Dear Adventure Enthusiast,
We are delighted to introduce a truly unique and unforgettable experience — Yak Safari in the breathtaking Shimshal Valley, hidden deep within the Karakoram Range of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan.
This extraordinary journey allows you to explore one of the world’s most remote and pristine mountain regions while traveling alongside the yak — a symbol of endurance, strength, and high-altitude life.
Traverse dramatic glacial valleys, lush alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and roaring mountain streams. Enjoy awe-inspiring views of towering peaks such as Shimshal Whitehorn, Karun Kuh, Minglik Sar, and countless unnamed giants, all set in untouched wilderness.
Locally known as Dong, yaks are perfectly adapted to the harsh Karakoram environment. Weighing up to 1,000 kg and covered in thick insulating coats, these gentle giants carry expedition supplies across rugged terrain, creating a deep and respectful bond between travelers and animals.
Meet the welcoming Shimshali people, famous for their resilience, hospitality, and ancient mountain traditions. Experience local cuisine, seasonal migrations, music, and daily life shaped by centuries of coexistence with nature.
Whether you prefer a relaxed exploration or a demanding high-altitude trek, our experienced local guides tailor the itinerary to your interests and fitness level. Group sizes are kept small for safety, authenticity, and a truly immersive experience.
Our Yak Safaris follow strict eco-friendly practices, supporting local livelihoods while preserving the fragile ecosystem of Shimshal Valley.
Standing nearly 6 feet tall and capable of surviving temperatures as low as –45°C, yaks thrive above 3,500 meters and migrate seasonally to over 6,000 meters. Their calm temperament and strength make them ideal companions for high-mountain travel.
A Yak Safari is more than a trek — it is a profound cultural and natural connection found only in regions like Shimshal, Passu, and Chipursan. Travelers are encouraged to treat these remarkable animals with respect and appreciation, honoring their essential role in mountain life.
Note: Yak Safaris operate on prior booking only and are limited in number to ensure an intimate and meaningful experience.
Arrival at Islamabad International Airport. Warm welcome and transfer to the hotel.
After lunch, a city tour of the twin cities, Islamabad & Rawalpindi.
Overnight: Hotel in Islamabad
Drive along the historic Grand Trunk Road. Visit the Taxila Museum and archaeological sites, remnants of the Gandhara Buddhist civilization.
Join the Karakoram Highway (KKH) and continue through Hazara’s alpine landscapes to Besham/Naran.
Overnight: Hotel
(300 km | 7–8 hours)
Continue along the legendary Karakoram Highway, built jointly by Pakistan and China — often called the 8th Wonder of the World.
En route views of Nanga Parbat (8,125 m).
Proceed to Hunza Karimabad.
Overnight: Hotel
(430 km | 7–8 hours)
Visit local bazaars and enjoy views of Rakaposhi (7,788 m).
Continue to Passu Village, surrounded by iconic peaks.
Overnight: Passu Tourist Lodge
(150 km | 4–5 hours | 2,500 m)
Drive into the narrow Shimshal Valley to Waeenben.
Load supplies onto yaks — your companions for the next two weeks.
Visit the Ziarat of Shams-e-Tabrez, a sacred Sufi site.
Continue to Kuk Hot Springs, then onward to Shimshal Village.
Overnight: Camping
(3–5 hrs jeep | ~3,000 m)
Early start due to steep ascent. Trek through Tang Gorge to Zartgarban, a vast summer pasture surrounded by high peaks.
Overnight: Camping
(6–7 hrs | 3,700 m)
Follow the Maidur River, cross historic wooden defense gates, and climb Puryen Sar.
Magnificent views of Minglik Sar (6,050 m).
Overnight: Camping at Arbab Parian
(4–5 hrs | 4,150 m)
Trek toward Shimshal Pass, passing alpine lakes and grazing pastures.
Opportunity to visit the Shuwart summer settlement and enjoy nomadic yak-based cuisine.
Overnight: Camping
(4–5 hrs | 4,735 m)
Rest and acclimatization days for personal exploration, photography, and cultural interaction.
Return via the same route, mostly downhill.
Overnight: Camping
(5–6 hrs)
Easy downhill walk through summer settlements.
Overnight: Camping
(4–5 hrs | 4,500 m)
Early start to cross Shapodin Pass (5,150 m).
Views of Passu Peak (7,478 m) and Shispar Peak (7,611 m).
Overnight: Camping
(7–8 hrs)
Gradual descent through high pastures back to Shimshal Village.
Overnight: Camping
(4–5 hrs)
Full-day trek followed by jeep transfer to Passu.
Overnight: Passu Tourist Lodge
Visit Altit & Baltit Forts, explore Hunza Bazaar, and enjoy views of Rakaposhi, Ultar, Golden Peak, and Lady Finger.
Overnight: Hotel
(50 km | 2,250 m)
Visit Kargah Buddha (4th century AD) and the junction of the Himalayas, Karakoram & Hindu Kush.
Overnight: Hotel
(230 km | 6–7 hrs)
Drive back along the Indus Gorge.
Overnight: Hotel
(425 km | 11–12 hrs)
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for onward international departure.
Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
+92 347 4598096
info@rockvalleytours.com
Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
+92 347 4598096
info@rockvalleytours.com
If you’re traveling to Pakistan, you’ll need a visa. Depending on your nationality, you can get it on arrival or apply online before your trip. You can also go to your local Pakistani embassy for a tourist visa. The length of stay varies: e-visas can be up to 3 months (extendable to 6 months), while visas on arrival are valid for 30 days. Make sure to check visa requirements with the authorities, as they might change.
In Pakistan, what you wear depends on when and where you’re going. In hot areas, wear light, loose clothes like a shirt and trousers. For cold places, bring warm clothes like a jacket and layers. When visiting mosques, cover your head, arms, legs, and shoulders. Dress modestly and avoid shorts. If you’re unsure, it’s best to dress conservatively.
June–September: Monsoon season with unpredictable rains, reaching over 45°C (113°F) in June. Floods can occur.
October/November: Post-monsoon season with decreasing temperatures and rainfall. Days are warm, nights cool.
December–February: Winter months with pleasant daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F) and colder nights, especially in the northern mountains where it snows.
March–May: Hot and dry season with temperatures in the mid-30s°C (95°F) in low-lying areas, getting hotter towards the north.
Although Pakistan has faced challenges in recent years, it’s now generally safe to visit as long as you stay in busy areas. Some people might worry about coming here, but trust us, there’s a lot to discover beyond what you see in the news. You can be confident that Rock Valley Tours wouldn’t take you anywhere unsafe.
