Pakistan
Group / Max 12
21 days
Group Tour
Islamabad to Lahore – 20 days
The Pakistan Karakoram Highway Expedition is an extraordinary 20-day group journey through some of Asia’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. Starting in Islamabad and ending in Lahore, this route follows the legendary Karakoram Highway—one of the world's most remarkable and highest paved roads—connecting Pakistan to China and serving as a vital international route for trade, travel, and cultural exchange. The journey passes through remote valleys, ancient villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery with stunning views. Highlights include the vibrant Kalash festival, the glaciers of Hoper Valley, the high-altitude plains of Deosai, and the dramatic Nanga Parbat Base Camp. Cultural encounters and opportunities for cultural exchange blend with natural wonders, offering a deeply immersive experience.
Along the way, explore Silk Road heritage in Hunza, walk across suspension bridges, spot wildlife in national parks, and stay in royal forts and village guesthouses. From gold panners and yak herders to colonial-era relics and Mughal marvels, every day reveals a new side of Pakistan. Designed for adventurous travellers, this expedition is both enriching and unforgettable—perfect for those seeking cultural depth, natural beauty, and group camaraderie on the road less travelled.
KALASH VALLEY CULTURE & CHILAM JOSHI FESTIVAL: Experience the vibrant traditions of the Kalash people during the Chilam Joshi Festival. Watch traditional dances, colourful attire, and festive rituals in remote mountain villages. This cultural highlight offers a rare glimpse into one of Pakistan’s oldest and most fascinating ethnic groups along the Karakoram Highway route, and is a unique opportunity for cultural exchange through festival celebrations and interactions.
KARAKORAM HIGHWAY & GLACIER LANDSCAPES: Travel the legendary Karakoram Highway, one of the world's highest paved roads. Marvel at towering peaks, deep valleys, and ancient glaciers including the dramatic Hoper Glacier. Stop at the Passu Cones, Rakaposhi Viewpoint, and Attabad Lake for iconic photography and stunning views throughout this epic Pakistan expedition.
NANGA PARBAT BASE CAMP & TARISHING VILLAGE: Trek or drive to the base of Nanga Parbat, Pakistan’s formidable “Killer Mountain.” Stay in the remote village of Tarishing, nestled along the Rupal River. The route includes stunning Himalayan scenery, glacial streams, and a deep sense of wilderness—perfect for adventurers on this group expedition.
DEOSAI NATIONAL PARK & SHIGAR FORT STAY: Cross the high-altitude plains of Deosai National Park, known as the “Roof of the World.” Spot wildlife like marmots and, if lucky, Himalayan brown bears. End the day in royal comfort with a heritage stay at Shigar Fort, a beautifully restored 17th-century palace in Baltistan.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
This 20-day group expedition travels the full length of Pakistan’s legendary Karakoram Highway. Explore glacier valleys, mountain villages, and Silk Road forts while experiencing rich cultures from Kalash tribes to Mughal Lahore. With dramatic landscapes and authentic encounters, it’s the ultimate adventure through Pakistan’s wild and historic north.
Arrive in Islamabad at Islamabad International Airport, the main entry point for travelers to northern Pakistan. Enjoy a warm welcome with lunch. Begin your tour at the striking Faisal Mosque, a modern icon of Islamic design. Continue to the Pakistan Monument and Museum to learn about the country’s rich history. At the Heritage Museum, see local artisans at work and browse handmade crafts. After the tour, return to Sayed Par Village for an early dinner in peaceful surroundings. This is your time to relax and recover from your journey before your adventure truly begins.
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Islamabad Serena Hotel
Islamabad Serena Hotel is a five-star hotel set in landscaped gardens between the Margalla Hills and Rawal Lake. Elegant rooms, a pool, spa, restaurants and calm courtyards create a secure city resort feel, ideal as a comfortable base for business, sightseeing or onward journeys into northern Pakistan.
Start the day with breakfast before setting off for Chitral through the scenic Hindu Kush Mountains. Drive past Chakdarra and cross the famous Lowari Pass, once used by Winston Churchill. Along the way, stop to watch an exciting polo match, a favourite sport of the region. Have lunch in Dir, a mountain town with beautiful views. The full drive takes 7 to 8 hours and offers stunning sights of rivers, valleys, and villages. Arrive in Chitral by late afternoon.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hindukush Heights Chitral
Hindukush Heights is a family-run boutique hotel set on the hillside above Chitral, with wide valley and mountain views. Simple, comfortable rooms, a pool, gardens and relaxed, home-style meals create a calm base for trips into Chitral town, Chitral Gol National Park and the nearby Kalash valleys.
Travel into the remote Rumbor Valley to meet the Kalash people. Your guide, Yashill, will introduce their fascinating way of life. Enjoy a traditional lunch in the village. Spend time observing the early preparations for the Kalash festival. Their customs, colourful clothing, and friendly community offer a rare look into one of Pakistan’s oldest cultures. Learn about their music, beliefs, and stories. It’s an experience that gives real insight into a unique world.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy the Chilam Joshi Festival, celebrated in May to welcome spring. Watch as men and women in traditional dress gather to dance, sing, and play drums. The day includes prayers, milk offerings, and blessings for crops and animals. It’s also a time for young people to meet and form connections. Take part in the joyful atmosphere with music, feasting, and community celebration. This is a special opportunity for cultural exchange, where visitors and locals share and experience vibrant cultural traditions that are still alive today.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin the day at the Kalash Tribal Museum, learning more about Kalash culture and history. If possible, visit a nearby school to meet teachers and students. Next, see the Karkal cemetery, where wooden coffins are placed above ground—an ancient practice still observed today. After lunch in the small town of Dir, return to Chitral. Meet a local hat maker and experience the hospitality of friendly locals while watching the traditional craft of Chitrali cap making. Before dinner, drive into the nearby mountains and look for the rare Markhor, Pakistan’s national animal.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hindukush Heights Chitral
Hindukush Heights is a family-run boutique hotel set on the hillside above Chitral, with wide valley and mountain views. Simple, comfortable rooms, a pool, gardens and relaxed, home-style meals create a calm base for trips into Chitral town, Chitral Gol National Park and the nearby Kalash valleys.
Today’s drive takes you over the famous Shandur Pass, also known as the “Roof of the World.” At 3,700 metres, it is home to the world’s highest polo field. The journey offers amazing views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, with plenty of chances for photo stops. By evening, arrive in Gupis, a scenic town along the Gilgit River. Dinner includes fresh River Trout, a delicious local speciality, ending your day with a taste of the region.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel along the Karakoram Highway, known as one of the most beautiful roads in the world. Stop to see where the Karakoram mountain range, Hindu Kush, and Himalayan ranges meet, a unique geographical point. Continue along the Gilgit River through the dramatic karakoram mountains and arrive in Gilgit. Visit the British Cemetery to learn about the region’s colonial past. Enjoy lunch at the peaceful Serena Hotel with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In the evening, have a home-cooked dinner at Eshan’s family home, prepared using fresh local ingredients.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Gilgit Serena Hotel
Gilgit Serena Hotel sits in landscaped gardens by the Gilgit River, with comfortable rooms, good security and views of the surrounding hills. Guests enjoy a pool, restaurant and quiet courtyards, making it a calm, reliable base before or after road journeys along the Karakoram Highway to Hunza, Skardu or Ghizer.
Continue your drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway. The route passes through dramatic mountains, valleys, and glacier-fed rivers like the Hunza River. Along the way, you’ll see the impressive Batura Glacier, a notable natural feature renowned for its vast size and stunning vistas. Stop at the famous Passu Cones, with their sharp, pointed peaks perfect for photos, surrounded by breathtaking snow-capped peaks. Nearby, the Passu Glacier displays its jagged ice formations, offering another spectacular view for adventurers. Take a tea break while enjoying the view. See ancient petroglyphs carved into rocks, showing signs of early Silk Road travellers. Enjoy lunch at the Rakaposhi Viewpoint, looking out to the 7,788m peak. At Attabad Lake, formed by a massive landslide, enjoy a peaceful boat ride before dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Khunjerab Pass, the highest international border crossing in the world at 4,693 metres. Pass through Khunjerab National Park, home to wild yaks, ibex, and marmots. Stop in Sost, the last town before the Chinese border, for lunch. On your way to Karimabad, visit Borith Lake, a scenic spot near Ghulkin village known for its natural beauty and as a gateway to mountain adventures. Cross a suspension bridge with breathtaking views. If you plan to visit Fairy Meadows or Nanga Parbat, the journey begins at Raikot Bridge, where the adventure continues along a challenging jeep track before trekking on foot. Arrive in Karimabad, the cultural heart of Hunza Valley, known for its hospitality, history, and stunning natural surroundings.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day exploring Hunza’s royal heritage. Visit Baltit Fort, a 700-year-old palace high above the valley. Learn about the history of the rulers and how people lived in the mountains. Later, see Altit Fort and its 1,100-year-old Shikari Tower, once guarding Silk Road traders. In the afternoon, head to Eagle’s Nest, the highest point in the area and a renowned 360º viewpoint. From Eagle’s Nest, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding highest peaks, including Rakaposhi, Diran, and Lady Finger, making it a must-visit scenic spot in Karimabad, Hunza. Watch the sun set over the Karakoram peaks, possibly catching a glimpse of Needle Peak. Enjoy a traditional Hunza dinner at the hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, drive to the beautiful Hoper Valley, home to the Mohaan people who still pan for gold in mountain streams. Take a short walk to see the impressive Hoper Glacier with the towering Karakoram peaks behind it. For those who want, a glacier trek is possible, with Rakaposhi Base Camp as a popular trekking destination offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a peaceful lunch surrounded by the valley’s natural beauty. In the afternoon, visit Ganash, the old city and the oldest settlement in Hunza, an ancient Silk Road village with narrow alleys, Buddhist relics, and old stone houses. Return to Gilgit for a relaxing evening and dinner at a colonial-style hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Gilgit Serena Hotel
Gilgit Serena Hotel sits in landscaped gardens by the Gilgit River, with comfortable rooms, good security and views of the surrounding hills. Guests enjoy a pool, restaurant and quiet courtyards, making it a calm, reliable base before or after road journeys along the Karakoram Highway to Hunza, Skardu or Ghizer.
After breakfast, leave Gilgit and drive into the Astore Valley, trading the Karakoram Highway for quieter mountain roads lined with pine forests and rushing streams. Stop along the way for photos and a simple roadside tea, then continue towards Tarashing, a peaceful village set against high ridgelines and wide meadows. After lunch, take an easy acclimatisation walk through the valley to stretch your legs and get your first feel for the Nanga Parbat region. Settle in for an early dinner and a calm night under clear mountain skies.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day on a rewarding walk towards the Rupal-facing side of Nanga Parbat (conditions permitting). The trail climbs steadily through meadows and scattered woodland, opening to big views of hanging glaciers and the immense south wall when the weather is clear. Your guide sets a comfortable pace with plenty of stops for photos and breathers. Enjoy a packed picnic lunch in a scenic spot, then return to Tarashing in the afternoon for a hot drink and time to rest.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, drive towards Skardu via the Deosai Plateau, one of the world’s highest alpine plains. The landscape changes fast—open grasslands, rolling hills, and wide skies—often dotted with marmots, and sometimes wildlife in the distance. Stop at viewpoints and, if time allows, visit Sheosar Lake for classic Deosai scenery. Have lunch en route, then descend into Skardu Valley by late afternoon. Check in and enjoy a relaxed evening, with dinner at the hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s drive takes you through the dramatic Sarfaranga Cold Desert, where golden sand dunes rise against snowy mountains. Arrive at Shigar Fort, a 17th-century palace that has been restored into a lovely heritage hotel. Explore the fort’s carved wooden interiors and historic rooms. From the gardens, enjoy views of the surrounding valley. This peaceful place is perfect for reflecting on your adventure through Pakistan’s remote mountains.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive back to Gilgit through winding mountain roads and high passes, passing through picturesque small towns that offer glimpses of local culture and amenities. The day is filled with scenic views of deep valleys and dramatic peaks. Stop in a small village for lunch and meet local people whose traditional way of life has changed little over the years. Continue the journey through the Karakoram’s rugged terrain and arrive in Gilgit by late afternoon. Check in and enjoy a relaxing evening over dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Gilgit Serena Hotel
Gilgit Serena Hotel sits in landscaped gardens by the Gilgit River, with comfortable rooms, good security and views of the surrounding hills. Guests enjoy a pool, restaurant and quiet courtyards, making it a calm, reliable base before or after road journeys along the Karakoram Highway to Hunza, Skardu or Ghizer.
Fly from Gilgit to Islamabad, then drive to Taxila, an ancient city once known for Buddhist learning and trade. Taxila was a key center on the historic Silk Road, linking Central Asia and South Asia, and played a vital role in the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas between these regions. Explore the Taxila Museum, filled with carved stone sculptures and relics from the Indo-Greek and Persian eras. Visit a workshop where Pakistan’s colourful trucks are painted by hand—each one a rolling piece of art. If time allows, stop at Rawalpindi’s historic railway station, a colonial building from 1881.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Islamabad Serena Hotel
Islamabad Serena Hotel is a five-star hotel set in landscaped gardens between the Margalla Hills and Rawal Lake. Elegant rooms, a pool, spa, restaurants and calm courtyards create a secure city resort feel, ideal as a comfortable base for business, sightseeing or onward journeys into northern Pakistan.
After an early breakfast, drive south towards the Salt Range. Stop at Khewra Salt Mines, the oldest and largest salt mine in Pakistan, for a guided visit inside the colourful crystal tunnels and key chambers (including the mosque and display areas). After lunch nearby, continue onwards to Lahore, arriving by evening for check-in and dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A full day to experience Lahore’s Mughal and colonial grandeur. Begin at the Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, two of the city’s most important landmarks. Walk through parts of the old walled city with your guide, learning the stories behind its gates, lanes, and lively markets. After lunch, visit Shalimar Gardens (time permitting) for a calmer side of Lahore. In the late afternoon, attend the Wagah Border ceremony for a unique, high-energy spectacle. Return for dinner and a final night in the city.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy breakfast and a free morning depending on your flight time. If there’s time, fit in last-minute shopping for spices, shawls, or handicrafts, or simply relax at the hotel. Transfer to Allama Iqbal International Airport for your onward flight.
Meals Included: Breakfast
After three amazing weeks, your Karakoram adventure comes to an end. We arrange your airport transfer to ensure a smooth journey home, with Islamabad International Airport serving as the main transit point for your departure. If you’re staying longer, we can help plan the extra days. As you fly out, you carry memories of snowy peaks, ancient cities, and unforgettable cultural moments. For further information on border crossings or travel logistics, please contact us.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The Karakoram Highway Expedition was born from a deep respect for Asia’s untouched landscapes, ancient cultures, and diverse wildlife. Exploring the rugged mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan, which lie within the majestic Karakoram mountain range, meeting remote communities, and seeing the fragile balance of nature and tradition made us realise the importance of responsible travel.
Inspired by the timeless Silk Road, the resilience of the Kalash people, and the breathtaking beauty of Deosai National Park, we designed this journey to celebrate Pakistan’s rich heritage and fragile ecosystems. The Karakoram Highway, also known as the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, stands as a symbol of diplomatic ties and engineering achievement, connecting the two countries through some of the world’s most stunning scenery.
Every aspect of this expedition reflects our commitment to conservation, sustainable tourism, and cultural preservation. From staying in eco-conscious lodges to supporting local artisans and wildlife protection efforts, this tour offers an authentic yet responsible way to experience Pakistan’s wonders. By joining the Karakoram Expedition, travellers experience the grandeur of the Karakoram while actively contributing to its preservation for future generations.
JOURNEY STYLE: Expect a true north-to-south traverse of Pakistan: remote valleys, big mountain roads and a rich spread of cultures from Kalash to Hunza, Baltistan and Lahore. Distances are long and days can start early, but the scenery rewards every kilometre, and lively bazaar evenings.
ALTITUDE & CLIMATE: Altitude builds gradually, with high points at Shandur Pass and Khunjerab Pass, plus time on the Deosai Plateau. Some walks are optional, but you should be comfortable on uneven ground and ready for cool nights, strong sun, and weather changes.
SMALL GROUP & GUIDES: This is a small-group journey led by expert local guides, with careful pacing, regular stops, and flexibility for mountain conditions. Flights (such as Gilgit/Skardu–Islamabad) and key road sections can be weather-dependent, so plans may adapt.
HOTELS & COMFORT: Accommodation is chosen for comfort and character, using Serena hotels where available, alongside well-run local guesthouses. Expect hearty regional meals, warm hospitality, and respectful visiting customs in villages, mosques and festival settings.
A 20-day Karakoram trekking holiday following the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia, the meeting point of the region’s greatest peaks: K2, Broad Peak and the Gasherbrums. Walk past Trango Towers and vast granite walls, camp under clear skies, and travel with Asian Geographical expert guides and a professional local crew.
Hiking/Trekking, Off Grid
Pakistan
GROUP
Experience Northern Pakistan on a group expedition through the Karakoram Highlands. With scenic drives, glacier walks, and soft trekking to Fairy Meadows and Biyal Camp, explore Hunza’s forts, alpine lakes, and local culture. This guided tour blends adventure and heritage across some of the world’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
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Travel through Northern Pakistan on a group tour combining mountain landscapes, cultural encounters, and historic sites. These trips are a great way to make new friends and share memorable experiences with fellow travelers. From the forts of Hunza to the Kalasha Valleys and Peshawar’s old city, this journey offers an authentic look into the region’s heritage, scenery, and remote traditions — with expert guidance and comfortable stays throughout.
36,72
Pakistan
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This tour showcases Pakistan's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, from the vibrant capital of Islamabad to the majestic mountains of Hunza and Kalash tribes. Explore ancient forts, experience the Kalash Spring Festival, and conclude with Lahore's Mughal architecture and the unforgettable Wagh Border ceremony. A truly immersive adventure.
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Pakistan
PRIVATE
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This tour takes you through Pakistan's stunning landscapes, from Islamabad's modern capital to the Hunza Valley and Kalash tribes, showcasing breathtaking mountain passes and ancient forts. The journey ends in Lahore, with a chance to explore Mughal architecture and witness the vibrant Wagah border ceremony. A truly unforgettable experience!
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Pakistan
PRIVATE
16 days
Small-group, expert-led and packed into 12 days, this trek pairs Hunza’s culture with high Karakoram scenery. Explore Karimabad and Baltit Fort, then walk from Hoper in Nagar through terraces and moraine to turquoise Rush Lake. Spend crisp nights at camp and, if you’re feeling strong, take the optional non-technical climb to Rush Peak for vast mountain views.
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This 10-day Pakistan Sufi Heritage Trail explores UNESCO sites, showcasing ancient ruins of the Indus Valley Civilisation, Mughal architecture and Sufi traditions. Our Pakistan holidays include cultural, adventure, and spiritual journeys, each offering unique experiences across the country. On this Pakistan holiday you will experience Pakistan’s Sufi culture and monuments in a way you have never seen before.
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Pakistan
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Grid View
List View
This tour showcases Pakistan's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, from the vibrant capital of Islamabad to the majestic mountains of Hunza and Kalash tribes. Explore ancient forts, experience the Kalash Spring Festival, and conclude with Lahore's Mughal architecture and the unforgettable Wagh Border ceremony. A truly immersive adventure.
People & Culture, AONB
Pakistan
PRIVATE
14 days
Tailor-made
Without Flights
14 days
This tour takes you through Pakistan's stunning landscapes, from Islamabad's modern capital to the Hunza Valley and Kalash tribes, showcasing breathtaking mountain passes and ancient forts. The journey ends in Lahore, with a chance to explore Mughal architecture and witness the vibrant Wagah border ceremony. A truly unforgettable experience!
People & Culture, AONB
Pakistan
PRIVATE
16 days
Tailor-made
Without Flights
16 days
Grid View
List View
A 20-day Karakoram trekking holiday following the Baltoro Glacier to Concordia, the meeting point of the region’s greatest peaks: K2, Broad Peak and the Gasherbrums. Walk past Trango Towers and vast granite walls, camp under clear skies, and travel with Asian Geographical expert guides and a professional local crew.
Hiking/Trekking, Off Grid
Pakistan
GROUP
Guided Group
£3,700
Without Flights
Experience Northern Pakistan on a group expedition through the Karakoram Highlands. With scenic drives, glacier walks, and soft trekking to Fairy Meadows and Biyal Camp, explore Hunza’s forts, alpine lakes, and local culture. This guided tour blends adventure and heritage across some of the world’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
Hiking/Trekking, Nature & Wildlife
Pakistan
GROUP
14 days
Guided Group
Without Flights
14 days
Travel through Northern Pakistan on a group tour combining mountain landscapes, cultural encounters, and historic sites. These trips are a great way to make new friends and share memorable experiences with fellow travelers. From the forts of Hunza to the Kalasha Valleys and Peshawar’s old city, this journey offers an authentic look into the region’s heritage, scenery, and remote traditions — with expert guidance and comfortable stays throughout.
Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture
Pakistan
GROUP
14 days
Guided Group
Without Flights
14 days
Small-group, expert-led and packed into 12 days, this trek pairs Hunza’s culture with high Karakoram scenery. Explore Karimabad and Baltit Fort, then walk from Hoper in Nagar through terraces and moraine to turquoise Rush Lake. Spend crisp nights at camp and, if you’re feeling strong, take the optional non-technical climb to Rush Peak for vast mountain views.
Hiking/Trekking, Off Grid
Pakistan
GROUP
13 days
Guided Group
Without Flights
13 days
This 10-day Pakistan Sufi Heritage Trail explores UNESCO sites, showcasing ancient ruins of the Indus Valley Civilisation, Mughal architecture and Sufi traditions. Our Pakistan holidays include cultural, adventure, and spiritual journeys, each offering unique experiences across the country. On this Pakistan holiday you will experience Pakistan’s Sufi culture and monuments in a way you have never seen before.
People & Culture, History & Archaeology
Pakistan
GROUP
10 days
Guided Group
Without Flights
10 days
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
