedition to its base camp at 5,150m (16,896ft) makes for one of the most exciting walks in the world. Beginning in the remote village of Askole, the trail winds its way along the grand Braldu Valley before mounting the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia. Positioned 12km (7.5 miles) from K2, Concordia is one of the few places on Earth where it’s possible to see four 8,000m (26,247ft) peaks from one place: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II.

Unlike the approach to Everest base camp in Nepal, where trekkers are treated to only teasing glimpses of the iconic summit, K2 is unimpeded by its satellite peaks, and instead stands imposing, watching over all who tackle the trail to its base. K2 may be second in height and notoriety to Everest, but as a spectacle, it is second to none.

In 2018, Pakistan’s prime minister Imran Khan highlighted tourism as one of his main objectives after his election. The year 2019 saw the launch of a new e-visa system and relaxation of visa restrictions for over 50 countries. Meanwhile, British Airways became the first European airline to resume direct flights to Islamabad , the closest international airport to the Karakoram. As an additional boost, a visit from the British Royal family in 2019 drew the attention of the world’s media to Pakistan.

Tourist numbers have begun to climb, albeit cautiously. The number of trekkers registering to enter the Central Karakoram National Park rose by 50% from 2018 to 2019, albeit to only 1300 in total. It’s worth remembering that over 30,000 people make the Everest base camp trek every year. As such, trekkers in Pakistan can expect to find quiet and uncrowded trails throughout the season. 

To be sure, the COVID-19 pandemic has all but halted mainstream tourism to Pakistan, but as the world emerges from lockdowns (and subsequent re-lockdowns), countries like Pakistan will be keen to invite new travelers.

Pakistan has long-been touted as tourism’s "next big thing," but alarming headlines have often discredited those predictions. Perhaps as Pakistan and the world recover from COVID-19, the country can finally realize its potential as a trekking destination to rival its Himalayan neighbors. If so, then now is the time to start planning.

Trekking to K2 base camp

The K2 base camp trek takes 14 days in total (up and down), and starts in the village of Askole. Once away from this small green oasis, the mighty Karakoram doesn’t take long to reveal its beauty. Serrated summits and towering cliffs rear up either side of the wide valleys. By the end of the first day trekkers are camped beneath the distinctive peak of Bakhor Das, affectionately referred to as Mango Peak due to its curiously shaped summit cone.

The following day the remarkable granite spires of Trango Towers and Cathedral rear up, standing sentry over the trail for three days. Once onto the Baltoro Glacier the first 7,000m peaks (22966ft) – Masherbrum and Muztagh Tower – appear. Despite their dominance, it’s not long before the first 8,000m peaks (26247ft) emerge on the horizon. At the end of Baltoro Glacier stands the Gasherbrum Range, a massif of five peaks over 7,000m including two above 8,000m.

Another day of walking brings trekkers to the huge rocky amphitheater of Concordia that makes the European ranges look puny in comparison. The eye is immediately drawn from the Gasherbrums, across the wide summit ridge of Broad Peak to the sharp and abrupt pyramid of black rock ridges and glinting snow gullies of K2. On this night, trekkers pitch their tents at one of the finest campsites on the planet.

The following day trekkers have a choice of how to approach K2 base camp. They can make the exhausting round trip from Concordia in a day. However, the more popular option is to hike to Broad Peak base camp and stay for the night. The following day is then a far more agreeable push to K2 base camp and back.

K2 base camp is not the sea of yellow tents and prayer flags that’s found at the foot of Everest. There are no iconic signs; instead a modest rockpile marks the site. Depending on the time of the season and the number of expeditions, hikers may well find they’re alone at base camp. There, at the foot of over two vertical miles of rock and ice, the second highest mountain on Earth stands proudly as reward for over a week of toil.

Depending on their itinerary, trekkers either return to Askole back down the Braldu Valley or head towards the high pass of Gondogoro La (finishing the trek in the village of Hushe). While the Gondogoro La pass provides an alternative perspective of the Karakoram, it also proves quite the challenge. Trekkers should be confident with an ice axe and crampons and willing to rise at the stroke of midnight to take on the high pass.

Whichever route one opts for, a trek through Pakistan’s mighty Karakoram to the foot of the world’s second highest mountain, is one of the world’s classic – and currently lesser-tackled – high-altitude adventures. 

Practical information

Distance: The trek takes around 14 days in total and, while no specialist equipment is required, climbers should be fit and healthy and have tackled at least one high-altitude climb before. Additionally, opting to tackle the Gondogoro La pass requires some basic rope work and the use of an ice axe.

Camping: The only accommodation available throughout the trek is camping. Tents are two-person affairs so solo travelers should expect to share. Campsites are pitched either on rock, ice or both, so make sure to pack a thick, warm camping mattress. It should also be noted that most campsites do not have toilet facilities so prepare to do your business in the wild, following the principles of “leave no trace” (ie digging holes and burning toilet paper).

Equipment: It is common for porters to carry your personal gear. But this all depends largely on the level of service you pay for. The more expensive outfits provide chairs, dining table, toilet tent and full porterage. Cheaper outfits require clients to carry some or all of their personal gear and forego the other luxuries.

When to go: The best months for trekking in the Karakoram are July and August, although the trekking season runs from mid-June through mid-September. Outside of those dates excessive snow remains on passes and north-facing slopes, keeping any passes above 3,000m (9843ft) closed. Unsurprisingly, the weather in the Karakoram can be changeable. Be prepared for a range of weather including wind, rain, snow and plunging temperatures, particularly at night.

Terrain: The terrain is far more challenging than the well-trodden trails of Nepal. On the Baltoro Glacier trails are constantly changing as the ice shifts and crevasses open up, so a degree of cross-country walking is to be expected. It’s also not unusual for rivers to swell to excessive levels or wash away footbridges, so be prepared to get your feet wet.

Access: To trek to K2 base camp foreigners must have a licensed guide with them and obtain a No Objection Certificate from the tourism office in Skardu. The trek begins at Askole, which is a six-hour drive via 4WD from Skardu, in turn a short domestic flight from Islamabad (journey time: one hour). Trekkers can leave excess luggage in Skardu at their guesthouse. Most visitors to Pakistan require a visa; more information is available on Pakistan's official visa portal .

Safety and security: Despite recent improvements, foreign governments still advise against travel to several areas of Pakistan. Seek up-to-date advice on the situation in the areas you plan to visit before traveling.

You might also like:

Which Camino de Santiago route is right for you? The world's best places to learn to scuba dive What to expect from health and wellness travel in 2021

This article was originally published November 2019. It was updated in January 2021.

This article was first published Nov 13, 2019 and updated Jan 12, 2021.

Explore related stories

Sep 7, 2024 • 9 min read

Few experiences are as humbling as standing at the foot of the world’s tallest mountain. Here's what you need to know about trekking to Everest Base Camp.

Jul 3, 2024 • 10 min read

Jun 11, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 3, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 16, 2024 • 13 min read

Feb 22, 2024 • 3 min read

Dec 23, 2023 • 7 min read

Sep 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Aug 31, 2023 • 10 min read

Aug 11, 2023 • 7 min read

• | +923445925993
• Welcome To Chogori Adventure Pakistan
• Registration open for year 2024-2025

K2 Base Camp Trek - 20 Days 0.0 / 5

• K2 Base Camp Trek
• Requirement

 OVERVIEW

K2 base camp trek 2024-25 , k2 base camp trek – 20 days  ( all-inclusive).

Booking are ongoing for K2 base camp trek 2024-25 with the Host of Karakoram & No.1 Native k2 Trekking Company of Pakistan, we are a team of Native Experts creating authentic experiences and sustainable travel for discerning trekkers. Why to pay a heap to an agent, when we offer the same in just $2,150 with augmented services.

K2 Base camp and Karakoram Mountain range have been the trekker’s heaven for centuries. The Hike to k2 Base Camp aptly known as the “The throne Room of Mountain Gods”  is wild, exciting and a lifetime dream come true journey . We offer multiple k2 Base camp trekking options and costs. Choose a suitable package to explore the wilderness of the Karakoram range with the leading Native k2 Base Camp Trekking Company of Pakistan.

 k2 Base Camp Trek Route Map 

you also may like to visit our K2 Gondogoro La trek details. ( K2 Gondogoro La trek )

K2 Trekking Holiday Cost and Packages

Including the classic  K2 Base Camp Trek – 20 Days ,  we offer the following k2 base camp trekking holiday options for individuals and groups all around the world.

K2 Base Camp Trek Cost

Adventurers  can join one of our K2 Base Camp Trek fixed departures with a fixed price of $2,150 per person . Our fixed departures are mostly confirmed and everything mentioned in the services included will be provided at a fixed cost that is USD 2,150. To join a K2 Base Camp Trek Fixed Departures Please scroll down to fixed departures and cost .

Private Trek Cost

Private treks are our foremost priority where you can decide your own itinerary and we offer special discount for private treks and  foreign trekking companies .

If you are looking for a private Trip to K2 Base Camp  with family and friends , our cost schedule for groups are  given below in the table:

K2 Trekking Cost for Pakistani

K2 base camp trek cost for Pakistani nationals are in the following table, starting from 350,000 PKR . Locals mostly undertake their k2 trekking from Skardu and will Conclude in Skardu. We will entertain clients from Islamabad as well upon request. Scroll down to the fixed departures and cost  to join one of the k2 base camp fixed departures.

We also provide customized private and group packages for Pakistani Nationals. If you are looking for a private trek to k2 base camp with family and friends, our costs for k2 base camp trip for groups are  given below in the table:

Private trip to k2 Base Camp can avail special discount !

If you are willing to join a Fixed Departure, Our Dates and Prices for k2 Base Camp Trek 2024-25  are given below.

  DEPARTURES

 days itinerary, k2 base camp trek itinerary, day 1: arrival at islamabad.

• Accommodation: Hotel Room on twin sharing basis.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included.

Day 2: Flight to Skardu / Karakoram

Day 3: Rest Day at Skardu

Day 4: Drive to Askoli

• Accommodation: tents on twin sharing basis.

Day 5: Drive to Paju

Day 6: Acclimatization and Rest Day at Paju

Day 7: Trek to khobusre

Day 8: Trek to Urdukas

Day 9: Trek to Goro II

Day 10: Trek to Concordia

Day 11: Trek to Broad Peak Base Camp and K2 Base Camp (Gilkey Memorial)

Day 12: Trek Back to Concordia

This day we will trek back to Concordia from Broad Peak Base Camp.

Day 13: Trek to Goro 1/ Biango Camp

Day 14: Trek to Khoburse

Day 15: Trek to Paju

Day 16: drive back to askoli.

Day 17: Drive Back to Skardu

Day 18: Contingency Day at Skardu or visit to Kachura Lake

Day 19: Flight Back to Islamabad

Day 20: Departure to Home Country

This is the last day of the K2 Base Camp Trek; our staff will transfer the trek participants to Islamabad Internal airport to say goodbye.

 HIGHLIGHT

K2 base camp trek highlights.

•  K2 Base Camp, Gilkey Memorial, and Broad Peak Base Camp,
• A night camping at Concordia “ the throne room of mountain gods ”
• 360-degree view  of Mountains at Concordia
• Get up a close look at Gasherbrum, Marble Peak, Chogolisa, Baltoro Kangri, Sia Kangri, and Mitre Peak as well as hiding spurs of Gasherbrum 1 and 2 From Concordia
• Close views of Muztagh and Masherbrum and Urdukas Peak from the Upper part of Baltoro Glacier
• Close views of Cathedrals, Uli Biaho, Paju Peak , and Trango Tower from the lower Part of Baltoro Glacier
• Trekking on Baltoro Glacier and Godwin Austin Glacier
• An Expedition style trekking
• Views of Glaciers (e.g. Biafo, Vigne, Liligo, Dunge, Muztagh, Yermanendu, Mandu, and more).
• glacial lakes, waterfalls, and streams
• Many other peaks of above 5000 m peaks in Baltistan Valley
• Balti Porter’s life and culture
• Shigar Valley, Braldu Valley, and Skardu Valley
• Beautiful Pro-Tibetan culture and heritage of Balti people
• Indus River, Shigar River, and Braldu River
• A scenic flight over the Himalayas and Karakorum
• The Karakoram Highway in case of Flight Cancellation
• Delicious food of Pakistan
• Sight-seeing in Islamabad or Rawalpindi
• Chogori Adventure Pakistan is the No.1 Native Trekking  Company of Pakistan.
• Professional team of mountain experts
• Team of individuals having vast knowledge and experience of the places, people, and regulations.

 SERVICES

Services included for k2 base camp trek.

• Implementation of all Covid SOPs
• All domestic transportation Flight, Jeep , and Car
• All accommodation during hotel stays on twin sharing basis
• All accommodation during trekking days on twin sharing
• Separate Room or Tent for Single Women Participant
• Professional Guide and Supporting staff
• Professional cooking staff and assistants
• Best Porters team (Porter for personal luggage of 12kg)
• All meals according to the itinerary
• Trekking permit fee, Waste management fee, and toll and bridge charges
• Satellite Phone for emergencies
• Boiled water, snacks, cookies, and dry fruits every day during the trek
• Basic First Aid Kit
• Mess Tents, sleeping tents, toilet, and shower tents

Services Not Included For K2 Base Camp Trek

• Visa and Fees but we can facilitate the visa process
• Personal Insurance
• International flights
• Personal clothing (shoes, trousers, etc.)
• Personal Equipment’s (Ice Axe, Crampons, Harness, Helmet, etc.) but we can arrange upon request
• Extra hotel stays
• Tips to Guides, cooks, and porters
• Miscellaneous expenses not mentioned in services included
• Anything else not mentioned in services included

 THINGS TO CONSIDER

K2 base camp trek equipment and clothing list.

Trip to K2 Base camp is a long-duration trek in the wilderness of Karakorum mountains away from human settlements. So everything should pack up according to the conditions. Here is our recommended list of equipment and clothing for your k2 base camp trek on Baltoro Glacier.

• First Aid Kit with necessary medicines
• Waterproof Hiking Backpack (30-46 Liters)
• Head Torch with extra batteries
• Sleeping Bag (-12 or above Recommended)
• Sunglasses / Snow Glasses
• Water bottle (1 liter)
• Sunblock, Lip Balms, and Sanitizer
• Gloves (Normal and Thermal)
• Hiking Shoes
• Sandals or flipflop
• Buff or Scarf or Bandanas
• Waterproof trousers
• Waterproof Jacket
• Warm jacket
• T-shirts / Shirt full sleeves recommended for trekking days
• Warm cap and Sun Hat
• Trekking poles
• Underwear thermal for upper and lower body
• Socks, Penknife
• Travel Clothing
• Lightweight travel Towel

K2 Base Camp Trek Difficulty

How hard is the trek to K2 Base camp?

The trekking to K2 Base Camp is lined with rugged mountains and rough terrain of glaciers. That includes steep up and down along the Baltoro Glacier till k2 Base camp even the possibility of snowfalls in August in Higher Campsites. The trek to K2 Base Camp is mentally and Physically demanding but equally rewarding with the best view of scenic mountains. It does not require any climbing or technical skill for k2 base camp trek but it is a high-altitude walk so you must have enough stamina and physical fitness to do the trek. Make sure to do some mountain hiking, mild running, swimming, and cycling before going to the K2 Base Camp Trek.

It is almost an expedition-style trek so a good preparation plan can help you better while trekking. Even elderly people have done this trek before with us. As well we will customize the trek accordingly for those who want to walk a shorter distance with short walking days and extra rest.

k2 base camp trek difficulty is very strenuous and it is for trekkers and hikers not for tourists.

K2 Base Camp Trek Without a Guide

Can i go to k2 base camp all alone without any guide or tour agency.

The answer to this question is simply not, no one is allowed to undertake the trekking to  K2 base camp and many other treks in the Karakoram range without a government-licensed Local tour Guide and a Tour Company. The reason behind this is that the region where K2 is located is on Pakistan’s border with India and China, so it is a restricted zone and the visitor must have a certified guide which only a registered tour company can issue for the region.

K2 and most of the 8000m peaks lie in the Central Karakoram National Park, and the park is a restricted zone. Unlike trekking in other parts of the world, most trekkings in the Karakoram range of Pakistan require NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the government and a licensed tour guide from a registered local tour company. And the same goes for Pakistanis as well; they are also not allowed to enter the park without NOC and a Guide, so it is mandatory for both Foreigners and Pakistanis to hire a registered guide and obtain NOC prior to K2 Base Camp Trek.

How to hire a guide for k2 base camp trek?

The answer is very easy; the only thing you have to do is contact and book your k2 trek with a government-registered tour agency. They will provide you with everything required for the trekking including permits and a tour guide.

Chogori Adventure sorts out all your permits well in advance of the trip, makes arrangements, and provides a licensed guide for the trek.

K2 Base Camp Trek Distance and Daily Distance:

K2 base camp trek distance is 70 kilometers starting from Jhola camp, which involves daily trekking of 6-10 hours on average.

K2 trek Complete distance breakdown is below.

• Islamabad to Skardu 640 kilometers
• Skardu to Jhula 146 Kilometres
• Jhula to K2 Base camp 70 Kilometres.

Jhula to Paju

Daily Distance: 20.5 km,

Trekking Time: 7-8 hours.

AltitudeGain/Loss: 575m/ 334m

Max Altitude : 3,115m/ 3,405m

Paju camp to Khoburse camp

Trekking Distance: 14.7 km.

Trekking Time: 5-6 hours.

Elevation Gain/Loss: 641m/221m.

Max Elevation: 3,379m/3,909m.

Khoburse to Urdukas

Trekking distance: 6.2 km.

Trekking Time: 4-5 hours

Altitude Gain/Loss: 249m/39m.

Min/Max Altitude: 3,819m/4,130m

Urdukas to Goro II

Distance: 12.2 km.

Altitude Gain/Loss: 329m/89m.

Min/Max Altitude: 4,009m/4,279m

Goro to Concordia

Trekking distance: 11.8 km.

Trekking Time: 4-5 hours.

Altitude Gain/Loss: 289m/3m.

Min/Max E Altitude: 4,279m/4,570m.

Concordia to K2 Base Camp

Min/Max Altitude : 4,279m/4,570m.

How to train for k2 base camp trek?

As mentioned before trip to k2 base camp  is much harder  than Everest base camp trek, it is an expedition-style trek away from human settlements.  there will be no lodges on the trail towards k2 as well the trail also tougher on the glaciers as compared to EBC Trek. Trek to k2 base camp is a serious challenge and needs proper training and preparation. We want only hikers and trekkers to join the groups this trip is not for tourists. With forward planning and the right attitude to training, however, you stand the best possible chance of successfully and safely reaching the base of k2 mountain.

Training for K2 Base Camp hike should include improving cardio, endurance, strength, fitness, and being comfortable carrying a daypack uphill for long periods at a time. Hike, workouts, Hike with a backpack, and nutrition are some of the key elements in the preparation for k2 base camp trek.

Hike: The proven way to prepare for k2 base camp, go get out and hike on local trails. Start with minimal distance and gradually go for long-distance. A hilly or high-altitude location is ideal for training. Hike with lighter weights at the start and gradually increase it to 12-15Kgs. It will help in building endurance and strength.

As you have to carry your own backpack on k2 base camp trek so preparation with weight or backpack is highly recommended.

Workout: Do start gym workout, aerobic and lightweight training is highly recommended.

Nutrition: Nutrition cannot be ignored. A well-balanced diet is the key to maintain a good level of health.

Pacing: Increase the training intensity and duration for the first 2 to 3 months and tempered off a week before departure.

With ample preparation and training, trek k2 base camp could be done easily.

Why Book Now !

Why Book Now!

Early Booking can help you and us a lot in the whole k2 trekking process, we have to Do documentation, Bookings and arrange logistics and you will get everything done on time. Your token money will be spent on these arrangements.

1: Early Bird Discounts

Early Birds Discounts can be avail upon early bookings and these are Given for a shorter time period.  Booking Before December can avail 5% Discount for a single booking and for more than two people it is an 8% flat Discount.

2: Limited Space in Peak Months

One of the main reasons for early bookings is the influx of Tourists to North Pakistan in the Summer season. Lodges and hotels are overbooked and it become hard to find good accommodation in the City (Skardu). We reserved our Rooms in Skardu when we have a confirmed booking so early booking can help to get proper accommodation in Skardu.

As well a limited number of flights are operated for Skardu from Islamabad. So we need to reserve our seats ways earlier to avoid any delay in the schedule.

4: Pay Minimum deposit

Those who booked early have to pay low deposits as compere to late bookings.

5: On-time trekking permit issuance / No Delays

Red taping and procedure took a lot of time while Getting NOC and Permit. So we had plenty of time for these in case of early bookings.

We try to get the trekking permit and other necessary things done before time. So early booking for k2 trek can help both you and us to get through all these red tapings smoothly without any delay.

Deposit and Payment Details :

Deposit and Payments

Deposit and payment details are given below for k2 base camp

1: Deposit Schedule

The deposit schedule for the k2 trek is as follow in USD or Equivalent in your Local Currency.

A year Before departure         100 USD

6 Months before Departure   150 USD

5 Months Before Departure    170 USD

1-4 Months Before Departure    200USD

2: Deposits and Refund

Deposits are not Refundable but are useful for the very consecutive next there years from the date of payment.

3: Payments Process

Once your Deposits are received it is a confirmed departure and we will facilitate you for the visa process. And we will try to get the trekking permit and other necessary documentation required for the trek.

Your payments will be received when you are in Islamabad Upon your arrival for the k2 trek.

Fitness level for k2 Base Camp Trek

Fitness level for k2 Base Camp Trek:

Trek to the base of k2 mountain is an expedition-style trek away from human settlements. A fit body with a sturdy pair of lungs will definitely help you on the trail toward k2 base camp.  As trekkers have to walk 6-9 Hours with an elevation gain of around 300m daily.  Almost anyone can stand triumphant with a decent fitness regime, positive attitude, and determination on the k2 trek.

And what determines your fitness level for the k2 base camp trek?

• The past treks you have done
• The highest altitude you have ever gained
• Treks you have done in the Himalayas or Karakoram range.
• Trek with a backpack > (10Kg)
• Sports activities you are used to be doing.
• Are you comfortable in a mountain environment?

If you are used to doing workouts, have done long treks with a weight of more than 10kg, and determined you are the right candidate for the k2 Base camp trek.

And if you are still reluctant about the trek we have Specially designed a new category of K2 Trek for (YOU) Beginners and elders. In our 25 Days –  k2 Base Camp Trek for Beginners Package, you have to trek a small distance with a team of same fitness and more time for relaxation on the way to k2 base camp.

Hybrid k2 Trekking Packages

K2 base camp trekking holiday packages and cost.

Including the classic  K2 Base Camp Trek – 20 Days ,  we offer the following k2 base camp trekking holiday packages for individuals and groups all around the world.

We will operate these tours only in case of more than 3 participants

Solo Female Trekker on k2 Trekking

If you are a female solo trekker we will accommodate you in the departure and usually have other solo females so you can share the room and tent on twin sharing basis.

And if there are not any female trekker available for sharing the tent or room we will offer you separate tent/ room without any extra Charges.

K2 Base Camp Trek FAQS

What's the elevation / altitude of k2 base camp and k2, k2 base camp trek elevation/altitude.

K2 / Chogori is the second-highest mountain on earth is 8611m above sea level. K2 base camp is a dream destination for mountain lovers all across the world. K2 Base Camp elevation/height estimated as 5,117m  almost five thousand meters above sea level.

Trekkers gradually gain elevation while trekking to k2 Base Camp. It starts from 540 m from Islamabad the capital city of Pakistan, 2,228 m at Skardu the home town of Karakoram mountains, 3040 m at Askoli the last village while the k2 base camp trek and it gradually rises to 5,117m at the k2 base camp.

how hard Is the trek to K2 base camp?

K2 base camp trek difficulty:.

The trek to K2 Base Camp is lined with rugged mountains and rough terrain of glaciers. That includes steep up and down along the Baltoro Glacier till k2 Base camp even the possibility of snowfalls in August in Higher Campsites.

It does not require any climbing or technical skill for k2 base camp trek but it is a high-altitude expedition-style trek, so you must have enough stamina and physical fitness to do the trek.

How much K2 base camp trek cost for foreigners/international travelers?

The cost varies according to the style of trekking and the services provided. Our fixed departures are mostly confirmed and everything mentioned in the services included will be provided at a fixed cost of USD 2,150.

How much K2 base camp trek cost for Pakistani visiters?

K2 base camp trek cost for Pakistani nationals are starting from  350,000 PKR. Locals mostly undertake their k2 trekking from Skardu and will Conclude in Skardu

Is Pakistan Safe for Foreigners?

Pakistan is totally safe for tourists except in some places along the Afghanistan border, rest of the country is safe, beautiful, and hospitable to foreigners Particularly the northern mountainous region (Gilgit Baltistan) is the safest destination in Pakistan. The region has a very low crime rate even some district crime rate is zero.

K2 base camp trek participants will spend 16-17 days of their stay in Gilgit Baltistan. We recommend our clients to follow their respective travel advisories and do some research before the visit. You can find thousands of testimonials and influencers’ comments and experiences online these days.

Is k2 Base camp trek Safe?

K2 Base Camp Trek Safety

K2 trekking participants spend most of their time in Skardu valley, the place is one of the safest in Pakistan. Other safety concerns are natural disasters but fortunately, we have not seen any kind of hazards in the past. The trek to k2 base camp is totally safe.

There are seldom chances of floods, stone fall, etc. we recommend walking along with your guide, ask him for any kind of assistance you need. During the trek on Baltoro Glacier gives way to the horses or donkeys if they are intercepting the track. To avoid high altitude sickness, adhere to the basic principles of safety, be fit and healthy, do acclimatize, do not rush, and listen to your body.

So natural disasters are the only safety concern during the trek to k2 base camp and there is absolutely no risk of terrorism or any other risk factor.

What is the registration process?

Fill out the registration form on the website, after finding a suitable time slot (Fix Departure) for the trek pay your advance deposit and we will proceed with the visa process. Once your advance is deposited you are registered and your booking is confirmed.

What to carry for k2 trekking?

All necessary items mentioned in the k2 Base camp trek equipment (mentioned above) should be packed for the trek. Your most important item should be with you like cameras, cash, documents or any other thing or gadget. Our maximum baggage allowance is 13 kg for each trekker. During trekking days, you should carry your own water bottle, rain jacket, snacks, cookies, and camera.

How does the Trek operate?

After arrival at Islamabad our staff will pick you up and transfer you to the partner hotel and the next day they will drop you up at the airport. Our staff will be waiting at Skardu upon arrival our staff escort you to the hotel. Throughout the city transfers or jeep transfers, our staff will facilitate you at every step.

The trek to k2 base camp starts from Skardu after crossing Askoli village we will move along all staff and supplies there will be no lodges or hotels on the way so we have to carry everything we need throughout the trek.

Single Supplement (Tent/Room)

For Single Hotel Room you have to pay $ 120  extra amount and during the trek single tent accommodation will cost an extra  $ 250.

if you are looking for both we can accommodate you in 350 USD

How much to Tip?

There is no fixed tip amount for the trek. It is a rooted tradition here as well as a token of appreciation for the team. We recommend each participant budget 80-150 USD for the tips on the trek. Your guide will collect the tip and distribute it among the guide staff, kitchen staff, and porter or supplies staff at the end of the k2 trek in a ceremony.

How much cash should I carry?

Other than the k2 trekking charges and tips, you can plan your budget depending upon your extra expenses on souvenirs, gifts shopping, etc. we recommend carrying up to 400 USD or Equivalent in your currency. Tips and shopping are mostly taking place in Pakistani rupees in Pakistan.

So Upon arrival, you need to exchange your currency for Pakistani rupees you can find multiple exchangers in Islamabad and Skardu. you can also ask us for currency exchange we do the exchange at the same market rate. In Islamabad, you can use credit cards at multiple places for shopping but in Skardu, you need a debit card to shop or withdraw cash from a teller machine.

What is the Task and responsibilities of the Guide?

Our guide is the person who operates the whole trek in the mountains. He will coordinate with the team leader and proceed the trek to k2 base camp and back to Skardu. Trekkers are bound to ask him for any kind of assistance, complaint, or feedback.

Our guides are professionally trained, government licensed, English fluent, and have years of experience in the mountains with trekkers of diverse ethnicities. For the private trek, we will try to hire a guide who can speak the native language of the participants. I.e. if you are a group of Spanish / Chinese speakers we will hire a guide who can speak the following languages.

Our assistant guide, kitchen staff, and porters always move with you. You can ask them for any kind of help throughout the k2 base camp trek.

What will be the food menu during k2 Trek?

A variety of food items will be served during the trek including Pakistani and foreign foods.

• Breakfast: butter, jam, cereals, cornflakes, porridge, omelet, fried eggs, paratha/Chpati pancakes, tea, and coffee.

• Lunch: soup, biscuits, crackers, long-life cheese, Tuna, Sardine (canned meat/ fish), rice, noodles, and chocolate.

• Dinner: rice, dhal, vegetables, meat (mutton or chicken), biryani, pakoras, fried rice, pasta, soup, pasta, chowmen / noodles fruit, and dessert.

• * The first few days of trek fresh vegetables and fruits are served as long they are fresh and healthy. Vegetarian participants must inform us beforehand so can arrange a vegetarian food menu for her/him.

No drinks are served during the 14 days of the k2 base camp trek but you can bring your own.

Is Covid Vaccination mandatory for k2 base camp trek?

Covid Vaccination is mandatory for travelers to visit Pakistan. Visitors must bring their covid vaccination certificates. Every one 5 years or older must be vaccinated before visiting Pakistan for any purpose. Malaria vaccines are also recommended if you are willing to take them.

What is a private k2 tour and do you organize private treks to k2 base camp?

We Arrange private tours upon request for k2 base camp trek. In private trek, you have more a flexible itinerary and options to customize the tour according to your plan

The weather for the trek to k2 base camp?

The k2 trekking season starts from June to the end of October. In Islamabad it will be very hot in summer, the temperature can rise to 45 ℃. Skardu would have moderate weather from June to October. In the Karakoram mountains, the weather is unpredictable it may rain or snow any time of year.

In early June the whole trekking route is all covered with snow that gradually melts by mid-June, After 15 June the snow melts the trek becomes easy till November, but there are chances of snow anytime. From mid-June to the end of august the weather will be moderate with the extreme temperature of -10 ℃ at Concordia or K2 base camp at nights. Even on a sunny day of July night and morning temperature will be freezing on the glacier.

The Monsoon system does not have any huge impact on the Karakoram region but still, there are frequent chances of rainfall in the monsoon season. From mid-September to the end of October it will be colder with the lowest temperature below -10C / 15 ℃.

In sum, the weather is not accurately forecasted / Predictable in the Karakoram range so it is always a better plan to come up with proper preparations.

Where can I get clean drinking water?

During the first few days of trekking, we have access to clean spring water, even we boil the spring water for safety purposes. On the Glacier, we collect glacier water in containers and boiled it for trekkers they can fill their bottles with boiled water throughout the k2 base camp trek.

We also provide water Purification tabs and purifiers for cleaning purposes and trekkers can bring their own for the trek as well.

We recommend bringing two bottles for water storage, a purifier, and not using disposable plastic containers.

How do I go to the toilet during the trek to k2 base camp?

At lower altitudes, we have toilets till Urdukas camp. But on the glacier, there will be toilet tents at the majority of camps while there are camps where toilets may not be in proper conditions.

Can I take a shower along the k2 trail?

The first few days of  k2 base camp trek till Urdukas we have access to fresh running water, you can wash and shower till Urdukas camp.  Ahead of Urdukas camp, the weather conditions do not allow to take a shower until back to Urdukas or Saicho.

We would have portable showers throughout the trek, you can ask the guide for the shower or to warm water if you need to take a shower.

What will the accommodation be like?

A ccommodation in the early and ending days of K2 base camp trek at Islamabad and Skardu will be arranged in well-furnished up to the standard Hotels / Guest Houses with en-suite amenities on twin sharing basis for same-gender participants.

While for the trekking days in the Karakoram, spacious sleeping tents are provided on twin sharing basis for same-gender trekkers. We also arrange single supplement accommodation for trekkers upon request. A single female participant will be provided a single tent if there is no other female trekker in the team without any extra charges.   

What is the Best time for K2 Base Camp Trek?

The best time for k2 base camp trek starts from June to October with  July, August, and Mid September being the prime months.

Our Fixed Departures operate from June to October. We also organize treks upon request throughout the year.

What are the trekking Permit and NOC for K2 Base camp hike?

K2 base camp trek is being done in the Indo-Pak and Pak-China border the region is known as the Central Karakoram National Park and it is classified as a restricted region. Trekkers need a trekking permit and NOC from relevant authorities before going for K2 Base Camp.

What will be the terrain like on Baltoro Glacier?

Baltoro is a rugged and rough glacier with up and downs all along the track, the trek on Baltoro glacier is exhausting for the early few days.

The lower part of the Baltoro glacier is steeper and the moraine is very rough till Gogo I. The trek from  Goro I to k2 base camp the track become comparatively smooth and straightforward

what is the daily walking hours on the k2 trek?

There are no fixed walking hours during the trek to k2 base camp, some days are long and some days are short. A fit and healthy person has to walk around 5-8 hours daily on average. It may take more or lesser hours for trekkers with different fitness levels.

A typical Day of k2 base camp trek?

The first few days are consumed for city transfers. Once we are on the trek a typical day start at 6:00 am, our guide or supporting staff will wake you up for a morning tea, hot water is ready for washing and brushing. When the whole team is in the mess tent breakfast is served.

Every trekker is bound to pack up his belongings and empty their tents before leaving for breakfast.   Porters and staff have to dismantle and pack up the tent, luggage, and supplies ASAP Because they have to reach on lunch spot on time.

After breakfast trekker will set out for the trek till lunch point, after an average of 4-5 hours trek you will be at the lunch spot. It will take around an hour for the lunch.

After lunch the trek resume for the next 3-4 hours on average till the next destination. When you are at the next destination all the camps will be set up already or in progress. You will be served with a hot cup of tea with snacks/cookies, tents are set up already, you have enough time for rest and excursion. The diner is offered at sharp evening some participants want to chit chat after dinner while others prefer to go to the bed for rest. And the same schedule repeats for the next 14 days except for rest days.

what is the Maximum Baggage allowance?

The maximum allowance for k2 Base camp trek is 12kgs, for an additional kg you have to pay 10 $ Per Kg.

Are all fixed departures guaranteed?

Fixed departures are tentative tours for a given year or season.  Make sure the status of a certain fixed departure from our website. If it says “Available ” it means we are accepting participants for that Date.

If the status says ” Limited Seats ” it means we are a few registrations short of a packed departure.

And the status ‘Guaranteed’ means we are operating that departure and we have enough registrations for that departure.

Above given Dates are for  k2 Base Camp Trek 2024-25.

Can I go Solo to K2 Base camp?

Trekking to k2 base camp is not possible for solo travelers the trek required a licensed guide and permits.

what is the Maximum Group size?

The maximum group size for  k2 base camp is 14 members.

our k2 trek groups are mostly consist of 4-14 Participants

What if the flights got canceled?

Skardu is a mountainous town and the flight operation is always dependent on the weather conditions so it is normal to get cancel your flights for Skardu and from Skardu in bad weather.

In case of a flight cancellation from and to Skardu,  we do not have time to wait for a better weather window, the alternative option is to travel by road through the Karakoram highway.

Where can I Rent or purchase the apparel and equipments in Pakistan?

You can rent and purchase second-hand climbing gear and apparel in Skardu but there is no market in Islamabad for this. Our guides will facilitate you throughout the process.

It is recommended to bring apparel or equipments with you. It is hard to find good quality equipments in Pakistan. There is a resale market in Skardu for second-hand climbing and trekking items but they are not very reliable. And the shortage of gears or apparel is common in peak season.

Is there WiFi and electricity during the k2 Hike?

We will Carry electric generators for k2 trek groups of more than 5 participants for charging gadgets and lighting in the camp, but if the team members are less than 4 we will provide solar panels that will be enough for Charging electronic gadgets and lighting.

Wifi is contingent on the SCO (Special Communication Organization) booster at Concordia camp. If the signal works there our guide will provide wifi to the whole team if the booster is not working there is no option of internet and wifi.

Is Karakoram highway safe?

Karakoram Highway is a totally safe place for foreign tourist and provides the best road trip experience of northern mountians.

K2 Base Camp Trek Reviews

Write Review

Share It With

You may like, k2 and gasherbrum base camp trek.

:Gilgit Baltistan

Barah Broq Moses Peak Trek

Snow Lake Biafo Hispar La Trek

Nanga Parbat Base Camp Trek

Trekking Pakistan Himalayas

Karakoram K2 Trekking Pakistan

Contact details.

Hussaini Market Chogori Adventure,naya bazar, Skardu street #1 Office Chogori Adventure,Royal Avenue, Islamabad

Please fill all required fields marked with  * we will contact you for further information

Book Now - Pay Later

Submit review.

Download Dossier

• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
• Azad Kashmir
• Balochistan
• Travel Tips
• Dos and Don’ts
• Solo Female Travel
• Travel Safety Tips
• What To Wear
• Travel Guide
• Visa to Pakistan
• Visa from Pakistan
• Itineraries
• Emergency Resources
• Guide Books
• Trip Reports
• Food Reviews
• List of Tour & Travel Companies in Islamabad
• 55 Things to do in Lahore
• K2 Base Camp Trek - A Complete Guide
• 75 Things to do in New York City
• Submit Guest Post
• Request A Review
• Invite to your event
• Collaborate
• Store Inquiry

K2 Base Camp Trek – A Complete Guide

The K2 Base Camp Trek takes you to the base of K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, and is a demanding and rewarding trekking journey. The trek, which is in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, passes through arid terrain and stunning scenery, including the Baltoro Glacier. The trek demands a high level of physical preparedness and mental fortitude, but the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers, along with the chance to engage with the local way of life, make it an unforgettable experience for those who take it on.

On the way to the base of K2!

Table of Contents

1. Tentative Itinerary for K2 Base Camp Trek

2. approved companies for k2 base camp trek, 3. best time for k2 base camp trek, 4. k2 base camp height, 5. k2 base camp trek difficulty, 6. safety on k2 base camp trek, 7. k2 base camp trek without guide, 8. summary of k2 base camp trek, 9. photo album k2 base camp trek.

Trekkers at Ali Camp during K2 base camp trek

Below are the companies approved by the government of Pakistan for K2 base camp trek. 

Gilkey Memorial near K2 Base Camp

When is the best time for trekking to K2 Base Camp?

The summer months, from June to September, are the ideal time to complete the K2 Base Camp Trek. The weather is often dry and stable throughout this period, with clear sky and decent visibility. At lower elevations, daily temperatures often range between 59 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 20°C).

The Karakoram Range’s winters, in contrast, can be brutally cold, with significant snowfall, strong winds, and temperatures that can plunge well below freezing. The trail may be hazardous due to snow and ice, and visibility of the nearby peaks and glaciers may be compromised by the inclement weather.

Although the K2 Base Camp Trek is often thought to be best done in the summer, it’s vital to keep in mind that weather in the mountains can be erratic. You can encounter abrupt changes in the weather, such as severe rain, snow, or strong winds, even in the summer. To keep safe and comfortable, it’s imperative to be equipped with the right clothing and gear for all types of weather.

The ideal time to complete the K2 Base Camp Trek ultimately relies on your specific priorities and tastes. While some visitors might choose to avoid the crowds by travelling in the off-peak months, others might be prepared to put up with more extreme weather conditions in exchange for a new perspective on the mountains.

No matter when you decide to travel, it’s critical to thoroughly plan and get ready to ensure a safe and pleasurable vacation.

Walking the Vigne Glacier

K2 Base Camp is located at a height of about 5,150 metres (16,900 feet) above sea level. In Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, the base camp is situated at the base of K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. A difficult and rewarding journey, trekking to K2 Base Camp passes through some of the most stunning and untamed terrain in the Karakoram Range. Trekkers can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers as well as the mountain’s breathtaking beauty up close at the base camp. Being at K2 Base Camp requires careful acclimatisation in order to prevent altitude sickness due to the high altitude.

Trekkers at the Gondogoro La Pass (5,585m)

Is K2 Base Camp Trek a difficult adventure?

Certainly, The K2 Base Camp Trek is regarded as a demanding and arduous journey. The trail is difficult and rocky, with rocky ground and a high altitude. It takes good physical stamina, endurance, and mental fortitude to trek to K2 Base Camp.

The walk begins in Islamabad, Pakistan, and lasts for roughly 14–16 days. Trekkers must negotiate treacherous terrain during this period, including the Baltoro Glacier, one of the biggest glaciers in the world. With abrupt weather changes, the possibility of landslides, and the danger of rockfall, the trail can be unpredictable.

Altitude sickness can result from the huge elevation difference experienced while walking to K2 Base Camp. It’s crucial to properly acclimatise and take preventative measures to avoid altitude sickness, such as drinking lots of water, taking many rests, and adhering to a suitable plan that allows for steady climb.

The climb to K2 Base Camp is immensely rewarding despite its difficulties. For many trekkers, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience because of the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and valleys as well as the chance to learn about the local culture and hospitality of the Balti people.

Anyone with a healthy level of physical fitness and a sense of adventure may go on this trek and enjoy the magnificence of K2 and the Karakoram Range with the right planning and direction.

The trail towards Hushe Valley

Is K2 Base Camp Trek Safe?

When necessary precautions are taken, the K2 Base Camp Trek can be safe, but it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks and difficulties associated with trekking at high altitudes in an isolated mountain area.

Altitude sickness, which can develop when going to high altitudes too quickly without providing the time for acclimatisation, is one of the main concerns connected to the K2 Base Camp Trek. It is crucial to adhere to a correct schedule that allows for a slow ascent and incorporates rest days to aid in your body’s adaptation to the higher altitude. To reduce the danger of altitude sickness, it’s also critical to consume a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and abstain from alcohol and smoke.

With its steep inclines, rocky terrain, and risk for landslides and rockfall, the trail can also be difficult. Trekkers should always heed the advice of their knowledgeable local guides and be physically and mentally prepared for the challenges of the journey.

Research the current situation and heed the counsel of your travel agency or local guides because the area where the K2 Base Camp Trek is located has a history of political upheaval and security difficulties. Trekking with a reputable and knowledgeable tour operator and making sure that the necessary safety precautions are taken can help to reduce the risks involved with the trek.

Ultimately, the K2 Base Camp Trek can be a safe and pleasant journey for those who take the required measures and follow the advice of knowledgeable local guides, even if it involves careful planning and preparation and there are some potential risks to consider.

Trekkers wait for their friends in the Gondogoro Valley

The K2 Base Camp Trek should not be attempted without a guide. The terrain is difficult, and trekking in a remote alpine area without a guide can be risky and even fatal.

Professional local guides are well-versed in the terrain, climate, and potential dangers of the hike. They can also offer helpful guidance on acclimatisation, avoiding altitude sickness, and administering first aid in an emergency. They can also provide insights into the history and culture of the area, adding to the trek’s educational value.

Without a guide, navigating the trail can be challenging and even dangerous, especially for individuals who are inexperienced with high-altitude trekking. With abrupt weather changes, the possibility of landslides, and the danger of rockfall, the trail can be unpredictable. Trekkers’ safety can be helped by knowledgeable local guides by taking the required precautions and offering the right safety measures.

Moreover, going with a reputable and knowledgeable tour operator that offers a local guide may help ensure that all required licences are secured as well as that all logistical preparations, such as lodging and transportation, are made.

In conclusion, it is not advised to attempt the K2 Base Camp Trek alone because to the potential risks and difficulties associated with high-altitude walking in an isolated mountain area. To have a secure and enjoyable trekking experience, it is imperative to trek with an expert local guide or with a reputable tour operator that provides a guide.

Trekkers descending the Gondogoro La Pass with the help of guides and rope fixing team.

The second-highest mountain in the world, K2, is a once-in-a-lifetime trek to its base camp. The K2 Base Camp Trek leads hikers through the stunning and untamed terrain of the Karakoram Range to the base of the impressive mountain. It is a difficult trek that needs a lot of preparation—both physically and mentally—but it is also incredibly rewarding. This essay will go into great detail about the K2 Base Camp Trek and examine what makes it such an amazing experience.

The 13–15 day K2 Base Camp Trek departs from Skardu, Pakistan. The trek passes through the lovely Skardu Valley, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the mountains in the area. You will then proceed to the tiny village of Askole, where the actual hiking will start. One of the world’s largest glaciers, the Baltoro Glacier, is traversed during the trek, which follows the Braldu River. The trail is difficult, so hikers must be in good physical shape to complete it. But it’s all worth it when you see the breathtaking peaks and glaciers in the area.

The K2 Base Camp Trek offers the chance to discover local culture and connect with the locals in addition to trekking. The Balti people, who have a distinctive culture and way of life, are one of the many ethnic groups who call this region home. During the trip, you will have the opportunity to stop in tiny villages and observe local life. You will be cordially welcomed into the houses of the Balti people because they are renowned for their warmth. You will have the opportunity to sample local food and discover their traditions and customs.

Reaching Concordia, a high-altitude plateau that affords breathtaking vistas of some of the highest peaks in the world, is one of the highlights of the K2 Base Camp Trek. Four of the fourteen eight-thousander mountains in the world converge in Concordia: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II. You will never forget the amazing experience of viewing the city from Concordia. The trail from Concordia leads to K2 Base Camp, where you may get a close-up view of the magnificent peak. It’s a fantastic feeling to be so near to one of the tallest peaks in the world when standing at the base camp, which is located at an elevation of 5,150 metres.

Good weather at Concordia, the throne room of Mountain Gods.

In summary, the K2 Base Camp Trek is a demanding but worthwhile adventure that passes through some of the most stunning and untamed landscapes on earth. The views of some of the highest peaks in the world are breathtaking, and it provides an opportunity to learn about the local culture and engage with the populace. Although the walk calls for extensive physical and mental preparation, it is an experience you won’t soon forget. The K2 Base Camp Trek is definitely something to think about if you enjoy hiking and want to challenge yourself.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Subscribe to receive Free Event Invitations & Coupons!

• StumbleUpon

Pin It on Pinterest

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Asia » Pakistan » K2 Base Camp Trek Guide

K2 Base Camp Trek Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Nestled deep in the Karakoram range of Northern Pakistan lies a mountain or should I say a series of  legendary  mountains steeped in mystery, cloud, and ice. Towering above them all is the 2nd biggest mountain on earth:  K2 .

For experienced adventurers looking to escape the crowds found in Nepal and around Everest, tackling the K2 Base Camp trek is a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience a kind of magic, beauty, and local culture not found anywhere else on our planet.

The K2 Base Camp trek is a MUST for anybody serious about taking on one of the least frequented long-distance hikes in the world. Why? Because, well, it is a whole hell of a lot of fun and the atmosphere is second to none.

Below, I answer the most important questions surrounding what it is actually like to trek to K2, what to pack for two weeks in the Karakoram, K2 Base Camp trek cost, on the ground logistics, how to choose the right tour company, required permits, traveling in Pakistan, and much more.

Time to lace up your alpine boots amigos. Let’s get to know what it takes to get to the base of the  Savage Mountain .

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

The Ultimate Guide to the K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 base camp trek cost, what to pack for the k2 base camp trek, top tips for the k2 base camp trek.

• Buy Us a Coffee!

What the Hell is the K2 Base Camp Trek Exactly?

As the name suggests, this hike is a trek to the base of the K2 mountain (Balti name: Chogori) . That’s the obvious bit though. Unlike the trek to Everest Base Camp, arriving at the K2 base is not the end-all highlight of the trip. Far from it. In reality, the trek is MUCH more than that. Here is the general breakdown :

Pretty much without exception, all groups set off by jeep from the dusty Balti bazaar town of Skardu. Jeeps are needed to reach a far-flung outpost on the edge of civilization at Askole. After leaving the small farming village of Askole, the trail enters Central Karakoram National Park, where trekkers will spend the next few days making their way to the Baltoro Glacier.

From the Baltoro, the real fun begins. A majority of the trek is spent walking on the mighty Baltoro Glacier (about 65 KM) until it comes to the confluence with the Godwin-Austen Glacier. This majestic place is called Concordia, aka the “ Throne Room of the Gods “.

Concordia is home to one of the best campsites I have ever been to, with 360-degree views of almost every major peak in the area including Gasherbrum 4, Broad Peak, Marble Peak, Mitre Peak, and of course the impressive, swirling cloud-capped K2 in all her glory.

Return Route Options for the K2 Trek

From Concordia, one has two options to finish the trek.

Option 1 : Hike back how you came, down the Baltoro Glacier to Askole (which takes 4-6 days). Option 2 : The much more exciting and interesting option is to head up the valley to Ali Camp (4800 m), where you will prepare to cross the Gondogoro La (5600 m), hiking through the night to do so. Gondogoro La is a high-altitude mountain pass that proved to be the highlight of the trip for me. From the top (if the weather is clear) the views are second to none.

After descending the La (on a fixed rope, clipped in with a harness), the trek follows the green valley below for several days before arriving at the beautiful Balti village of Hushe. Groups make their way back to Skardu from here using 4×4 jeeps.

How to Plan the K2 Base Camp Trek

Before you get your boots on the ground in Pakistan, a significant amount of forethought and planning needs to be undertaken. Unlike trekking in Nepal or Patagonia, you cannot just show up and do the K2 trek on your own.

All foreigners must have a licensed guide with them. You will not be allowed to enter the Central Karakoram National Park (where K2 and the other 8,000 meter peaks in the area are located) without a guide.

The K2 Base Camp trek is an expedition-style trek , which means everything you will need for the two weeks you are away from civilization must be carried with you and your team of porters. Once you leave the end-of-the-line village of Askole on day one of the trek, there are no permanent human settlements (apart from a ragtag army base near Concordia).

In addition to needing a licensed guide, you will also need to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This permit allows you to travel into the National Park, which lies in a restricted military area, as the park borders China to the north and India to the east. Then there is the Pakistani visa to apply for, which actually needs to happen before the NOC is issued. Ready to give up yet? Don’t stress!

All of this sounds complicated, but in reality, it is a fairly straightforward process. At least the process should be straightforward if you choose a solid tour operator to go with. Which brings us to my next point…

How to Choose a K2 Base Camp Trek Tour Operator

A quick Google search will reveal a plethora of Pakistan tour companies offering to fulfill your dreams of completing the K2 Base Camp trek. Like most things in life, not all tour companies are created equal.

The whole quality spectrum is on offer. Budget backpackers might be tempted to go for the cheapest possible option, which in the end, may work out for them just fine. Still, though, it does pay to consider your options and to look carefully at what each tour operator offers.

I found that there are three tiers of quality when it comes to this trek: budget operators, mid-level operators, and luxury operators. So what are the real differences? I went on a quest to find out…

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Budget Operators : Barebones outfits, who often come with quality English-speaking guides and staff, but lack the funding to have many of the comforts found in the other tiers of quality, including a decent food budget.

Many budget tour companies disguise themselves as mid-level operators, and, oh, they will try to charge you just as much as a mid-level company that will offer much better quality at the end of the day.

If you don’t want to starve whilst en route to Concordia and K2 do NOT choose a cheap tour operator unless your budget absolutely demands it. I totally get wanting to do the trip on the super cheap. If you don’t mind eating a little less and having fewer comforts, then a budget operator may be who you want to go with.

Since the K2 Base Camp Trek cost is never going to be dirt cheap, it is worth splashing out the few hundred bucks extra to go with a quality operator. I can promise you that.

Budget Price Range : $1500 – $2300

Mid-Level Operators : Mid-level operators are most likely to cater to the largest demographic of the trekking community. One can expect reasonable comforts such as chairs, tables, nice tents, a generator to charge electronics, a plentiful food budget, excellent pre-tour communication, visa support, and a western trekking guide to accompany the local Balti mountain guides.

Mid-Level Price Range : $2500- 3500

Luxury Operators : People who want to be as comfortable as possible whilst trekking across multiple glaciers for two weeks usually go the luxury route. Luxury operators are always foreign companies who understand very well how to run and execute a very comfortable and well-planned trek.

For a high price, you can expect several western guides and several Balti guides, a very well stocked mess tent (maybe even with espresso), excellent/plentiful meals, high-end camp chairs, table cloths, air mattresses, white linens (not really)…and maybe a golden toilet?

Luxury operators typically cater to an older crowd who can afford to be more comfortable and are prepared to pay for it. Ian Taylor trekking has the reputation of being a solid high-end operator.

Luxury Price Range : $3500 – $7000+

As always, when planning a major trip into the mountains, having the right gear is one of the bests ways to prepare yourself for a happy and successful trekking experience. Showing up unprepared is pretty much a one-way ticket to the ultimate suffer-fest .

Please, don’t be “that person” who shows up with a summer sleeping bag, no down jacket, and city trainers. You will suffer the consequences, and you will possibly put yourself and your group at risk by being underprepared. Below, I have assembled a list of everything I had with me on the K2 Base Camp trek, as well as a list of stuff that I wish I had brought!

Keep in mind that almost every tour company without fail provides each guest with a 12-kilo porter budget. This means that you should not have the carry the bulk of your stuff as you move between camps. This porter service allowance is also a game-changer regarding what you can bring. This what to pack section is massive, so settle in.

Essential Gear Kit for the K2 Trek

Expedition Duffle Bag : These bags are great for keeping the majority of your “camp” stuff organized. Expedition bags are typically very tough, weather-resistant, and are very easy for the porters to strap onto the mules.

You probably do not need more than an 8o liter bag, but if you have a bulky sleeping bag or other large items, getting a few extra liters is not a bad idea. This bag is where the majority of your stuff will be, sleeping bag, clothing, alpine boots, crampons, helmet, harness, excess snacks, etc. Be sure to not overpack your duffle (it’s easy to do) as you will have to pay more for porter services if the bag weighs more than 12 kilos.

Recommendation : Northface Expedition Duffle

Trekking Backpack : Since you will be packing the majority of stuff into your expedition duffle, you do not need to bring a massive backpack. This is the pack that you will hike with daily. I recommend going with a 35 – 45-liter backpack.

You will use this backpack to carry your daily essentials like water, rain gear, clothing layers, snacks, your camera, suncream, and passport. You must have experience using this backpack. Make sure it fits properly, and it is comfortable to wear for long periods.

Recommendation : Gregory Paragon 48

Check out our best hiking backpacks review .

Trekking Boots : Perhaps the single most important piece of kit you pack is your hiking boots. If you are going to splurge on something, splurge on quality hiking boots. For most of the K2 trek, you do not need a serious mountain boot. That said, you want a hiking boot that can take a beating from all of the rocks found on the Baltoro Glacier, stay dry when splashed with water, and crucially, do not give you any soon-to-be festering blisters.

As always, BREAK YOUR BOOTS IN BEFORE COMING TO PAKISTAN.

Without fail someone always turns up to tackle the K2 trek with a shiny new pair of hiking boots. After one day of trekking (also without fail), they have blisters the size of small grapes swelling up on their feet. Break in your boots and save yourself from a world of pain.

Recommendation : Lowa Renegade GTX

Check out my review of the best hiking boots .

Alpine Boots : Having a good pair of alpine boots with you will only be a benefit when the going gets tough (and the trail is covered in snow). In all likelihood, there are only a few places where you will really need them: Concordia to K2, Concordia to Ali Camp, Ali Camp – Gondogoro La.

It is also possible to hike in alpine boots (summer mountain boots) for the entire duration of the trek. A summer alpine boot is not an unreasonable choice.

That said, alpine boots will be hotter and heavier on your feet than standard trekking boots, especially down at the lower elevations. Also, if you have crampons, you will need a proper boot to receive them.

Recommendation : La Sportiva Trango Tower

Sleeping Bag : A sleeping bag is another piece of gear that you DO NOT want to skimp on. Temperatures can plummet well below freezing at any time of the year, especially around Concordia, Goro 2, and Ali Camp. If you bring a summer rated sleeping bag, you will be putting yourself in a potentially life-threatening situation. Plus, nobody wants to be cold for days on end. Invest in a good sleeping bag and guarantee yourself many nights of solid (and warm) sleep.

Recommendation : Marmot Lithium 0

Sleeping Pad : Most tour operators provide you with a sleeping pad. Unless you are going with a luxury tour operator, the pads they provide are these super-thin foam mats that do not offer much in the way of comfort. They do make for a good barrier to the cold ground (you are sleeping on a glacier for most of the trek), but in terms of comfort, I’ll just say that you feel the rocks beneath you.

If you already have a quality sleeping pad, better to bring it as it will most definitely be more comfortable than the ones provided to you.

Recommendation : Theram-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm

Gaiters : I almost always hike with gaiters now, as they help to keep stones, mud, and water out of my hiking boots. For a majority of the trek, you do not need gaiters. Up at the higher elevations though, I found them to be very handy and practical.

If you wear them at a lower altitude, you will find them to be too hot. For the snowy sections of trail around Concordia, Ali Camp, and Gondogoro La, having gaiters was a godsend.

Recommendation : Black Diamond GTX Front Point

Crampons : Crampons are not mandatory for the K2 trek. In my opinion, though, it is much better to have them than to not, especially if you are going to attempt Gondogoro La in August you will almost 100% not need them as there is no ice present.

For expeditions starting in June or early July though, not packing crampons would be a mistake.

Recommendation : Petzl Sarken Leverlock Universal

Microspikes: Also a very legitimate option for gaining purchase on the ice (plus they are cheaper than crampons). If you have never worn crampons in your life before, I recommend that you bring Microspikes instead of full-on crampons.

Recommendation: Kahtoola Micro Spikes

Helmet: When crossing the Gondogoro La, there is a high danger of rockfall. This is truer if you are crossing later in the day and the warm sun is melting ice high above on the mountain. You only need the helmet for the few hours you are descending the La, but it could certainly save your life if you are unlucky enough to be struck by a large stone.

I have heard of people getting killed by rockfall on the Gondogoro, so bringing a helmet is a no brainer.

Recommendation : Black Diamond Half Dome

Harness with Locking Carabiner : The final piece of kit needed for the Gondogoro La crossing is a climbing harness. Without it, you cannot securely clip into the fixed rope. You will also need a sling with a locking carabiner attached.

This will serve as your lifeline in case you slip and fall on the descent.

Recommendation : Petzl Corax

Trekking Poles : I am a firm believer in the importance of using trekking poles. Given the uneven terrain found on the glaciers, having a solid set of trekking poles is key to taking the weight off of your knees, maintaining balance, and preventing falls. If you are new to using trekking poles, now is the time to learn.

Recommendation : Black Diamond Alpine FLZ

Check out our full Black Diamond Alpine FLZ review .

Headlamp : A staple on any trek. Handy for evenings at camp and needed for ascending Gondogoro La in the dark.

Recommendation : Petzl Actik

Check out this article on the best headlamps for trekking.

Water Filter Bottle : Water sources found along the trail are sketchy and can be polluted by a variety of heavy minerals, animal manure, and even human waste (the sad truth). All hail the mighty Grayl Geopress. The Grayl Geopress is the ultimate badass water filter bottle.

It is actually a purifier, which means that it removes bacteria, heavy metals, viruses, and countless other invisible devils hell-bent on ruining your hike. Perhaps along with my favorite hiking boots, having my Grayl Geopress was probably the single most important piece of gear I brought with me. While others were spending their days dashing behind rocks to relieve their terribly upset bowels, I had clean drinking water every single day.

Recommendation : Grayl Geopress

Check out my full Grayl Geopress review .

Dry Bags : Be 100% sure that your most important items stay dry when they arrive at camp. I typically keep all of my clothing, sleeping bag, and important electronics and documents in dry bags. Plus, you can stuff a dry bag with your down jacket and other fluffy clothing to make a damn good improvised pillow.

Recommendation : Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag

Power Bank : Most tour operators will have a small generator with them for most of the trek. However, it is much more convenient to be able to charge your stuff inside your tent. Also, the guides only run the generator at night for a few hours (to provide lighting), so your time to charge stuff is quite limited.

When your power bank runs low, you can charge it or your other electronics on the generator. Ah, the luxuries of modern times.

Recommendation : Rav Power 26800

Camera : For capturing the raw awesomeness of the Karakoram of course. Recommendation: Fujifilm X-T3 .

First Aid Kit : Again, your guide should have a proper mountain first aid kit, but they will not have everything . Bandaids (plasters), wet wipes, hand sanitizer, lip balm, suncream, antibiotic cream, and electrolyte tabs are all crucial personal supplies to have in the mountains. Bring moleskin for blisters, antibiotics for stomach issues, and Diamox for altitude sickness (optional).

Recommendation : Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight

Essential Clothing for the K2 Base Camp Trek

Now that we have covered essential gear, let’s take a look at the clothing systems required for this trek.

Down Jacket : Like hiking boots, a sleeping bag, and a water filter bottle, having a good down jacket is 100% crucial for the K2 Base Camp trek. Down jackets provide excellent insulation for those chilly nights at camp and early morning starts on the trail. This insulation provides you with the ability to lock in your body heat, even when temperatures fall to freezing or below.

Recommendation : Patagonia Down Sweater Hoodie

Check out my full review of the best down jackets .

Hard Shell/Rain Jacket : When the going gets wet, windy, snowy or all three, you need a way to lock in your warmth and keep yourself dry. A rain shell is the key to a successful layering system as they function as a sort of warmth seal in addition to acting as a barrier to the elements.

Cheap rain jackets just do not cut it in the Karakoram. They leak, get clammy inside, and will result in your down jacket and other layers below getting wet. You don’t want that. Stay dry amigos.

Recommendation : Arc’teryx  Beta AR .

Check out my full Arc’teryx  Beta AR review .

Fleece : The fleece layer is likely to be your most commonly used torso layer. When it is not quite cold enough to throw on the down jacket, the fleece acts as a comfy around the camp layer. You can also hike in the fleece without getting totally overheated.

Recommendation : Patagonia Better Sweater

Base Layer Top : I don’t think I took my base layer off for the entire two weeks I was hiking to K2 Base Camp. In addition to providing warmth, the base layer gives you much-needed protection from the searing Karakoram sun. Even if the weather is quite warm, I still recommend wearing your base layer top to help prevent sunburn (or sunstroke).

Recommendation : Merino Icebreaker 200 Oasis

Base Layer Bottoms : If you are a cold sleeper, base layer bottoms will be good for you. For particular frigid nights hanging out at camp, having the ability to chuck on another layer for your legs is nice. I found that I rarely hiked with base layer bottoms on, as they get too hot too quickly. The one exception might be the Gondogoro La crossing depending on weather conditions.

Recommendation: REI Lightweight Base Layer Bottoms

Sun Hat and Warm Hat/Beanie : Hats are a personal preference. A baseball-style trucker hat or safari broad bill that will work. Whichever style you prefer, DO bring a hat. The skin on your face will thank you. Also, bring a warm hat/beanie for the cold temperatures

Recommendation:  Patagonia Fitz Roy Trucker

Sunglasses: You don’t know the sun’s true force until you’re walking along a bright white glacier for days. This is why a SOLID pair of sunglasses is essential for the K2 base camp trek. And I don’t mean a cheap pick you found at the Skardu bazaar, but a high-quality, non-destructible pair. Always have a backup or two–especially if you’re eyes are at all sensitive to light.

Recommendation : Abaco Polarized

Buff : This tiny piece of fabric may not seem useful or necessary, but once you have integrated a Buff into your gear kit, there is no going back. They have so many practical applications from serving as a dust mask to keeping the sun off of your neck. Plus, you could use it as a mask to rob a bank. Just kidding, but seriously, you could.

Recommendation : Buff Lightweight Merino

Gloves : Very important for keeping your hands warm whilst trekking at altitude. Also, gloves are mandatory for gripping the rope as the group descends Gondogoro La. Make sure the gloves are not bulky and that you are able to have some decent dexterity. Waterproof gloves are best.

Recommendation : Sealskinz Multisport Insulated Gloves

Trekking Shirts (3-4) : Go with something synthetic. Avoid cotton. I recommend bringing two shirts, but you may well want more. Don’t spend a fortune on fancy trekking shirts.

Recommendation : REI On the Trail Run

Lightweight Trekking Pants (1-2) : Trekking pants are probably the item you need to worry about the least. You can find an acceptable pair of trekking pants for under $50. You don’t need anything fancy. I took two pairs with me. One lightweight pair for most trekking days, and a thicker, warmer pair for the higher altitudes.

Recommendation : REI Sahara Roll-Up

Warm/Multisport Trekking Pants – Lightweight trekking pants won’t keep your legs warm in freezing temperatures or wind the wind rips across the valley floor. You don’t need down pants, but choose something with a bit of insulation.

Recommendation : Arc’teryx Gamma AR softshell pants

Socks (6-7 pairs) : Trekking socks can be expensive, but they are worth the investment! Avoid cotton socks at all costs! A nice pair of trekking socks will mean the difference between making yourself susceptible to blisters or not. Plus, they dry quickly and don’t get nearly as rank as fast as cotton socks do. By the end of the trek, they will be rank though, be sure. 5-6 pairs are sufficient.

Recommendation : Darn Tough Hiker Boot

Underwear (4-6 pairs) : Your call. I like to wear cotton myself as they breath better than synthetic. The drawback is that they stay sweatier for longer. 4-5 pairs are all you need.

Recommendation : Smartwool Merino Sport 150

Non-Essential, but Awesome Items to Pack for the K2 Base Camp Trek

Satellite Messenger Device : Having two-way texting capabilities from anywhere in the world is badass. Stay in touch with your family, friends, partner, or whoever else you want from the comfort of your tent. You can also send tracking information, get altitude readings, and send your exact GPS location to your loved one.

Most devices also have SOS emergency response settings, in case of hard times. Keep in mind that your guide should have a satellite phone with them for emergencies.

Satellite messenger devices also require a monthly paid subscription. They are well worth it in my opinion as I used mine nearly every day en route to K2. Our Garmin-In-Reach Mini review will tell you more about it.

Recommendation : Garmin In-Reach Mini

A Good Book : This is almost an essential item! There is a lot of downtime on the K2 Base Camp Trek. Bring along your Kindle or a good book so that you can have something to do during rest days and evening time.

Recommendation : Buried in the Sky: Extraordinary Story of the Sherpa Climbers on K2’s Deadliest Day

Staying Safe on the K2 Base Camp Trek

Trekking in mountain environments is inherently dangerous. Certain factors like weather, rockfall, acts of God, etc. are beyond your control. The best thing to do though is to properly prepare for factors within your control.

Take your time when walking on sketchy stretches of the glacier. You do NOT want to roll your ankle out here. Purify your water! The water sources along the way are not guaranteed to be clean. Pack the right gear and keep yourself hydrated and warm. Be observant of your surroundings and do not take unnecessary risks.

Make sure that the company you go with has an emergency plan in place. Confirm the group has a satellite phone, radio, and other communication devices. Take solid travel insurance that will actually help you in a worst-case scenario situation. Which brings us to my next point…

You also need to bear in mind that the K2 base camp is well in the Altitude Sickness Zone. Altitude sickness is caused by thinner, less oxygenated air effecting blood circulation. It begins to kick in at around 2500 metres and symptoms include shortage of breath, dizziness, confusion, troubled sleep and in some cases death. To avoid AML, you must steadily acclimatise to altitude so plan your ascent itinerary accordingly. You can also take tablets that help your body adjust.

How to Choose Travel Insurance for the K2 Base Camp Trek

If you are going on a multi-week backpacking trip in the Karakoram of Pakistan, you are going to NEED travel insurance. I suggest that you go with a plan that will cover you for damage to your personal effects and offers compensation for emergency helicopter rescues (just in case). Read the fine print and confirm that you are covered for adventure sports like trekking at altitude.

Some companies won’t cover you if an accident occurs over a certain altitude. Since the maximum altitude gained on the K2 trek is around 5,600 m, you’ll need to be covered up to that elevation.

As a wise man once said, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you shouldn’t be traveling. Traveling without insurance is risky and you should consider getting insurance before you go. We use World Nomads who specialise in covering digital nomads and backpackers.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

How to Apply for a Pakistani Visa and NOC

Pakistani Tourist Visa : Luckily, it has never been easier to apply for a Pakistani Tourist Visa thanks to the new Evisa program launched by the Pakistani Government early on in 2019.

Before, travelers had to submit their passport and documents directly to the Pakistani consulate in their home country. The wait times were long; the process complicated, and for certain nationalities, it was pretty expensive. With the Evisa program, from the time you submit your documents to the time you have a visa approval notice is about 5 – 10 days. Awesome!

Foreigners still have to obtain a Letter of Invitation to apply for a visa. Every licensed tour operator offering the K2 Base Camp trek can issue the LOI and other supporting documents you need to apply for your visa. Once you have had your visa approved, it’s time to apply for your NOC.

Update June 2021: The Pakistani Government has just introduced a new visa scheme for trekking and mountaineering in the Karakoram. Under the new scheme – all parties planning on going to K2 BC or entering central Karakoram National Park can now apply for the Trekking and Mountaineering Visa instead of the regular tourist visa. Your tour operator can help you with all of the information you need to apply. This will make things easier when it comes to getting all of the final permitting done just before the trek since the visa is specifically for trekking and mountaineering activities. 

If you’re JUST planning on coming to Pakistan to trek or summit a mountain, this is the best option. However, if you want to trek to K2 and also explore other parts of Pakistan independently, you can also get your permits arranged with a tour company while traveling on a tourist visa. This was specifically seen and confirmed in early July 2021.

The No Objection Certificate (NOC) : I’ll start by saying that for travelers, obtaining the NOC is NOT your responsibility to apply for. Your tour operator should sort this out for you. The NOC is a necessary permit that allows you to enter the restricted area within the Central Karakoram National Park. Without one, you cannot start the K2 Base Camp Trek.

Obtaining the NOC can take anywhere between 3 weeks and 2 months to complete, as there is only one office in Islamabad that processes these permits. Once you have your visa in hand, all you need to do is send a copy of your passport and visa approval notice to your tour operator and they will start the process of applying for the NOC. You should start this process as soon as your visa is approved.

When to Start the K2 Base Camp Trek

The season in the Karakoram is short and to maximize your chance for clear views and a successful Gondogoro La crossing, you’ll need to be strategic about when you start the trip.

July is typically the best month to do this trek. The weather is stable, skies are more likely to be clear, and there is less snow at the higher elevations.

Also, there is little to no ice on the Gondogoro La descent, which removes the need to use crampons. The earliest you would want to attempt the trek would be towards the end of June. Any earlier than that and you risk ending up with poor weather/snowfall, limited views, and lots of snowpack above 4500 meters.

August is also a fine month to start the trek, though August is typically when most groups are on the trail.

Keep in mind that the first days of the trek in July and August are hot, dusty, and exposed to the fierce Karakoram sun. Out here though the fierce sun is much more ideal than a thick blanket of cloud obscuring all of the best views and big peaks.

What is Accommodation Like on the K2 Base Camp Trek?

During the trek to K2 and back trekking groups stop off at a series of seasonal camps, set apart at intervals with reasonable elevation gains. All accommodation along the K2 Base Camp Trek is in tents, which the porters carry, set up, and break down daily.

Depending on the time of year, a group will have to share the campsite with two or three other groups. This means that including guests, guides, porters, cooks, and pack animals a campsite could host more than 150 people at any one time. This can come to a bit of a shock to those seeking a true wilderness experience, but it is the reality.

Camps take on a sort of festival atmosphere. People mingle about, sipping steaming cups of chai. Sometimes the porter teams join forces for a rowdy night of singing and dancing. If you don’t mind being around people in the middle of a remote mountain range, then you will love the camaraderie.

At the lower elevations, these fixed camps have individual toilet “cubicles”, and always have a source of running water (though this water is not always safe to drink). At the higher camps, the cooking teams forage for the clearest glacier water they can find, sometimes with mixed results.

Where Do Groups Start the K2 Base Camp Trek From?

Folks flying in from overseas should arrive into the Islamabad Airport. From there you will join your group and either fly to Skardu or make the journey overland by road. Budget Operators opt to drive as it is considerably cheaper—yet another reason to avoid budget operators.

By road, it takes a hellish 30 hours to reach Skardu as the road (from the KKH to Skardu) is appalling. The flight from Islamabad takes 45 minutes and offers up killer views of Nanga Parbat and other major peaks in the area.

Skardu is the largest city in Baltistan. There is not a whole lot to see and do in Skardu before you start the trip, but a visit to the Kharpocho Fort and Buddha rock are well worth it. Skardu is the place where your guides and cooks will organize themselves before the trek. It is from here that they buy the food, organize the porters and jeeps, finalize the NOC permits, and purchase any last-minute good needed for the trek.

A walk through the chaotic Skardu bazaar provides a welcome introduction to mountain life in Pakistan. There are a few gear shops in town too if you need to pick up something you forgot. The gear shops are located on the main road of the main bazaar, pretty close to the large, colorful Jamia Imamia Mosque . Don’t expect a western selection of gear though. These gear shops are about as big as my bedroom.

Still, though, you can find things like trekking clothes, helmets, crampons, climbing equipment, trekking poles, and the like.

From Skardu, groups take 4×4 jeeps to Askole to start the trek. Skardu to Askole by jeep takes between 7-9 hours with a lunch stop. Bring a dust mask/scarf/buff/bandana for the ride.

Below is a list of helpful tips to maximize your chance for an awesome few weeks in the mountains…

1. Go with a good tour operator : The most crucial decision you will make regarding the K2 trek revolves around which company you go with.

2. Arrive with a good state of fitness: The more fit you are, the more you will enjoy your time in the mountains. Period.

3. Bring a Grayl Geopress – These bottles are amazing. Nothing is worse than trying to trek with an upset belly obtained from drinking dirty water.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

4. Use suncream and sun protection : Spend money on quality sunscreen, a good hat, and a nice top base layer. The sun is super intense, shade is non-existent, and you’ll need every bit of protection you can get. Bring a few tubes of lip balm also!

5. Wash your hands often : Sanitary norms sharply degrade in the mountains. Do your best to wash your hands regularly and/or use hand sanitizer after using the toilet and before eating.

6. Break-in your boots : Do not turn up with brand new boots. I am repeating myself here because it bears repeating.

7. Buy a good sleeping bag : There are certain pieces of gear that you simply can not be a cheap ass about. A sleeping bag is one of those things. Go for a 0 degree F bag.

8. Get to know the porters and guides : Part of the experience of the K2 trek is getting exposure to Balti culture. Take the time to chat with your team of hard-working porters, cooks, and guides. They always have amazing insights into what life is like in Baltistan and on the Baltoro Glacier.

9. Bring snacks : The availability of quality snack food in Skardu is very limited. Bring your favorite assortment of snacks from home and chow down during trail breaks. Nuts, jerky, energy gels, Cliff bars, dark chocolate, superfood powder, bliss balls… these are all solid snack foods.

10. Be Patient : Things do not always go as planned in Pakistan and sometimes delays can occur. This is true whether you are on the trail, road, or in the city. Bring a positive attitude and your patience A-game, and try not to take yourself or the situation too seriously.

A Brief Climbing History of Climbing K2

Over the years, K2 has developed a reputation as one of the most difficult and dangerous 8,000-meter peaks to climb in the world. Of the five highest mountains in the world, K2 is the deadliest where approximately one person dies on the mountain for every four who reach the summit.

The  1954 Italian Karakoram expedition  finally succeeded in ascending to the summit of K2 via the Abruzzi Spur on 31 July 1954. The expedition was led by Ardito Desio, and the two climbers who reached the summit were Lino Lacedelli and Achille Compagnoni.

The team included a Pakistani member, Colonel Muhammad Ata-Ullah, who had been a part of the 1953 American expedition. Also on the expedition were Walter Bonatti and Pakistani Hunza porter Amir Mehdi, who both proved vital to the expedition’s success in that they carried oxygen tanks to 8,100 meters (26,600 ft) for Lacedelli and Compagnoni. The ascent is controversial because Lacedelli and Compagnoni established their camp at a higher elevation than originally agreed with Mehdi and Bonatti.

Being too dark to ascend or descend, Mehdi and Bonatti were forced to overnight without shelter above 8,000 meters leaving the oxygen tanks behind as requested when they descended. Bonatti and Mehdi survived, but Mehdi was hospitalized for months and had to have his toes amputated because of frostbite. Sketchy Italians…

As of 2019, no expedition has ever made a successful winter ascent, despite numerous attempts. Whoever eventually manages a winter ascent on K2 will become immortalized forever in mountaineering lore, that is for certain.

Final Thoughts on the K2 Base Camp Trek

By now, you should be beyond stoked to add this epic trek to your bucket list of adventures . Honestly, the K2 trek is one of the coolest adventures you can go on and the rewards are endless.

Towering mountain peaks, cerulean glacier pools, remote wilderness, Balti culture, alpine passes, comrades to adventure with, I mean, what else do you need?

Hopefully, this K2 Base Camp trek guide will help you prepare to have an awesome adventure of your own!

See you in the mountains amigos.

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Chris Lininger

Share or save this post

21 Comments

Ensure your travel company has a few satellite phones as the group can get divided owing to emergencies or some people not able to continue so each sub group need an emergency satellite phone. An emergency military helicopter will not take off till around $7500 are paid into a military bank a/c. Your insurance company are likely to ask you to pay it and ask you to reclaim. It will be difficult to do this over a satellite phone and paying into a foreign bank if you have the funds available in the first place.

Mountain Sunglasses like Julbo brand with side shields cat 3 are a must to prevent sun burning eyes at high altitude.

We needed a helicopter rescue on this trip this is a military only fly zone and they asked for the money up front $7500. Our insurers asked us to pay up front, please ensure either you or your insurance know how to pay for the helicopter directly into the military bank account. Bad weather can hinder helicopter take off.

This is indeed the case!

Chris, I really enjoyed reading this post..very helpful information.. My friend and I plan to take this trek next year so I am in the early phase of exploring for information..

Do you happen to know how is it with drones on this trek? Have people used them? Thank you!

I have no personal experience of this but can say that in a deeply militarised environment like Pakistan drones can cause a lot of problems – especially up in the mountains to borders like K2 is.

Hi; we are planning to go there this year and this article is providing lots of good information and links for us, Thanks.

I am now scared to go on this track as it sounds more difficult than I thought . Thanks for the details and all the essentials needed for a great adventure like this .

Hi Emir, This is indeed a long trek, but achievable if you are well prepped with a guide, porters and a realistic idea of the environment and country. Also make sure you are physically up to the challenge by starting training well in advance.

You may wish to cover sunglasses (catogary 3)

Sunglasses are indeed a must pack for any trip to the mountains.

Good article, but potential risk of altitude sickness should be adressed.

You are absolutely right. I have updated the post now.

Hi Chris, Thinking of going over to the K2 trek but Pakistan is a very hot spot for Covid right now( April ) I would like to know your thoughts on this. I have been vaccinated but I understand that there are variants over in Pakistan. Stuart

Both Chris and Will are currently in Pakistan as we speak.

It seems that from now on, there will always be variants of COVID so personally, I would not let that fear stop you from living your life.

Also bear in mind that Pakistan has never been considered a “safe” destination anyway!

Oh and I appreciate the disclaimers too. Thanks for being transparent and letting the readers know where there’s a partnership involved. Partnership or not, this post def helps carve out your niche. I was wondering how a $1500 trek is different than the ones Epic Backpacker tours offers and this post helped explain that

Thanks for the detailed post, Chris. This is the one of a kind, elaborate post that was missing. You can find hundreds of articles about stuff like the Annapurna circuit but only a handful of resources on K2. This gave me a good idea of the logistics of the K2 trek. Appreciate the effort you put into this. Thinking of doing a basecamp trek this summer.

Hello Haider, Glad you enjoyed the article. Indeed a few years ago I noticed that there was not a huge amount of info online about this trek so I thought I would put my knowledge into one article.

If you decide you want to do the trek this year with Epic Backpacker Tours, do get in touch! We only have a few free places left on the trip too fyi. All the best.

Woah! What a read. I didn’t initially intend to read the whole thing and had no idea how long and detailed it’s going to be. But man I’m impressed at the information you provided. Thanks. I think this is virtually all I’ll need to read if I start planning to trek to K2 base camp.

Excellent and necessary information Thanx

Really good information for trekkers who want to plan to do this excellent trek.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

K2 Base Camp Trek

• Snow Lake Hispar La Trek
• Spantik Expedition

Discover the Hunza Valley

• Hunza Valley Express
• Hunza Valley Yoga and Hiking
• Island Peak Climbing Expedition
• Hiking and Climbing the Cordillera Real
• Horse Trekking in Mongolia Expedition
• Climbing Ecuador: Land of Volcanoes
• Trekking in the Fann Mountains
• Discover the Celestial Mountains
• Svaneti Trekking in Georgia
• Volcanoes of Kamchatka
• Lost World of Europe
• Madeira Day Hikes
• Featured trip!

• New 2024 Expedition in Mongolia
• Trip Calendar
• Our Mission Statement
• Why Choose Us
• Collaborations
• Client Testimonials
• Meet the Team

K2 Gondogoro La Trek: What you need to know

• 10 Reasons Why the K2 Base Camp Trek Should Be On Your Bucket List
• Everest Base Camp vs K2 Base Camp: Which is better?

How to Prepare for the K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 base camp trek packing list.

• K2 Base Camp Height: How to Manage the Altitude
• The Glaciers of Pakistan – An Overview
• Hunza Valley Culture: People Born in the Mountains
• All About Food in Pakistan
• Epic Journal #4: A Poetic Narrative of Our Journey Along Snow Lake
• How to Start Mountaineering: A Beginner’s Guide
• Hiking in Asian Patagonia: Kyrgyzstan’s Paradise Lost
• 10 Fascinating Kyrgyzstan Facts: Lenin Peak to Alcoholic Horse Milk
• Can Americans Visit Iran? A Complete Guide
• Fann Mountains Trekking in Tajikistan: 6 Things You Did Not Know
• Madeira Island: Epic’s First European Expedition!
• Travel to Iran: Photo Diaries of our Epic Journey
• Kyrgyzstan: The Celestial Mountains in Photos
• Snow Lake Trek 2022: Across the World’s Longest Glaciers

Ditch the tropical vacation; visit Nepal and climb Island Peak this autumn!

At a Glance

DIFFICULTY: Strenuous

TOTAL TREK DISTANCE: 165 km

TOTAL TREKKING DAYS: 12-13 days

MAX ALTITUDE: 5650 meters

LODGING: camping and hotels

GROUP SIZE: 12 people max

• Upcoming Dates
• Packing List
• What's Included

K2 Base Camp Trek Overview

Located in the far reaches of the Karakoram mountain range in Pakistan on the border of India and China, the Central Karakoram National Park is home to the world’s second-highest mountain and a mighty glacier system: K2 and the Baltoro .

And this is  exactly where we are headed.

The K2 Base Camp Trek combined with a crossing of the high-altitude mountain pass of Gondogoro La (5650 meters/18,536 feet ) ticks all of the boxes when it comes to an incredible active adventure; traverse massive glaciers, meet internationally renowned climbers, see FOUR 8000-meter peaks, including the world’s second highest mountain (K2), and countless other 6000 and 7000-meter peaks, along the way gaining experience whilst testing yourself at altitude throughout the trek.

This journey will take you into the depths of beautiful Northern Pakistan by plane, jeep track, footpath, and snow-covered trail to allow you the chance of experiencing one of the last true adventure destinations on earth. 

Experience the jaw-dropping landscapes of the awe-inspiring Karakoram Range and the Baltoro Glacier of Pakistan in comfort as we hike amongst some of the planet’s tallest peaks on an expedition-style trek you won’t soon forget.

The trek to K2 Base Camp is our most popular trip for a reason and we are beyond proud to be the highest rated company offering this unique trekking experience. 

Why Choose the K2 Base Camp Trek?

• RAW NATURE : Central Karakoram National Park is home to some of the most dramatic mountain landscapes on earth, including the largest concentration of glacier systems outside of the polar regions.
• EPIC TREKKING:  Challenge yourself in a world-class trekking environment. Come rain, sun, snow, and everything in between, it’ll be some of the best hiking of your life.
• COMFORT IN THE WILDERNESS: Hike to K2 Base Camp in style. We provide quality, hearty meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), excellent group equipment including premium tents imported from the USA, and professional staff who go above and beyond to make sure everyone is having an awesome time.
• CLIMBING HISTORY: The K2 region is steeped in alpine climbing lore. Learn about the fascinating history of mountaineering and climbing in the area.
• OFF THE BEATEN PATH ADVENTURE: K2 isn’t Everest, which is exactly why we love it. Escape the circus of Everest Base Camp and come discover why Pakistan is the best adventure destination in the world.
• SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GOOD PEOPLE: Our participants hail from all over the world and come from all walks of life, but at least they all have one thing in common: they love adventure and travel.  Make friends of a lifetime on a trip of a lifetime.

K2 Trek Gallery

K2 Base Camp Prices and Dates

Have a question or ready to book.

Whether you’re just curious about this trip or are ready to make a deposit, we’re here for you.

To submit an inquiry or make a trip deposit, please fill out and submit the form below.

*If you are over our 55-year-old age limit – no worries! We do accept people over 55 every year. If you think you are up to the physical challenge of the K2 trek, please email us to book a call with our adventure consulting staff to see if you are the right fit to join our team. 

K2 Trip Overview Video

Who is the founder of epic expeditions.

Chris Lininger

Since 2018, Chris has been to Pakistan 20 times (and counting). Every year he leads group trips to K2 Base Camp, the Everest region in Nepal, and other destinations in Central Asia. He is the director, lead guide, and founder of Epic Expeditions .

Chris wanted to take the concept of an adventure holiday a step further by combining his passion for photography, trekking, and alpine environments into one-of-a-kind curated adventures for people who are as stoked on challenging high-altitude adventures as he is – thus this trip was born!

Chris deeply believes in the magic of Pakistan, the Karakoram Mountain range, and the local people who call this place home. 

Highlights of Trekking to K2 Base Camp

• Get up-close views of K2, Masherbrum, Gasherbrum 4, Broad Peak, Trango Towers, Laila Peak, and many more massive peaks!
• Trek on the massive Baltoro Glacier.
• Experience an expedition-style trek and walk at high elevation.
• Get to know Balti culture.
• Visit K2 Base Camp and the Art Gilkey Memorial.
• Sleep in comfortable tents under a blanket of stars.
• Eat delicious Pakistani food and be treated to custom-menu meals while hiking.
• Learn about the history of mountaineering in the K2 region.
• Explore magnificent glacial and alpine landscapes.
• Gain new alpine skills
• Cross a high-altitude mountain pass at Gondogoro La.
• Trek with a fun international group of like-minded individuals.

K2 Base Camp Trek Itinerary - Day by Day Breakdown

Day 1: islamabad arrival.

Arrive at Islamabad airport where you will be picked up by our driver; we’ll ferry you to the hotel where you can relax after your long journey. We recommend arriving in Islamabad at least one day early so that you can settle in and be ready to go on the morning of day one. Note: accommodation pre-tour is not included.

After our team has assembled, we will have our first group introduction, gear checks, team briefing, and welcome lunch.

Dinner will be at one of our favorite places in Islamabad. Our team will return to the hotel and retire early for a good night’s sleep. We have a flight to catch in the morning! 

Day 2: Fly to Skardu

The plan is for our whole group to catch an early morning flight to Skardu (50 minutes), the largest city in Baltistan. If the weather is clear, we can catch some truly epic views of Nanga Parbat and other massive peaks in the area. Once in Skardu guests will have free time throughout the day to rest and explore the city and the bazaar. Today, we will finalize our trekking permits at the local government office and have dinner together as a group. Over the next few days, your trip leader and local staff are busy preparing all of the final details for the trip. 

Day 2 Alternative: Islamabad to Skardu by Road

Unfortunately, flights in Pakistan do not always run on time. If we are unable to take our flight on the morning of day two, it is possible that we will have to drive overland to Skardu from Islamabad (18-24 hours). This journey can take a lot of time as the road from Gilgit to Skardu is not always in the best shape. Epic staff will evaluate what the best options are for the group and go from there. Flying is obviously the best-case scenario!

To break up the drive, we would sleep in Naran or Chilas for the night before pushing on to Skardu the next day.

Day 3: Market Day in Skardu

Today, the Epic team is busy food shopping and packing all of the group supplies. Guests have free time in the city during the morning and afternoon. There are many activities to do in around Skardu including visiting Kharpocho Fort, meandering through the local bazaar, and heading out to the surrounding desert.

We will have dinner again as a group before setting off in the morning.

*If the group is arriving overland from Islamabad, the entire schedule is bumped back a day, to allow for a day of rest in Skardu (that is why we schedule in buffer days!)

Day 4: Drive from Skardu to Askole (3,040 m)

Today, our adventure begins in earnest! Our team will assemble early at the hotel and after breakfast, we will load up the 4×4 jeeps and begin the bumpy, dusty drive past to the end of the line village called Askole (also spelled Askoli); the gateway to Central Karakoram National Park. The journey to Askole from Skardu takes between 6 and 8 hours depending on road conditions. We will eat lunch en route. 

It is also possible that we will need to spend an extra day in Skardu finalizing our permits if they are not ready the day before (again, this is why we schedule buffer days!). We will set up our tents at a family owned campground and stay the night in Askole before starting the trek tomorrow.  Tonight is our first night in tents. 

Day 5: Askole to Jhula (3,149 m)

• Trekking distance:  20.5km 
• Altitude gain/loss:  430  m up
• Jhula Camp elevation:  3,149 m

Today, our trek begins properly! We leave Askole in the early morning and enter Central Karakoram National Park. 

After we register our permits for the last time at the park office, we continue on a mix of trail and dirt jeep track. 

Today is not overly steep but it is long, so expect 6-7 hours of walking. 

Day 6: Jhula to Paiju (3,400 m)

• Trekking distance: 21 km 
• Altitude gain:  624 m   up 
• Paiju Camp elevation: 3,400 m

Early start with 5-7 hours of trekking. Hilly terrain, a few stream crossings and a mix of elevation gains and descents. The day can be hot, exposed to much sun, and dusty. Sunscreen and lots of water will be your greatest friend today! We may be treated to a rowdy Balti music session from the porters after dinner at camp.

Cold “showers” (a faucet basically) are available.

Day 7: Paiju - Khoburtse (3,833 m)

• Trekking distance: 14.3 km
• Altitude gain: 747  m up
• Khoburtse Camp Elevation: 3,833 m

6-8 hours of hiking. After about an hour of walking, we will enter onto the Baltoro Glacier. We will be hiking along the mighty Baltoro until we reach Concordia in several days’ time. The terrain is hilly, rocky, and uneven, with a few scattered bits of proper trail.

The final obstacle of the day will be a river crossing (there is a bridge as of 2023) and the water can be quite cold – but it is manageable. 

Khoburtse camp can feel a bit cramped, but views are top notch and there is a beautiful waterfall nearby as well as fine opportunities for sunrise viewpoints. Toilets are basic.

Day 8: Khoburtse - Urdukas (4,053 m)

• Trekking distance: 6.3 km
• Altitude gain: 400  m up
• Urdukas Camp elevation: 4,052 m

Easy day, finishing after about 6.3 kilometers (2-4 hours). As we gain altitude, we are mindful not to push ourselves too hard or sleep too high too fast.

Urdukas is a truly spectacular campsite, and one of our favorites along the whole trek. Excellent views of Trango Towers, Muztagh Tower, and Lobsang can be seen directly from camp. 

Day 9: Rest Day in Urdukas (4,250 m)

If we are on time to this point in the trek (no major delays), we will likely opt to take a rest day at the absolutely stunning Urdukas campsite. Here, we can use the free time to do laundry, nap, and have a hot bucket shower. Urdukas consistently ranks as one of the favorite campsites of the entire trek! Taking a rest day here also greatly helps our bodies acclimatize to the high altitude. 

Day 10: Urdukas - Goro 2 (4,250 m)

• Trekking distance: 11.5  km
• Altitude gain: 481  m up
• Goro 2 Camp elevation: 4,250 m

5 – 7 hours of moderate difficulty up and down glacier terrain. Today we are starting to feel the altitude.

Temperatures can drop below zero at night at Goro 2. Basic toilets at the camp.

Spectacular views along the trail of Masherbrum, Gasherbrum IV, and the summit of Broad Peak can be seen from just outside your tent. We will pass by a small military base along the way that looks like an outpost from a sci-fi film.

Day 11: Goro 2 - Concordia (4,600 m)

• Trekking distance: 14 km
• Altitude gain: 541  m up
• Concordia Camp elevation: 4,600 m

Today we reach the “Throne Room of the Gods”, aka Concordia. 5-7 hours of pleasant trekking over the glacier, with more ice present than on previous days. 

Amazing views of Gasherbrum IV, Mitre Peak, Broad Peak, Marble Peak, and of course, K2 can be seen from camp! 

Temperatures at Concordia drop well below freezing at night and snow/snowfall is possible here any time of the year. After a great dinner and solid rest, tomorrow we head to K2 Base Camp!

Day 12: Concordia - K2 Base Camp (5000 m)

• Trekking distance: 11.5 km
• Altitude gain: 500 m up
• K2 Base Camp elevation: 5000 m

Early departure to K2 Base Camp. Total trekking distance to Concordia is roughly 11.5 km. We will visit the Art Gilkey Memorial and then head to K2 Base Camp for tea and to chit-chat with expedition teams hoping for a successful summit bid.

Today is a BIG trekking day, but the terrain is relatively easy. Most of the route follows the Godwin-Austen Glacier directly to the base of the mighty K2.

We sleep at K2 Base Camp tonight, enjoying the views of the mighty Savage Mountain.

Day 13: K2 Base Camp - Concordia (4,600 m)

• Altitude gain:  166m up
• Concordia Camp elevation: 4600 m

Today, we trek back down the Godwin-Austen Glacier to the famed Concordia campsite the way we came. 

We aim to arrive back at camp by mid-afternoon. 

The rest of the day is spent resting and preparing for our trek to Ali Camp the following day. 

If the weather is bad, it is possible that we will sleep an additional night at Concordia – giving us the best chance for the Gondogoro La crossing in a few days.

Day 14: Rest day at Concordia and Skills Training (4,600 m)

After all of our big efforts over the last week, today is a day to finally relax and soak in the spectacular surroundings.  Mid morning, we head to the nearby glacier to put on our alpine boots, crampons, harness, and other gear in order to practice some basic climbing skills in preparation for Gondogoro La.  Over all this day is chill and there is lots of free time to relax at Concordia camp. 

Day 15: Concordia - Ali Camp (4950 m)

• Trekking distance: 11 km
• Altitude gain: 563  m
• Ali Camp elevation: 4950 m

5-7 hours of trekking over glacier and pockets of deep snow, especially as we approach the upper end of the valley close to Ali Camp. Some of our porter team will be leaving us today with the pack mules, as the mules are unable to cross over Gondogoro La.

Ali Camp is set in an absolutely stunning location, though the camp is quite small and can be quite crowded if many teams are present. No established toilet facilities are present, which is something we are working to solve with the Central Karakoram National Park staff.

We will rest for the majority of the afternoon and early evening before setting off to cross the Gondogoro La around midnight. We will have dinner early so that guests can catch a few hours of rest before we begin the climb.

Day 16: Ali Camp - Gondogoro La Pass (5,650 m) - Kuisbang (4,700 m)

• Trekking distance: 10  km 
• Altitude gain:  668 m up
• Kuisbang Camp elevation: 4,700 m

7-10 hours of trekking – all depends on your pace. Our group will set off in the dark by headlamp around midnight. From Ali Camp, it is 4-5 hours of steady climbing to gain the top of the Gondogoro La pass. 

Once atop the La, we can enjoy stunning sunrise views of every major peak in the area. We will be praying for clear weather of course! The descent from Gondogoro La into the valley below is done with the assistance of a series of fixed ropes. Extreme care needs to be taken on the descent (helmets will be worn) and all guests will be clipped into the rope from their climbing harness. 

Crampons should be carried for the ascent and descent. 

Trekking from the top of the pass to Kuisbang Camp takes 3-5 hours, again depending on your pace. If the weather is clear, the group will be treated to incredible views from our camp of Laila Peak, located just down the valley.

Day 17: Kuisbang - Saicho (3430 m)

• Trekking distance: 17.2  km
• Altitude gain/loss: 131 m up /  1265 m down 
• Saicho Camp elevation: 3430 m

6-8 hours of trekking. The first two hours are on glacier moraine before the landscape changes into green, hilly, easy trail. There are a few small river crossings and several steep, exposed sections to be expected as well. The landscape here could not be more different from where we started near Askole. It is green, lush, and there is no dust!

A beautiful, well-spaced campsite with multiple stream systems running through it awaits us at Saicho.

Day 18: Saicho - Hushe - Drive to Skardu

• Trekking distance: 10.6 km
• Altitude gain: 81 m up
• Hishe elevation: 3180 m

2-3 hours of trekking. We end the trek in the beautiful Balti village of Hushe. Here we will take a final cup of chai and say goodbye to our team of porters before making our way back to Skardu by jeep (5-6 hours depending on road conditions).

We will have lunch en route to Skardu. Once we reach the hotel in Skardu, be prepared for one of the best showers of your life!

Day 19: Fly to Islamabad

Early Morning Flight to Islamabad from Skardu

We will have a chill day in Islamabad and an epic feast all together OR we will be driving the KKH en route to Islamabad if we have flight delays. 

Day 20: Contingency Day in Islamabad

We booked in an extra day in Islamabad in case of travel complications getting back from Skardu. Since you have just completed the most epic hike of your life, we do not want to add any group stress by making the departure window tight.

Today will be a free day in the city with group breakfast and dinner included. After a final meal together, our epic journey of a lifetime has come to an end and the time has come to say goodbye.

Day 21: Client Departure Day

We arrange for transfers to the airport for those who are flying out over the next 12 hours.

Check out of the hotel is around 11 am on Day 21. You can choose to stay on at the same hotel if you are not flying home right away, though any additional nights at the hotel are not covered by Epic.

• All hotel accommodation in between hiking days
• Islamabad Airport pick up and drop off 
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all trek days, except for lunches when we are in cites (when team members have free time in Islamabad and Skardu) and 1 dinner in Islamabad
• Islamabad Airport pick up and drop off if arriving 2 days or less from the start date of the trip and leaving on day 21 of the end of the trip
• All ground transportation (excluding personal taxis in Islamabad and Skardu)
• All on-the-ground logistics and trek planning
• Western and local guides 
• NOC/Trekking Permits/National Park permit fees
• Letter of Invitation to Pakistan
• Internal flights within Pakistan (Islamabad – Skardu return)
• Comfy two-person alpine 4-season tents from the USA
• Up to 20 kgs of porter services per person
• Group generator for charging electronics
• Dining table, chairs, and a mess tent
• Access to the group satellite phone (usage at extra cost)
• Lots of laughs and epic moments
• Life-changing experiences
• Bonus surprises along the way
• Flights to Pakistan
• Visa application fees
• Any pre-tour or post-tour accommodation
• All person gear and equipment
• Travel insurance
• Tips for staff
• Porter services exceeding 20 kgs
• Personal snacks
• Meals when the group has free time (lunches in Skardu and Islamabad, 2 dinners in Islamabad)
• Single tent/hotel accommodation (requires additional charges).

K2 Base Camp Trek FAQ

We get this question a lot, so let us set the record straight. 

It is possible to find a cheaper trek than our price. But as with most things in life, you get what you pay for – and in the world of trekking, this could not be more true in the case of Epic’s K2 trekking tours. 

Epic Expeditions simply won’t compromise on the level of service we offer, the wages we pay our staff, and we never cut corners at the expense of our clients’ experience. 

When you join Epic on a trek to K2 Base Camp, the differences in how we do things, the kind of services we provide, and the general vibe we cultivate for our international community of travelers are obvious from day 1.

Please check out our full article covering the cost of trekking to K2 Base Camp and how our company values and ethics impact our pricing. 

Our trip costs more for a few reasons, but here are a few of the main points:

• We pay our staff and porters a higher than average wage.  
• Our cooks strive to prepare quality meals outside the box of the standard Baltoro fair. We put our own twist on hearty trekking food. 
• Comfortable camp set up: After a long day of hiking, we want our camp sites to feel as comfortable as they possibly can be and we believe that the little details are what makes this possible. Tables, comfy chairs, a massive mess/dining tent, a proper toilet tent for privacy, a generator for charging electronics, endless pots of French press coffee, tea, and plates of cookies when you arrive at camp; these are some of the little details that provide a second to none camp-life experience. 
• We have a minimum of two trip leaders on each trek – one Western leader and one local leader.  
• Group size: you will NEVER see an Epic Expeditions team numbering more than 12 people.
• Safety plans and protocols: a big difference between Epic Expeditions and the competition? We have a professional and comprehensive safety plan and the tools we need to manage any emergency situation. All of our guide staff have received wilderness first aid and risk management training. 
• Your trip leader is equipped with a satellite communication device (Garmin Inreach) and one Thuraya satellite phone.
• Pre trip one on one phone calls. Before the start of every trip we embark on, team members will have one on one phone calls with your western trip leader so that you can be as prepared as possible to have a successful and rewarding trip.
• Check out our full blog article: 10 reasons why you should choose Epic for an expedition to K2 Base Camp.
• We are one of the few companies to use high quality, imported tents from the USA. 

Because the Central Karakoram National Park crosses some restricted military zones (within the park are natural boundaries with China and India), you must have a guide and obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC), which only tour companies can issue for this region.

Epic Expeditions sorts out all of your permits well in advance of the trip. We check in with park police when we enter Central Karakoram National Park.

Trekkers without an organized guide will not be allowed into the park to attempt the trek.

K2 is found deep in the Karakoram National Park, which is located in the northern province of Gilgit-Baltistan.  It is technically split between Pakistan and China – the former is far more popular with trekkers and climbers although the latter is becoming more accessible. 

Because of the unique location of K2 near the borders of China and India, it is considered strategically valuable. The whole area around the mountain and much of the Karakoram National Park is consequently deemed a “restricted zone,” thus the need for special permits to make a trip to K2 Base Camp.

K2 is 8,611 meters or 28,251 feet high, making it the second highest mountain in the world after Everest. 

K2 extremely high elevation and very challenging technical terrain make it a highly sought-after peak amongst climbers and is widely considered among many of them the most difficult (and most rewarding) of all the 8000+ meter peaks. 

With a prominence of 4000 meters as well, K2 is very visible from Concordia and nearly dominates the glacial valley.

The weather in the Karakoram mountain range can be highly variable. We will be traversing through a number of different climatic zones so it is a good idea to be prepared for a variety of temperature conditions.  Islamabad – Hot and humid with the potential for monsoon rain events. Average temperatures: High: 35°C / 95° F Low: 24°C / 76° F. Skardu – Warm to hot during the day, but not humid. Dusty, especially along the main bazaar road. Cooler and pleasant at night. Potential for wind and dust storms. July is the warmest month in Skardu. High: 23°C / 73.4° F Low: 10°C / 50° F. The sun is stronger in the mountains so temps. feel hotter than they actually are. 3,000 – 3,500 Meters – Hot, dusty, exposed during the day. Cooler at night, but not freezing typically. Potential for snow around 3500 meters, but very unlikely. Possible cloud cover developing at any elevation. 3,500 – 4,500 Meters – Daily temperatures remain warm, though mornings and evenings are cooler. Above 4000 meters temperatures can easily drop below freezing at night and in the early morning. Rain, snow, cloud cover are all possible at any time. More ice present on the Baltoro Glacier. 4,500 – 5,600 Meters – Freezing temperatures at night and cool to cold temperatures during the day with periods of warm sunshine possible. Rain, snow, cloud cover are all possible at any time. Deep snow is likely on the trail between Concordia and Ali Camp. Trekking on gritty ice and snow the whole way to K2 Base Camp from Concordia. Potentially heavy snow pack on the ascent/descent of Gondogoro La. The coldest possible temperatures to expect hover around -10° C / 14° F.

The K2 Base Camp Trek carries a certain amount of risk since we are traveling DEEP into the mountains in a developing country. 

That said, member safety is EBT’s #1 priority and our experienced ground team does everything within their power to set our group up for a safe adventure. The name of the game is safety first and injury prevention.

Epic Expeditions goes above and beyond to ensure that we are fully prepared in case of emergency by bringing the tools we need to manage emergency situations.

This is the reality on the ground in Pakistan:, other local (budget) tour operators won’t bring a satellite phone because they are expensive to own and operate. For us, not being prepared with the right tools to deal with emergencies is unacceptable  – and a big reason why our clients decide to go with us – and why they keep coming back to do different adventures with us year after year. On average, 1 in 5 Epic customers is a return client from a past adventure. The feedback from our clients speaks for itself. 

Check out our full article covering the question Is Pakistan Safe for travelers here.

Your trip leader is equipped with a satellite communication device (Garmin Inreach) AND at a Thuraya satellite phone.  Both of which have communication capabilities to contact outside emergency first responders from any place in Pakistan.

Guests are able to use the satellite phone for personal calls on occasion for a set rate per minute.

Strenuous : Trekking to K2 Base Camp is a challenge even for experienced hikers. As a group, we spend 12 days trekking deep into one of the world’s wildest mountain ranges. Unlike in Nepal, there are no villages beyond Askole or Hushe. This an expedition style trek, meaning we carry all of our gear with us. We employ many local porters and mules to help us carry the supplies that will make the trek to K2 a comfortable and rewarding experience.

At altitude, every person’s body is different, but having a comfortable fitness level will only benefit you in the mountains. Ideally, our guests will have already spent some time at or above 4,000 meters. Epic will ensure that our group has proper time to acclimatize en route to higher elevations. Our trekking days will certainly not be “death marches” and all trekking days are of reasonable distance and intensity.

Trip participants need to be in good shape and capable of trekking over mixed terrain for long distances (maximum 8 hours). On average our trekking days are 5 hours per day. We employ many local porters and mules to help us carry the supplies that will make the trek to K2 a comfortable and rewarding experience.

The best way to prepare for the trek to K2 Base Camp is to – you guessed it – hike as much as possible in the months leading up to the trip.  Even if you won’t be doing any actual mountaineering on this trek, people still need to be in shape before embarking. The distances can be long, the terrain unforgiving, and the oxygen thinner than you’re used to  – you need to be ready and able to handle all of these environmental factors. 

Physically preparing yourself for the expedition is somewhat similar to what you might have done for other multi-day backpacking trips. Endurance is crucial as is strength, particularly in your legs, glutes, back, and joints. Having these will ensure that you can not only complete the day’s walk without exhaustion but also avoid unnecessary injuries like sprains. 

When you’re not out on the trail, do workouts that hit the key bodily areas. Squats, lunges, sleds, burpees, stairs, and anything involving a box e.g. step-ups are good exercises to start with. Don’t forget to work on your stability and stretch when you’re finished as well.

The total trek covers about 160 kilometers over the course of 12 days – with the highest max altitude on the trek being 5,600 meters (Gondogoro La). 

There is simply no avoiding the fact that your body will feel different given the height at K2 Base Camp. 

Nobody feels 100% as they do at sealevel up here – including the professional mountaineers or Nepali Sherpa. 

Here are a few things you can do to manage the symptoms of mild altitude sickness:

• Drink plenty of water
• Try to eat when it is meal time
• Avoid eating meat
• Take your time when moving about
• Stay warm, wear enough layers
• Sleep with a hot water bottle in your sleeping bag
• Carry headache medication like paracetamol or Tylenol
• Take time to rest; take naps during free time
• Drink lots of herbal tea

Check out our full article on how to manage the K2 Base Camp Trek Height . 

All guests who intend to visit K2 Base Camp MUST apply for a Pakistani Trekking and Mountaineering Visa. The trekking visa is different from the standard tourist visa, thus you will NOT be applying for a tourist visa.  Epic Backpacker Tours provides you with all of the documentation needed to apply for the visa including the Letter of Invitation (LOI). 

Since 2017, we have had a 100% success rate when it comes to our clients getting their visas on time – a record we are very proud of! 

No it is not. To travel on this tour, you must buy travel insurance. We will provide recommendations closer to the start of the trip. If you don’t buy travel insurance, you will not be allowed to come on the trek.

It is Mandatory for every trip participant to take out a travel membership with Global Rescue. This is because they are one of the few companies who organize helicopter evacuation in Pakistan in the case of an emergency. Note that this is NOT full medical travel insurance. Global Rescue also offers full medical travel insurance, but the important policy to take out is a Global Rescue Membership. If you don’t want to go with Global Rescue for medical travel insurance, that’s fine – but again, all members MUST have the Global Rescue Membership that covers helicopter evacuations. 

No you do not. There is only one section of this trek where a harness is needed (crossing Gondogoro La). No ice tools are used and no technical climbing experience is required. 

The K2 Base Camp Trek is a great introduction to being at high altitude if your goal is to eventually climb some 6000 or 7000-meter peaks.  Crossing Gondogoro La is a real challenge that is not be under estimated – however, our staff is with you every step of the way to ensure your safety and to make sure you feel comfortable. We have had people as old as 74 successfully tackle crossing Gondogoro La – so if you are fit and able to push your own personal comfort zone, crossing Gondogoro is achievable for you. 

Check out the trip packing list here

The big important items are a good sleeping bag, rain gear, down jacket, sturdy hiking boots, water filter bottle, day backpack, sun protection, etc). You will need to bring your own climbing harness, crampons (or micro spikes), and helmet.

Tents and other group gear are provided.  

Islamabad : 4-star accommodation in a central part of Islamabad 

Skardu : 3-star accommodation located near the main market street of the city. 

Trip prices are based on the sharing of rooms/tents and single (same sex) members of the group will typically be put together.

In Skardu will be using nice guesthouses/hotels that offer very comfortable, but simple, facilities without air-conditioning (although the rooms in Islamabad will definitely have AC). In Skardu the rooms have fans, but no AC.

Once we arrive in Askole to start the trek, our accommodation will be in tents until we return back to Skardu. The tents are high quality, waterproof, and comfortable. Two large men over six foot tall can easily be comfortable and have enough personal space in our tents

If you wish to bring your own tent, make sure it is sturdy enough for rocky glacier terrain, potentially high winds, and snowfall. NOTE: Any item(s) that you do not want to bring on the trek can be safely stored with our team in Skardu before leaving for the trek.

Single Room Supplement Costs: please inquire for current rates if you would like to reserve a single hotel room and a private tent for the trek.

You will need to book your round trip flights into/out of Islamabad International Airport.

Islamabad (the capital of Pakistan) is a major city in Pakistan and as such is very well connected.

We advise that you arrive in Pakistan one day before the tour starts. This is so that clients can shake off any jet lag they may be experiencing, and also to give all clients more of a time window in case of schedule changes or flight delays.

We will organize our driver to pick you up at the airport and shuttle you to to hotel if you are arriving within 24 hours of the start of the tour. If you are arriving earlier, we can still arrange the airport pickup for you at cost. 

Food in Pakistan is pretty repetitive – there’s a lot of daal, chicken, and rice. We will try to mix this up where possible (especially in the cities) by taking you to some great restaurants.

Food whilst camping will be the best possible quality, but please have realistic expectations of what our camp cooks can deliver. There won’t be any lasagne and red wine (unless you bring the wine), but the food will be healthy and tasty. Breakfast : Typically includes an omelet/fried eggs, fried Pakistani bread (paratha), pancakes, jam, Nutella, honey, etc + green tea/French press coffee. 

Lunch : Every day, each member is issued a packed lunch. This keeps it easy while hiking as you can stop whenever you want to eat your lunch. A typical packed lunch includes a boiled egg + potato, a few chapatis (local flat bread), cheese, dried nuts/chocolate, and a few sweets. 

Dinner : The main event! We pride ourselves on hiring the same cooks every year because they know how to deliver our custom, top-notch food menu!

After our nightly soup course, dinner will be a mix of curry vegetables, rice, noodle dishes (like chow mein or pasta with red sauce, daal (lentils), meat (mutton or chicken), French fries, and, salad.

Dessert is something different every night, but for the first week of the trek, expect to have fresh mangoes and melon!

Note: Vegetarians/vegans/gluten/lactose-free can be accommodated as well! 

Note: In general, the food in Pakistan is SPICY (especially in Punjab). Again, we always try to accommodate dietary needs but keep in mind that options can be limited at times if you can’t do spicy food. There will ALWAYS be some decent vegetarian and non-spicy items, but you also need to have realistic expectations regarding Pakistani cuisine, which can be meat-heavy, and SPICY. Please let us know early on if you have any diet restrictions/preferences. If you are vegetarian/vegan, you might want to consider bringing some of your own food (for snacks/breakfast stuff), as it can be very difficult to cater to individuals in a big group, though we always do our best.

On day two of the trip, the plan is to fly to Skardu from Islamabad. This is one of most scenic flights in the world, highlighted by beautiful views of the world’s 9th highest mountain, Nanga Parbat and the greater Karakoram/Himalayan ranges.   Once we finish the trek, we will also catch a flight back to Islamabad from Skardu. Internal flights are included in the trip price of course! If bad weather cancels the flight, we will go to Skardu by road via the famous Karakoram Highway. The drive takes significantly longer than the flight option, but that is why we have contingency days built into the itinerary. Over the past three seasons, we have had a 90% success rate when it comes to catching our flights. 

Each team member has a 20 kilo (44 lbs) porter allowance. This is for your luggage that will be carried to each camp each day of the trek. Members are only required to carry their daypack while trekking – which just has what you need for the day in it, IE water, snacks, layers, suncream, etc.  If your duffel bag weighs more than 20 kilos, you will need to pay for the additional weight. Cost for additional weight will be determined on the ground as prices for porters vary by the season.

Most other companies give a porter allowance of 12.5 kg, but with all of the gear required for this trip to be comfortable, we want to give you guys a little bit extra weight so you are not having to leave behind things you really want to bring

We carry a petrol generator and/or solar panels, so that the team can charge batteries, power banks, phones, etc while on the trek. Each night, we run the generator for 3-4 hours.

We have the generator with us the whole time except for the few days after we cross Gondogoro La (the mules who carry the generator can’t cross the pass). 

Once we leave Islamabad, fast WiFi as we know it in the west is basically non-existent. Whilst there may be small amounts of phone coverage on the trip, you should view this adventure as a chance to unplug. In the mountains, there is zero phone signal so there is no point in buying a SIM card as it will only work in a few places. There is slow wifi in the hotels in Skardu, but it hardly works and there are often power outages.

Due to limitations of fuel, our staff are able to provide hot bucket showers one or two times along the trek (usually this happens on rest days). 

Cold showers at the lower camps are also possible (when the temperatures are warm).

Roughly 50% of our clients are female. Most hail from the USA, the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand – but we have had in total over 20 different nationalities of solo women join us on a trip to K2 Base Camp over the years. 

You will always be paired to be hotel/tent mates with another solo woman and if there is no other female to pair you with due to odd numbers, then you will not be required to share a tent. 

Northern Pakistan is a very safe part of the world – and we often say, you are safer traveling in Northern Pakistan as a woman than you are walking alone at night in Paris or New York City!

If you are over our 55 years old age limit but think you are up to the physical challenge of hiking to K2 Base Camp, please email us to book a call with our adventure consulting staff to see if you qualify for this adventure. 

Once you have secured your spot, we will arrange a call so that we can have a short trip debriefing and interview. The interview is a chance for your tour leader to get to know you better before the start of the tour. If we don’t think you’re quite right, we will refund 100% of your money.

This call is also part of our one on one pre-tour preparation. Other companies don’t do this – which is one more reason why we pride ourselves in going above and beyond for our clients before, during, and after the trip. 

The upper age limit is 55 and we ask that our guests be a minimum of 20 years old.

Potential guests looking to join us on this trek need to have prior experience trekking in the mountains, to have decent fitness as mentioned above, and a positive attitude to join an awesome group of people from around the world.

New Tent Upgrades for 2024/2025 Season!

One of the main differences between us and the other companies who operate this trek is very simple: we use only the highest quality tents available for the K2 Base Camp Trek.  This means our brand new fleet of 4-season Big Agnes Tents (from Colorado,USA) don’t leak or suffer in the slightest even if we encounter heavy rain or snowfall.  When you are camping in the rugged terrain and high altitude of Pakistan for almost two weeks, cheap, low-quality tents simply won’t make for an enjoyable experience.  If prioritizing comfort and resisting the harsh Karakoram elements is important to you, with Epic Expeditions you get exactly what you pay for. 

What People Have to Say

More Epic Photos from the K2 Trek...

The Karakoram are a photographer’s paradise . Join us on a trip to K2 Base Camp and you’ll not only get to opportunity to take pictures of amazing mountain landscapes but the chance to receive photography tips from professionals.

Epic founder and frequent K2 guide Chris Lininger is an avid photographer and regularly gives advice on how to capture these mountains best. Get that shot you’ve always wanted with Epic.

K2 the Mountain - Abridged

K2 : a mountain so enormous, so unfathomable, so remote in its existence – both in the physical world and in our imaginations – that few people really know or understand it. Even the name, K2, in its current truncated form, can be considered a flawed attempt at capturing this indescribable peak using mere human language – it’s just too much for us to put into words.

Italian climber Fosco Maraini perhaps said it best when talking about K2:

…(the peak is) just the bare bones of a name, all rock and ice and storm, and abyss. It makes no attempt to sound human. It is atoms and stars. It has the nakedness of the world before the first man—or of the cindered planet after the last.”

At 8,611 meters in elevation, K2 is the second-highest mountain in the world. Don’t let your guard down: K2 is markedly more dangerous than all the other 8000-meter peaks, including Everest. Its flanks are littered with alpine obstacles including massive crevasses, erratic weather systems, and enormous overhanging seracs, including the infamous “Bottleneck”. Every year, climbers perish in pursuit of this unforgiving summit, and despite the dangers, they keep coming back.

The first summit attempt was in 1902 and it wasn’t until 50 years later in 1954 that a team ( the Italian expedition ) actually made it to the top. Since then, there have been roughly 400 successful summits and among them almost 100 deaths: one of the highest summit-death ratios in the mountaineering world.

K2 doesn’t need to be climbed to be appreciated though. Many opt to simply walk up the Baltoro Glacier to visit the legendary base camp of K2, and it is still a fantastic experience. For nearly two weeks, one is treated to non-stop views of some of the world’s most impressive peaks (aside from K2 itself): Mashabrum, the Trangos, G4, Broad Peak, Chogolisa, and many more tower on both sides of the route as you make your way up the Baltoro. By the time one reaches Concordia and is afforded the first glimpses of K2, it becomes obvious why they call this area “The Throne Room of the Mountain Gods”: it is, for a lack of better terms, totally epic .

Additional Resources

10 Reasons Why you Should Choose Epic Expeditions for the K2 Base Camp Trek

Privacy Overview

Clark Tyler 🇨🇦

Adventure Guide

Hailing from the Toronto region of Eastern Canada, with a background as a former standout athlete (hockey of course) and a  love of mountain adventure, Clark is a welcomed addition to the Epic team.

In addition to being a keen photographer and adventurer, Clark brings his brilliant sense of humor, leadership skills, and positive attitude to everything he puts his mind to.  When he is not leading trips, he is working on taking over the hard apple cider game in Canada as a skilled craft brewer. 

Meet him during : K2 Base Camp Trek

Noemi Liebi 🇨🇭

Noemi grew up in the mountains of German-Speaking Switzerland where she naturally developed a deep love and respect for mountain environments.

She is a talented photographer, aspiring climber, and speaks at least 5 languages fluently including Arabic (and probably a few more that we don’t know about), which she taught herself in a matter of months by watching YouTube videos. 

Noemi has spent the last several years traveling, hiking, and photographing her way around many different countries in the Middle East, South and Central Asia, and Europe, and we could not be more stoked to welcome her to the Epic team! 

Meet her during : Discover the Celestial Mountains | Island Peak Climbing Expedition

Syerik Manap 🇲🇳

As our man on the ground in Mongolia, there is not much this legend can’t do. As a native the Bayan-Ölgii province of the Western Mongolia Altai, Syerik has been working as a guide and tourism entrepreneur…

for the past several years and is one of the rising stars in Mongolia adventure travel industry. 

He is currently building a beautiful Ger (Yurt) camp near his hometown where he will host Epic Mongolia team members on our trip as well as other travelers from around the world! 

He is the perfect guide for your trip to Mongolia. Serik did an amazing job giving us a well rounded experience in the Altai NP region and down in the Gobi… The food was fantastic and Serik gave us many opportunities to learn about the Kazakh culture in that region including traditional meals. (I can’t recommend enjoying the milk tea enough!)

– Coastal

Head of canine operations

Choriza started off life as a care-free vagabond on the streets of Madeira Island without any place to call home. From the moment we met her, we knew this dog was just different, and it was pretty much love at first sight. 

She gave up the dog street life in favor of joining her new dad Chris to become a full-time member of the Epic family towards the end of 2022.

These days she can be found listening in on the fringes of important Epic business meetings while half-asleep on the couch. She is a keen hiker, lover of mud, rare steak, and might just be the sweetest little dog we have ever seen. 

Andrew Golovachevn 🇷🇺

An experienced trek leader and IFMGA aspirant ski guide, avid alpine climber, devoted adventure photographer.

Organized and guided trekking expeditions, climbs and ski tours in Tajikistan’s Pamirs, Patagonia, Peru, Morocco, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Georgian and Russian Caucasus and Kamchatka. A full member and meets the organiser of the British Alpine Club. Visited over 40 countries, lived in the UK for four years. Certified first-aider.

We joined Andrew on a fantastic trip to the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan, pure nature and magnificent scenery! Andrey was super prepared and led us safely up and down numerous passes and through some rough and icy cold rivers. Thank you for a very memorable trip, your planning and prep was excellent!

– Monika Steinlechner

Meet him during : Trekking in the Fann Mountains

Sandip Dhungana 🇳🇵

Our man in Nepal, Sandip is what we like to call a “Swiss Army Knife”. There is not much Sandip can’t do when it comes to helping Epic to run our expeditions smoothly in Nepal.

His tireless work ethic, passion for all things trekking in the Himalayas, and smart decision-making mean that Sandip is a truly invaluable member of our team.

Sandip is passionate about showing visitors to his country an amazing time, and he goes above and beyond to make sure that happens. 

His company Himalayan Masters is Epic’s trusted partner in Nepal and one of the country’s top new tour agencies.

We really enjoyed the entire journey, and I would like to say that Sandip is truly professional. He guided us and he is a hardworking person, providing us with the best service and taking care of each one of us. Plus, he is super funny! The kind of professionnal you always want to find on your path for your explorations! 

– Alexandra Ruth

Fairy Meadows

Add your heading text here.

“Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem.

Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?”

Our Favorite Experiences

#1 sunrise from reflection lake.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

#2 Hiking to Nanga Parbat Base Camp

#3 playing cricket with the locals, trips where we visit fairy meadows.

Our flagship Pakistani adventure tour.  Road trip with some  hiking and cultural immersion.

Intermediate

Trekking Among Giants

A trekking-style tour that features some very remote locations, inlcuding a K2 viewpoint.

João Frietas 🇵🇹

João has born in the mountains of Madeira Islands in Portugal. Nature lover, writer, musician, guide, for him, a day without contact with outdoor vibes is a nightmare. 

With a degree in Cultural Studies in Portugal and a Master of Arts in Global Cultures and Creativity in the U.K.

João found out what really matters in life can be found on the trails, and in the contact with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Guiding, crazy trekking missions, and sharing observations about the natural world, – these are some of João’s passions. 

After trekking to K2 Base Camp and exploring all over Northern Pakistan, he fell in love with the country and the local people. His experiences resulted in his desire to share these feelings with the world.

João is one of the most experienced guides at Epic and his skillset and positive mindset in the mountains is second to none

When not in Pakistan, João is  guiding and exploring in the Madeira Islands trails –  discovering some of the hidden treasures on his Portuguese Island.

João I can not thank you enough for the off the beaten paths and views you keep giving. Definitely one of the most challenging and amazing hikes we did 1200m meters all the way up to Fanal forest and circling back to the hidden village. Wow!

– Jeffery 

Meet him during : Lost World of Europe | Discover the Hunza Valley   | K2 Base Camp Trek

Sohail Sakhi 🇵🇰

Sohail is the newest addition to the Epic team and we are beyond stoked to have him on board. As a veteran of the Karakoram and a native of Karimabad in Hunza, there is not much Sohail can’t do in the mountains. 

Besides having the ability to speak more languages than we can count, Sohail has explored every corner of Gilgit Baltistan and logs more trekking miles 

in a year than most people will do in a lifetime. As of the summer of 2022, Sohail has summited Gasherbrum 1, Gasherbrum 2, and K2 – three of Pakistan’s five 8000-meter peaks. Sohail guides several trips including our annual bespoke expeditions but specializes in Hunza Valley tours.

Chris and Sohail, and the team at Epic are FANTASTIC! Highly recommend anyone to do a tour with ‘Epic’. They have the perfect balance of fun, excitement and wild adventures, tied in with being super professional and ensuring your safety/health in a foreign environment. Don’t waste a moment and book a tour with these guys as the value for money is UNREAL!

– Borgan

Meet him during : Discover the Hunza Valley

Pedro Ricardo Dias 🇵🇹

Pedro’s been traveling all around the globe since 2009. His keen interests in documentary photography, rural life, and local people from different ethnic groups have been the focus of many of his professional projects. Since 2012, he has developed his passion for travel and awesome shared experiences into a full-time adventure photography tour leader position.

Pedro has found himself continuously going back to the Middle East, with his likely favorite destination being Iran. Pedro lead his 11th tour in Iran with Epic in spring 2020

When Pedro’s not traveling the world with Epic Expeditions, you’ll find him based in the western south of Portugal planning he’s next adventure missions, logistics and working out his photos in local exhibitions.

 I loved the combination of hiking, camping around breathtaking scenery mixed with the cultural aspects. The guide (Pedro) is knowledgeable and work very hard to make the trip as memorable as possible. All in all an epic adventure with some extremely epic individuals! Go for it, you won’t regret it!

Diane Bouvet 🇫🇷

Adventure Admin / Marketing

After fleeing from the corporate fashion world in Paris towards the start of 2020, Diane has been working as a web developer and graphic designer remotely from various bases across the globe

She brings all of her incredible design and organizational power to Epic Expeditions and is responsible for many of the beautiful behind-the-scenes design elements. 

Diane has been to Iran and to Pakistan twice including all over Gilgit Baltistan and KPK.

Ralph Cope 🇺🇸

Head of Operations | Guide

A veteran of Pakistan travel, Ralph is an experienced guide, photographer and writer who specializes in documenting remote locations. 

Not one to simply go where everyone else does, he insists on exploring new and lesser-known areas.

Together with Epic Expeditions, he shows people parts of Pakistan that most other operators don’t even know about. He is particularly fond of the village of Barah, which he believes will become just as famous as Hunza one day.

Just got back from EBT’s Trekking Amongst Giants 15 day tour. The experience was first class. Ralph, our head guide, ensured that the entire trip ran smoothly and relatively on time (a bonus for anyone travelling in Pakistan). We had so many unforgettable days on the tour and the trekking was well-planned, safe but also a rewarding challenge. 

– Calvin

Traveling to a non-tourist destination can be a little intimidating but EBT takes all of the worry and trepidation away. From the pre-trip call to meeting the wonderful staff in person you can tell that you are dealing with a company that has a passion for what they do each and every day. Ralph, Zahid, and Khan were supportive, kind, and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that everyone on the trip was getting what they wanted out of the experience.

– Katrina 

Meet him during : Trekking Amongst Giants | Discover the Celestial Mountains | K2 Base Camp Trek

Chris Lininger 🇺🇸

Founder | Adventure Guide | Director

Since he started exploring the world, Chris has been seeking out every shade of adventure in various parts of the globe and had visited more than 70 countries along the way. 

Over the last 10 years, Chris has logged more than 7000 trail miles across five continents and climbed multiple 6000 + 7000 meter peaks in Pakistan and Nepal.

A few years back, a distant dream and a deep passion for the mountains and the people of Pakistan led Chris to co-found Epic Expeditions at a time when foreign adventure tourism in Pakistan was almost nonexistent. Since then, Chris has guided more than 20 expeditions to various parts of Northern Pakistan.

Chris believes in using photography and powerful adventure experiences to dismantle negative stereotypes regarding what mainstream media considers “dangerous” countries while facilitating unique and meaningful memories in the mountains for countless people from around the globe. 

For him, an ideal start to the day begins with a steaming cup of good coffee, the beam of a headlamp, alpine boots, and a camera in hand.

He lives in Madeira Island when not leading expeditions in far-flung lands. 

Chris also works as a writer and photographer on his blog Off the Atlas  –  an adventure travel blog all about Pakistan.   

Read this interview our staff did with Chris to learn more about him!

Chris believes in Pakistan and its people, and he believes in the value of journeys shared with others and family cultivated on the road. Honesty and integrity are at the heart of what he does, and this really shines through in his work as a guide. He also makes great coffee – whether at 5am in an empty guesthouse or half way up a Himalayan peak.”

– Will De Villers

Pakistan is a magical country!  Had 3 of the best weeks of my life thanks to Epic Backpacking Tours with owner, and one of our awesome guides, Chris. From detailed itinerary, preparation with an equipment list, and visa assistance. To amazing food, great porters, helpful guides, and great accommodations. Epic really hit home run after home run. […]

Their desire for adventure and amazing trip is just as high as yours. Bring a good pound of coffee for the trip. French press coffee every morning and no average tin coffee, plus you’ll be in your guides good books.

– Clark Tyler

• Best Hikes In The World
• Appalachian Trail
• European Hikes
• Nepal Hikes
• Patagonia Hikes
• See All Hikes
• Mount Kenya
• Mount Kilimanjaro
• Mount Toubkal
• See All Mountains
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Packing Lists

K2 Base Camp Trek – 12 Most Asked Questions (Expert Guide)

The K2 Base Camp Trek is an epic and challenging trek to the base camp of the second highest mountain in the world!

This remote and rugged trek is considered one of the greatest hikes in the world as it takes you through the dramatic terrain of the Karakoram range with unparalleled views and incredible natural formations. Below is a guide to all the most frequently asked questions about the K2 Base Camp Trek so that you can get all the information you need before embarking on your adventure!

Trekking To K2 Base Camp (12 FAQs)

When is the best time to hike the k2 base camp trek.

The best time to hike to K2 Base Camp is  between  July and August . Although, the trekking season runs from mid-June to mid-September, so it is possible to trek anytime during those months. It is not recommended to trek in early-June because the snow has not yet melted away. Thus, passes above 3,000 meters are closed until enough snow has melted away to enable hiking. Gondogoro La and many of the other passes will also close by the end of September due to the return of heavy snowfall as the seasons change.

See more on attempts at K2 Winter Ascents . 

Important Consideration

If you choose to hike towards the end of the trekking season, you also run the risk of having to cross Gondogoro La without any additional support as the Mountain Rescue Support Team are only available up until early September.

What is the weather like on the K2 Base Camp Trek? 

The weather you’ll experience on the trek depends on what time of year you choose to hike. July and August are the most popular trekking months. This is when the skies are more likely to be clear and the weather more stable. While the weather during the trekking season is generally quite good, hikers should always be prepared for anything as mountain conditions can be very unpredictable - especially in the higher reaches. You can expect strong winds, rain and snow as you hike. But hopefully you’ll experience mostly clear skies. Temperatures on the mountain range from below freezing at night to quite warm during the day. So it is advisable that you pack multiple layers of clothing that you can easily put on and remove as the temperatures change. The higher you trek, the colder it gets. Temperatures also get significantly colder as you reach the glacier so make sure you pack the right clothes to keep you warm. 

Photo by Zacharie Grossen

How long is the K2 Base Camp Trek?

Most itineraries for the K2 Base Camp Trek are between 21 and 25 days long. Though the number of days you will actually be trekking to the base camp is about 14 (weather permitting). The long itineraries generally include meeting with your hiking group and guide, sightseeing in Islamabad and Skardu, travel to the starting point at Askole , making the trek and travelling back to Islamabad. Many itineraries also include one or two extra days in case of bad weather that may cause delays or prevent trekking.

How difficult is the K2 Base Camp Trek?

The K2 Base Camp trek is long and strenuous. You should have a good level of fitness and be in good health if you are planning to take on the challenge. There isn’t a proper trail on the Baltoro Glacier , which you’ll be trekking on for a couple of days, so it is quite slow going and difficult at times due to loose scree. If your trip includes crossing the Gondogoro La, you will need to know how to use crampons and an ice axe . It is recommended that you have done some winter hiking in snow and at high altitude before taking on this trek. 

Can I trek to K2 Base Camp independently?

You cannot hike the K2 Base Camp Trek independently. All travelers must be accompanied by a licensed guide. 

Photo by Stefanos Nikologianis

How much does the K2 Base Camp Trek cost? 

The cost of the K2 Base Camp Trek varies depending on the tour operator you choose and the length of the trip you book for. 

Below is a breakdown of the trek costs according to budget, mid-level and luxury options. 

You can find budget tour operators offering the K2 Base Camp Trek for about $1500 - $2300. We don’t recommend booking through these tour operators unless you absolutely have to. The lower cost means less food and very basic amenities.

Mid-level tour operators will cost you between $2500 and $3500. You can expect a good trek with added comforts of chairs, tables, good tents, quality meals and a generator to keep everything charged. The tour operator should offer visa support and communicate all necessary information to you before your trek. You will also likely have a western guide accompanying the local Balti guides. Mid-level tour operators offer everything you need for the K2 Base Camp Trek and are worth spending the extra few hundred bucks on.

Luxury tour operators offer the most comfortable and well-planned treks to K2 Base Camp with several western guides, comfortable camping furniture, air mattresses and plenty of food. However, all these extra luxuries come at a cost as these treks could cost you anywhere between $3500 and $5000. These operators cater to the smaller, older crowd who can afford the extra costs.

What gear do I need for the K2 Base Camp Trek?

Gear that you need for the K2 Base Camp Trek can be split up into essentials, equipment, clothing and other accessories.

See more in our essential hiking gear list for multi-day treks . 

First and foremost, you will need a good quality duffel bag to keep all your clothing, boots, sleeping bag and climbing gear organized. This bag should have a capacity of about 80L but if you have a large sleeping bag, then consider getting a bigger expedition bag. We recommend The North Face Base Camp Duffel . 

During the trek, you will hike with your  daypack , so it should be big enough to fit all of your essentials in. We recommend getting a daypack with a capacity between 30L and 45L. This pack will be used to carry snacks, water, a rain jacket, extra clothing layers, sunblock, your camera and your passport. The Osprey Talon 33 is a great daypack choice. 

Hiking boots and Alpine boots

Your  hiking boots are one of the most important items on your trek so it is essential that you get a good quality pair and break them in before you embark on the K2 Base Camp Trek. For the higher sections of the trek, you will need a good pair of alpine boots . Especially if you’re crossing the Gondogoro La, as you will need to use crampons.

Sleeping Bag

It is vital to have a good quality  4-season sleeping bag so that you don’t freeze at night. A nice, warm sleeping bag will make your nights much easier as you’ll be able to sleep better in addition to being warm and comfortable. We recommend the Outdoor Vitals Summit 0 Degree Sleeping Bag .

Sleeping Pad

Tour operators should provide a  sleeping pad for you, but it will most likely be a very thin, foam mat. Unless you’ve booked a luxury trek, we recommend bringing your own if you have one so that your nights will be more comfortable. 

We highly recommend using  crampons on the K2 Base Camp Trek, especially if you are planning on tackling Gondogoro La. However, if you are trekking in August, you will not need them as the ice would have melted away. 

Microspikes

Microspikes, like the  Kahtoola MICROspikes Traction System , are cheaper than crampons and are also a suitable option for trekking on ice.

If you are crossing Gondogoro La, we recommend wearing a helmet as there is a high risk of rockfall. Melting ice can cause rocks to become loose and if one happened to fall one you it could be fatal. So better to be safe than sorry.

Harness and locking carabiner

Another item you’ll need if you’re taking on Gondogoro La is a  harness so that you can clip yourself onto the fixed rope to prevent falls. The Black Diamond Momentum Harness is a top harness choice.

Trekking poles

Trekking poles can come in handy on the K2 Base Camp Trek as the mountainous terrain is very rugged and uneven. Trekking poles will help you keep your balance as you trek and take some pressure off your knees. We recommend the  Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork  trekking poles. 

• Down jacket
• Hard shell rain jacket
• Base layer top
• Trekking shirts
• Base layer bottoms
• Lightweight hiking pants
• Hard shell trousers
• Sun hat and beanie
• Buff or balaclava
• Trekking socks (avoid cotton!)
• Synthetic underwear

Accessories/Other essential items

• Water purification tablets or water filter bottle (like the GRAYL Geopress Water Purifier Bottle )
• First Aid Kit
• A book to read
• Satellite messenger device

Is the K2 Base Camp Trek dangerous?

As with any high-altitude  trek, there are some risks when hiking to the K2 Base Camp. The camp lies at about 5,400 meters so make sure you take enough time to acclimatize during your ascent to ensure you don’t suffer the effects of altitude sickness . When walking on the glacier and the icy terrain, take your time so that you don’t slip and sprain your ankle. There is also the danger of rockfalls when crossing Gondogoro La so wearing a helmet is highly recommended.

Which route should I take for the K2 Base Camp Trek?

There are a few different routes that tour operators offer for the K2 Base Camp Trek, although most follow the easiet route that starts and finishes at Askole (avoiding Gondogoro La). This route is the most popular because it doesn’t require technical skills and offers some variability as you can decide to take a detour to the Trango Towers Base Camp or stay overnight at the Broad Peak Base Camp. If you do want to tackle Gondogoro La, it is still recommended to start at Askole as it allows for better acclimatization. This route requires some technical skill when you cross the high mountain pass. The trail then descends the other side and follow the valley until you reach the village of Hushe.

Photo by Johncanivley

Is it safe to travel to Pakistan?

The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have changed their recommendations regarding travelling to Pakistan for trekking purposes by removing their advice to avoid all but necessary travel for Skardu and Gilgit. However, they still advise against travelling on the Karakoram Highway. It is considered safe to travel within the trekking region. You can find out more about security in Pakistan from the FCO’s website .

Do I need travel insurance for the K2 Base Camp Trek?

You do need travel insurance if you are planning on hiking the K2 Base Camp Trek. Make sure you get a plan that covers any medical emergencies, repatriation and emergency helicopter rescue. You should have a minimum coverage of $200,000 and ensure that the policy covers mountaineering and high altitude trekking up to 5,600 meters. 

See more in our guide on the best hiking insurance . 

K2 Base Camp Trek vs Everest Base Camp Trek - which is the better trek? 

Wondering whether you should hike to K2 Base Camp or Everest Base Camp (EBC)? Here are some of the main differences between the two iconic treks to help you decide which one is right for you. The Everest Base Camp Trek sees tens of thousands of trekkers every year. Its popularity means that the routes are very well maintained and difficult to miss. Due to safety concerns regarding travelling in Pakistan, the K2 Base Camp Trek sees far fewer people and has only quite recently become more of a consideration for avid hikers. This also means that the K2 Base Camp Trek is much quieter and less crowded than the EBC trek. So if you want a more remote and isolated adventure, then K2 Base Camp is the trek for you. You get pristine views of the 8000ers around you from the K2 Base Camp Trek and witness the incredible convergence of glacier and rock at Concordia. The scenery along the EBC trek is also very different and varies from forests and rivers to icy rocks and alpine terrain. Meanwhile, the K2 Base Camp trek is quite dry and dusty before ascending into the rocky mountains icy glaciers. Despite being similar in elevation, the two treks are completely different and you should choose the one you think you’ll get the most out of. Maybe you’ll even have the opportunity to do both one day!

Continue browsing...

See more information on Asia . Or check out these other Asian Hiking articles:

• Hiking in India
• Guide to Climbing Everest
• Best Hikes in Nepal
• Classic Annapurna Trek
• Best Hikes in Asia

About the author 

Adie Marais

Adie is a nature and wildlife lover living in Cape Town, South Africa. Growing up, she had many opportunities to explore the outdoors by hiking, going on safaris and venturing into the karoo with her family. This led to her love of animals, the environment and discovering new places to explore.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

Very helpful and informative. Thank you. People like you are priceless

I have a question which can only be answered by people who have been to the base camp, so after Askole, you walk along side a river to Concordia, and you hardly walk on ice. And the river valley is quite wide too. So if someone has a special off-road jeep why don’t they just drive along the river to base camp instead of walking?

Thank you for such detailed and informative content. This is really helpful for us. Thank You. Keep it Up.

We work with local guides to offer great value adventures at unbeatable prices.

• All Holidays
• Cultural Tours
• Family Holidays
• Hiking Adventures
• Luxury Tours
• Trekking Holidays
• Weekend Retreats
• Pakistan Visa Help
• Covid-19 Guidelines
• Hunza Valley
• K2 Base Camp Trek
• Kalash Festival
• Nanga Parbat Trek
• Lahore Tour
• Islamabad Tour
• Peshawar Tour
• Karachi Tour
• Holiday Itineraries
• Group Tours
• Tour Calender
• All Fixed Departures
• K2 & Gondogoro La
• Four 8,000m Base Camps
• Five 8,000m Base Camps
• Gondogoro La Circuit
• Five Base Camps
• Four Base Camps
• Snow Lake Trek
• Nanga Parbat Circular
• Shimshal Pass Trek
• Batura Glacier Trek
• Rakaposhi Trek
• Patundas Hunza Trek
• Rush Lake Trek
• Gondogoro Peak (5,748m)
• Khosar Gang Peak (6,046m)
• Pastore Peak (6,209m)
• Khayrut Peak (6,402m)
• Fixed Departures
• View All Treks (100+)
• K2 (8,611m)
• Gasherbrum II (8,035m)
• Spantik (7,027m)
• Khosar Gang (6,046m)
• Minglik Sar (6,050m)
• Karakoram Range
• Himalayan Range
• Hindukush Range
• Pamir Range
• Baltoro Muztagh
• Batura Muztagh
• Hispar Muztagh
• Masherbrum Group
• Rakaposhi/Haramosh
• Saltoro Mountains
• Panmah Muztagh
• Nanga Parbat Group
• Braldu River/Valley
• Hushe & Shyok
• Naltar Valley
• Rupal Valley
• Other Locations
• Nanga Parbat (8,126m)
• Gasherbrum I (8,080m)
• Broad Peak (8,051m)
• 7,000 - 7,500m Peaks
• 7,500 - 8,000m Peaks
• 6,000 - 6,500m Peaks
• 6,500 - 7,000m Peaks
• 5,500 - 6,000m Peaks
• Rock Climbing
• Technical Difficulty: 1
• Technical Difficulty: 2
• Technical Difficulty: 3
• Technical Difficulty: 4
• Technical Difficulty: 5
• Grading Chart
• Fitness Required: A
• Fitness Required: B
• Fitness Required: C
• Fitness Required: D
• Fitness Required: E
• Alpine Style Offers
• Expedition Style Offers
• Cycle Touring
• Eco Tourism
• Motor Cycle Touring
• Mountain Passes
• Festivals of Pakistan
• K2 Winter Expedition
• Customize My Tour
• Request a Meeting
• Request a Call (Video/A)
• Download Brochure
• Guest Reviews
• Social Responsibility
• Privacy Policy
• Refund Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Use the form below to contact us directly.

Please complete all required fields.

01 Booking details

Reservation total:

Extra items total:

02 Submit tour booking

03 confirmation.

Thank you. We will get back you with regards your tour booking within 24 hours.

Traveller info

First name:

Special requirements:

Total price:

We wish you a pleasant tour your Apricot Tours Pakistan team

K2 Base Camp Trek (2024-25) – 21 days

K2 base camp trek is the most popular trekking holiday for foreign trekkers that visit Pakistan. Including the classic  K2 base camp trek , we offer the following K2 holiday options given in the table below.

Dates & Cost – K2 Base Camp Trek ( USD 1,990 )

Summers are ideal for K2 base camp trek. The start and end dates in the table below are your dates of arrival and departure from Pakistan. These months mentioned below are the ideal months for trekking in Karakoram region of Pakistan. We have at least 12 guaranteed departures every year that operate until October. Our dates and costs are noticeable below. K2 base camp trek cost/price is US$ 2,090 during July and August departures.

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE:  12 Participants

[hurrytimer id="16365"]

Pay Minimum Deposit: The deposits for the holiday are  early-bird discounts  and automatically change according to the schedule below:

Holiday Information

• What's included
• What's not included

Inclusions for both International & local trekkers 

• Implementation of government  SOPs/Guidelines  in case of new pandemic variants.
• All domestic flights (Checked Baggage Allowance: 20kg, Hand Carry: 7kg)
• All road transfers including airport transfers
• All hotel accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing room)
• All trekking accommodation in Pakistan (twin sharing dome tent)
• All camping site fees and bridge fees
• All trekking logistics (all tents, non-personal equipment and tools etc)
• All meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner) and beverages/water during meals
• Snacks including dry fruits and tea/coffee during the trek
• Free refills of boiled drinking water on the trek
• Licensed professional guide (government requirement)
• Government trekking permit fees and paperwork
• Waste management fees (government requirement)
• Islamabad and Skardu city tours including all entry fees
• Support staff (cook, assistant(s) etc)
• Porters - personal luggage (14kgs)
• Storage service for baggage in Skardu (for leaving a bag behind in Skardu before going on the trek)
• First aid medicine kit (basic)
• Satellite phone for emergencies
• Trekking map and trip achievement certificate

Exclusions for both International & local trekkers 

• Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue )
• Visa to Pakistan (five supporting documents will be offered) 
• International airfare
• Personal equipment (e.g. trekking shoes, down jacket, walking sticks etc)
• Personal mountain equipment (crampon, mountaineering boot, ice axe, harness, two carabiners, helmet etc)
• Extra nights in Islamabad (hotel check in/out is 12pm) - additional USD 67 per night
• Additional trek weight/baggage: USD 11 per kg
• Storage service for baggage in Islamabad: USD 28 per bag/piece 
• Tips/gratuities for guides, porters, staff etc
• Miscellaneous (minibar, bottled water, phone calls, laundry, souvenir etc)
• Early Windup/Return Costs (e.g. early return from trek due to any reason)
• Costs due to Force Majure (e.g. earthquake, landslide, floods, etc)

Highlights – K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 base camp trek has a lot to offer. Given below are main highlights of k2 base camp trek:

• Base Camps  of K2 and Broad Peak
• Concordia  - Throne Room of the Mountain Gods
• Trek up to  Godwin Austin glacier  via  Baltoro Glacier  (5th longest and world’s largest outside polar region)
• Gilkey  memorial
• View  8,000 m peaks  including Gasherbrum 2 (8,035 m), Broad Peak (8,051 m) and K2 (8,611 m) from Goro II, Concordia & base camps.
• Views of other  peaks between 5,000m to 8,000m  including Gasherbrum 3 and 4, Masherbrum, Mustagh Tower, Bakhordas Peak, Mitre Peak, Crystal Peak, Marbel Peak, Biale Peak, Lobsang Spire, Trango Towers, Uli Biaho, Cathedral Peak, Urdukas Peak etc.
• Views of  Glaciers  (e.g. Biafo, Vigne, Liligo, Dunge, Muztagh, Biango, Yermanendu, Mandu and more), glacial lakes, waterfalls and streams
• Indus , Panmah and Braldu rivers
• Valleys of  Skardu  and  Shigar
• Balti porter  life, Askole  jeep safari  etc
• Meet  mountaineers  at base camps
• Sightseeing in  Skardu  and  Islamabad

Itinerary – K2 Base Camp Trek

The itinerary for K2 base camp trek is noticeable below.

On this Day

GPS Data Altitude: 540 m

Our guide(s) will receive you from the airport. Soon you will be transferred to hotels. On this day, our participants can relax and recover from their long journey.

Pickup information It is very easy to spot our guide, holding orange placards with our company’s logo and your name on it. You must arrive at Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad. International flights normally arrive at midnight or in the afternoon. You must give us the details of your flights, both inbound and outbound at least five days prior to your arrival in Pakistan. Our staff/guide will receive you at the gates of international arrivals unless you are taking a connecting flight from another city of Pakistan. The guide/staff will transfer you to our partner hotel. In case you do not require airport transfer, please inform us in advance.

After lunch and some rest at the hotel (ideally if you are arriving in the morning between 9am to 12pm), our guide/representative will pickup all our guests around 6pm for briefing and remaining payments at our office followed by a dinner. If you are coming late, we will manage remaining payments and briefing in Skardu.

GPS Data Altitude: 2,498 m

Participants on this morning will take the spectacular flight from Islamabad airport to Skardu airport. You will be able to see Nanga Parbat if clouds allow. After arrival in Skardu, the day is free.

After breakfast, the participants will walk to Kharpocho fort in Skardu, which is located up on a mountain. The Kharpocho fort gives a splendid view of the Indus and Skardu town. The participants will also have an option to take a tour to Sadpara Lake followed by free shopping time in Skardu Bazaar.

During sightseeing, our staff will take care of further government documentation required in Skardu. This can sometimes take two days. We have contingency days towards the end of the trek incase of any delays.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,015 m

The participants will begin the jeep safari towards Daso, the passage will go through the Shigar valley. The journey will be followed on the sides of Braldu river which extends to Askole. Askole will be the last village on our route; the participants will start walking after leaving jeeps behind. However at times the participants may begin their walk before arrival in Askole but it depends on the road conditions. Overall it will take you between six hours to eight hours in covering the distance.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,103 m Distance: 20 km Time: 5-8 hours

After completion of necessary supplies list and equipment the porters will load up for the trek ahead to Jhola. The valley is gateway to Biafo glacier that flow over fifty kms from Hispar La to Braldu. The participants will experience the moraine walking as the snout of the glacier is crossed and they will descend to lunch spot beside the Korofon river.

The route will take us the confluence of rivers of Braldu and Domordo. The former trail is not taken for the trek and instead a newer trail will lead us to go upstream where the participants will cross the river by bridge. On the other side of the bridge the participants will descend to the edge of Braldu river and will follow the river bank to reach the camp at Jhola.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,418 m Distance: 19.8 km Time: 6-7 hours

On this day of our K2 base camp trek the participants will follow the Braldu gorge, along the bank of Braldu river. The participants will be able to view astonishing rocks of Trango Tower and Cathedral Peak. The participants should prevent themselves from possible sun burns and during this day as the walking conditions can be very dry and hot.

Several streams from glacier flow down into the valley and on the way the participants will have to use river crossing shoes depending on the water levels. The participants will be able to spot the snout of Baltoro Glacier on a clear day. On this day the participants will end their day by climbing away from the river to camp at Paiju, the last camp where you will see trees until for a while.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,418 m

The participants will spend the day at Paiju Camp for acclimatization and rest. However the porters will take their time to bake themselves bread for next week on the glacier. Acclimatization walk can also be taken towards Paiju Peak base camp on this day.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,788 m Distance: 14.7 km Time: 5-7 hours

On this day the walking will get tough however the scenery will become amazing with each step taken onto the snout of Baltoro Glacier. The trail has continuous up and down climbs on the glacial moraine, although the trail is quite safe but it is highly recommended to be careful at all times. The participants will experience the stunning views as they move ahead; the views of Trango Tower and Uli Biaho. The participants are required to go across the glacier to Liligo. From this point the participants will follow a rocky trail which is along the edge of the Baltoro or sometimes to Khoburtse, the side of the glacier where camp will be made.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,905 m Distance: 6.4 km Time: 4-6 hours

Trango Towers can be eventually seen after coming across two small glaciers. For the following night the participants will make their stop at Urdukas near the army camp. The camp is 100m above the glacier.

GPS Data Altitude: 4,285 m Distance: 11.9 km Time: 6-8 hours

On this day of our K2 base camp trek, the participants will be walking in the middle of the glacier. The medial moraine will be followed, to the south we will get the views of Masherbrum (7821m). The participants will be climbing up and down on the rocky moraine and as the participants move ahead they will walk pass massive ice seracs.

This will be the first night stay camp on Baltoro Glacier at Goro II, it is the confluence of Baltoro Glacier and Younghusband. The temperature may drop dramatically. Masherbrum and Muztagh Tower will be uncovered for the sight.

GPS Data Altitude: 4,512 m Distance: 11.7 km Time: 5-7 hours

On this day of the K2 base camp trek, the participants will reach Concordia after continuously walking up the moraine, on the way more and more high snowcapped peaks will appear, the culmination for the sighting of K2 will be experienced on this day. Other peaks that can be seen include Broad Peak, Mitre Peak, Gasherbrum, Sia Kangri and many more.

GPS Data Return time K2 BC (5,155m) + Gilkey (5,230m)+ Broad Peak (4,844m): 10-12 hours Return time Broad BC (4,844m): 6-7 hours

Today there is the opportunity to walk up the Godwin-Austen glacier to the Art Gilkey Memorial (an American geologist and mountaineer) just before K2 Base camp. This is a very long but a spectacular day. We will leave early morning, crossing the glaciers onto the faint trail heading towards K2 (there is a faint rocky trail all the way). As we follow the glacier towards K2 the mountain seems to grow bigger and bigger. Broad Peak rears up to our right and after about 3 hours we pass Broad Peak base camp (there is the option to turn back here). We usualy have our lunch break here and then those who are continuing carry on with K2 towering above us as we get closer and closer.

Just before base camp, amongst the boulder and ice strewn landscape is the Art Gilkey Memorial. A short scramble brings us to the place where those whose life K2 claimed are remembered. Plaques and engraved tin plates are attached to a small rocky outcrop at the foot of this great mountain. There are great views directly above us of K2 and we may see some climbing expeditions. After lunch, we retrace our steps back to Concordia.

GPS Data Altitude: 4,010 m Distance: 15.9 km Time: 6-7 hours

On this day of the K2 base camp trek, the participants will have to leave this camp and move back towards Goro I. The trek on this day will be quite easy and you will be descending down.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,788 m Distance: 13.8 km Time: 5-7 hours

On this day the participants will make their way to the campsite of Urdukas, they will follow the same trail down via the glacier to Goro I. They will experience great views of Trango Towers before their arrival at Khurburtse. Even though the participants will be going on the same trail, however the views on the way back will be completely different.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,418 m Distance: 14.7 km Time: 5-7 hours

The participants on this day of the K2 base camp trek will be walking down on the side of the glacier via Liligo, this will be last area where they will be shifting their trail from the moraine on the relatively stable ground. The participants will have the opportunity to find themselves in the trees after a break and enjoy their stay at Paiju camp site.

GPS Data Altitude: 3,418 m Distance: 19.8 km Time: 5-7 hours

The walking on this day will be quite easier as the participants will be following the same trail to the Bradlu gorge. However there may be some river crossings this day. The camp site will be made at Jhola.

GPS Data Altitude: 2,498 m Distance: 20 km trek + 127 km drive Time: 5-7 hours trek + 6 hours drive

On this day the participants will be back to Askole village after walking up the side of the river to the bridge.The participants will give some relaxation to their feet as they will be transferred in jeeps after lunch to Skardu.

GPS Data Altitude: 538 m

This day is allocated for any potential delays during trekking. We do not want our guests to miss their domestic flight due to delays. These delays can be caused by multiple factors including (but not limited to) road blocks. This time can be utilised for sightseeing in Skardu.

On this day the participants will take a flight from the airport in Skardu to Islamabad aiport. You will have a good time to relax at the hotel in Islamabad.

The domestic flights sometime get cancelled due to weather conditions. Incase of flight cancellation, you will drive to Chilas for overnight. It takes eight to ten hours by a vehicle.

This day is allocated for any potential delays in case the domestic flight does not operate the previous day. Our guests will depart early morning from Chilas to Islamabad which can take up to ten hours. However it will be a free day in case the participants make it to Islamabad on the domestic flight. This time can be utilized for sightseeing in Islamabad.

Meals included: Breakfast

Our staff will transfer all our guests to the airport on their respective departure timings. The checkout time of all our partner hotels is 12pm.

• Important Notes

Why Register Now?

1. Early Bird Discount: The given prices for the holiday are limited-time discount offers and are subject to change. Service providers including (but not limited) to airlines and hotels increase prices in peak-season. Early reservations cost us less than peak-season. 

2: Limited Space in Peak Months:  The peak months in the peak season attract the highest number of international guests and are therefore sold out earlier. We have restricted one group size to a maximum of 12 travelers. We are taking registrations on a "first-come, first-served" basis.

3. Limited Flight Seats:  Domestic flight seats to the Karakorams and Himalayas are sold out way ahead of time because there are only two daily flights during peak season. Among other things, the deposit is used to book domestic flights for you in advance.

4. Pay Balance after arrival in Pakistan:  We appreciate that paying the final balance for your trip may cause concern. Our policy is to only receive your final balance once you arrive in Pakistan. The only payment before arrival is the deposit.

5. Pay Minimum Deposit: The deposits for the holiday are also  early-bird discounts  and automatically change according to the late deposit schedule above. The same dates above apply to next season's deposits.

Deposit (Advance) for Pakistani nationals

The deposit for Pakistani nationals is PKR 100,000 or 30% of the total price, whichever is greater. The deposit is non-refundable.

Refund Policy for All

Deposit: Once paid, the deposit is non-refundable as it will be spent on making in-country arrangements. For Pakistan nationals, the deposit is non-refundable in all cases too.

Balance: Pay the balance only after arrival in Pakistan on the first day. Payment guidelines will be shared timely.

All international travelers can pay in US Dollars (USD) or equivalent in Euros (EUR) or Pound Sterling (GBP) . Pakistani travelers are charged the equivalent in Pakistani Rupees (PKR) .

Single Supplement

Separate hotel rooms (single supplement) will cost an  additional USD 290. This includes all hotel nights. This payment should be made with the balance upon arrival. Separate tents (single tent) will cost an additional USD 180. This includes the cost of additional porterage. This payment should also be made with the balance in Pakistan.

• Reviews & News Features

DOWNLOAD ALL DOCUMENTS ⇩

Recent Pictures

Recent Videos

Maps of Treks to K2 Base Camp

Google Map - K2 Base Camp, Concordia, Gasherbrums, Gondogoro La

Average Ratings of Our Mountain Guides

Performance

Managment of Logistics & Staff

Leadership (with guest trekkers)

Leadership (within staff/management)

General Communication with Guests

Spoken English 

Local Knowledge of Terrain

Technical Skills

Management of Rescue Services

Management of Safety on Trek

Physical Fitness

Visible Experience on Trek 

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To start your registration process, please fill out the registration form (click the green “register now and pay later” button) on this page. We will get in touch with you once you submit your form.

We can organize solo treks if your dates do not match our dates of departures or if you enjoy hiking solo (with the guide – government requirement).

Solo treks cost more than trekking in a group. However, it is important to understand that a trip to K2 is not possible without a guide and most importantly porters (even when a guest does not ask for them). Reason: According to law, guides do not carry anything. They require porters to carry tents, food supplies, equipments, gas, personal luggage etc for everyone including the porters themselves. Unlike Nepal, there are no tea-houses or any other arrangements. The supplies for 12-14 days has to be taken there.

On our fixed departures, people travel in groups but on the trail almost everyone walks alone and the guide walks behind the last person of the group. One of the assistants/porters walks in front of the group. The difference between the first and last person can go up to 1-2 hours. No one is rushed since all treks on Baltoro are very long and everyone sets his or her own pace.

We also organize treks for private groups. If you are interested to trek in a separate group with your own friends or family, please get in touch and inform us about your dates that are suitable to your group.

The cost of treks for private groups decreases as the number of people increase in a group.

It would be very reasonable to spend some time to prepare yourself before your departure. You can seek professional advice from a professional trainers or on the other hand you should follow the fundamental rules (hike, long walks and other cardio exercises that will help you build stamina) knowing the fact that your body should be healthy enough to walk for long hours, ascend for hours on rugged terrain from boulders to dirt, from snow to glacial ice.

During the trekking holiday, you will experience a variation in temperature. In Islamabad up to 45 °C in Islamabad, 30 °C in Skardu and 26 °C in Askoli. A normal day will be warms unless the clouds cover the sky, until we reach at camp at Concordia where the temperature can be as less as 10 °C or more. Towards the Gondogoro La Pass the slopes leading towards it will be snow covered until early July.

In June we might walk on the snow on higher parts of Baltoro Glacier. The snow normally melts by mid-July. Depending on the weather conditions you might experience snow fall in August and September. Karakoram Range is unpredictable when it comes to temperatures. During anytime of the trekking period temperature might fall down to -10 °C in areas between Paiju and Concordia.

Fixed Departures in the month of Septemeber can go even lower than -10 °C.  Monsoon rains do not have any effect on the Karakoram Range which makes the summers the best time providing bright skies for the trek. However based on our past experiences since the weather is unpredictable, the participants must be prepared to face any unfavorable weather conditions.

It is very common that the participants at least tip the hardworking porters for their jobs that include carrying loads of supplies and luggage. If the participants are satisfied with the services of the guide kitchen crew, assistant(s)a contribution can be made consisting 95-120 Euros (or equivalent in your currency) would cover total cost of this element. Tour guide/leader will be key in helping with the tip amount for all crew and staff members of our trek. At the conclusion a “thank you’’ ceremony will be organized for participants to handover the tips. Those porters who leave early will be tipped earlier

During this trek, all three meals including breakfast, lunch and dinner) will be served to the participants. A combination of Foreign and Pakistani meals will be included in our food plan. The ingredients for the food will be procured in Pakistan. Breakfasts will have coffee, cereal, tea, eggs, muesli/porridge, bread/chapatti included. Lunches will be consumed during lunch breaks on the trek with options include canned/tinned meals (meat, fish), pickles, crackers, chapatti, pate, cheese etc. Weather has a very important role in deciding our lunch menu for the day; the participants will begin the lunch with consuming or end it with tea or coffee, juice, soup etc.

The dinner will always be served in the mess tent and the participants will gather to eat the food freshly prepared by the cooks travelling with our group. The first few days of the trekking, fresh vegetables will be served in food as long as they are fresh and healthy. All the participants who are vegetarian, they must communicate with our office and inform us on advance basis if they need a vegetarian food plan during the trek.

During the trek, Iodized water will be available for the participants throughout the mornings, while taking breaks and camping. Everyone will be consuming spring water every time its available otherwise if we run out of options the participants may drink glacier water that possibly have silt. The kitchen containers which are very large in size are used to keep the water storage and it is also helpful in settling down the silt particles at the bottom. If any participants have any issue with odor of iodine, they may bring their own supplies of bi-carbonated soda. Traditional methods are effective and work very well for everyone there is no harm in the experimentation of new methods.

The participants on the day 1 must arrive at Islamabad International Airport, Islamabad. Our staff/guide will receive our guest at the gates of International arrivals in the airport premises. The guide/staff will escort the guest to their hotel. In case any of our guest does not require pick up from the airport he/she must inform us in advance

They must also give us the details of their flights both inbound and outbound two days prior to their arrival in Pakistan. Upon confirmation of your registration and payments, our office will send you the names and contact numbers of our office personnel.

While few nights will be spent in the capital city of Islamabad and the town of Skardu, the rest of the nights will consist of camping in tents between the magnificent mountains. The accommodation arrangement is Islamabad is of standard hotels while our hotels selected in Skardu town are among the best. Rooms at our provided hotels will be on twin sharing basis with en-suite amenities.

At the time of camping, the participants will be sharing a tent fit for two persons. If any participant is coming alone on this trek he/she will be accommodated with one of the other member for tent and room sharing. For strangers and solo trekkers, first preference will be given to same gender stays. Nevertheless, a participant can opt for separate tent of hotel rooms as he/she likes, however additional cost will be incurred for making separate arrangement. Any participants seeking separate accommodation must inform our office in advance.

During the trekking days, Our guide will wake up the participants for coffee or a warm cup of tea which we be followed by a decent breakfast inside the mess tent. There will be plenty time before the breakfast to pack the bags. After the breakfast the camps will be closed and the porters will get back to their work handling supplies and luggage ahead of the participants to reach at the lunch site and make preparation for meals. Porters will repeat the process as they will follow ‘trek earlier’ approach in order to prepare dinner for the participants. Standard trek duration before the lunch will be between 3-4 hours.

Generally one hour is required for the lunch which makes it a very good time to gain your strength back, relax, write and read etc.

Trekking after the lunch will be shorter as compared to trek before the lunch. Once you arrive at the next camp site, the camps will already be setup or in progress. Upon arrival to the camp the participants will be served a hot beverage and dinner will be served when it’s prepared. Participants can rest, read, write, socialize, film and photograph upon reaching a camp. Temperature decreases at night normally, participants can get comfortable in their sleeping bags and get a good sleep before next day.

To reach Skardu, the participants will take a flight which is subject to weather conditions as the region is surrounded by high altitude mountains and it requires a clear visibility in order to operate. Most of the times the flights operate as per schedule but there are always a chance of flight cancellation due to bad weather conditions. In that case the participants will continue their journey by road (Karakoram Highway), this will be the backup plan to reach Skardu on time as we cannot take a risk to take the flight the other day, complex airline booking for following route and high traffic flow is also a reason to continue the journey by road.

Participants must be very aware of other companieswhich offer this trek that might result in increased waiting time in hope of taking the flight; this will end up in causing you non-completion of the long-awaited trek on time.

We recommend the participants to read the necessary foreign travel information advices on their respective foreign office’s website. The travellers on EU residents can find the required information on the ‘Travel Advice’ section on the website of European Commission. Participants other than EU Nations can look up to their respective foreign office websites. Some of these websites does not allow their citizens to drive on Karakoram Highway, but most of these websites are not updated. In case of flight cancellation, kindly take note that the participants will be travelling on the Karakoram Highway then from Jaglot (Gilgit) they will be travelling on Gilgit-Skardu Road.

Travelling on Karakoram Highway is one of best experiences in Pakistan for both domestic and foreign tourist. These great highway offers one the best views and the participants will travel on this road they will find indigenous communities throughout the trip. Many of the foreign tourists have found this thrilling road trip a plus and never regretted travelling on this road. We recommend the participants must seek more information on traveling coverage from your insurance company. If your insurance company does not provide full coverage for your trekking holiday, You might want to look for other companies. For example in UK, you can consult British Mountaineering Council for good solutions.

Our professional guide will manage all the participants for the complete trekking holiday. These guides have government granted licenses which is recognized from Pakistan’s Tourism Department. During this trek our guide will be the focal person for any kind of assistance, communication, help or any kind of complaints and feedback. These guides have a background of working with foreign tourist in the past and have facilitated many of them from around the world. English is widely spoken our guides.

They are trained to have a very professional interaction with the participants, we recommend the participants to keep a very friendly relation yet professional with their respective guide. In case you are a private group with several members and a speaker of a different language like Spanish, we will try to reschedule our Spanish speaking guide (If available). Other than guide kitchen crew, assistance depending on the size of the group and porters will accompany the participants on this trekking holiday.

The porters are the locals and belong to villages around these areas and most of them are small subsistence farmers. During the trekking season they engage themselves for porter jobs while their kids take care of the farms. They are very welcoming and tourist friendly people who keep the environment healthy in these remote regions by having laughs, singing and dancing whenever they get a chance. These indigenous communities of porters and their elders have been affiliated with this industry from decades and watching the porters with such unbelievable energy is another important experience this holiday offers.

Other than your trekking holiday cost you may carry amount of 250 USD/ 240 EUR/ 1700 CNY/ 200 GBP (or equivalent amount in your local currency). This amount can be used for other expenses and tipping the supporting staff and porters. Upon arrival at the airport you can exchange your currency to Pakistani Rupee, for a good conversion you may seek help from our office.

Any tip to porters will be in Pakistani Rupees or any other shopping you want to do in Pakistan.US Dollars can be easily exchanged in most of the areas but we advise one-time exchange. For shopping in Islamabad credit cards come handy for any shopping of gifts/souvenirs or items like rugs. In Islamabad and Skardu Town Automated Teller Machines will be available to withdraw cash from credit/debit cards but you will be only able to with draw Pakistani Rupees.

All the luggage/baggage will be carried by the porters which includes equipment, supplies etc. 12.5(20 pounds) kilograms is the limit maximum for packed trekking bag. The maximum limit of load will include sleeping bag and sleep mattress. It is very important to bring only required items on the trek. Parts of your luggage can be left at the Skardu Hotel.

The maximum limit of 12.5 kilograms which is strictly followed is assigned by the organization of local porters. On this trek, the mountaineering equipment will not be included in personal baggage allowance (12.5kg). The mountaineering equipment will be collected from you in Skardu that porters will carry separately.

All our potential guests must read and know the different elevations mentioned for each trekking day above. This is a hard trek at a very high altitude. But do not worry yourself humans are gifted to become familiar to high elevations, the participants must acclimatize to our well-planned itinerary. The maximum elevations depending on your choice of trek are given below.

Gondogoro La Height/Elevation: 5,585 meters K2 base camp height/Elevation: 5,130 meters

We provide three lists for all our k2 holidays. List 1 includes must-bring items for all our K2 adventures. List 2 is only for treks that include the Gondogoro La pass. The 3rd list contains items that you may need during your trekking holiday. Based on your past experience and judgment you may select equipment or things required from 3rd list.

List 1 - Must Bring Items:

• First Aid Pack (Diamox (Altitude), Dioralite (re-hydration salts), antiseptic cream, blister treatment, throat lozenges, plasters, Imodium (diarrhea treatment), painkillers)
• Hiking Backpack (Day Pack) 32-42 Litres
• Fleece jacket with hood or a warm jumper
• Mittens or gloves
• Gloves (Thermal)
• Headtorch with spare batteries
• Hiking boots (over the ankle boots. low cut boots not recommended)
• Sleeping bag (-16°C comfort rated)
• Sandals (sports) or old shoes (to cross rivers)
• Sun protection cream (including total block for nose, lips etc.)
• Thermarest or any similar mat/pad for sleeping
• Warm jacket (down)
• Water bottles 1litre (x2)
• Waterproof jacket
• Waterproof over-trousers
• Antibacterial hand wash
• Shirts/T-shirts
• Small towel
• Spare laces
• Underwear (normal and thermal)
• Trekking poles (highly recommended)
• Wash-bag and toiletries
• Walking socks (2/3 pairs)
• Baselayer - leggings (Thermal)
• Trekking Trousers
• Baselayer thermal shirts (2 long sleeves, 2 short sleeves)

List 2 - Mountaineering Equipments (for Gondogoro Pass treks only):

• Mountaineering boots (compatible with your crampons. Minimum Grade B2. Many trekkers including the guide/porters use their hiking shoes with crampons as mountaineering boots are required on one day only. However we are not suggesting you do the same.
• Ice axe (Few people including the guide/porters don’t bring ice axe and do fine. We are not suggesting you to do the same)
• Climbing harness
• Karabiner/Carabiner (screwgate type x 2)
• Climbing helmet
• Prusik loops X two (2) - (4 meters of 6 mm cord makes up 2)
• Sling (120 cm)

List 3 - Optional:

• Buff or scarf
• Small padlock (for locking your bag)
• Insect repellant
• Pen-knife (important: pack sharp tools in hold luggage)
• Repair kit (e.g. thread, needle, duct tape)
• Liner (for sleeping bag)
• Travel clothes

Below are a few options where you can shop online for this trek.

• Gear Express
• Mountain Gear

Yes, a few equipments (e.g. crampons, mountaineering boots, harness, climbing helmet etc) can be rented and purchased in Skardu town but it is not guaranteed that you will find the right size or the right price. The few mountain equipment stores in Skardu wait all year long to sell/rent these equipments at the best price possible. These equipments are used/second-hand equipments available in the market and not always reliable. The rents for these equipments are not fixed. If we are informed in advance, we can make arrangements.

To conduct the “Fixed departures” a registration number of six (6) participants is required. We receive several guest numbers for each of our fixed departures. We believe it is important to communicate it with our potential guest.

However you can make sure of the holiday status on our website and page. Status “available” means that we are accepting further registration from our guests while “guaranteed” means we have achieved the required number of guests and the trip will start as per the given dates. We will be in touch with our registered guests constantly. The guidance will be given step by step regarding flights reservations to Pakistan and visa applications etc.

To apply for visa to Pakistan, a passport is required with at least later than 6 months. For more updated and reliable information we advise you to contact the nearest Pakistan’s Consulate in your city or country. We believe you will responsibly carry the task of ensuring right documents required for travel. If an individual is visit non-EU nations, the individual must ensure 2 vacant pages in his/her passport (travel documents) for each country you are planning to travel.

Tourist (Visit) Visa is normally required for individuals who are visiting Pakistan for trekking, foreigners already living in Pakistan on work visas require a No-Objection-Certificate (NOC) which normally takes up to 6 week time. It taken around 200 USD for visa fee but our recommendation still stays with consulting Pakistan’s High Commission or Consulate nearby. An invitation letter from us (Apricot Tours) and at times a copy of “government trekking permit” for the group is required to apply for Pakistani Visa. We will assist you in obtaining the visa by providing you the necessary documents once you register with us. The trekking permit is not compulsory to apply for visa.

A relevant doctor of health consultant should be consulted before travelling to Pakistan. You should consult the doctors for any necessary vaccination, communicate your plan and list down every prevention measures. Our guest must be secured with the approved vaccines and boosters in your country and also consider discretionary vaccine shots for example Malaria prophylaxis. Although Malaria does not exist in parts of Islamabad. Your accommodation will be in safe and clean areas. However there are reports of Malaria and Dengue cases during rainy season in hospitals in Islamabad.

Even though there a little but chances of Malaria in Skardu and other towns of Gilgit-Baltistan. Long pants, Long sleeves and mosquito repellents eliminate the chances of getting infected by Malaria but as a best practice it is better to get the relevant vaccine to avoid any of it during the trekking holiday. Consulting a dentist is also recommended before commencing the holiday in the remote mountainous region.

After the trek, all the guests who wish to extend their stay up to 4 (four) weeks or further must know that on exit from the country, a proof of vaccinations will be required if you are coming from countries (more than 12 hours transit country also included) with serious threats of transmission of yellow fever. For more information kindly visit this website , this will be very helpful in getting the relevant information.

Portable chargers, storage cards and extra batteries may be required during the trekking holiday. We advise you to make a relevant list of adapters, sockets and any other kind of electrical items you might require to keep your devices function as long as possible.

To find out the best portable battery chargers please visit this link .

We recommend and support all travel and safety of health campaigns by different countries around the world and there for strongly advice our guest to take out some time to read official travel advisory on their countries Foreign office’s website. The safety of our guest is our top most priority. We will only start the trips once we are satisfied with safety and security. We will be always in touch with the guest booked for Pakistan and have a bilateral communication.

Overview – K2 Base Camp Trek

K2 base camp trek, synonymous with Baltoro Glacier Trek and Baltoro Concordia Trek, is one of the world’s most famous mountain treks, located in Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is a challenging and demanding trek that involves trekking and hiking along Baltoro (5th longest glacier at 63km) and Godwin Austin.

K2 Base Camp trek provides one of the most unique and the most spectacular views of the northern mountains. K2 base camp trek gives you the opportunity to witness the following magnificent peaks which range from 5000 to 8000 meters: Gasherbrum 2 (8,035 m), K2 (world’s second highest peak at 8,611 m), Broad Peak, Masherbrum, Gasherbrum 3, Gasherbrum 4, Uli Biaho, Urdukas Peak, Mustagh Tower, Crystal Peak, Trango Towers, Biale Peak, Mitre Peak, Lobsang Spire, Marbel Peak, Cathedral Peak.

This collection of the mighty peaks is also referred as the “Throne Room of Mountain Gods” for its breathtaking 360, panorama view of the mountains.

Difficulty of K2 Base Camp Trek

Although considered a challenging trek, K2 base camp trek does not require any technical or mountaineering skills to cross, rather it is a high altitude walk where one goes back down from Baltoro Glacier to Concordia. The increase in altitude is incremental, and to help with the walk acclimatization is required.

The participants will walk at an average of 6 to 8 miles every day that can take between 5 to 6hours. The walking trail consists of rubble, stone, and the participants do not walk on ice.

You might also want to check out our  K2 Gondogoro La Circuit  which is a circular trek.

Tour review scores and score breakdown

Based on 29 reviews

Guest reviews are written by our customers after their tour of K2 Base Camp Trek.

Guest reviews

A very well organized trip. View from Concordia is unbelievable. It is a must go for every trekker and nature lover. Special thanks to our guide Hasan. Cheers!

I wanted to this trek since I was 17 and I was always searching for a good and affordable option. Here in the UK, the travel companies were offering at a price which I couldn’t afford. I found Aprciot Tours on instagram and contacted them. I got the reply with details within 12 hours. Every question was answered clearly. I registered myself for the trek in July 2018 half heartedly. The assisted me getting my visa. I flew to Pakistan; their rep in Islamabad was waiting for me at the Airport in Islamabad. We waited for an hour for other people. The people were from Spain and Greece. We were then transferred to the Hotel. Next day I met all the people in the hotel restaurant while having breakfast. Luckily, weather conditions were good. So, we took a flight to Skardu. From that moment on my next 20 days were EPIC. I made friends and it was an adventure of a lifetime. I highly recommend apricot tours for the k2 base camp trek.

I had a great time in Pakistan. I really enjoyed my stay in Islamabad and Northern Pakistan. Pakistan offers one of the best treks in the world. Apricot tours organized my K2 base camp trek in 2017. I had an amazing experience there. I am still in touch with my guide Rehmat. He was a good human who took care of our needs in a very remote area. For all those who are looking for an unforgettable journey in karakorams, I am recommending apricot tours.

I found Apricot Tours while looking on the internet. With so little information on websites but so many companies, I was really confused. I finally made up my mind to go with Apricot tours because of their response time and quality. To me that was satisfying because they answered exactly what I asked for. Other companies I wrote to either replied late and their communication skills were not the best. Upon reaching Pakistan, I was relieved that I had made the right decision when the company owner himself received me from the airport and took me to their office for a nice meal. The trek was perfect and I made many friends for life. I could also see the difference in equipments and hygiene during the trek. Ours was the best setup. I can say good things about Apricot tours, their guides and staff in Skardu office. They are all very friendly. Apricot = Recommended!!

We visited K2 base camp last summer. Four of us were in the group. Due to bad weather we missed our flight from Islamabad to Skardu. Although it’s a long tiring journey on the Karakoram Highway but we enjoyed every bit of it. The hotels during our stay were decent with very friendly staff. On the K2 trek I think we were availed some of the best services. Our guide Hasan was very careful in catering our needs. Sorry if we bothered him too much. I loved how at the end of the tiring day the porters had energy to sing and dance with so much joy. This trek and the company is much recommended to anyone interested. Cheers and salam

I accomplished my dream of getting to K2 Base Camp with the Apricot company in Pakistan. I must say that every penny I spent on it worth it. Providing the very best facilities in the mountains and the trekking guide and porter’s sense of humor has cemented the memory in my heart forever. Pakistan is amazing, thank you for the amazing hospitality. Long live pak-china friendship.

Walking on this trek for two weeks is an amazing experience. The K2 base camp trek is a very unique place on the face of earth. The local staffs were very helpful throughout the journey.

We get back from Islamabad in August 2016, other than the weather conditions, can not complain about services. We recommend this company.

I opted for Apricot as I was very impressed with their fast responses to my questions. I have nothing but positive things to say about my time in the beautiful country of Pakistan, given the company of Karim Hayat (our wonderful guide) as we trekked across the breathtaking landscape. Apricot staff is very trained and caring.

I never thought that this trip will turn out to be so fascinating. K2 is my second love. I also recommend Apricot company.

THE TREKKING FROM ASKOLE TO K2 IS AMAZINGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG. AMJAD GUIDER IS SUPER. THANK YOU FOR AMAZING ADVENTURE.

This was my 2nd visit to pakistan but 1st for K2 and it was very much better than my first visit to pakistan. Apricot was a team of young peoples who gets things done on time. But I and Mika are appreciate if you can be arrange a Spanish speaking guide next time for us. Also we want Gohar to be our cook for shimshal trek.

The trip was very well managed. Everything I came across was fantastic. K2 will be always a part of my life. I met some amazing likeminded people from different parts of the world who shared the common ambitions. Great memories! And I do recommend Apricot tours!

The assistance that we received for our trek with Apricot Tours staff - especially Mr. Salar and Karim – was one of the best things among many that stuck out to me about the company. They truly value and care for their customers. Apricot tours have my recommendation.

The flights from Skardu to Islamabad are operated subject to the weather condition. We were unlucky and my flight got cancelled consecutively for 02 days. We travelled through karakoram highway to skardu. It was an experience of lifetime. People were not what we expected them to be. We were welcomed warmly, the people in the mountain region have small pockets but huge hearts. The trek is very long and you have to trek for a good 6-7 hrs daily on average. I am thankful to the Islamabad manager, who was supportive and call us every night on satellite phone which is very nice and caring.

It was a trek with breathtaking views and good experiences. The company did a splendid job.

Very helpful people in Pakistan, I am extra thankful for cooperative me at the 11th hour and getting my papers and documents cleared in time. very nice experience.

k2 base camp experience was insane. Trekking over the baltoro glacier is something I will never forget. It’s an adventure of a life time. I highly recommend this trek and the company to all the mountain lovers.

July is the best month to go on this trek as there will be trekker from other countries in number. I was worried about the security situation. But, it is one of the safest places I have been. Pakistan people are very welcoming. Noor is gem of a person. He handled the cranky participants very well. Thank you

I went on this trek last year. I was constantly in touch with apricot tours before going on this trek. They have the most customer friendly staff specially Lala. I am very much satisfied with their services and I am looking forward for more adventures in Pakistan with them.

Never in my life have I ever seen so many gigantic mountains, Baltoro glacier is home to the beasts of Karakoram. It’s recommended for every trekker, this trek will change your perceptions about life. I think I have found peace in the realm of Karakoram Mountains. Lastly I was very happy with the company.

It was an amazing experience. Everything was arranged perfectly and Mr. Sheeraz has a team of champions in Skardu.

I was very confused before going on this trek. Apricot tours helped me in answering all my questions and all my concerns we were addressed professionally. The trek was awesome but waking up early for the trek was only the only bad thing on this trek. lol

We feel very lucky to be part of this group because people from 9 countries in my group. Pakistan is a beautiful country with a lot of scenic beauty. Apricottours is like family. Thank you for the cooperation sheraz san.

K2 base camp trek requires 100 percent fitness. The more fitness you have the more you will enjoy this wonderful trek. Our guide was great person and the porters on the trek never missed a moment to entertain us. Miss the view from Concordia. Thank you Apricot!

I and Anna had a good time in the mountains with the staff. Food was delicious especially chappatee in the morning for breakfast. The ride from Islamabad to Skardu was full of good experiences. We both recommend Apricot tours!

I think K2 base camp trek is the most amazing trek in the world and its one of those I will always remember in my life. On the hardest of terrains, I along Mark, Doctor and John received best of the services. Cheers!

I always dreamt of going to K2 base camp but I never believed if I could ever do this challenging trek. Thanks to apricot tours team; they helped me in achieving my dream. Best of luck guys!!

I highly recommend the company for the K2 base camp trek. I was worried since I had no experience of trekking other than the Mulhacen in Spain. It was a long journey but it was worth it. I have not seen mountains like these before. Good luck. Ciao

Forgot your password? Don't have an account yet? Sign up.

Notice: JavaScript is required for this content.

K2 Base Camp Trek

Embark on an incredible trek to the base camp of K2, the world’s second-highest mountain (8,611 meters). Experience Pakistan’s rich culture and stunning natural beauty, featuring the famous Concordia, Baltoro, and Godwin-Austen Glaciers, and Broad Peak Base Camp in the Karakoram mountains.

We offer the following K2 base camp trek options given in the table below.

Cost of K2 Base Camp Trek

Discover the best time to embark on the K2 Base Camp Trek, available from June through September, with guaranteed departures during this period. Check the table below for the latest departure dates and availability. Each trek requires a minimum of 6 participants. Plan your adventure with confidence and experience the journey of a lifetime to the majestic K2 Base Camp.

Register and book your slot for the K2 Base Camp Trek using the table below.

K2 Base Camp Trek Overview

The K2 Base Camp Trek is located in the Karakoram mountain range of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. This stunning mountain range stretches along the borders of China, India, and Pakistan, creating a unique and spectacular natural barrier. Trekking to K2 Base Camp via the Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers is considered one of the world’s greatest treks, offering breathtaking views where heaven and earth meet. K2 , the world’s second-highest mountain, stands tall and majestic, promising an unforgettable adventure.

During this trek, you’ll explore the ancient Himalayan kingdom of Baltistan and journey through the beautiful areas of Skardu, Askole, and the central Karakoram National Park to reach K2 Base Camp. This remote area is a true haven for adventurers, offering splendid views of the local landscape and the Pakistani wilderness.

Hunza Guides , a licensed company with over 30 years of experience, specializes in trekking and climbing expeditions in Pakistan. We offer customized treks to suit your preferences, ensuring a tailor-made experience for each adventurer.

The K2 Base Camp Trek typically takes up to 20 days, allowing ample time for acclimatization to the high altitude. While fit trekkers can complete the trek in a shorter period, we recommend spending sufficient time in the mountains to acclimate properly and enjoy the stunning views of the Karakoram range.

Are you ready to embrace the challenge? Join us on the K2 Base Camp Trek and Gondogoro La Trek to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Karakoram mountains. Contact us today to learn more and secure your trekking experience.

Website Updated: May 17, 2024

Day-01: islamabad and rawalpindi.

Welcome at Islamabad airport, and transfer to hotel. Afternoon proceed for city tour of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, which includes famous Faisal Mosque, Shakar Parian, Pakistan monument, Damen Koh, Lok Versa, Museum, Rawalpindi old bazaar, Raja Bazaar.

Altitude: 540 M Accommodation: Hotel Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-02: Fly from Islamabad to Skardu

Today we take the short but spectacular flight to Skardu one hour. Afternoon is free to explore Skardu town. Note : If our flight is cancelled due to bad weather, we will start the drive to Chilas via Babusar Pass 4,173 m, 461 km.

• Altitude: 2,228 M • Accommodation: Hotel • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-03: free day in skardu.

Free/preparation day in Skardu. Today we enjoy a free day in Skardu where we can visit the Bazaar and Khurpucho Fort. Note : If our flight canceled on day 2, we will spend 8-9 hours driving from Chilas to Skardu along with Indus River.

Day-04: Drive from Skardu to Askoli

Today we take the spectacular drive by jeeps to Askoli village 6-7 hours, the starting point of our trek.

• Altitude: 3,000 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-05: Trek from Askoli to Jhola

Trek to Jhola 6-7 hours 12.6 km. The early morning light finds us beginning our trek as the Loads are distributed among the porters. Walking along the Braldu River. It takes 3 to 4 hours from Askoli to Korofoung. After lunch continue trek to Jhola (3-4 hours) you have panoramic view of Bakhor Das peak 5809m) also mighty Biafo Glacier. Follow the riverside trail to the confluence of the Biafo and Dumordo rivers. Cross the formidable Domordo River at Jhola which flows from the Panmah glaciers.

• Altitude: 3,200 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-06: Trek from Jhola to Paiyu

Trek to Paiyu 6-7 hours 16.6 km. This is an undulating walk, difficult at times, with the first views of dramatic mountains ahead. There is a rest stop by some tamarisk trees beside the stream flowing down from Paiyu Peak, where we saw ibex tracks and fox spore. The trail climbs to a vantage point from which you see the snout of Baltoro Glacier and, in the far distance, a magnificent panorama of the Cathedral and Trango Towers and left of them, the unmistakable triangle of K2 .

• Altitude: 3,450 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-07: Acclimatization day in Paiyu

Free day for local exploration and Porter will prepare their food for further K2 Base Camp and Gondogoro La trek, We enjoy a slow start today taking in our stunning surroundings. We take a short acclimatization trek during the day and in the evening sing and dance with the porters.

Day-08: Trek from Paiyu to Khubertse

Trek to Khubertse 5-6 hours 10.8 km. Another stunning day on our journey to K2 Base Camp. The participants will experience the stunning views as they move ahead, The views of Paiyu Peak 6,610 m, Uli Biaho 6,417 m, Great Trango Tower 6,286m, Lobsang Spire 5,707 m and the Cathedral Towers.

• Altitude: 3,990 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-09: Trek from Khubertse to Urdukas

Trek to Urdukas 3-4 hours 5.1 km. A shorter day today as we navigate our way over the moraines to reach Urdukas camp. The participants will experience the stunning views as they move ahead, with great views of Trango Towers, Uli Biaho, baltoro cathedrals and Paiyu Peak. Cathedral Towers.

• Altitude: 4,050 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-10: Trek from Urdukas to Goro-II

Trek to Goro Camp 12.1 km, 5-6 hours. A special day today as we will be greeted by our first full view of the giant peaks of the Karakorum. Masherbrum 7821 m, Muztagh Tower 7,284 m, G-IV (7,925 m), Miter Peak 6,025 m and Biarchedi Peak 6,781 m.

• Altitude: 4,380 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day-11: Trek from Goro-II to Concordia

Trek to Concordia 9.2 km, 5-6 hours. Where the Baltoro, Abruzzi and Godwin Austen glaciers meet. The 360-degree panoramic view here is one of the most spectacular sights in the world. Concordia the joining of the five glaciers you will be in the heart great Mountain K2, 8611 m, Broad Peak 8047 m, Angel Peak 6858 m to the left and to the East Baltoro Kangri, Kondus, Snow Dome, Golden Throne and numerous nameless mountains all around this is an exciting day of your trip.

• Altitude: 4,650 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-12: Broad Peak and K2 Base Camps

Today it is golden opportunity to see 7000 m to above 8000 m peaks including mighty K2 (8611 m) Broad Peak 8047 m, Gasherbrum-IV 7925 m, Miter Peak 6025 m Golden Throne 7240 m. Afterwards we continue on to K2 Base Camp (5,135 m) and then return to Concordia for the night.

Day-13: Return Journey Begins. Concordia to Goro-1

The participants will have to leave this camp and move back towards Goro I. The trek on this day will be quite easy and you will be descending down.

• Altitude: 4,150 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-14: Trek from Goro II to Khubertse

On this day the participants will make their way to the campsite of Khubertse, they will follow the same trail down via the glacier, however the views on the way back will be completely different.

• Altitude: 3,930 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-15: Trek from Khubertse to Mongon Camp

Trek to Paiyu, after lunch contine trek to Mongon camp. The participants on this day of the K2 base camp trek will be walking down on the side of the glacier via Liligo, this will be last area where they will be shifting their trail from the moraine on the relatively stable ground. 

Day-16: Trek from Mongon to Korofung

Trek to Korofung. The walking on this day will be quite easier as the participants will be following the same trail to the Bradlu gorge. The camp site will be made at Korofung.

• Altitude: 3,100 M • Accommodation: Camping • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-17: Korofung to Skardu

Trek to askoli village 2 hours and drive back to skardu by jeeps. our participants will have time to get fresh and to take shower., day-18: fly from skardu to islamabad.

We fly back to Islamabad. Afternoon is free for exploring. Note : If our flight is cancelled due to bad weather, we will start the drive to Chilas travelling for 9 hours along with Indus River.

• Altitude: 540 M • Accommodation: Hotel • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day-19: Free day in Islamabad

Enjoy a free day in Islamabad for exploring, sightseeing and shopping. Note : If our flight on day 17 cancelled we will spend 11-12 hours driving from Chilas to Islamabad via Babusar Pass 4173 m.

Day-20: Fly Back Home

Transfer to Islamabad airport for international flight

• All domestic flights and road transfers
• All hotel accommodation (twin sharing room)
• All trekking accommodation
• All camping site and bridge fees
• All trekking logistics (all tents, non-personal equipment and tools etc)
• All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
• Licensed professional guide (government requirement)
• Government trekking permit fees and paperwork
• Waste management fees (government requirement)
• Support staff (cook, assistant(s) etc)
• Porter for personal luggage (15 kgs)
• First aid medicine kit (basic)
• Satellite phone for emergencies
• D3V sleeping tent, Toilet Tent, Shower Tent.
• International airfare and airport taxes.
• Visa fee for Pakistan and personal insurance of the clients.
• Tips for drivers, porters and staff
• Single Supplement
• Transfers to and from airports for participants making individual air arrangements
• Optional excursions or deviations from the scheduled tour
• Sleeping bag and all personal expenses such as telephone charges, liquor or soft drinks,
• Room service, gratuities for personal services, items of a purely
• Any other service that is not mentioned in the list above.

Fields marked with an * are required Our staff will be in touch via email within 24 hours once you complete the registration form below.

Select Departure Date * 04-Jun-25 to 22-Jun-25 17-Jun-25 to 06-Jul-25 20-Jun-25 to 09-Jul-25 *Sold Out* 01-Jul-25 to 20-Jul-25 02-Jul-25 to 22-Jul-25 17-Jul-25 to 05-Aug-2 02-Aug-25 to 21-Aug-25 16-Aug-25 to 04-Sep-25 * 20-Aug-24 to 08-Sep-25 01-Sep-24 to 20-Sep-24 Customized/Solo/Private

Select Gender * Female Male Other

Please contact us for any further details at [email protected]

K2 Base Camp Trek Difficulty

The K2 Base Camp Trek is a challenging adventure that demands physical fitness and mental resilience. This trek involves navigating rugged terrain, high altitudes, and unpredictable weather conditions. Trekkers can expect long days of hiking, with steep ascents and descents, and must be prepared for altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters. Prior trekking experience and acclimatization are highly recommended to tackle this demanding journey. Despite the challenges, the breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountains and the sense of accomplishment make the effort worthwhile. Prepare thoroughly to ensure a safe and rewarding experience on the K2 Base Camp Trek.

Itinerary Highlights:

Start in Islamabad: Your journey begins at Islamabad International Airport, where a Hunza Guides representative will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the city on your own. In the evening, enjoy a detailed briefing about the trek over dinner.

Fly to Skardu: The next day, fly to Skardu, enjoying spectacular views of Nanga Parbat and other Himalayan peaks. In Skardu, meet fellow hikers and your mountain guide. Explore this city, known as Little Tibet, with its unique culture, architecture, and people. Drive to Johla via Askole: After two days in Skardu, travel to Johla via Askole along the Indus and Braldu rivers. Spend your first night camping under the stars at Johla. The small village of Askole is the last human settlement before the trek. Trek to Paiju and Beyond: Begin your trek from Johla to Paiju. Covering a distance of 80 kilometers to K2 Base Camp, this challenging hike tests your endurance and adventure spirit. Along the way, experience incredible views of Paiju Peak, Trango Towers, Masherbrum, Muztagh Tower, and Gasherbrum. Reach K2 Base Camp: Each day, trek for several hours, covering 10-12 kilometers as you get closer to K2 Base Camp. On day 12, reach the base camp at 5,150 meters, surrounded by panoramic views of Broad Peak and Gasherbrum Peaks. Return Journey: After visiting Broad Peak Base Camp, Gilkey Memorial, and K2 Base Camp, retrace your steps to Concordia. Enjoy a restful night under the stars, then begin your descent back to Islamabad. Celebrate your trek’s success with your team, drive back to Skardu, and take a scenic flight back to Islamabad.

Key Points:

• Grade: Challenging
• Duration: 20 days (12 days trekking)
• Max Altitude: 5,150 meters (16,896 feet)
• Joining City: Islamabad/Skardu
• Accommodation: Hotels in Islamabad and Skardu, camping along the trek
• Meals: Full board provided throughout the trek
• Group Size: Small groups for a personalized experience
• Departure Dates: Guaranteed throughout the trekking season Start your K2 Base Camp adventure today with Hunza Guides for an unforgettable experience in the Karakoram mountains.

K2 Base Camp Trek Packing List

Prepare for an unforgettable K2 Base Camp trek with Hunza Guides Pakistan. Discover essential packing tips and gear recommendations for a safe and enjoyable adventure through the Karakoram Mountains. Click here for K2 Base Camp Trek Packing List

Additional Activities:

Extend your holiday to explore southern Pakistan, experiencing its rich culture, traditions, and historical landscapes.

Watch our K2 Base Camp Trek videos on Hunza Guides’ YouTube channel and read our TripAdvisor reviews to learn more about the trek.

You May Also Like

ARE YOU READY?

Get the best travel offers for your next vacation delivered to your inbox!

Your information will never be shared with any third party.

Atlas & Boots

The UK's most popular outdoor travel blog

K2 base camp trek: a walk among giants in the Karakoram

The K2 base camp trek is a stunning journey to the foot of a legendary mountain in the Pakistani Karakoram

The K2 base camp trek through the mighty Karakoram mountains of Pakistan is one of the world’s finest high-altitude treks. Earlier this year an opportunity arose to join Lost Horizon Tours and Treks on a trek to K2 base camp combined with a crossing of the Gondogoro La Pass.

With over 25 years of experience guiding in the mountains of Pakistan, Lost Horizons were a great partner for an expedition of this kind. After completing the Everest base camp trek earlier in the year, I couldn’t resist the chance to trek to this infamous mountain too.

At 8,611m (28,251ft), K2 is the second-highest mountain on Earth, one of just 14  eight-thousanders  and a member of the seven second summits . A mere mention of the legendary mountain is enough to make one’s blood run cold. K2 is known as the ‘Savage Mountain’ due to the extremely difficult ascent and one of the highest fatality rates among the eight-thousanders.

K2 is the only eight-thousander that has never been climbed in winter. Unpredictable avalanches mean that one in four summiteers die on its lethal slopes. K2 may be second in stature to Everest, but it demands significantly greater technical climbing skills. Known as the ‘mountaineer’s mountain’, it is often considered the ultimate challenge in high-altitude climbing.

Pakistan is open for business

The K2 base camp trek is a journey to the Himalaya less visited. Although technically a separate system, the Karakoram Range adjoins the ranges to the southeast and is loosely grouped into the ‘Greater Himalayas’ of Asia spread across Bhutan , China , India , Pakistan and Nepal .

While the mountains of Nepal continue to attract more and more visitors (over a million in 2018), Pakistan’s trekking industry flatlined during the years following 9/11.

Recently, tourist numbers have started to rise. Imran Khan highlighted tourism as one of his main objectives in his “100 day agenda” following his 2018 election victory. Initiatives have included increasing the availability of tourist visas, developing an online e-visa system , inviting the Royal Family for a state visit and recommencing direct flights to Islamabad – British Airways became the first European airline to do so in June.

The renewed drive has seen an increase, although moderate, in visitor numbers, particularly trekkers. In 2018, just 900 tourists registered to enter the Central Karakoram National Park . When we entered in early September as one of the last trekking parties of the year, that number had risen to 1,300.

Despite the increase, it’s worth remembering that over 30,000 people make the Everest base camp trek in Nepal every year. Pakistan still has a long way to go to catch up with its Himalayan neighbour. With that in mind, now is the time to visit Pakistan.

K2 base camp trek logistics

The below is the itinerary we followed, although it should be noted that all schedules come with a certain degree of flexibility. Some members of our group wanted to ensure we had ample acclimatisation so we built in three rest days.

As we were trekking late in the season we didn’t know for certain that the Gondogoro La Pass would still be traversable. Our guide used the final rest day at Ali camp as a recce day to ensure the pass was still safe to cross.

It should also be noted that distances and times vary significantly, depending on the condition of the trails and river crossings. The trails over the Baltoro Glacier are constantly changing as the ice shifts and crevasses open up.

It’s also not unusual for rivers to swell to excessive levels or even wash away bridges. We were twice delayed due to swollen rivers. On one occasion, we had to skirt around to another crossing after a bridge had washed away and, on another, we had to ford a tributary further upstream.

Enter the Karakoram

During the short flight from Islamabad to Skardu, I caught my first glimpse of the mighty mountains of Pakistan. The distinctive shape of Nanga Parbat appeared out of the window as we descended. At 8,126m (26,660ft), it is the ninth-highest mountain in the world.

Upon arrival in Skardu, we met our head guide, Waheed, at the airport and transferred to our hotel in Skardu for the night. In the morning we took a 4WD vehicle to the village of Askole, where we would begin our trek the following day. The journey was a bumpy and dusty six-hour 130km drive up the Shigar Valley, then eastwards along the Braldu River to Askole.

Atlas & BOots

Our first days in the karakoram.

Our first night under canvas was at the serviced campsite at Askole, where we met our cook and assistant guide, Abdullah, along with the rest of our team of porters and mulemen. After our first meal together in camp, we bedded down on soft grass for the last time in nearly two weeks; from now it would be rock, ice or both beneath our camping mats.

We began our K2 base camp trek in the morning beneath a fiery sun. The trail was hot and dusty once we left the green oasis of Askole. Shortly after departure, we passed through the official entrance to the Central Karakoram National Park. After a brief stop to organise our paperwork, we were on our way into the heart of the Pakistani Karakoram.

Along the Braldu Valley

The Braldu River originates from the Baltoro Glacier and flows 78km along the Braldu Valley. It would be our guiding force over the initial days of the trek as we followed its banks towards the Baltoro Glacier.

Our first day was a baptism of fire as we acclimatised not to the altitude, but to the heat. There was little shade to be found along the trail as we crisscrossed tributaries of the Braldu and Dumordo Rivers. After pausing for lunch at a pretty oasis at Korofon campsite, we pushed on deep into the afternoon to Jhola campsite.

The campground is situated beneath the peculiar peak of Bakhor Das. The 5,810m (19,061ft) summit is known locally as Mango Peak due to its distinctively shaped summit cone. That night, we experienced our first of many magical sunsets in the Karakoram as the summits shimmered in the evening alpenglow.

Moving up the Braldu Valley

The following day we continued along the Braldu Valley and it wasn’t long before we got our views of the fantastic granite rock spires of Trango Towers and Cathedral. The Trango Towers, at 6,286m (20,623ft), offer some of the world’s most difficult big wall climbing . The east face of Great Trango Tower is the world’s greatest ‘nearly vertical’ drop at 1,340m (4,396ft).

After another long and hot day, I was pleased to arrive at the shaded campsite of Paiju. Here, at 3,383m (11,099ft), we would take our first acclimatisation day of the trek.

Onto the Baltoro

After a day’s rest it was time to move onto the snout of the Baltoro Glacier and with that the temperature changed. The skies were still largely clear and the sun was hot, but moving across a moraine-strewn glacier is a different beast to following a waymarked trail. The day was frustratingly long as we lost time picking a new route over the glacier where a massive ice shift had destroyed the trodden trail used during the season.

Furthermore, at the end of the day we lost more time picking a course across a swollen river. By the time we had all crossed, nearly two hours had been lost and our feet were frozen! Fortunately, it wasn’t long until we’d pitched our camp at Khobutse opposite the striking Trango Towers.

Moving up the trail besides Trango Towers and Cathedral

The following day was a much shorter hike along the valley to the final refuge of green at Urdukas. This wonderfully positioned campsite up the slopes of the valley offers beautiful views across the glacier towards Trango Towers and Cathedral.

Moving up the glacier

On this day, we caught our first views of a 7,000m peak, quickly followed by our first 8,000m peaks. First up was Masherbrum off to our right. At 7,821m (25,659ft), Masherbrum is the 22nd highest mountain in the world and the ninth highest in Pakistan. 

Masherbrum was initially designated K1 when in 1856 Thomas George Montgomerie – a British officer working for the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India – climbed a small mountain in Kashmir and spotted two prominent peaks over 200km away in the Karakoram. He named them K1 and K2, the ‘K’ standing for Karakoram.

Moving up the glacier, our first 8,000m peaks came into view. Directly ahead stood the Gasherbrum Range, a collection of five peaks over 7,000m including two over 8,000m. At 8,035m (26,362ft) and 8,080m (26,444ft), Gasherbrum I and II are the 13th and 11th highest mountains in the world. They were initially designated K4 and K5 in keeping with Montgomerie’s naming system.

Moving up the glacier we saw our first 7,000m and 8,000m mountain

After a breathtaking but challenging day’s walk along the glacier, we arrived at Goro II camp at 4,250m. Here, our porters went to work chipping away at the ice and rock to create flat ground for tents to be pitched – an arduous task at the best of times, let alone at the end of a day’s trekking above 4,000m.

Our guide, cook, porters and mule men all hailed from Hunza, a mountainous valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. They carried 20kg plus of supplies every day. Needless to say, I can’t emphasise enough how much harder – make that impossible – this expedition would have been without the support of our team.

Where glaciers converge

After taking our second rest day of the trek at Goro II camp, we continued along the wide corridor of ice and moraine leading to the magnificent mountain amphitheatre that is Concordia.

Early in the day, the 1.5km summit ridge of Broad Peak breached the horizon. Part of the same massif as the Gasherbrums, Broad Peak at 8,051m (26,414ft) is the 12th highest mountain in the world.

Shortly afterwards, the mountain we’d all come to see emerged into sight. After eight days of trekking, we finally got our first view of the ‘Savage Mountain’. Still over 12km away, K2 rises above the surrounding mountains, its towering presence utterly overwhelming. It has a grace and symmetry that in my mind, makes it the most striking of the 14 eight-thousanders.

By mid-afternoon we arrived at Concordia beneath cobalt skies and the glinting goliaths of the mountaineering world. Located at the confluence of the Baltoro and Godwin-Austen glaciers at around 4,600m (15,091ft), Concordia is one of the few places in the world where you can see four 8,000m peaks: K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II.

The huge rocky arena, where the colossal pyramidal peak of K2 stands sentry, makes Europe’s ranges look Lilliputian in comparison. K2 is flanked by five of the 17 highest mountains in the world. In fact, the massif is home to the world’s densest constellation of sky-scraping mountains – even more than the Everest massif in Nepal.

That evening, the surrounding mountains glowed warm in the evening light. Whether guide, porter or client, and despite the crisp chill in the mountain air, everyone in our group stood outside for hours that evening, soaking up the spectacle. We were all aware we stood in the presence of one of nature’s most glorious wonders.

K2 base camp

Back to the task at hand we were up early on day nine with a long footslog before us – K2 base camp was a challenging 12km hike up the Godwin-Austen Glacier. The first part of the morning was spent negotiating the ice field directly beside our camp. Numerous crevasses and glacial streams had to be crossed before we could get into our stride.

Some groups choose to camp overnight at either K2 base camp or Broad Peak base camp, which is also en route. We were keen to move on the following day towards the Gondgoro La pass so decided to complete the round trip in a single day.

The morning was overcast with K2 shrouded in thick cloud. As we moved up the glacier, the skies around us began to clear, but K2 remained stubbornly obscured. I was out ahead with another member of my team when we paused at Broad Peak base camp to speak to another group. I was surprised to hear that we were still over two hours from K2.

The mountain looms large above its surroundings, making distances deceiving. We’d been hiking for hours, but when looking ahead to K2 I could hardly tell if I was any closer. It was a disheartening feeling, but at least the clouds were beginning to clear.

Finally, after nearly five hours of hiking, I arrived at the rock pile identifying the site of K2 base camp. Unlike at Everest base camp, there were no greeting signs and no sea of tents. It was late in the season and no one climbs this mountain in September.

Legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner described K2 as “the mountain of mountains” after completing the fourth ascent of the peak in 1979. “It is the most beautiful of all the high peaks,” he continued. “An artist has made this mountain.”

I can’t think of a more befitting description. The skies cleared enough to allow unobstructed views of the mountain between billows of white cloud. Above me rose the huge mass of K2, over two vertical miles of sinister rock and ice. I stood there gaping, as if paralysed, humbled before the mountain.

It was late in the afternoon and time to get back to Concordia. Descending along the same route, crunching down the glacier, took a third of the time it had taken earlier. Despite the faster descent, it was twilight by the time I made it back into camp, exhausted, but buoyed by an astonishing day’s hiking.

More scenes from the long hike from Concordia to K2 and back again

Over the gondogoro la pass.

The following morning we had a late breakfast before pushing on to Ali camp, located along the Vigne Glacier to the south of K2. The hike was longer than expected, particularly as we were all tired from the previous day’s exertions.

We made it into camp late afternoon and were pleased to discover we would no longer be sleeping on the glacier. Instead, we moved off the ice onto the rocks at the edge of the glacier. Here, we enjoyed our third and final rest day in preparation for crossing the Gondogoro La Pass.

Moving from Concordia to Ali camp

We were up at 10pm that night and headed off using our head torches to light the way to the base of the Gondogoro La Pass. Here, we strapped on crampons and grabbed our ice axes. Our guide had used the previous day for a recce and had fixed the initial ropes for us to use.

Once we had moved up the first set of ropes, I helped Abdullah fix the next set as the terrain began to steepen. As the only member of our group with some mountaineering experience, I was only too happy to lead some sections and help with the rope fixing.

In the throne room of the mountain gods: crossing the Gondogoro La Pass

By around 5am, the sun was coming up and the surrounding peaks were bathed in light. As I was leading, I often found myself alone near the top of the pass. At times, I felt like the only man on the mountain.

To the northeast, all the eight-thousanders could be seen as well as innumerable other peaks and ridges. It was the most breathtaking mountain scenery I’ve seen. It was here that photographer and climber Galen Rowell found the title for his book and classic of mountaineering literature In the Throne Room of the Mountain Gods .

Finally, in early morning, we reached the zenith of the Gondogoro La Pass and looked out to the northeast along the striking Hushe Valley. The steep descent into Hushe Valley was a challenge to say the least! Ropes were available in places to help, but the terrain was often loose scree, which made it laboriously slow going.

Finally, after 15 hours of hiking I arrived in Khuispan camp, located beneath the needlepoint summit of Laila Peak. At 6,096m (20,000ft), Laila Peak is one of the most beautiful mountains in the world . That night, we slept soundly upon soft ground and surrounded by the first greenery we’d seen in over a week.

The final two days of our trek were largely uneventful. After a short jaunt across the snout of a glacier, we joined a trail again and followed a route beside the Gondogoro Glacier southwards. As we were now off the glacier and rapidly dropping altitude, we quickly warmed up and were once again in shirtsleeves and light trousers.

Saicho campsite was our final stop of the trek where we camped within a small copse with a stream running through it. Our last day was a short and sweet march to the village of Hushe where we met a pair of 4WD vehicles for another bumpy ride back to Skardu.

Why the K2 base camp trek is so special

The K2 base camp trek is incomparable to trekking in Nepal. It is a tough slog to one of the most remote regions of the Greater Himalayas. Gone are the crowds and comforts of Nepal. Gone are the villages, teahouses and monasteries – even the trails are missing in sections.

Instead, the Karakoram mountains of Pakistan offer an alternative view of the highest peaks on Earth. Trekkers will find they have large amounts of time, and trail, entirely to themselves.

The K2 base camp trek, combined with the crossing of Gondogoro La Pass, traverses some of the most stunning scenery on the planet, the most humbling of which is located at Concordia where the world’s most majestic coliseum of high peaks is guarded by the crown of the Karakoram: K2.

One of those sights which impress a man forever

I’ve read reams of literature on K2 over the years, but one quote from the splendidly named British explorer Francis Younghusband stands out. When Younghusband first laid eyes upon K2, he marvelled:

“It was one of those sights which impress a man forever, and produce a permanent effect upon the mind – a lasting sense of the greatness and grandeur of nature’s works – which he can never lose or forget.”

K2 is indeed one of those sights . My K2 base camp trek was filled with many of those sights . Sights that impress forever and will never be forgotten.

K2 base camp trek: the essentials

What: K2 base camp trek and crossing the Gondogoro La Pass in the Karakoram mountains, Pakistan.

Where: Before the trek I had a night in Rawalpindi where I stayed at the Grace Crown Hotel . In Skardu , our group stayed at Indus Motel . A night in Rawalpindi and a night either end of the trek in Skardu are included as part of the itinerary.

During the trek, all 14 nights are camping in two-man tents provided by Lost Horizon. Campsites are usually on rocky ground, but once onto the Baltoro Glacier you’ll likely be camping on ice until Ali camp, so make sure you pack a thick, warm camping mat or mattress.

Our team of porters, cooks and guides was outstanding

Some of the campsites have simple drop-toilet facilities, but trekkers should plan for doing their business in the wild most of the time. Please do your utmost to leave no trace in the process. Urdukas is the only campsite with running water, albeit cold.

Upon return to Islamabad, I checked into the Ramada Islamabad for a touch of post-trek comfort. If you really fancy being looked after, then the Islamabad Marriott is an excellent choice surpassed only by the extravagant Serena .

When: The best time for the K2 base camp trek is from mid-June to mid-September with July and August being the optimum months. Before then, trekking is still possible, but until mid-June, excessive snow remains on passes and north-facing slopes, keeping any passes higher than 3,000m closed.

Most passes, including the Gondogoro La, are closed by the end of September when heavy snow returns. The mountain rescue support team near Gondogoro La depart in early September, so trekkers (as we did) will have to cross the pass unsupported after this time.

How: I joined Lost Horizon Treks and Tours on a Gondogoro La and K2 base camp trek. Lost Horizons is co-owned by Gilgit local Abdul Bari and Canadian Justin Stirrett. They have over 25 years of experience guiding in the region and offer a number of different trekking options. Head guide and Abdul Bari’s brother, Waheed, was our guide for the trek.

Prices start from around $2,000 USD, depending on dates and itinerary, for a round trip from Islamabad. The price includes all accommodation, all meals on the trek, an English-speaking local guide and assistants throughout the trek, porters to carry equipment between camps, the entrance fee to Central Karakoram National Park and all transport between destinations. Allow an extra $200 USD per person for tips.

Travelling from Islamabad to Skardu can be done via an overnight drive (included) or by a short flight which saves a day of driving on either side of the trek. If trekkers choose the flight option then budget an additional $150 USD each way.

Trekkers do not necessarily need mountaineering skills to cross the Gondogoro La, but experience using crampons and an ice axe will be of great help.

For more information or to book, contact Lost Horizons on +92 5811 455017 or +92 5811 457974. Alternatively, email on  [email protected] .

Another option is to join a 21-day trek with Epic Expeditions . I joined them in Tajikistan and would recommend their approach to trekking in the remote regions of Central and South Asia.

I flew to Islamabad in Pakistan directly from the UK with British Airways . Book via Skyscanner for the best prices.

Enjoyed this post? pin it for later…

Currently, there are very few up-to-date Pakistan guidebooks available. Therefore, we recommend the waterproof 1:175,000 Karakoram Trekking Map by TerraQuest for the K2 base camp trek.

You might also like:

About the author

Dates & Prices

Activity level, accommodations, pakistan concordia & k2 base camp trekking private adventure tour, extreme adventure from islamabad to the karakoram range.

Straddling the border between Pakistan and China, K2 stands at 28,251 feet, making it the second tallest mountain in the world. Looming over the western Himalayas in the Karakoram Range, it has been described as a formidable peak of ice, rock and sky - rising up to touch the heavens. Join legendary mountain guide Sergio Fitch Watkins on a trek to K2 Base Camp at 16,732 feet (weather permitting), for views coveted by trekkers around the world. Begin your journey in Islamabad, exploring ancient mosques and markets before embarking on this rewarding challenge of a lifetime. Hike remote mountain terrain and rocky moraines of the Baltoro Glacier into the arena of 26,000-foot peaks at Concordia, up to where the mountains begin to sing. Join us on this epic sky-high trek!

21 Days • 20 Nights

• Available: June, July, August, September
• Activity: Level 5
• Accommodations: Comfortable Camping, Comfortable Hotels
• --> --> Group Size: --> -->