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An Active Cultural Journey in the Karakoram with Paul Amstutz

Pakistan: Hiking the Hunza Valley

Pakistan

17 Days

From $9,195

Level 3+

Moderate

Overview

    Book Online Download Itinerary

    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Overview

    Northern Pakistan's vast northern realm, Gilgit-Baltistan, is home to three major mountain ranges—the Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Hindu Kush. Nestled here among soaring Karakoram peaks is the legendary Hunza Valley, home to Rakaposhi (25,551'), one of the highest mountains in the world, along with traditional villages, iconic forts, a historic mosque, Buddhist archaeological sites, and some of the most welcoming people in the world. We'll hike the best trails, visit local homes, and watch a spectacular Karakoram sunset at 10,000 feet. Before we explore Hunza, we'll spend a few days enjoying the peaceful Balti village of Khaplu, set in a sublime setting reminiscent of the Tibetan Plateau.

    Arrive: Islamabad, Pakistan

    Depart: Islamabad, Pakistan

    Highlights

    • Enjoy spectacular views of Rakaposhi (25,551'), star of the Hunza Valley skyline
    • Meet the friendly people of Hunza in their mountain villages
    • Visit the fairytale castle of Baltit, a Hunza landmark
    • Hike trails below Rakaposhi Base Camp and up to Hunza's high glaciers
    • Explore the traditional Balti village of Khaplu on the Shyok River
    • Travel the Karakoram Highway linking northern Pakistan and China
    • Stay in comfortable hotels and guest houses with history and character—no camping!

    Overview

      Book Online Download Itinerary

      Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

      Itinerary

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      A scenic mountain flight brings us from Islamabad to the remote city of Skardu. On arrival, we drive to Khaplu, a traditional Balti village flanked by apricot and apple orchards. We’ll explore the village and hike to a vantage point to see the ruins of a castle owned by Khaplu’s former royal family. Our accommodation here is a 19th century fortress-palace now converted into a boutique hotel.
      A drive on the famed Karakoram Highway brings us to the mountain town of Gilgit. Here we can hike in the Kargah Valley to see its 7th century Buddhist monuments and visit small villages.
      The little village of Minapin in the former princely state of Nagar is famous for its idyllic setting—right at the base of two of the Karakoram's most beautiful mountains, Rakaposhi (25,551') and Diran (25,518'). From here, we hike the Rakaposhi Base Camp trail to Hapakuin Meadow (9,675') and back along a bubbling stream.
      In the renowned Hunza Valley, we visit the Baltit Fort, former residence of the hereditary Mir (king) of Hunza, with its commanding position overlooking the valley. We'll hike along Hunza's hand-carved water channels, and from the high village of Passu, set out for dramatic hikes to view the Passu Glacier and 30-mile-long Batura Glacier. We'll also walk on one of Hunza's famous hanging bridges. After overnights in Gilgit and Skardu, we fly back to Islamabad on Day 15 and depart on Day 17.

      Dates & Pricing

      Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

      Payment & Cancel Schedule

      $600 due at time of reservation
      90 days prior to departure: Balance

      Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

      Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!
      61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost
      46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
      45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

      Included
      • Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
      • Accommodations in hotels, lodges, and forts
      • All meals
      • A glass of wine or beer with dinner
      • All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
      • All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      Not Included
      • Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
      • Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
      • Optional travel insurance
      • Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
      • Visa fees

      Accommodations

      Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

      Islamabad Serena

      Islamabad, Pakistan

      Day 1 (1 night)

      The Islamabad Serena, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, is tucked into a peaceful, 14-acre garden setting between the Margalla Hills and Rawal Lake, framed by Islamic architecture and al fresco terraces and pavilions. The hotel has five restaurants, from casual to fine dining, and the Maisha...

      Serena Khaplu Palace

      Khaplu, Pakistan

      Days 2-3 (2 nights)

      Located in the charming village of Khaplu, the Serena Khaplu Palace is a unique heritage hotel created by the restoration of Khaplu's 19th century Raja Palace. There are 21 guest rooms, each one a bit different and decorated with local fabrics and artifacts. The property has beautiful gardens with fruit...

      Gilgit Serena Hotel

      Gilgit, Pakistan

      Days 4-5 (2 nights)

      With spacious gardens and stunning views of Rakaposhi, the Gilgit Serena Hotel is a delightful retreat. The restaurant serves Pakistani, Continental, and Chinese cuisine as well as authentic local specialties, The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of choices, including fresh-off-the-tree apricots, cherries, mulberries, and strawberries (in season) from the...

      Dumani Nagar Hotel and Resort

      Nagar Valley, Pakistan

      Days 6-7 (2 nights)

      Nestled in the Hunza Valley with magnificent views of Rakaposhi stands the wonderful mountain lodge of Dumani Nagar Hotel and Resort. Guest rooms are spacious and comfortable, with small sitting areas, closets, tiled bathrooms, and private balconies featuring impressive woodwork. The hotel has a hearty breakfast buffet and there...

      Serena Altit Fort Residence

      Altit, Pakistan

      Days 8-9 (2 nights)

      Set at the foot of the 1,100-year-old Altit Fort, the Residence features 16 well-appointed guest rooms built using traditional construction techniques and natural materials such as stone, wood, and limestone instead of concrete. The common areas are appointed with heritage artifacts from the Mir of Hunza's family, and the restaurant...

      Hotel Eagle's Nest

      Duiker, Pakistan

      Day 10 (1 night)

      Family-run since 1994, when it was founded as a campsite, the Eagle's Nest is a half-hour drive from the main Hunza Valley in a high mountain location famous for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views of Rakaposhi. The hotel has 30 simple rooms, 2 restaurants, an open terrace, a fruit...

      Silk Route Lodge

      Gulmit, Pakistan

      Days 11-12 (2 nights)

      With its exceptionally friendly and welcoming staff, the 22-room Silk Route Lodge truly feels like a home away from home. Comfortable guest rooms have views of either the mountains or garden, and the restaurant serves food fresh from their farm and orchard.

      Gilgit Serena Hotel

      Gilgit, Pakistan

      Day 13 (1 night)

      With spacious gardens and stunning views of Rakaposhi, the Gilgit Serena Hotel is a delightful retreat. The restaurant serves Pakistani, Continental, and Chinese cuisine as well as authentic local specialties, The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of choices, including fresh-off-the-tree apricots, cherries, mulberries, and strawberries (in season) from the...

      Shangrila Resort

      Skardu, Pakistan

      Day 14 (1 night)

      The lakeside Shangrila Resort, opened in 1983, was the first-ever resort hotel established for tourism in Baltistan. Guest rooms are clean and comfortable and there are magnificent gardens as well as mountain views.

      Islamabad Serena

      Islamabad, Pakistan

      Days 15-16 (2 nights)

      The Islamabad Serena, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, is tucked into a peaceful, 14-acre garden setting between the Margalla Hills and Rawal Lake, framed by Islamic architecture and al fresco terraces and pavilions. The hotel has five restaurants, from casual to fine dining, and the Maisha...

      Trip Leaders

      Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

      Paul Amstutz

      View Profile

      What the Trip is Like

      This trip is rated a Level 3+, Moderate, according to our trip rating system. You will need to be comfortable hiking 6-7 hours a day on uneven surfaces. Day hikes and cultural exploration are our focus of the trip, with alternative or abridged hiking options available on many days. Much of the trip takes place at higher altitudes, with a maximum of roughly 10,000 feet. Trail conditions, weather, and the group’s level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing.

      Average Hiking Day
      • 5 miles
      • 4 hours
      • 1,100' ascent/descent
      • Altitudes range 7,000-10,000 feet

      Challenge Days
      • Day 7: 3.5 miles, 6-7 hours, 3,100' ascent/descent
      • Day 11: 6.5 miles, 3 hours, 2,200' ascent/descent
      Review Trip Level Details
      At lower elevations, the trails are usually packed dirt, but at higher elevations, they are often much rockier, with occasional sections of rock and loose scree. For the most part, you can hike at your own speed, and on the most challenging days we may offer shortened options for those who wish to turn back early.
      We strongly urge you to train for your trip, as your enjoyment will be highly dependent on your level of fitness. The best training for a hike is to hike, especially over hills or rough terrain. Next best are running, swimming, bicycling, or other cardiovascular exercises. Stair-climbing machines are excellent preparation for hiking uphill. Your feet should also be well prepared—make sure your hiking boots are sturdy, comfortable, and thoroughly broken-in. Some people experience a few problems when they first reach high altitude—slight headaches and sleeplessness are the most common symptoms.
      Considering that most of Hunza is mountainous terrain above 6,500 feet in altitude, the climate is very mild. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Hunza, with spring offering the bloom of apple and apricot orchards and autumn bringing vibrant tones of orange, red, and yellow to the trees, making it one of the most picturesque times of year. Hunza’s climate is a great contrast to the rest of Pakistan, which can be very hot between spring and fall.
      The hotels we use on this trip are the best available accommodations. They have comfortable rooms with en suite bathrooms. Many hotels on this trip are operated by Serena, a chain known for its quality service. In addition, Serena hotels are under the umbrella of the Aga Khan Foundation for Economic Development (AKFED), with profits from hotels and other commercial entities going to hundreds of schools, health centers, and hospitals in Africa, Asia, and Central Asia. Our accommodation in Khaplu is a historic fortress carefully restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), with hotel profits given to local community organizations.
      Hunza’s cuisine is simple and fresh and includes such specialties as gyaling, a round, stretchy wheat bread served in a stack and typically dipped in apricot oil or butter from local cows. Chapsuro is a pie filled with minced beef or mutton, onions, and spices such as coriander, chilies, and tomatoes. Hunza’s ghilmindi dish is a kind of tortilla with cheese-yogurt filling, and local wheat chapatis are often served stuffed with cheese and spices. Our hotels will also serve a range of continental cuisine. Pakistan’s cuisine in general is similar to that of India.
      We travel in Toyota Land Cruisers in the Hunza Valley, which work well on rough mountain roads as well as the paved highways we cross throughout the higher elevation. Our vehicles will transport the group’s luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need during the day (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). Trip members are always free to skip a day’s hike and travel to the next destination in the support vehicle (or remain at the hotel if we are not transferring that day).

      Book your trip today

      Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

      Itinerary

      Submit the form below to download itinerary

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      Trip Levels

      With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

      Level 1 – Easiest

      Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

      Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

      Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

       

      Level 3 – Moderate

      Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

      Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

       

      Level 5 – Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

      Level 6 – Very Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

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We gather for a trip orientation and Welcome Dinner at the hotel this evening. <br><br>Should you wish to arrive in\nIslamabad early to rest up from jet lag and enjoy the city, we are happy to book extra hotel nights for you at our group hotel (an &#8220;on your own&#8221; expense).","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Fly to Skardu \/ Khaplu \/ Khaplu Fort","ActivityOverview":"Flying Time:","EstimatedLength":"1 hour","ActivityLevel":"Driving Time:","ItinBlock":"One of the most scenic mountain flights in the world brings us to the remote city of Skardu (8,202') in Baltistan, the northernmost province of Pakistan. On a cloud-free day, passengers on this flight are treated to views of some of the highest mountains in the world, including Nanga Parbat, (26,660') Rakaposhi (25,551'), and K2 (28,251'), the second highest peak in the world, all towering above other summits of the Karakoram and Hindu Kush. Skardu is set in a valley where the Indus and Shigar rivers converge in a vast and arid setting reminiscent of the Tibetan Plateau. We board our vehicles here for a drive along the Shyok River to the peaceful village of Khaplu (8,727'). Our hotel in\nKhaplu is the Serena Khaplu Palace, a 19th century fortress-palace now converted into a boutique hotel, with restoration work done by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC). With its blend of Tibetan, Balti, and Mughal styles, the fortress-palace is an architectural heritage site. Historically,\nKhaplu was a small kingdom ruled until relatively recently by a hereditary Raja. The kingdom was well known in the 17th and 18th centuries for its close family ties with the royal family of Ladakh.<br><strong><br>Internal Flight Note:<\/strong> This mountain flight operates regularly but there is a small chance it could be canceled if there is poor weather in Skardu. In that case, we will drive to Gilgit, with an overnight en route, skipping the Skardu portion of the trip to make the most of our time in Hunza.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"3 hours","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Explore Khaplu \/ Chaqchan Mosque","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"4 miles, 2 hours, 650' ascent \/ descent","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Set on the banks of the turquoise Shyok River and flanked by apricot and apple orchards, the sleepy village of Khaplu is a true mountain oasis. Today we&rsquo;ll explore the village and visit the 700-year-old Chaqchan Mosque, a quaint wooden building dating to the era when Islam arrived in Baltistan from Kashmir, supplanting the previous Tibetan Buddhist faith from neighboring Ladakh. Later we&rsquo;ll hike up to a high vantage point to see the ruins of a castle once owned by Khaplu&rsquo;s royal family. After lunch, we hike back to the village along a hand-dug water channel. 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After checking into our hotel, we&rsquo;ll stretch our legs on a walk to a juniper forest on the outskirts of the city.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Hike to the Kargah Buddha","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"7.5 miles, 4-5 hours, 650' ascent \/ descent","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Starting right from our hotel, we&rsquo;ll hike into the Kargah Valley on a path along a water channel. Historically, this valley was a center for Tibetan Buddhism and traces of Buddhist monuments are scattered throughout it, including the Kargah Buddha, a carved image of a standing Buddha some 50 feet high and thought to date to the 7th century. 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Rakaposhi, with its sheer 16,400-foot rise from base to summit, is a stunning sight here. After checking in at the Diran Resort Hotel, we&rsquo;ll have lunch, explore the village, meet some of its residents, and enjoy the marvelous mountain vistas. Before dinner, we&rsquo;ll have an introduction to the fascinating history of Nagar and Hunza, two former princely states.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"2 hours","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Rakaposhi Base Camp Hike \/ Hapakuin Meadows","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"7.5 miles, 5-7 hours, 2,000' ascent \/ descent (can be shortened)","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Today we make a day-long hike from Minapin, right at the base of two of the Karakoram&rsquo;s most beautiful mountains, Rakaposhi (25,551') and Diran (25,518'). We follow the trail that eventually leads to Rakaposhi Base Camp, but our destination is Hapakuin Meadows (9,200'). The trail is steep and follows a mountain stream that bubbles down from the Rakaposhi and Diran glaciers. We&rsquo;ll start around 8:00am won&rsquo;t return until the late afternoon, with a packed lunch en route. The hike is steep compared to our previous walks, but we will have staff with us who can accompany any trip member back to our hotel if they don&rsquo;t want to hike all the way to Hapakuin.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Hunza Valley","ActivityOverview":"Driving Time:","EstimatedLength":"1.5 hours","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Today we head into the renowned Hunza Valley, as fascinating culturally as it is scenically. We&rsquo;ll check into our hotel, the Serena Altit Fort Residence in the town of Karimabad (8,200'), Hunza&rsquo;s &#8220;capital.&#8221; After a visit to the Altit Fort and the Baltit bazaar, we&rsquo;ll be welcomed into a local home for lunch. Later we&rsquo;ll explore the Karimabad bazaar, the place to buy traditional embroidered caps, handmade carpets, and handwoven shawls as well as items made with semi-precious gemstones. Not until the 1970s, when the modern Karakoram Highway was created, was access to Hunza&rsquo;s valleys by car even possible, and Upper Hunza was until as recently as 1974 ruled by its hereditary Mir (king). The Mirs of Hunza were a powerful dynasty that ruled for over 700 years, with Baltit Fort as their royal residence. The fort was abandoned in 1945, restored in the 1980s by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) and turned into a museum in 1996. It has a commanding position on a hilltop overlooking the valley, with stunning views from the terrace at the top.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":9,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"Water Channel Walk \/ Hunza Valley","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"7 miles, 4-5 hours, minimal ascent \/ descent","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We head out for one of the most scenic walks of the trip today, starting near the Baltit Fort and walking along the Barber Water Channel, built to carry water down from the Ultar Glacier. We&rsquo;ll take one of the uppermost water channels for our walk, moving from east to west and crossing through three villages. As we walk, we&rsquo;ll savor views over the magnificent Hunza and Nagar valleys, with a picnic lunch en route. Many of Hunza&rsquo;s water channels were built centuries ago, hand-cut through the sheer rocky cliffs and mountain slopes to catch the abundant water that flows down from Hunza&rsquo;s glaciers and snow-covered peaks. Without these channels, Hunza would be a high mountain desert because of the absence of rainfall. The walk is mostly on a flat path accessible by vehicle, so anyone who wishes to shorten the walk can be taken back to our hotel.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":10,"Headline":"Upper Hunza \/ Eagle&apos;s Nest to Alti Sat","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"1 mile, 2.5 hours, 700' ascent \/ descent","ActivityLevel":"Driving Time:","ItinBlock":"Heading up the Karakoram Highway, we drive to Duiker (9,186'), one of the highest villages in Hunza, and check in to our hotel, the Hotel Eagle&rsquo;s Nest, which has spectacular views over the whole valley. We&rsquo;ll start our hike from here, following a trail up to Alti Sat (10,000') for dramatic Karakoram panoramas, with a picnic lunch en route. At dinner tonight, we&rsquo;ll be able to watch one of the most beautiful sunsets imaginable from our hotel. The sunset-viewing ridge is known as Noor-e-Toq (&#8220;The Ridge of Light&#8221;).","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"1 hour","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":11,"DayTo":11,"Headline":"Upper Hunza \/ Borith Lake \/ Passu Glacier \/ Passu","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"6.5 miles, 3 hours, 2,200' ascent \/ descent","ActivityLevel":"Driving Time:","ItinBlock":"Further up the valley on the Karakoram Highway, we reach Borith Lake, a serene saline lake formed by the seeping water of glacial moraines. With a packed lunch, we hike from the lake up to the Passu Glacier (8,530'), where we are rewarded with incredible Karakoram grandeur that includes the towering ice peak of Shishper (24,970') and the 10-mile-long Ghulking Glacier to the northwest. After our hike, we&rsquo;ll walk back along the KKH to a small restaurant to freshen up before driving to our hotel, the Silk Route Lodge in the village of Gulmit.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"1 hour","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":12,"DayTo":12,"Headline":"Yunz Valley \/ Batura Glacier","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"5 miles, 5 hours, 900'-1,400' ascent \/ descent (depending on hiking option)","ActivityLevel":"Driving Details:","ItinBlock":"We&rsquo;ll start this thrilling hike right from our hotel as we head up to the new village of Janabad, then along the moraine of the Batura Glacier. We continue higher up to the Yunz Valley and the shepherds&rsquo; hut at Yunzben, where we enjoy breathtaking views along the 35-mile-long Batura Glacier, flanked by massive Karakoram giants. It is one of the longest glaciers outside the Polar Regions. The hike is strenuous, but worthwhile for the views. Those who want a challenge can continue the hike higher up, and those who want an easier day can shorten the hike to return to the hotel with one of our support staff and enjoy time to visit the friendly people and kids of the village of Janabad.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"1.5 hours","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":13,"DayTo":13,"Headline":"Hunza Suspension Bridge \/ Attabad Lake Boat Ride \/ Gilgit","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"9.5 miles, 6 hours, minimal ascent \/ descent (shorter option available)","ActivityLevel":"Driving Time:","ItinBlock":"From Passu, we&rsquo;ll hike to down to the Hunza Gorge this morning to see Hunza&rsquo;s famous hanging bridges. These unique bridges are long, swaying constructions of rope and wooden slats that span the deep Hunza River gorge. Local people still use them to get to the other side of the valley. Those of us who want to can walk across the bridge (about 40 minutes), then walk through the summer village of Zarabad on the other side, recrossing the river via another bridge. Both bridges are among the most photographed in Hunza. Those who don&rsquo;t want to walk on the bridges can enjoy visiting the friendly local villages. Further down the valley, we&rsquo;ll take a boat ride on turquoise Attabad Lake. The lake was formed on January 4, 2010, when a large land mass crashed down into the Hunza River, blocking the river&rsquo;s flow for several months. Tragically, several lives were lost and many upstream villages were submerged. Within a record period of time, Chinese engineers built a tunnel through the debris and reopened the road. The lake is large and spectacular and has become a tourist attraction. We&rsquo;ll continue down to Gilgit for an overnight at the Serena Hotel.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"3 hours","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":14,"DayTo":14,"Headline":"Skardu","ActivityOverview":"Driving Time:","EstimatedLength":"4 hours ","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We head back to Skardu, arriving in time for lunch at our hotel, the Shangrila Resort (7,381'). In the afternoon, we can visit Kachura Lake, Pakistan&rsquo;s highest natural freshwater lake.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":15,"DayTo":16,"Headline":"Fly to Islamabad and Explore","ActivityOverview":"Flying Time:","EstimatedLength":"1 hour","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Transfer to Skardu International Airport, fly to Islamabad (weather permitting), and check into the Serena Hotel. The afternoon is at leisure for shopping.\r\n <br><br>On Day 16, we&rsquo;ll explore Islamabad, including visits to the Lok Virsa Museum and Shah Faisal Mosque. In the afternoon, we head up into the Margalla Hills for our festive Farewell Lunch at the Monal Restaurant overlooking the city.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":17,"DayTo":17,"Headline":"Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Transfer to the airport for departure on homeward-bound flights.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Islamabad \/ Skardu \/ Khaplu","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A scenic mountain flight brings us from Islamabad to the remote city of Skardu. On arrival, we drive to\nKhaplu, a traditional Balti village flanked by apricot and apple orchards. We&rsquo;ll explore the village and hike to a vantage point to see the ruins of a castle owned by\nKhaplu&rsquo;s former royal family. Our accommodation here is a 19th century fortress-palace now converted into a boutique hotel. ","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Karakoram Highway \/ Gilgit \/ Kargah Buddha","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"A drive on the famed Karakoram Highway brings us to the mountain town of Gilgit. Here we can hike in the Kargah Valley to see its 7th century Buddhist monuments and visit small villages.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Minapin Village \/ Nagar Valley \/ Rakaposhi Base Camp Hike","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"The little village of Minapin in the former princely state of Nagar is famous for its idyllic setting&mdash;right at the base of two of the Karakoram's most beautiful mountains, Rakaposhi (25,551') and Diran (25,518'). From here, we hike the Rakaposhi Base Camp trail to Hapakuin Meadow (9,675') and back along a bubbling stream.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":17,"Headline":"Hunza Valley \/ Baltit Fort \/ Passu \/ Batura Glacier","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"In the renowned Hunza Valley, we visit the Baltit Fort, former residence of the hereditary Mir (king) of Hunza, with its commanding position overlooking the valley. We'll hike along Hunza's hand-carved water channels, and from the high village of Passu, set out for dramatic hikes to view the Passu Glacier and 30-mile-long Batura Glacier. We'll also walk on one of Hunza's famous hanging bridges. After overnights in Gilgit and Skardu, we fly back to Islamabad on Day 15 and depart on Day 17.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/pakistan-hiking-the-hunza-valley-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"2","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/pakistan-hiking-the-hunza-valley-predeparture.pdf"}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Enjoy spectacular views of Rakaposhi (25,551'), star of the Hunza Valley skyline","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":33787,"caption":""},{"DisplayOrder":2,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Meet the friendly people of Hunza in their mountain 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Pakistan. A science and ecology teacher by training, Paul taught math and science at the Yosemite Park High School and Middle School for two decades and is now a full-time naturalist guide with the Yosemite Conservancy. ","BioLong":"Paul Amstutz, who started guiding for WT in 1995, has spent years traveling, including guiding WT trips in such far-flung locales as Nepal, Tibet, Mali, and Pakistan, with annual journeys on the Silk Road through China and Pakistan. A science and ecology teacher by training, Paul taught math and science at the Yosemite Park High School and Middle School for two decades and is now a full-time naturalist guide with the Yosemite Conservancy. 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Balti, Pakistani, and international cuisine is served in the window-lined dining room.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-serena-khaplu-palace-exterior-landscape.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74797,"ProductID":86598,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Gilgit Serena Hotel","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Gilgit","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":4,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"With spacious gardens and stunning views of Rakaposhi, the Gilgit Serena Hotel is a delightful retreat. The restaurant serves Pakistani, Continental, and Chinese cuisine as well as authentic local specialties, The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of choices, including fresh-off-the-tree apricots, cherries, mulberries, and strawberries (in season) from the hotel's orchards.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-gilgit-serena-hotel-exterior-landscape.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74882,"ProductID":87008,"ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Dumani Nagar Hotel and Resort","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Nagar Valley","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":6,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":" Nestled in the Hunza Valley with magnificent views of Rakaposhi stands the wonderful mountain lodge of Dumani Nagar Hotel and Resort. Guest rooms are spacious and comfortable, with small sitting areas, closets, tiled bathrooms, and private balconies featuring impressive woodwork. The hotel has a hearty breakfast buffet and there is a cherry and apricot garden that adds to the charm of the area.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/11-dumani-nagar-hotel-resort-double-room.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74799,"ProductID":86600,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Serena Altit Fort Residence","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Altit","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":8,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"Set at the foot of the 1,100-year-old Altit Fort, the Residence features 16 well-appointed guest rooms built using traditional construction techniques and natural materials such as stone, wood, and limestone instead of concrete. The common areas are appointed with heritage artifacts from the Mir of Hunza's family, and the restaurant has a wonderful panorama across the Hunza Valley.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-serena-altit-fort-residence-exterior-landscape.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74800,"ProductID":86601,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Hotel Eagle's Nest","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Duiker","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":10,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"Family-run since 1994, when it was founded as a campsite, the Eagle's Nest is a half-hour drive from the main Hunza Valley in a high mountain location famous for its breathtaking sunrise and sunset views of Rakaposhi. The hotel has 30 simple rooms, 2 restaurants, an open terrace, a fruit orchard, and incomparable Karakoram views.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-hotel-eagles-nest-exterior-landscape-view.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74801,"ProductID":86602,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Silk Route Lodge","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Gulmit","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":11,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"With its exceptionally friendly and welcoming staff, the 22-room Silk Route Lodge truly feels like a home away from home. Comfortable guest rooms have views of either the mountains or garden, and the restaurant serves food fresh from their farm and orchard.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-silk-route-lodge-exterior-landscape.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74797,"ProductID":86598,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Gilgit Serena Hotel","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Gilgit","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":13,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"With spacious gardens and stunning views of Rakaposhi, the Gilgit Serena Hotel is a delightful retreat. The restaurant serves Pakistani, Continental, and Chinese cuisine as well as authentic local specialties, The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of choices, including fresh-off-the-tree apricots, cherries, mulberries, and strawberries (in season) from the hotel's orchards.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-gilgit-serena-hotel-exterior-landscape.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74802,"ProductID":86603,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Shangrila Resort","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Skardu","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":14,"Sequence":10,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"The lakeside Shangrila Resort, opened in 1983, was the first-ever resort hotel established for tourism in Baltistan. Guest rooms are clean and comfortable and there are magnificent gardens as well as mountain views.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-shangrila-resort-skardu-exterior-landscape.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74795,"ProductID":86589,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Islamabad Serena","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Islamabad","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":15,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"The Islamabad Serena, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, is tucked into a peaceful, 14-acre garden setting between the Margalla Hills and Rawal Lake, framed by Islamic architecture and al fresco terraces and pavilions. The hotel has five restaurants, from casual to fine dining, and the Maisha Spa and fitness center.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-islamad-serena-hotel-pool-exterior.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":74795,"ProductID":86608,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Extra Hotel Night","Vendor":"Islamabad Serena","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Islamabad","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Post-Trip Extra Services: Islamabad Serena (DATES, 1 night)","Day":17,"Sequence":20,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"The Islamabad Serena, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, is tucked into a peaceful, 14-acre garden setting between the Margalla Hills and Rawal Lake, framed by Islamic architecture and al fresco terraces and pavilions. 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A Wilderness Travel representative will meet you outside the customs area and will be holding a Wilderness Travel sign or a sign with your name on it. An orientation meeting and Welcome Dinner will take place on the evening of Day 1 in the hotel. Please note that check-in at the hotel begins at 2 pm.","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"Islamabad, Pakistan <br><br><strong>Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Islamabad International Airport (ISB)<br><strong>Suggested Date &amp; Time:<\/strong> Day 17, anytime <br><br>A complimentary transfer will be provided from the Islamabad Serena Hotel to the airport. Please note that check-out time is 12:00 pm.","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from Islamabad. <br><br>There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at <a href=\"exitotravel.com\">exitotravel.com<\/a>. <br><br>Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US. <br><br><strong>Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip.<\/strong> Once tickets are purchased, please forward a copy of your email flight confirmation from the airline. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_file_name":"pakistan-hiking-the-hunza-valley","Custom_Passport":"A valid passport is required for your trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. Your passport must be valid for six months after your date of exit from Pakistan. We recommend your passport has at least one completely blank visa page for each country you will be visiting. It is very important that these blank pages say &#8220;Visas&#8221; at the top. The last few pages of your passport, which say &#8220;Amendments and Endorsements,&#8221; and the final page of your passport, which may not have a page number, are not considered to be legitimate \"visa\" pages.<br><br>You can request a new passport through <a href=\"http:\/\/travel.state.gov\/passport\/passport_1738.html\">US Passport Services Office<\/a> (the service of adding pages for visas was discontinued as of January 1, 2016) or use a visa service agency, which can take care of your passport renewal and expedite the process, if needed. We recommend <a href=\"http:\/\/www.passportvisaexpress.com\/?affId=2120\">Passport Visas Express<\/a>. Be sure to allow sufficient time to acquire this before your trip.<br><br>It is a good idea to carry photocopies of your passport's photo page and any acquired visa pages for your trip (if applicable) in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as extra passport photos.","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"You must obtain a Pakistani-eVisa in advance, as it is a prerequisite for entry. You may obtain this from the official website of the Pakistan Electronic Visa System:<a href=\"https:\/\/visa.nadra.gov.pk\/tourist-visa\/\">visa.nadra.gov.pk\/tourist-visa<\/a>. <br><br>Create a user account using a valid email address. Choose the tourism visa type. Complete the online application form with accurate information, including personal details, and passport information. Upload the required documents, including a recent passport-sized photograph and a scanned copy of the main page of your passport. <br><br>Furthermore, we will also provide the following which you will have to upload:<div><ul><li>Letter of Invitation, ID card copy of Pakistani sponsor, Tour Operator License, Firm Registration<\/li><li>Review the application thoroughly to ensure accuracy before submission. The visa authority will inform you via email and ask for correction if there is any error or missing document in the application. <\/li><\/ul><strong>Important Note: <\/strong>Please do <strong><em>NOT<\/em><\/strong> check the box in the application where they ask you if you are traveling to Kashmir. <br><br>If you need assistance with the visa application, we are here to help. <br><br><br>The visa authority grants the visa usually in 7-10 days but may take longer if there are errors in the application or if there are any missing documents.<\/div> <br><br>Pay the applicable visa fee (around $60) using the payment options available on the website. <br><br>If you are a citizen of any country other than the US, please check with a local consulate for entry requirements. <br><br>Please note that all visa requirements and regulations are subject to change.<\/div>","Custom_Money":"Pakistan's currency is the Pakistani rupee. <br><br>Upon arrival, please check with your Trip Leader for guidelines on where and how to exchange funds. It is difficult to exchange money in the more remote local villages, so it is best to do this in Islamabad. <br><br>In addition to cash for exchange, you can also bring along an ATM card to draw money from ATM machines in Islamabad. Please note that ATMs are not available in smaller cities. To use an ATM internationally, please make sure that you have a four-digit PIN. <br><br>If you plan to use your credit cards (VISA, MasterCard, and AMEX), please remember to inform your credit card company before your departure that you will be using the card(s) abroad. Credit cards are accepted, but occasional transaction issues may arise. <br><br>You will need to budget spending money for extra gratuities, any meals listed as &#8220;on your own&#8221; in the trip itinerary, and for personal items such as alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, phone calls, laundry at hotels, etc.<br><br>","Custom_Tipping":"Tipping is completely discretionary, but over the years clients have asked us for tipping guidelines to reward outstanding service. A range of reference would be: <br><br><div><ul><li>$140-170 per trip member for your Trip Leader<\/li><li>$90-120 per trip member for each local guide (4 local guides total)<\/li><li>$75-100 per trip member for your main driver<\/li><\/ul> <br><br><\/div><div>Tipping in US dollars is appreciated.<\/div>","Custom_Food":"The people of Hunza gained their long-living reputation when access to the Hunza Valley was very difficult and they were a self-sustaining mountain community living on locally raised grains, fruits, and vegetables (and very little meat, although they had goats' milk). With the completion in 1978 of the Karakorum Highway connecting China and Islamabad, Hunza has undergone extraordinary changes. Younger people in Hunza today have a choice of rice, chutneys, curries, and processed sweets that their grandparents didn't have, but healthy, home-made, time-honored Hunza fare, such as fresh fruits, yogurt, and the wheat bread called khamali, is still very much on offer.<br><strong><br>Dietary Restrictions: <\/strong>Please reach out to us directly to discuss any dietary restrictions or concerns you may have. We can make arrangements for most diets, but please keep in mind that certain cultural differences or logistical limitations can make it difficult or at times impossible to accommodate all requests. With this in mind, please inform us at least eight weeks before your trip if you have a special diet, and any food allergies in particular, so we can do our best to meet your needs.","Custom_Communications":"<strong>Telephone<br><\/strong>The international dialing code for Pakistan is +92. Please contact your cell phone company for specific instructions for international use, but do expect overall phone access to be limited.<br><strong><br>Email &amp; Internet Access<br><\/strong>Internet access is prevalent in most hotels but may be limited in remote areas.","Custom_Electricity":"Pakistan has 220-volt current and either C or D plug types. Bring a converter and plug adapter kit for appliance use.<br>","Custom_Laundry":"Laundry facilities are available at hotels, but one-night stays may limit access.","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"Entry requirements are subject to change; check with the Centers for Disease Control for updates. All shots should be entered on your International Health Card (yellow card), which is provided by the facility giving the shots. Keep it with your passport while traveling (however, the card is not required to enter India). This provides an important personal record for you to refer to when making future travel plans. We recommend you discuss the following with your physician:<br><br><br><strong>Polio<\/strong><br>People who have received the primary series of at least three doses of polio vaccine are considered fully immunized. People who are unsure of their status should receive the vaccine (three doses spaced at intervals).<br><br><br><strong>Hepatitis A<\/strong><br>The vaccines HAVRIX and VAQTA (two injections, six to 18 months apart) give long-term protection against Hepatitis A and are worthwhile if you travel regularly to developing countries.<br><br><br><strong>Tetanus Booster<\/strong><br>A booster is strongly recommended (effective for 10 years).<br><br><br><strong>Typhoid<\/strong><br>The CDC recommends the shot or the oral vaccine, Vivotif Berna. You may not be able to take the oral vaccine simultaneously with mefloquine (for malaria prevention).","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"There are cases of Malaria and Dengue in Islamabad. Please discuss anti-malarial medications with your doctor.","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"Do not brush your teeth with tap water; always use bottled water. Don't ask for ice in your drinks unless you are sure it was made with treated water. When in doubt, ask your Trip Leader for guidelines.","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"You should be aware that medical services are not readily available in Pakistan. The availability of medical supplies or the adequacy of medical attention, once provided, cannot be guaranteed and cannot be expected to measure up to western standards. You should bring an ample supply of any prescription medicines you need and the items listed on the personal first aid list, in consultation with your physician. <br><br><br>There are risks involved in the event of illness requiring evacuation. Depending upon where you are in the itinerary, an evacuation may take several days. However, should any medical situations arise, your guide and crew will help organize the swiftest possible assistance available. <br><br><br>Any evacuation\/emergency payments must be made directly to our agents in Pakistan. Please note that personal checks are not readily acceptable. In choosing to use your credit card (if available), please be aware that a service charge might be assessed in addition to the actual cost of the evacuation.","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"On this trip, you will be traveling and\/or hiking at higher altitudes. Individuals vary widely in their ability to acclimatize. Since physical fitness does not confer any protection or facilitate acclimatization, it is impossible to predict how you will adapt to the altitude. The greatest protection is avoiding rapid ascents and allowing time for acclimatization. Normal physiological changes at altitude include headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, irregular breathing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling of the ankles and eyelids.<br>\r <br><br>It is not uncommon to experience some of these symptoms when you first arrive at high altitude and then have them decrease in severity within a few days. It is important that you inform your Trip Leader immediately of any symptoms or discomfort, however minor, so that he or she can help you monitor the situation. While acclimatizing, avoid pushing yourself too hard, however physically fit you may be or feel. Pace yourself comfortably, rest often. You may find that you walk more slowly than others in the group, or slower than you are used to. <br><br><br><strong>Diamox (Acetazolamide)<\/strong><br>The prescription drug Diamox is now accepted as an effective prophylactic against the early symptoms of altitude sickness. Most people start taking it a day before going to altitude and continue until they feel they are comfortably acclimatized, although some decide to continue its use throughout their time at altitude. Consult with your physician for directions concerning proper usage and dosage. You can also read more about it at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.himalayanrescue.org\/health-problems\">himalayanrescue.org\/health-problems<\/a>. Please note: Diamox is not effective in dealing with more serious symptoms of altitude sickness and it is important you keep your Trip Leader informed of any symptoms you are feeling. <br><br>","Custom_Covid-19":"","Custom_Reading_List":"Elevate your travel experience by delving into this curated collection of books tailored to your upcoming adventure. They will not only entertain but also provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, cuisine, wildlife, mountain trails, or even folklore of the places you're about to explore. Discover the perfect companions for your journey ahead by <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-pakistan-hiking-the-hunza-valley\">following the link<\/a> or scanning the QR code.","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"<strong>Dining Etiquette<\/strong><br>When you are invited to eat in a home in Hunza (or Pakistan), eat your first course lightly because your host will be sure to offer each guest additional helpings and it's easier to politely accept than refuse. Also note that, as in Nepal and India, many Hunzakuts and Pakistanis eat food using their hands rather than utensils (unless utensils are set out, in which case they use utensils). <br><br><strong>Clothing<\/strong><br>Dress modestly. Women (and men) should generally wear loose garments that don't outline the shape of the body. Baggy shirts and long trousers are comfortable, and you can always buy interesting local clothing when you are shopping. <br><br><strong>Behavior<\/strong><br>Public displays of affection, such as kissing and hugging, are frowned upon (whether between you and your partner or you and a local). When you greet a local person, a handshake is perfectly acceptable.","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"There is an undeniable fragility to our planet, and tourism can have an impact either as a positive force for increased awareness and change, or as a contributor to cultural and environmental exploitation. At Wilderness Travel, we want to see the positive benefits of travel outweigh or even cancel out the negative impacts of tourism. We have instituted a number of policies designed to reduce the impact our groups have on the areas through which we trek. <br><strong><br>Toilet Facilities<\/strong><br>When hiking, please locate quiet spots for toilet purposes. Try to be at least 100 feet from any water source and bury or cover waste. <br><br><br><strong>Garbage<\/strong><br>Please carry a small plastic bag in your daypack to store your garbage throughout the day. Bring all tissues, wrappers, and other garbage with you to the lodge where the staff can bury or burn them. We ask that you carry your own non-burnable garbage, especially used batteries and plastic products, back home for proper disposal since there are limited facilities in Pakistan. <br><br><br><strong>Be a Vocal Environmentalist<\/strong><br>Do not hesitate to express your conservationist concerns and help explain these guidelines to other Westerners. Please let our Trip Leader know if you have any additional suggestions.","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"<strong>Travel Tip<\/strong><br>Be prepared for rugged car travel over some long, bumpy mountain roads on some days.","Custom_Essentials":"<ul><li>Air tickets (or E-tickets)<\/li><li>Passport<\/li><li>One other picture ID, such as a driver's license<\/li><li>Expense money<\/li><li>Pakistan E-visa<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Luggage":"<ul><li>Soft-sided wheeled suitcase or duffel bag, with a small padlock. Please note that there is limited porter service on this trip, which means that trip members may have to carry their own bags into their rooms at the hotels. For this reason, wheeled duffels may be easier to move and are recommended.<\/li><li>Daypack, large enough for a fleece jacket, rain gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want with you during the day.<\/li><li>Small roll-up duffel to carry home purchases if you are an avid shopper, keeping in mind that you may have to pay excess baggage charges if you are over the weight limit.<\/li><\/ul><strong><br>IMPORTANT! <\/strong>Valuable or essential items such as camera equipment, prescription medications, or hiking boots should always be hand-carried on any flight to avoid loss or damage. Once you arrive in Pakistan, it may be impossible to replace these items if your luggage is delayed. <br><br><strong>Weight Limits<\/strong><br>For our internal flight (Islamabad to Skardu) the weight limit is 20 kgs, or 44 lbs.","Custom_Clothing":"<div>Plan for diverse weather conditions and bring hats and sunglasses. Wear comfortable shoes with good support for uneven terrain. We recommend layered clothing to adjust to varying temperatures. We may encounter very cold weather, so please bring extra warm layers.<\/div> <br><br><strong>For women: <\/strong>Recommended attire includes long pants with a long cotton tunic or ankle-length dresses and skirts. <br><br>The clothing list below is provided as a guideline only; we encourage you to pack as lightly as possible:<br><ul><li>Gore-Tex rain\/wind shell jacket with hood<\/li><li>Gore-Tex rain\/wind pants (preferably with leg zippers so that they can be taken off without removing your boots)<\/li><li>Fleece sweater<\/li><li>Lightweight down jacket<\/li><li>Thermal underwear<\/li><li>Hiking pants. Synthetic hiking pants are a practical choice. Jeans are not suitable for hiking because they are made of dense cotton and take a very long time to dry if they get wet<\/li><li>Long-sleeved shirts. Quick-drying &#8220;travel&#8221; fabrics like nylon are ideal.<\/li><li>T-shirts. Synthetics are best for hiking; cotton will get soggy with perspiration.<\/li><li>Lightweight scarf or shawl for women (to cover head and shoulders if bare)<\/li><li>Shade hat with a wide brim<\/li><li>Fleece hat for warmth<\/li><li>Fleece mittens or gloves<\/li><li>Medium weight hiking boots designed for on- and off-trail hiking with multi-day hikes in mind<\/li><li>Comfortable shoes for city wear and at the guesthouses<\/li><li>Lightweight water shoes like Tevas or similar<\/li><li>Hiking socks. Thorlo hiking socks (moisture-wicking synthetic with padded toes and heels) are excellent, as are SmartWool.<\/li><li>Casual city\/hotel attire<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"<ul><li>Two sturdy reusable water bottles, 1 qt. capacity, capable of holding boiling water (Nalgene brand is preferable); Camelbak and other \"bladder-type\" water holders are not recommended, as they cannot be properly cleaned (very important!)<\/li><li>Hiking pole\/walking stick<\/li><li>Good quality sunglasses with cases<\/li><li>Personal toiletries<\/li><li>Assorted plastic bags to keep items dry in your duffel; garbage bags to use as a duffel liner for rain protection<\/li><li>Bandanas; good for protecting your neck from the sun and for use as handkerchiefs<\/li><li>Toilet paper (one or two rolls). Tissue (Kleenex) pocket packs are handy.<\/li><li>Personal toiletries, biodegradable soap<\/li><li>Assorted plastic bags to organize items in your luggage<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"Every trip member must bring a small kit for personal use. Your own experience will influence your choices.<br><br><ul><li>Sunscreen SPF 30 or higher. Essential at high altitudes! We recommend mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they do not contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Brands such as Honest Company, Badger, and Alba Botanica are found in most sporting goods stores and drugstores.<\/li><li>Lip balm with sunscreen and\/or zinc oxide<\/li><li>Aspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol for muscle pain or headache, Tylenol PM for sleep<\/li><li>Topical antibiotic (such as Neosporin) for cuts, bites, or sores<\/li><li>Insect repellent<\/li><li>Blister kit. Look for long-lasting gel-type bandages that you can apply directly on blisters, such as Band-Aid Advanced Healing Bandages or Curad Gel Multi-Day Bandages. &#8220;Liquid band-aids,&#8221; such as New-Skin, are useful because they dry rapidly to form a tough protective cover over a blister.<\/li><li>Moisturizing cream, Vaseline for nose\/lips (for dry air at altitude)<\/li><li>Anti-bacterial gel for hand washing<\/li><li>Antihistamine such as Benadryl<\/li><li>Decongestant (daytime and nighttime types) for colds, sinus headaches<\/li><li>Cough drops (for dry throat caused by altitude)<\/li><li>Pepto-Bismol tablets for diarrhea, heartburn, indigestion<\/li><li>Imodium for diarrhea. If you wish to bring an antibiotic for diarrhea prophylaxis, please consult your physician.<\/li><li>Prescription medications properly labeled, enough to last the entire length of the trip<\/li><li>Contact lenses or prescription glasses; contact lens wearers should bring spare glasses (or extra disposable lenses) for dusty areas and at altitudes<\/li><li>Optional&mdash;Diamox for altitude acclimatization. See the Diamox section in the Medical Information section.<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Optional_Items":"<ul><li>Camera, spare batteries, memory cards, etc.<\/li><li>Battery packs (for recharging electronics)<\/li><li>Converter\/plug adapter kit for appliance use in hotels<\/li><li>Reading\/writing material<\/li><li>Travel alarm clock, small mirror<\/li><li>Earplugs<\/li><li>Money belt or neck pouch. Always carry your passport, credit cards, and cash with you in a money belt or neck pouch tucked down inside your shirt or blouse.<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"An Active Cultural Journey in the Karakoram with Paul Amstutz","Custom_Lodging":"16 nights hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included","Custom_Difficulty":"Moderate to strenuous hikes, 3-5 miles most days, often on rocky surfaces, altitudes of 7,000 to 10,000 feet, rugged road travel","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Header":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Text":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"This trip is rated a <strong>Level 3+, Moderate<\/strong>, according to our trip rating system. You will need to be comfortable hiking 6-7 hours a day on uneven surfaces. Day hikes and cultural exploration are our focus of the trip, with alternative or abridged hiking options available on many days. Much of the trip takes place at higher altitudes, with a maximum of roughly 10,000 feet. Trail conditions, weather, and the group&rsquo;s level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing. <br><br><strong>\rAverage Hiking Day<\/strong><br><ul><li>5 miles<\/li><li>4 hours<\/li><li>1,100' ascent\/descent<\/li><li>Altitudes range 7,000-10,000 feet<\/li><\/ul><br><strong>Challenge Days<\/strong><br><ul><li>Day 7: 3.5 miles, 6-7 hours, 3,100' ascent\/descent<\/li><li>Day 11: 6.5 miles, 3 hours, 2,200' ascent\/descent<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Terrain":"At lower elevations, the trails are usually packed dirt, but at higher elevations, they are often much rockier, with occasional sections of rock and loose scree. For the most part, you can hike at your own speed, and on the most challenging days we may offer shortened options for those who wish to turn back early.","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"We strongly urge you to train for your trip, as your enjoyment will be highly dependent on your level of fitness. The best training for a hike is to hike, especially over hills or rough terrain. Next best are running, swimming, bicycling, or other cardiovascular exercises. Stair-climbing machines are excellent preparation for hiking uphill. Your feet should also be well prepared&mdash;make sure your hiking boots are sturdy, comfortable, and thoroughly broken-in. Some people experience a few problems when they first reach high altitude&mdash;slight headaches and sleeplessness are the most common symptoms.","Custom_Weather":"Considering that most of Hunza is mountainous terrain above 6,500 feet in altitude, the climate is very mild. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit Hunza, with spring offering the bloom of apple and apricot orchards and autumn bringing vibrant tones of orange, red, and yellow to the trees, making it one of the most picturesque times of year. Hunza&rsquo;s climate is a great contrast to the rest of Pakistan, which can be very hot between spring and fall.","Custom_Accommodations":"The hotels we use on this trip are the best available accommodations. They have comfortable rooms with en suite bathrooms. Many hotels on this trip are operated by Serena, a chain known for its quality service. In addition, Serena hotels are under the umbrella of the Aga Khan Foundation for Economic Development (AKFED), with profits from hotels and other commercial entities going to hundreds of schools, health centers, and hospitals in Africa, Asia, and Central Asia. Our accommodation in Khaplu is a historic fortress carefully restored by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), with hotel profits given to local community organizations.","Custom_Cuisine":"Hunza&rsquo;s cuisine is simple and fresh and includes such specialties as gyaling, a round, stretchy wheat bread served in a stack and typically dipped in apricot oil or butter from local cows. Chapsuro is a pie filled with minced beef or mutton, onions, and spices such as coriander, chilies, and tomatoes. Hunza&rsquo;s ghilmindi dish is a kind of tortilla with cheese-yogurt filling, and local wheat chapatis are often served stuffed with cheese and spices. Our hotels will also serve a range of continental cuisine. Pakistan&rsquo;s cuisine in general is similar to that of India.","Custom_Transportation":"We travel in Toyota Land Cruisers in the Hunza Valley, which work well on rough mountain roads as well as the paved highways we cross throughout the higher elevation. Our vehicles will transport the group&rsquo;s luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need during the day (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). Trip members are always free to skip a day&rsquo;s hike and travel to the next destination in the support vehicle (or remain at the hotel if we are not transferring that day).","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"<p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wildernesstravel.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>$600 due at time of reservation <br \/>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!<br>61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost<br>46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>45 days or less: 100% of trip cost<br><\/p>"}}