
PAKISTAN EXPEDITION
THE HIGHEST COLD DESERT IN THE WORLD
28 JUNE - 5 JULY 2026
12 - 19 JULY 2026
6 RIDING DAYS
100km
from 3400 EUR
KARAKORAM SAFARI SKARDU, PAKISTAN
Exclusively tailored for Bronco Riders, join this unique horse riding expedition across the magnificent Karakoram Mountain Range. Enveloped by towering 8,000m peaks, you'll traverse the awe-inspiring Skardu Valley, navigating through Blind Lake and culminating your journey in the lofty Sarfaranga Desert, the highest cold desert on earth. En route, you'll explore the picturesque village of Khaplu.
This pioneering expedition marks the first-ever horseback voyage in this region of Pakistan, likely the highest elevation horse riding safari in the world. We seek intrepid, physically fit, and resilient riders - those with a passion for adventure, robust fitness, and an adaptable spirit, ready to embrace the unexpected twists along the way. Selection criteria emphasize riding proficiency, physical endurance, and a thirst for unforgettable experiences.
28 JUNE - 5 JULY 2026
12 - 19 JULY 2026
Total: 8 nights
- 3 nights in hotels in Lahore and Skardu
- 1 night glamping
- 2 nights at historical sites
- 2 nights wild camping
All accommodations on this journey are carefully handpicked for their unique character and deep connection to the land. From heritage homes with stories etched in their walls to hidden luxury stays and off-grid wild camping under the stars, each place offers more than just comfort - it offers meaning. Some of our most breathtaking overnight spots will remain a surprise, because the best landscapes are not to be spoiled - trust us!
Day 1: Arrival in Lahore – Culture & Equestrian Grandeur
Upon arrival in Lahore, you’ll be welcomed by our guides and transferred to the historic Lahore Gymkhana Club, nestled beside a lush golf course. Discover Lahore’s equestrian legacy with a visit to the prestigious Lahore Polo Club, followed by lunch on-site. In the afternoon, explore the Walled City with its highlights – the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort, and the vibrant old alleys. Enjoy dinner and a short night tour of the city before turning in.
Day 2: Into the Mountains – Arrival in Skardu
Early morning flight to Skardu. Our team and horses will greet you at the airport. For ease, we suggest wearing your riding gear on the flight. We ride from the airport to a shaded picnic spot, then continue to the Katpana Desert. Tonight, you’ll stay in glamping tents amid the dramatic desert landscape. Total riding distance: 22 km.
Day 3: Desert Dunes to Historic Fort
Catch the sunrise over Katpana’s dunes before our longest ride of the trip. We cross one of the oldest bridges in the country to follow the Indus River for 30+ km to the 400-year-old Shigar Fort, where we stay the night. Horses rest at the nearby polo ground. Lunch is in a forested spot along the river with a long siesta break.
Day 4: Hidden Lakes & Mountain Passes
Ride through the heart of Shigar with its golden dunes, and arrive at the stunning Blind Lake - a hidden gem tucked between mountains. From there, we traverse green meadows and ascend a scenic mountain pass (with short sections on foot), before descending into the vast Sarfaranga Desert. After a peaceful riverside lunch break, we pick up the pace with some nice canters, and even gallops - depending on group preference, The day ends at our shaded riverside camp. Overnight in spacious double tents, fully equipped for comfort under the stars.
Day 5: Early Desert Ride & Skardu City
We set off early to ride across the dunes in the cool morning light, covering about two hours on horseback before transferring by car to Skardu. After breakfast, enjoy some time to relax or wander through the hotel’s peaceful gardens. In the afternoon, we explore the city’s markets and hunt for local delicacies like Tumru tea nuts. The day ends with a special dinner hosted by a local family - an intimate glimpse into traditional life, home-cooked flavors, and warm conversations with the women of the household.
Day 6: Ascent to Hanjoro Broq - Paradise on Earth After breakfast at the Summit Hotel, we drive to Khaplu (around 3 hours), stopping for lunch at a charming organic farm. Upon arrival, we saddle up and begin our afternoon ride — a rewarding uphill ascent through dramatic mountain landscapes. We’ll cover approximately 10 kilometers en route to Hanjoro Broq, a high-altitude meadow often called “Paradise on Earth.” Our campsite for the night overlooks sweeping river vistas and the majestic Haldi Cones, rising 6,000 to 7,000 meters above sea level. A memorable evening by the campfire awaits..
Day 7: Technical Descent & Khaplu Fort Immersion
Today we prepare the horses for the most technically demanding riding day of the trip. We will explore Hanjoro Broq and its diverse landscape of meadows, intricate step farming, and unique moss-covered rock formations. We will start our descend from the opposite side of the mountain, a route designed to test the skill and composure of both horses and riders. After reaching a sandy plain for a final canter, we stop for lunch near a mountain stream. We then transfer to Khaplu Fort, where we’ll spend the night and enjoy dinner in town.
Day 8: Farewell & Lahore Return
Early morning transfer to Skardu airport for your return flight to Lahore. Upon arrival, enjoy free time for shopping, sightseeing, or sampling local cuisine. Your final night is included at a comfortable hotel in Lahore. Rest well — your international departure is scheduled for the following day, with a smooth airport transfer arranged by our team.
Price - 3400 EUR / 3950 USD
*price is per person in sharing accommodation
*single room supplement - upon request
Deposit: 1000 EUR
*Your passport expiry date should be no less than 6 months from the return date
*Please check visa requirements for your nationality - most visas can now be obtained online or via the official app
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
Accommodation:
- 3 nights in hotels in Lahore and Skardu
- 1 night glamping
- 2 nights at historical sites
- 2 nights wild camping
Water, tea and coffee for the entire ride in the desert
All meals included during the ride (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Domestic Flight Lahore - Skardu - Lahore
Tour Leader & Local Crew
Private Transportation and Transfers to and from the airport in Lahore
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
International flights
Medical Insurance – obligatory
Visa - if required
Personal expenses
Tips
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
The Rider
This activity requires you to be experienced in horse riding and fit enough to enjoy and take advantage of the ride. Every rider should be capable of controlling a horse at walk, trot, and canter in the open across varied terrain. The riders should be capable of riding spirited, forward-going horses over terrain for up to 6 days. English style riding is required for this expedition. The saddles are mainly trail / endurance saddles and saddle bags are available.
Horses
Most of the horses are Arab horses, selected for their stamina and incredible ability to cope with the harsh conditions of the desert. Expect regular trots and gallops every half day, ranging from gentle collected canters to exhilarating unbridled gallops whenever the terrain permits. The horses are forward going with an active walk and can be strong in canter, so the ride's pace will be set by the ability of the weakest rider. The weight limit is 80kg. You will find the horses forward going yet responsive.
Route: The average daily riding is between 25 — 30 km (4— 6 hours).











