Full Board
Moderate
June to September
20 Days
The K2 Base Camp Trek 2026 is the ultimate high-altitude trekking adventure in the Karakoram Mountains of Pakistan, leading to the base camp of the world’s second-highest mountain, K2 (8,611m). Widely regarded as one of the greatest treks on Earth, this challenging expedition takes you deep into the heart of the Central Karakoram National Park, across vast glaciers, remote valleys, and dramatic mountain landscapes unlike anywhere else in the world. This iconic trek follows the legendary Baltoro and Godwin-Austen Glaciers, passing through famous camps such as Paiju, Urdukas, Khoburtse, Goro II, and the breathtaking Concordia, often called the “Throne Room of the Mountain Gods.” Along the way, trekkers are rewarded with close-up views of some of the planet’s most formidable peaks, including Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I & II, Masherbrum, Trango Towers, and finally K2 Base Camp itself.
Beyond the mountains, the K2 Base Camp Trek is also a cultural journey. From the green avenues of Islamabad to the ancient Himalayan kingdom of Baltistan, you will experience Pakistan’s rich heritage, warm hospitality, and traditional mountain life. The trek begins with a spectacular flight to Skardu, followed by a drive to Askole, the last settlement before entering the high Karakoram wilderness. Spanning approximately 20 days, this trek is carefully designed to allow proper acclimatization, ensuring safety and maximizing enjoyment at extreme altitudes. While physically demanding, it is a non-technical trek suited to fit and determined adventurers seeking a truly world-class trekking experience.
The trek to k2 base camp is a logistical masterpiece that begins in the bustling capital of Islamabad and transitions into the high-altitude desert landscapes of Skardu. Our 17-day itinerary is designed for maximum efficiency while prioritizing safety and acclimatization.
Trek to the legendary K2 Base Camp (5,150m), standing beneath the world’s second-highest mountain and the iconic Art Gilkey Memorial.
Experience Concordia, the spectacular meeting point of the Baltoro, Godwin-Austen, and Abruzzi Glaciers with 360° views of four 8,000m peaks.
Walk across the mighty Baltoro and Godwin-Austen Glaciers, among the longest outside the polar regions, surrounded by the granite spires of the Trango Towers.
Enjoy a breathtaking mountain flight to Skardu with aerial views of Nanga Parbat and drive the mighty Indus and Braldu Rivers deep into the wilderness.
A fully supported, all-inclusive trek featuring government-licensed guides, high-altitude porters, and a dedicated kitchen team.
The trek to K2 base camp is widely considered one of the most challenging and rewarding adventure travel experiences in the world.
This is a strenuous trek. You will traverse rocky moraines and ice for 6–8 hours daily. Unlike the tea-houses of Nepal, this is a remote camping expedition where mental resilience is as important as physical fitness.
With a maximum elevation of 5,150m, altitude is the primary challenge. Our 20-day itinerary includes built-in acclimatization days at Paiju and Urdukas to ensure your body adjusts safely.
No technical climbing or mountaineering skills (ropes/crampons) are required for the standard route. However, a high level of cardiovascular endurance and experience in high altitude trekking is highly recommended. If you want a more technical trekking experience, check out our K2 Base Camp Gondogoro La Trek.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Domestic flights & all ground transport | International airfare, visas & insurance |
| Hotels in Islamabad & Skardu (twin-sharing) | Personal trekking gear & sleeping bags |
| Trekking permits & camping fees | Meals outside itinerary & extra hotel nights |
| Trek accommodation (twin-sharing tents) | Excess baggage charges |
| All meals during trekking days + snacks | Emergency evacuation & rescue costs |
| Licensed trekking guide & full support staff | Tips & gratuities |
| Porterage for personal luggage (fixed allowance) | Personal expenses outside of those specified |
| CKNP waste management fee | Early departure or trek withdrawal costs |
| Secure baggage storage in Skardu | Gear rental unless specified |
| Satellite phone (emergency use) & first-aid kit | Force majeure expenses |
The ideal window is between mid-June and early September. July and August offer the most stable weather and the best chance for clear views of K2 mountain.
The standard adventure is 20 days. The total distance covered on foot is approximately 160 km (99 miles).
It is a strenuous high-altitude trek. You must be comfortable walking 10–15km per day on uneven, rocky glacial terrain. Pre-trek training (cardio and hiking with a pack) is essential for a successful glacier expedition.
Most trekkers agree that K2 is significantly harder. While EBC has comfortable lodges and clear trails, the k2 mountain base camp trek is a wilderness expedition. You walk on a moving glacier rather than a dirt path, and you are far more isolated from medical facilities. However, the reward is a lack of crowds and a much more dramatic mountain landscape.
We provide all communal camping equipment (weather-proof tents, mess tents, kitchen gear). You are responsible for personal items like a -15°C sleeping bag, trekking boots, and layered clothing.
John W. –
Karakoram Treks exceeded expectations. Great equipment, disciplined staff, and excellent route planning. I especially appreciated their attention to acclimatization and health.