Explorer, Women-Only
NORTHERN PAKISTAN MOTORCYCLE EXPEDITION: WHERE GIANTS MEET | 24.04–7.05.2027
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Participants can join the expedition as a motorcycle rider or travel as a passenger in a dedicated vehicle
The Suzuki GS SE 150 is a light, straightforward and dependable motorcycle well suited to Pakistan’s mountain roads, gravel tracks and narrower sections. The price for a rider on the Suzuki GS SE 150 is €3,950.
The Zongshen RX3 Cyclone 250 offers additional power, greater stability and more comfort on the longer road stages. The price for a rider on the Zongshen RX3 Cyclone 250 is €4,450.
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 €3,250.
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 €650 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 14-day women-only motorcycle expedition crosses Northern Pakistan from Skardu to Islamabad, with 12 riding days through Baltistan, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghizer, Chitral, the Kalash Valleys and Swat. 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 Suzuki GS SE 150 or Zongshen RX3 Cyclone 250, while non-riders can follow the expedition in the support vehicle. The planned route reaches altitudes of up to 4,693 metres 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, Shimshal and Khunjerab Pass on the frontier with China.
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 Chitral, the Kalash Valleys and the greener landscapes of Swat.
Spring 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 Baltistan, Hunza, Chitral, the Kalash Valleys and Swat. 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 women-only 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 7/10. 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 women-only 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 and Shimshal
Ride beside the turquoise waters of Attabad Lake, beneath the distinctive Passu Cones and—subject to road conditions—along the narrow mountain route towards remote Shimshal. - 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. - Ghizer and Phander Valleys
Ride quieter roads through western Gilgit-Baltistan, passing rivers, lakes, villages and broad green valleys far from the busier Karakoram Highway. - Towards Chitral and the Kalash Valleys
If spring conditions allow passage across the high route, continue towards Chitral and spend time in the Kalash Valleys, learning about the region through respectful encounters with local communities. - Swat Valley to Islamabad
Complete the expedition through the mountain landscapes and winding roads of Swat before the final stage to Pakistan’s capital. - A Women-Only Expedition
A focused small-group journey for women 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
Late April and early May 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. Conditions become progressively warmer as we descend towards Chitral, Swat and Islamabad, where daytime temperatures may reach 25–32°C.
Mountain weather changes quickly. Snow clearance and official road openings may affect access to Khunjerab Pass, Shandur Pass, 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 can assist 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 3 700 m Shandur pass
metres above sea levelDAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1 — 24 APRIL 2027
Arrival in Skardu | Shigar Valley and Sarfaranga Cold Desert
Welcome to Baltistan. We meet you at Skardu Airport and transfer you to the hotel. After the motorcycle handover, technical checks and expedition briefing, we head out for a short warm-up ride through the Shigar Valley and across the extraordinary high-altitude landscape of the Sarfaranga Cold Desert. Return to Skardu for our welcome dinner.
DAY 2 — 25 APRIL 2027
Skardu → Hunza | Approx. 290 km / 8 hours
We leave Skardu following the Indus through narrow gorges and immense walls of rock. Near Gilgit, we join the Karakoram Highway and turn north towards Hunza.
The scale grows with every kilometre: glaciers, seven-thousand-metre peaks and the unmistakable silhouette of Rakaposhi. We reach Hunza in the evening and settle into our hotel overlooking the valley.
DAY 3 — 26 APRIL 2027
Hunza → Shimshal | Approx. 115 km / 5–6 hours
Beyond Hunza, the road passes Attabad Lake, the Passu Cones and the Hussaini Suspension Bridge before turning into the mountains towards Shimshal.
The final section follows a narrow gravel road cut into the cliffs above the river. Remote, exposed and spectacular, it leads deep into the Karakoram and finishes in one of Pakistan’s highest inhabited valleys.
DAY 4 — 27 APRIL 2027
Shimshal → Gilgit | Approx. 215 km / 7–8 hours
We retrace the dramatic Shimshal road and return to the Karakoram Highway. Attabad Lake, the villages of Upper Hunza and the surrounding glaciers give us plenty of reasons to stop along the way.
The ride continues south to Gilgit, a historic crossroads between the Indian subcontinent, China and Central Asia.
DAY 5 — 28 APRIL 2027
Gilgit → Fairy Meadows | Approx. 80 km by motorcycle + jeep transfer + 5 km hike
We ride the Karakoram Highway to Raikot Bridge, leave the motorcycles behind and transfer into local 4×4 jeeps for the steep climb to Tattu village.
From Tattu, a two- to three-hour hike through pine forest takes us to Fairy Meadows, directly beneath Nanga Parbat’s immense northern face. We spend the night in a simple mountain lodge with one of the finest views of the expedition.
A horse can be hired locally for the Tattu–Fairy Meadows section at an additional cost.
DAY 6 — 29 APRIL 2027
Fairy Meadows → Gahkuch | Approx. 160 km / 5–6 hours riding
We hike back to Tattu and descend by jeep to Raikot Bridge, where the motorcycles are waiting.
The route then leads through Gilgit and west into the Ghizer Valley. The landscape softens into rivers, pine-covered slopes, cultivated fields and small villages as we continue towards Gahkuch.
DAY 7 — 30 APRIL 2027
Gahkuch → Phander Valley | Approx. 100 km / 3–4 hours
Today’s road follows the Gilgit River through one of northern Pakistan’s quieter valleys. Small settlements, clear water and mountain scenery accompany us towards Phander.
We finish beside the deep blue waters and broad green landscapes of the Phander Valley, with time to slow down and enjoy the silence.
DAY 8 — 1 MAY 2027
Phander → Booni via Shandur Pass | Approx. 125 km / 4.5–6 hours
Our planned route climbs towards the high plateau of Shandur Pass, crossing from Gilgit-Baltistan into Upper Chitral. Beyond the pass, the road descends through the Hindu Raj mountains towards Booni.
This stage depends entirely on snow clearance, road conditions and the official opening of Shandur Pass. If the crossing is not safely accessible, the tour leader will adapt the route, accommodation and subsequent stages accordingly.
DAY 9 — 2 MAY 2027
Booni → Garam Chashma | Approx. 115 km / 4–5 hours
We ride through the Chitral region and into the Lutkoh Valley, following rivers fed by the glaciers of the Hindu Kush.
The day ends in Garam Chashma, a mountain settlement known for its natural hot springs—the right place to ease tired muscles after several demanding days on the road.
DAY 10 — 3 MAY 2027
Garam Chashma → Ayun | Approx. 70 km / 3–4 hours
The route continues along the Lutkoh River through villages, orchards and terraced fields. As we lose altitude, the landscape becomes greener and the air noticeably warmer.
We reach Ayun, situated at the entrance to the Kalash Valleys, and settle in for the night.
DAY 11 — 4 MAY 2027
Kalash Valleys Loop | Approx. 50–60 km / 3–4 hours
We ride into Rumbur or Bumburet along a narrow road threading between the river and the mountains.
This is a day for genuine cultural exchange. We explore the villages, learn about Kalasha traditions and daily life, and meet local residents with the time and respect the experience deserves.
DAY 12 — 5 MAY 2027
Ayun → Swat Valley | Approx. 240 km / 7–8 hours
We turn south through Lower Chitral and pass through the Lowari Tunnel, leaving the stark landscapes of the Hindu Kush behind.
On the other side, the scenery changes again: greener slopes, orchards, rivers and traces of Swat’s ancient Buddhist heritage. We finish near Mingora or Fizagat beside the Swat River.
DAY 13 — 6 MAY 2027
Swat → Islamabad | Approx. 280 km / 6–7 hours
The final riding stage carries us out of the mountains and towards Islamabad. The air grows warmer, the roads busier and the landscape gradually opens into the plains.
We return the motorcycles, check into the hotel and close the expedition together in Pakistan’s capital.
DAY 14 — 7 MAY 2027
Departure from Islamabad
Breakfast and free time, depending on flight schedules, followed by the included group transfer to Islamabad International Airport.
The route may be modified when required by weather, snow, road conditions, official closures, political or social circumstances, or the safety of the group. In particular, access to Shimshal, Fairy Meadows and Shandur Pass cannot be guaranteed in advance.
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 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.
- Lunches and dinners in Islamabad on the final day of the tour.
- Drinks.
- Tips.
- Lunch & dinner in Islamabad.
- Refundable motorcycle deposit of 500 USD, payable in cash on site on the first day
- Optional horseback ride between Tattu Village and Fairy Meadows, if the participant chooses this option.
MOTORCYCLE SECURITY DEPOSIT:
Refundable motorcycle deposit of US$500. Cash 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.
