13 DAYS | DESERT TO GLACIER | APRIL/MAY 2026

Welcome to the capital city Islamabad. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Explore Islamabad, visit the famous Faisal Mosque, eat at a local joint, do some last minute shopping before we venture out into the mountains.

Fly into Skardu, gear up, hop on the bikes and head to the Sarfaranga Cold Desert. Think golden dunes, epic mountain views, and your first taste of adventure on your 450 IBEX. Short ride, big vibes—let’s go!

We kick off the ride on the JSR road, carving through the Indus valley before linking up with the Karakoram Highway. It’s a solid day on the bikes. Long stretches of twisty tarmac, river crossings, and high-altitude views all the way to Nomal - The gateway to Hunza.

Today’s ride follows the Karakoram Highway, tracing one of the most scenic stretches of the entire journey. We’ll make brief stops at Attabad Lake, Borith Lake and the Passu Cones for photographs and tea before ending the day in Passu, surrounded by the dramatic cathedrals of the upper Hunza Valley.

We continue north on the Karakoram Highway, riding to the Khunjerab Pass, the highest paved border crossing in the world at 4,700 meters. The road climbs steadily through shifting landscapes, from rugged rock valleys to high alpine terrain. After a stop at the border for photos and a warm cup of tea, we return to Passu for the night.

An early start takes us off the main highway and deep into the Shimshal Valley, one of the most remote and awe-inspiring routes in northern Pakistan. The narrow dirt track winds along steep cliffs and rivers before reaching the village of Shimshal. After a short stop and lunch, we ride back and return to the highway and continue to Karimabad, the cultural heart of Hunza.

A relaxed day in Karimabad, with time to explore the Baltit and Altit Forts, walk through the local bazar, and take in panoramic views of Ultar Sar and Rakaposhi. Optional short hikes can be arranged for those who want to stay active, or simply unwind at the hotel and enjoy the view.

We ride to Minapin Village at the foot of Rakaposhi, park the bikes, and begin a half-day trek to Rakaposhi Base Camp. The trail passes through pine forests and alpine meadows with sweeping views of the glacier. We spend the night camping at Hapakun, under clear mountain skies.

After breakfast, we descend back to Minapin and continue the ride toward Naltar Valley. The route offers a mix of smooth tarmac and off-road sections, leading to a lush forested valley known for its vibrant alpine lakes. Overnight stay in Naltar.

We begin our descent toward Chilas, retracing sections of the Karakoram Highway. The ride transitions from high mountain terrain to the drier, rugged landscape of the lower Indus region. It’s a long but steady day on the road, ending with a comfortable night in Chilas.

A full day’s ride following the Indus River downstream. The scenery shifts again. From barren rock faces to green valleys dotted with small settlements. We arrive in Besham by late afternoon for an overnight stay.

The final leg of the journey takes us from Besham through Mansehra and down toward Islamabad. After handing over the bikes, we make the final transfer by van to the hotel in the capital for a celebratory evening and a proper rest.

Write to us when you reach home!