An absolute gem in mountain trekking. Located in northern Pakistan’s Kashmir region, in the area known as Baltistan, this trek leads to the base camp of the world’s second-highest mountain, the mountain of all mountains - K2. In the immediate vicinity, there are also three other eight-thousand-meter peaks: Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II. 

The K2 itself forms the border with Tibet (currently China), and the Indian border is nearby. Because of this, the area is monitored by the military, which ensures relatively high security. The entire trek is done in tents with local staff and complete camping equipment, including a dining tent, tables, and chairs. 

The adventure begins with a flight to Islamabad, followed by a transfer along the famous Karakoram Highway next to the sacred Indus River to the 'metropolis' of Baltistan – Skardu. Here we will have our last bed and the opportunity to purchase any last-minute trekking supplies. Skardu is the starting point for nearly all Karakoram expeditions. However, don’t expect the cozy charm of Sherpa towns with cafes and ubiquitous little shops. The local people, however, are generally kind and friendly. 

From Skardu, we will embark on a several-hour drive in old Land Cruisers to the last oasis of civilization – the village of Askole. The journey to Askole itself would be an adventure in itself. We will often marvel at the driving skills of the locals and the endurance of the Land Cruisers. In Askole, we will meet our staff, reorganize our equipment and supplies, spend the night in the camp near the village, and the following day, we will set off with a caravan into the wilderness. 

For the first two days, the trek follows a dusty and rocky valley along the Braldo River. We will camp in tents in small green oases by the river. A skilled cook and his assistant will prepare our meals, and all the camping equipment will accompany us. Every morning and evening, we will have the comfort of large dining tents, complete with tables and chairs. On the second day of the trek, the famous peaks marking the beginning of the valley will begin to appear, such as Uli Biaho, Trango Towers, and the Nameless Tower. 

On the third day, we will enter the Baltoro Glacier itself and begin ascending its moraine towards the third camp, called Urdukas, in front of the Great Trango Towers and the Cathedral. At the end of the valley, we will encounter the massive Gasherbrum peaks, with the dominating Gasherbrum IV (nearly 8,000 meters) from our perspective. On the fourth day, we will camp at a site called Goro II, beneath the 4,000-meter-high wall of Masherbrum (almost 8,000 meters), which was named K1 by British cartographers. 

On the fifth day, we will enjoy views of Broad Peak and, most notably, the stunning K2 from the famous spot called Concordia, where several glaciers converge. The following day, we will reach the base camp at the foot of K2, on the Godwin-Austen Glacier. In base camp, we will undoubtedly meet climbers and commercial clients with their professional Sherpas. 

After return to Concordia we'll spend one rest day at Concordia. Next day transfer to Ali Camp, situated beneath the Gondongoro La Pass. We will rise early because we have a long day ahead of us. We will circumnavigate the Chogolisa massif and cross the pass at an elevation of 5,585 meters into the Hushe Valley. The pass is usually snow-covered, so we will need crampons. On the way, we will enjoy views of one of the most beautiful peaks in the world – Laila Peak. 

The following day, we will enjoy a hotel bed and transfer by jeep back to Skardu, then fly to Islamabad. This trek is one of the more difficult ones, but not because of the challenging terrain or large daily ascents (except for crossing the Gondongoro La Pass) – it is a remote area without the comfort of accommodation. 

Sleeping in tents, with a need for a high-quality sleeping bag, down jacket, and winter clothing. For crossing the Gondongoro La Pass, at least chain crampons are required. Daytime temperatures can reach around +20°C, but at night, the temperature drops below freezing, especially at higher altitudes. 

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