Explorer
NORTHERN PAKISTAN MOTORCYCLE EXPEDITION: WHERE GIANTS MEET | 4-15.10.2027
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MOTORCYCLE:
Participants can join the expedition as a motorcycle rider or travel as a passenger in a dedicated vehicle
The Zongshen Carrera 250 offers additional power, greater stability and more comfort on the longer road stages. The price for a rider on the Zongshen Carrera 250 is €3,050.
Participants who prefer not to ride can complete the expedition as passengers in a 4×4 support vehicle. They follow the same itinerary and take part in the same accommodation, meals, visits and activities, subject to local road and route conditions. The price for a passenger in the support vehicle is €2,650.
Motorcycle rental and fuel are included in the respective rider prices. All participants benefit from luggage transport, technical and logistical support, accommodation, meals and the services specified under “What’s included”.
A single-room supplement of €450 is available where single accommodation can be provided. Because part of the expedition crosses remote mountain regions, a private room cannot be guaranteed at every overnight location.
TOUR DESCRIPTION:
This 12-day motorcycle expedition crosses Northern Pakistan from Skardu to Islamabad, with 11 riding days through Baltistan, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghizer, Ishkoman, and Yasin Valleys, and Deosai Plateau. The route combines the Karakoram Highway with remote mountain roads, gravel tracks, river valleys and high-altitude terrain at the meeting point of the Karakoram, Himalayas, and Hindu Kush.
Participants ride a Zongshen Carrera 250, while non-riders can follow the expedition in the support vehicle. The planned route reaches altitudes of up to 4,000 metres at Deosai Plateau and includes approximately 40% paved roads and 60% gravel or unsurfaced terrain.
FROM BALTISTAN TO THE KARAKORAM HIGHWAY
The expedition begins in Skardu, surrounded by the stark mountains and broad river valleys of Baltistan. After a warm-up ride through the Shigar Valley and the Sarfaranga Cold Desert, we follow the Indus towards Gilgit and join the Karakoram Highway on the way to Hunza.
The road passes beneath some of the highest mountains on Earth. Glaciers descend towards cultivated valleys, centuries-old forts overlook former Silk Road settlements, and the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake cut through the surrounding rock. Subject to road conditions and official access, the route continues towards Upper Hunza and Shimshal.
BEYOND THE MAIN MOUNTAIN ROADS
This is not simply a ride along the Karakoram Highway. The route leaves the principal road to reach isolated valleys, narrow cliffside tracks and communities rarely visited by conventional tour groups.
At Raikot Bridge, we leave the motorcycles and continue by local 4×4 vehicles and on foot towards Fairy Meadows, beneath the immense northern face of Nanga Parbat. Farther west, the journey follows the valleys of Ghizer and Phander towards Ishkoman, Yasin and Darkut Valleys. We will finish our route with a visit to Fairy Meadows and spectacular fide through Deosai Plateau.
Autumn conditions in Northern Pakistan are never entirely predictable. Snow clearance, landslides, official restrictions and the condition of the highest roads may require the local team to adjust individual stages. The precise route is selected to preserve the character and quality of the expedition while keeping the group safe.
PEOPLE, PLACES AND MOUNTAIN CULTURES
Northern Pakistan is shaped by far more than its geography. Along the route, we encounter the distinct cultures of isolated valleys. Historic forts, village homes, local markets, traditional food and conversations with the people who live in these remote regions are an integral part of the journey.
The format creates a small, supportive group in which riders can take on challenging terrain without competitive pressure. It also opens opportunities for meetings and conversations that are not always accessible to mixed groups travelling through this part of Pakistan.
WHO IS THIS EXPEDITION FOR?
This tour is intended for riders with recent experience on gravel and unsurfaced roads. Participants should be comfortable riding in a standing position, managing loose surfaces and completing several consecutive days in the saddle.
The expedition is graded 8/10. It is not an enduro tour, but altitude, changing weather, long riding days, rough roads and occasional exposed sections require concentration, physical resilience and confident motorcycle control. Participants do not need competition experience, but this is not a suitable first introduction to off-road riding.
Non-riders can experience the complete journey as passengers in the support vehicle, subject to local road and route conditions.
PREMIUM SUPPORT IN A REMOTE ENVIRONMENT
The premium character of this expedition comes from its small group, experienced leadership, carefully selected accommodation, full-board arrangements through most of the route and continuous logistical and technical support.
A MotoBirds tour leader and experienced local motorcycle guide accompany the group. A support vehicle carries the main luggage and provides assistance throughout the journey, while a mechanic handles routine motorcycle support.
We use the best appropriate accommodation available at each location, ranging from comfortable hotels and characterful guesthouses to a mountain lodge and a local homestay. In the most remote valleys, facilities may be simple, but cleanliness, hospitality, location and authenticity remain central to the selection.
TOUR DETAILS
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Three Great Mountain Ranges
Ride through northern Pakistan, where the Karakoram, Himalayas and Hindu Kush converge. - Skardu and the Sarfaranga Cold Desert
Begin among the mountains of Baltistan, with a first ride across high-altitude sand, open plains and tracks framed by snow-covered peaks. - The Karakoram Highway
Follow one of the world’s most remarkable mountain roads through deep gorges, immense rock faces and settlements shaped by the ancient routes between Pakistan and Central Asia. - Hunza Valley
Explore mountain roads around Hunza, with views of Rakaposhi, historic villages and orchards surrounded by some of the Karakoram’s highest summits. - Attabad Lake, Passu Cones
Ride beside the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, beneath the distinctive Passu Cones. - Khunjerab Pass
Weather and official access permitting, climb towards the Pakistan–China border at 4,693 metres on the highest paved international crossing in the world. - Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat
Leave the motorcycles temporarily for a local jeep transfer and mountain hike to Fairy Meadows, facing the immense northern wall of Nanga Parbat. - Shimshal Valley
The most scenic and adventurous road you may have ridden in your lifetime! - Ishkoman, Yasin and Darkut Valleys
Learning about the region through respectful encounters with local communities. - Deosai Plateau
High-altitude, wild and breath-taking plateau! Full adventure mode guaranteed. - A small-group Expedition
A focused small-group journey for riders who want demanding riding, genuine cultural encounters and the confidence of travelling with an experienced support team. - Fully Supported Riding
Local guides, mechanical assistance, luggage transport and a support vehicle allow riders to concentrate on the road and the changing landscapes of northern Pakistan.
WEATHER:
FOUR SEASONS, SOMETIMES BEFORE LUNCH
October bring highly varied conditions across northern Pakistan. In Skardu, Hunza and the higher valleys, daytime temperatures generally range from 10°C to 22°C, while mornings and nights can fall close to or below 0°C. At altitude, strong winds, rain and snowfall remain possible.
Mountain weather changes quickly. Snow clearance and official road openings may affect access to Deosai Plateau, Shimshal and other high sections. The tour leader may adapt the route whenever weather, road conditions or safety require it.
MOTORCYCLE GEAR:
Riders must bring their own complete motorcycle gear. Adventure equipment is the best choice for gravel, mountain roads and changing temperatures.
A certified helmet, body protection, motorcycle jacket and trousers, gloves, knee protection and sturdy off-road boots are required. Bring waterproof outerwear, thermal layers and both warm and lightweight gloves.
LUGGAGE:
Travel light. Ride free.
The mountains are better without unnecessary weight. Your main luggage travels in the support vehicle, leaving you and the motorcycle free for the road ahead.
Bring a compact, soft-sided travel bag and keep only the day’s essentials with you in a small waterproof backpack or tail bag: water, documents, waterproofs, an extra layer and personal medication. Less luggage, more Pakistan.
IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION:
Each participant is responsible for obtaining and paying for her Pakistan visa. MotoBirds assists with the supporting documents and practical guidance required for the application.
We will be traveling at high altitudes, so be sure to bring sunscreen and sunglasses.
During the tour, especially when crossing the highest mountain passes, you may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Remember that the best way to minimize this risk is to drink plenty of water and electrolytes.
Every rider must carry an original national motorcycle licence valid for the motorcycle category used and a 1968 Vienna Convention International Driving Permit.
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE:
Approx 4000 meters above sea level - Deosai Plateau
metres above sea levelDAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1 – 4.10.2027
Arrival in Skardu
Distance: approx. 40–60 km | Road conditions: asphalt / local roads
Upon arrival in Skardu, our team will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel, offering views of the rugged peaks of Baltistan. After some well-deserved rest, we will take care of all the formalities, motorcycle handover, technical inspections and a briefing.
In the afternoon, we will head out for a short introductory ride through the Shigar Valley and the Sarfaranga Cold Desert – an extraordinary landscape where mountains meet sand.
In the evening, we return to Skardu for a welcome dinner.
DAY 2 – 5.10.2027
Skardu → Chunda Valley → Gilgit
Distance: approx. 200 km | Road conditions: mainly asphalt, with off-road sections leading to viewpoints
After breakfast in Skardu, we set off on a full-day ride across a variety of terrain, including some off-road sections. Along the way, we will visit the beautiful Chunda Valley. In the afternoon, we will arrive in Gilgit, the regional capital.
DAY 3 – 6.10.2027
Gilgit → Passu
Distance: approx. 160 km | Road conditions: asphalt
We ride along the legendary Karakoram Highway towards Passu. Along the way, we will visit the Hussaini Suspension Bridge, where there will be an opportunity to zipline high above the river. We will also pass Attabad Lake and Borith Lake. A short trek will take us towards the impressive Passu Glacier.
DAY 4 – 7.10.2027
Passu → Shimshal → Karimabad
Distance: approx. 180 km | Road conditions: 60% off-road + 40% asphalt
Today we tackle one of the most legendary roads in northern Pakistan. We ride into the isolated Shimshal Valley along a narrow, technical track carved into steep mountainsides, high above the river.
We will enjoy lunch surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. In the afternoon, we return to the Karakoram Highway along the same route – there is no alternative road! But we guarantee that riding it in the opposite direction will feel like a completely different adventure, just as exciting as the first.
From there, we continue on asphalt to the charming town of Karimabad.
DAY 5 – 8.10.2027
Karimabad → Ishkoman Valley
Distance: approx. 190 km | Road conditions: 25% off-road + 75% asphalt
An exceptional riding day awaits us. We initially follow the Karakoram Highway before turning onto a scenic road winding along the Gilgit River.
If time permits, we will ride towards the last point accessible to foreign visitors before the Afghan border.
We spend the night in the picturesque Ishkoman Valley.
DAY 6 – 9.10.2027
Ishkoman Valley → Yasin Valley
Distance: approx. 100 km | Road conditions: 80% off-road + 20% asphalt
A surprise awaits us in the morning – a ride up to a hidden viewpoint overlooking the valley!
The rest of the day will also take us well off the beaten track, exploring remote mountain landscapes and lesser-travelled trails.
In the afternoon, we arrive in the beautiful Yasin Valley.
DAY 7 – 10.10.2027
Yasin Valley → Darkut Valley → Yasin Valley
Distance: approx. 100 km | Road conditions: off-road
Today is dedicated to exploring the remote and rarely visited corners of the Darkut and Yasin Valleys. We will ride towards a glacier and a picturesque waterfall, discovering some of northern Pakistan’s most secluded mountain scenery.
DAY 8 – 11.10.2027
Yasin Valley → Gilgit
Distance: approx. 140 km | Road conditions: 25% off-road + 75% asphalt
Another surprise awaits us in the morning as we get a glimpse into the authentic everyday life of the local communities in the Yasin Valley.
Around midday, we begin our gradual return towards civilisation, making our way back to Gilgit.
DAY 9 – 12.10.2027
Gilgit → Raikot Bridge → Fairy Meadows
Road conditions: 80 km by motorcycle on asphalt, followed by 1 hour in off-road jeeps along winding mountain tracks to Tattu village + 2.5 hours of trekking or horseback riding
We ride to Raikot Bridge, where we leave our motorcycles behind. From there, we switch to 4×4 jeeps for the spectacular drive up to Tattu village.
The final stretch to Fairy Meadows is completed either on foot or on horseback. Along the way, we will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat, one of the world’s highest and most formidable mountains.
DAY 10 – 13.10.2027
Fairy Meadows → Astore
Distance: approx. 60 km by motorcycle | Road conditions: 80% asphalt + 10% off-road
In the morning, we descend along the mountain trail back to Tattu village, before taking the jeeps down to Raikot Bridge. There, we reunite with our motorcycles and set off towards Astore.
DAY 11 – 14.10.2027
Astore → Deosai → Skardu
Distance: approx. 150 km by motorcycle | Road conditions: 15% asphalt + 85% off-road
For our grand finale, an incredible off-road ride across the spectacular Deosai Plateau awaits! We’ll be riding high above the world, surrounded by vast, breath-taking landscapes. High altitude, endless horizons and unforgettable scenery – the perfect way to end our motorcycle adventure!
DAY 12 – 15.10.2027
Skardu → Departure
Morning flight from Skardu to Islamabad, followed by onward flights to Europe.
For those interested, we can also arrange an optional sightseeing tour of Islamabad, including the impressive Faisal Mosque and the Pakistan Monument.
IMPORTANT: The itinerary may be modified due to weather, road conditions, political or social circumstances, or safety considerations. All decisions regarding route changes will be made by the tour organiser and the local team, with participants’ safety as the overriding priority.
WHAT OUR RIDERS SAY
GOOGLE REVIEWS
Google rating score: 5.0 of 5,based on 47 reviews
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
MOTORCYCLE
4X4 OPTION
GUIDE
SUPPORT VEHICLE
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE TRANSFERS
ACTIVITIES
The price includes:
- Entry ticket to Altit Fort.
- The jeep transfer from Raikot Bridge to Tattu Village on the way to Fairy Meadows, and return.
INSURANCE
- Basic travel insurance.
- Tourist Guarantee Fund fee.
- Tourist Support Fund fee.
IMPORTANT: For an additional fee, there is an option to independently extend the insurance within the Signal Iduna Safe Travels and/or Global Rescue partner offer. The price of the tour includes basic travel insurance.
WELCOME PACK
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
- Airline tickets (tickets should not be purchased until the organizer confirms that the minimum group size has been reached).
- Costs of a tourist visa, if required.
- Medical expenses not covered by the basic travel insurance provided by MotoBirds.
- Drinks.
- Tips.
- Refundable motorcycle deposit of US$200 or EUR200, payable in cash on site on the first day
- Optional horseback ride between Tattu Village and Fairy Meadows, if the participant chooses this option.
- Entry ticket to the Deosai National Park (in 2026 around 20 USD)
MOTORCYCLE SECURITY DEPOSIT:
Refundable motorcycle deposit of US$200 or EUR200. Cash, Polish BLIK or Revolut payment on site on the first day. If the damage to the motorcycle exceeds the amount of the refundable deposit, the driver must pay the difference.
