Best of Pakistan: Lahore, Islamabad & Passu Glacier - 11 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the overall travel style for this tour?

  The travel style for this tour is 'Classic'.

• What are the minimum and maximum age requirements for participants?

  Participants must be at least 12 years old, with a maximum age of 100 years.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 people.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation for the tour will be in hotels for all 10 nights.

• How many meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are not included.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation during the tour includes private vehicles, planes (for internal flights), and walking.

• Is an arrival transfer included in Pakistan?

  Yes, a complimentary arrival transfer is included at the airport in Lahore on Day 1, or up to three days prior if pre-accommodation is booked through the tour operator in the joining hotel.

• What are some of the key cultural highlights and experiences included in the tour?

  The tour includes exploring Lahore's Walled City and Badshahi Mosque, witnessing the Wagah Border Ceremony, a local farming experience at Chakwal Canyon, visiting Shah Faisal Mosque at sunset, experiencing local life in Hunza with host families, visiting the Korgah Carpet Center (a women's initiative), Gulmit Old House, Ganish Settlement, and exploring Taxila's ancient sites and truck art.

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Yes, optional activities include visiting Melody Food Street in Islamabad and taking a Jeep Safari to Kho Meadows in Karimabad.

• What is the general guideline for tipping during the tour?

  Tipping is customary in Asia. Recommendations are approximately 5-10% for waiters, $1-$2 USD per person per day for local guides and drivers, and $3-$4 USD per person per day for the Chief Experience Officer (CEO).

• What should I know about managing spending money and accessing ATMs?

  ATMs are limited in Pakistan, primarily available only in Lahore and Islamabad. It is recommended to take out sufficient funds to cover your expenses throughout the trip, especially when travelling outside these major cities.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, who provides general knowledge and assistance. Local guides are also utilized where more specific knowledge is beneficial.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  The main highlights of this tour include wandering through archways and along stoned streets in the Walled City of Lahore, walking on the crystal blue ice of Passu Glacier, and learning about local life in Karimabad Hunza with visits to Gulmit Old House and the Hunza Village Experience.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  You will be staying in hotels for all 10 nights of the tour.

• What meals are included during the trip?

  The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 12.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, along with local guides at various locations.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, planes, and walking.

• Are there any optional activities available on this tour?

  Yes, optional activities include visiting Melody Food Street in Islamabad and taking a Jeep Safari to Kho Meadows in Karimabad.

• What is the recommended age range for this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 years old if accompanied by a guardian over 21. Travelers must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. The maximum recommended age is 100.

• Is tipping customary in Pakistan, and if so, what are the recommendations?

  Yes, tipping service providers like waiters (approximately 5-10%), local guides ($1-$2 USD per person per day), and drivers ($1-$2 USD per person per day) is customary. A guideline of $3-$4 USD per person per day is suggested for your Chief Experience Officer (CEO).

• What should I know about managing money and ATMs in Pakistan?

  ATMs are limited in Pakistan and only available in Lahore and Islamabad. It is recommended to withdraw sufficient funds in these cities to cover your expenses throughout the trip, including drinks, shopping, and tipping.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Pakistan?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. You may also need an official Letter Of Invitation (LOI) to apply for a Pakistan visa. It is recommended to apply 2-3 months prior to departure. When applying, you must declare any recent travel to/from India, dual nationality relating to India, or family members of Indian heritage, as this may require a more thorough review of your application.

• What are the tour's policies regarding safety and security for travelers?

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leave expensive jewelry at home, and utilize hotel safety deposit boxes. Your CEO can amend or cancel itinerary parts for safety reasons. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities and consider staying in small groups or taking taxis at night in major cities. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide.

• How does the tour operator support local communities?

  The tour operator supports local communities through the Planeterra International Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to connecting underserved communities to tourism benefits. They develop and support community-owned businesses that empower women, provide youth employment, and protect the environment. 100% of donations through the "Dollar-a-day Program" go directly to these projects.

• What are the tour's policies regarding illegal drugs or exploitation?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to the tour's philosophy. The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) has the right to expel any group member found violating these rules.