Join K2 Expedition and Trekking for the amazing K2 Base Camp Trek! We are a local company with over 12 years of experience guiding adventurers through the beautiful Karakoram Mountains. Our local knowledge makes us the perfect choice for this thrilling trek, combining adventure, culture, and stunning nature.
The K2 Base Camp Trek takes you through the breathtaking Baltoro and Godwin-Austen Glaciers, leading to K2, the second-highest mountain in the world at 8,611 meters. As you trek, you’ll see incredible sights, including the famous Trango Towers, Masherbrum, and Broad Peak.
We start our journey in the peaceful Skardu valley, the last major town before entering the remote mountains. You’ll pass through Askole, the last village before K2, where you’ll learn about the local Balti culture and meet the friendly people who live here.
Unique Highlights
Your safety is our main concern. Our experienced guides will help you acclimatize and follow emergency plans so you can focus on enjoying your adventure. We also support local communities by hiring local guides and porters.
✔ Internal flights and airport transfers
✔ All land transportation (private vehicle with driver)
✔ Accommodation (3-star hotels and camping)
✔ All meals (3 meals a day)
✔ Trekking permits and other fees
✔ Camping equipment (tents, chairs, tables, lights)
Additional Provisions
✔ Kitchen equipment and supplies
✔ English-speaking, experienced mountain guide
✔ Wages and basic gear for all staff
✔ Insurance for crew members (excluding helicopter rescue)
✔ Sleeping tents, mess tents, and toilet tents
✔ Satellite phone for emergencies
✔ Generator/solar panels for light and charging devices
✔ Basic first aid kit
✔ Domestic flights
❌ Travel insurance
❌ International flights and visa fees
❌ Tips for guides and support staff
❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra food, etc.)
❌ Extra luggage fees at the airport
❌ City tours in Islamabad and Skardu
Meals During the Trek
We provide all meals during the trek, featuring Pakistani, continental, and vegetarian options. Our meals are delicious and made to keep your energy up, especially at high altitudes.
We can also accommodate vegan and vegetarian diets—just let us know when you book.
Accommodation
During the trek, you’ll stay in comfortable, tourist-standard hotels (3-4 stars) in Islamabad and Skardu. You’ll share a room with someone of the same sex unless you request a private room for an extra cost. You can also book extra nights if you wish.
If you want to acclimatize in Skardu or Deosai before the trek, you can arrive early. Our travel adviser will help you with the details.
Internal Flights
Flights to Skardu can be affected by the weather, so cancellations may happen. If a flight is canceled, you’ll travel by road along the scenic Karakoram Highway.
Skardu Airport is now an international airport, reducing cancellation chances. If your flight is canceled, you will stay overnight in Naran before continuing to Skardu.
Health & Vaccinations
Check with your doctor about necessary vaccinations. Make sure you have routine vaccinations and consider vaccinations for diseases like hepatitis and typhoid. Malaria is rare in the mountains but can occur in Islamabad.
Insurance
We strongly recommend travel insurance for your K2 Base Camp Trek. Your policy should cover medical expenses and any activities planned during your trek.
Mountain Guide and Supporting Staff
Your trek will be led by a licensed mountain guide who speaks good English, along with porters and cooks. All our guides are local experts who know the area well.
Altitude
The K2 Base Camp Trek goes to high altitudes (above 3,500 meters). It’s important to know how to prepare for high-altitude trekking.
Climate
In summer, temperatures can reach about 30°C in Gilgit Baltistan. In Baltoro and Concordia, daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, dropping below 5°C at night. The weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Language and Time
Currency
The currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). ATMs and currency exchange services are available at airports and hotels. Credit and debit cards are accepted in Islamabad, and there are ATMs in Skardu.
Passport & Visas
You need a passport with at least six months’ validity to visit Pakistan. Check with your nearest Pakistani embassy for visa requirements. E-visas and on-arrival visas are available for many countries.
Trekkers need a trekking visa to hike in the Baltoro region, which costs about $80 and takes 6-8 weeks to process. Apply early to avoid delays.
Previous Experience/Fitness
The K2 Base Camp Trek is challenging and requires good fitness. You should be comfortable with multi-day hikes on rough terrain. Most days involve around seven hours of walking, with breaks.
Equipment List
Keep your trekking gear under 17 kg, including your sleeping bag and mattress. We will weigh your bags before the trek starts. You can leave unneeded items at our Skardu office for free.
Airport Transfers
City Tours
Islamabad: Visit places like Faisal Mosque and the Pakistan Monument.
Skardu: Explore Kharpocho Fort, Sadpara Lake, Kachura Lake, and the local market.
We can arrange city tours in Islamabad and Skardu. Contact us for more information.
For more information about the K2 Base Camp Trek, please email us at info@k2expeditiontrekking.com.
Early Bird Discount
At K2 Expedition & Trekking, we strive to offer you the best possible experience. Our early bird discounts are available for a limited time, and prices may increase as the peak season approaches. Service providers like airlines and hotels often raise their prices during the busy months. By booking early, you can lock in lower rates and enjoy these savings.
Limited Spots During Peak Season
The peak trekking months draw many international visitors, and spots fill up quickly. To maintain high-quality service, we limit each group to a maximum of 12 travelers. Reservations are processed on a “first-come, first-served” basis, so it’s beneficial to secure your spot as soon as possible.
Limited Flight Availability
Domestic flights to the Karakorams and Himalayas are limited, with only two flights available daily during the peak season. A portion of your deposit will be used to secure these flights in advance, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your trek.
Balance Payment Upon Arrival
We understand that paying the full amount upfront can be concerning. Therefore, we only require a deposit to confirm your booking. The remaining balance can be paid on the first day of your arrival in Pakistan, providing greater flexibility.
Minimum Deposit Requirement
The deposit serves as an early-bird discount. Please note that deposit amounts will increase as the departure date approaches, so it’s wise to book early to take advantage of the current rates.
Deposit for Pakistani Nationals
Pakistani nationals are required to pay a deposit of PKR 100,000 or 30% of the total package cost (whichever is higher). This deposit is non-refundable in all cases.
At K2 Expedition & Trekking, we aim to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience for our clients. We understand that unexpected changes can happen, and we have outlined the following refund policy for clarity and transparency:
1. Cancellation by the Client:
2. Cancellation by K2 Expedition & Trekking:
If K2 Expedition & Trekking cancels the trip due to unforeseen circumstances (such as political instability, natural disasters, or any other event beyond our control), clients will have the following options:
3. No Show or Early Termination by the Client:
If a client fails to show up or decides to leave the expedition early for any reason, no refund will be given. Any additional expenses incurred due to early departure will be the responsibility of the client.
4. Amendments to Bookings:
Requests to change the dates or modify the itinerary must be made at least 30 days before the trip start date. All amendments are subject to availability and may incur additional charges based on logistics and accommodation arrangements.
5. Refund Process:
All refund requests must be submitted in writing via email to our support team. Refunds will be processed within 15 working days from the date of the request and will be issued through the original payment method used at the time of booking.
6. Non-Refundable Deposits:
Deposits made to secure your spot on the trek are non-refundable but can be transferred to a future trip, provided the cancellation is made 60 days before the start date.
7. Travel Insurance:
We strongly recommend that all clients purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen cancellations, medical emergencies, or evacuation costs.
8. Special Circumstances:
For group bookings or customized expeditions, specific cancellation and refund policies may apply. Please refer to your contract or booking agreement for additional details.
For any queries or concerns, feel free to contact our team at info@k2expeditiontrekking.com or call us directly. We are committed to providing a flexible and fair policy that accommodates our clients’ needs while ensuring smooth operations.
Arrival and Pickup
Our guide will meet you at Islamabad International Airport, holding an orange sign with our company logo and your name. Please provide your flight details at least five days before arrival.
Transfer to Hotel
You’ll be transferred to a hotel to rest after your journey. If arriving between 9 am and 12 pm, after lunch and some rest, we will meet at 6 pm for a briefing and any remaining payments, followed by dinner. For late arrivals, payments and briefings will be handled in Skardu.
Accommodation
Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
GPS Data: Altitude: 2,498m
In the morning, participants will take a scenic flight from Islamabad to Skardu, with views of Nanga Parbat if the weather is clear. After arriving in Skardu, the rest of the day is free.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
Altitude: 2,498m
After breakfast, participants will hike up to Kharpocho Fort, which offers stunning views of the Indus River and Skardu town. They can also choose to visit Sadpara Lake and enjoy free time shopping in Skardu Bazaar.
Meanwhile, our staff will handle the necessary government paperwork in Skardu, which may take up to two days. We have extra days planned at the end of the trek in case of any delays.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,015 m
Participants will start a jeep safari toward Daso, passing through the Shigar Valley alongside the Braldu River, heading to Askole—the last village on the route. From Askole, the trek begins, though sometimes walking starts earlier, depending on road conditions. The journey takes 6 to 8 hours.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,103m
Distance: 20 km
Time: 5-8 hours
After organizing supplies, porters will load up for the trek to Jhola. The route passes the Biafo Glacier, which stretches over 50 km from Hispar La to Braldu. Participants will cross the glacier’s snout and descend to the lunch spot by the Korofon River.
The trek continues along the newer trail, crossing a bridge over the Braldu and Domordo rivers. After crossing, participants will follow the riverbank to reach the Jhola campsite.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
Distance: 19.8 km
Time: 6-7 hours
On this day of the K2 Base Camp trek, participants will follow the Braldu Gorge along the riverbank. They’ll witness the stunning rock formations of Trango Tower and Cathedral Peak. Since the conditions can be hot and dry, it’s important to protect against sunburn.
Several glacier streams flow into the valley, and participants may need to wear river-crossing shoes depending on water levels. On a clear day, the snout of the Baltoro Glacier may be visible. The trek ends with a climb away from the river to camp at Paiju, the last campsite with trees for a while.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
Before heading to Concordia, Paiju Camp serves as the acclimatization point at the foot of the Baltoro Glacier, where the Braldu Valley widens. This is a key stop on the K2 Base Camp Trek, with access to spring water. The camp offers basic facilities, including long-drop toilets, wash basins, and a bathroom.
This entire day is set aside for acclimatization, while the porters bake bread for the journey ahead. For those with extra energy, a hike above the camp offers stunning views of the Cathedral Peaks, Trango Towers, and even K2 on a clear day. Depending on the river’s course, you may also find small pools nearby for swimming.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,788 m
Distance: 14.7 km
Time: 6-7 hours
From Paiju, the trek continues upstream to the Baltoro Glacier, where melting water flows into the river. We’ll ascend and walk on top of the glacier, which is covered in rocks and rubble. Following traditional trails, this tough walk across the glacier leads us along moraine paths on the south side. We then head east and cross to the smaller side of the glacier, moving south to enter the valley.
By evening, we reach the Khoburtse camp, where we can enjoy stunning views of Cathedral Towers, Trango Towers, and Uli Biaho Tower. This first day on the Baltoro Glacier can be challenging for many participants.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,905 m
Distance: 6.4km
Time: 4-6hours
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.
Accommodation
Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 4,285 m
Distance: 11.9 km
Time: 6-8 hours
On this day of the K2 Base Camp trek, participants will walk in the heart of the glacier, following the medial moraine. To the south, stunning views of Masherbrum (7,821m) will be visible. The trek involves climbing up and down rocky moraine, and participants will pass massive ice seracs along the way.
Tonight, we will camp on the Baltoro Glacier at Goro II, located at the confluence of the Baltoro and Younghusband glaciers. Be prepared for a significant drop in temperature, with beautiful views of Masherbrum and Muztagh Tower revealed.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 4,512 m
Distance: 11.7 km
Time: 5-7 hours
On this day of the K2 Base Camp trek, participants will reach Concordia after a steady ascent along the moraine. As you walk, more high snow-capped peaks will come into view, culminating in the stunning sight of K2. Other peaks visible include Broad Peak, Mitre Peak, Gasherbrum, Sia Kangri, and many more.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 5,150m
Distance: 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, we have the chance to walk up the Godwin-Austen Glacier to the Art Gilkey Memorial, dedicated to an American geologist and mountaineer, just before reaching K2 Base Camp. It will be a long but amazing day. We’ll start early in the morning, crossing the glaciers along a faint trail leading to K2 (the rocky path is visible all the way). As we approach K2, it will appear larger and larger. Broad Peak will be on our right, and after about 3 hours, we’ll pass Broad Peak Base Camp (there’s an option to turn back here). We usually stop for lunch here, and those continuing on will carry on with K2 towering above us.
Just before reaching Base Camp, we’ll find the Art Gilkey Memorial among the boulders and ice. A short climb will take us to the spot where we remember those who lost their lives on K2. Plaques and engraved plates are attached to a small rock formation at the foot of this great mountain. We’ll enjoy stunning views of K2 above us, and we might see some climbing teams. After lunch, we’ll head back along the same route to Concordia.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 4,010 m
Distance:15.9 km
Time:6-7 Hours
On this day of the K2 Base Camp trek, participants will leave camp and head back toward Goro I. The trek will be relatively easy, as it involves descending.
Accommodation:Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,788 m
Distance:13.8 km
Time: 5-7 Hours
On this day, participants will trek to the campsite at Urdukas, following the same trail down the glacier to Goro I. Along the way, they’ll enjoy stunning views of the Trango Towers before reaching Khurburtse. Even though the route is the same, the views on the return trip will be completely different.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data:Altitude: 3,418 m
Distance:14.7 km
Time: 5-7 Hours
On this day of the K2 Base Camp trek, participants will walk down the side of the glacier via Liligo. This will be the last section where they shift from the moraine to more stable ground. After a break, they’ll find themselves among the trees and can enjoy their time at the Paiju campsite.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data: Altitude: 3,103 m
Distance:19.8 km
Time: 5-7 Hours
On this day, walking will be easier as participants follow the same trail to the Braldu Gorge. However, there may be some river crossings along the way. The campsite will be set up at Jhola.
Accommodation: Camping in twin-sharing dome tent.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner + snacks (dry fruit/chocolate) for trek, appetizer (soup/fried-snacks) before dinner and dessert/fruits after dinner
GPS Data:Altitude: 2,498 m
Distance:20 km trek + 127 km drive
Time: 5-7 hours trek + 6 hours drive
On this day, participants will return to Askole village after walking along the river to the bridge. After lunch, they’ll get a chance to relax their feet as they are transferred by jeep to Skardu.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
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 utilized for sightseeing in Skardu.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Concordia Motel, Mountain Lodge, or a similar hotel (based on availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
GPS Data: Altitude: 540m
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.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
This day is reserved for any potential delays if the domestic flight didn’t operate the previous day. Guests will depart early in the morning from Chilas to Islamabad, which can take up to ten hours. If participants arrive in Islamabad on the domestic flight, they’ll have a free day to explore the city.
Accommodation: Twin-sharing room at Chateau Royale, Prestige Residence, or a similar hotel (subject to availability).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, plus tea, coffee, and snacks included.
Meals: 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.
As a first-time trekker in Pakistan, I was blown away by the K2 Base Camp trek and the exceptional service provided by K2 Expeditions & Trekking. This journey surpassed all my expectations.
The scenery is simply awe-inspiring. Towering peaks, massive glaciers, and the majestic K2 itself create a backdrop that is truly unforgettable. The trek itself was challenging, but the experienced and supportive guides from K2 Expeditions & Trekking made it manageable and enjoyable.
The accommodations were comfortable, and the food was delicious and plentiful, providing the energy we needed for each day’s challenges. The porters were incredibly hardworking and always cheerful, making the trek even more enjoyable.
Reaching K2 Base Camp was a truly humbling experience. Standing at the foot of the world’s second-highest mountain was a moment I will cherish forever.
I highly recommend this trek to anyone seeking a challenging and rewarding adventure in the mountains of Pakistan. K2 Expeditions & Trekking is a fantastic choice, providing excellent service, experienced guides, and a memorable experience.
