Pakistan Expedition
15 Days Starting in Islamabad, Pakistan and ending in Lahore, Pakistan
Visiting: Islamabad, Skardu, Hunza Valley, Shimshal, Karimabad, Lahore
Tour operator:
Tour code:
HQSP
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Pakistan with the Pakistan Expedition, a captivating tour that delves into the country's rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this adventure takes you from the bustling streets of Islamabad to the serene beauty of the Hunza Valley, where snow-capped peaks and azure lakes await. Explore the ancient ruins of Taxila, the vibrant markets of Lahore, and the remote village of Shimshal, where you'll meet resilient locals and hike through stunning mountain terrain. Discover the architectural wonders of Lahore, including the Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque, and witness the lively Wagah Border ceremony. With visits to women's social enterprises and traditional music performances, this expedition offers a unique insight into Pakistan's diverse heritage and hopeful future. Experience the warmth of Pakistani hospitality and the country's awe-inspiring natural beauty on this extraordinary expedition.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Islamabad
Location: Islamabad
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Islamabad, Pakistan’s capital city. Translating as ‘City of Islam’, Islamabad was built in the 1960s to replace Karachi as the nation’s capital, though there’s evidence that humans have lived in the area for many thousands of years. Your expedition begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, but if you arrive earlier there are several sights worth checking out including Golra Railway Station, and the Lok Virsa Museum – dedicated to the preservation, documentation promotion of Pakistan’s cultural heritage.After your welcome meeting, get to know your group and local leader over an included dinner.
Optional Activities:
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Day 2: Islamabad - Taxila - Islamabad
Location: Islamabad
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Make the most of the opportunity to explore Islamabad with your fellow travellers. Your local leader will speak with you about the history of both Islamabad and Pakistan and be able to answer any questions about this oft-misunderstood destination. There’ll be a chance to shop for local clothes, so perhaps take the opportunity to buy a shalwar kameez – the traditional dress of loose-fitting trousers and a long shirt. Visit Faisal Mosque, which was the largest mosque in the world upon its completion in 1986 and is said to hold 10,000 worshippers, then head to the ancient site of Taxila. These World Heritage-listed ruins are evidence of over 500 years of cultural evolution influenced by Persia, Greece, and the spread of Buddhism. Enjoy a group dinner at neraby Saidpur village.
Included Activities:
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Day 3: Islamabad - Skardu (2228M)
Location: Skardu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Fly this morning from Islamabad to Skardu. Being the gateway to the Karakoram Mountain Range, it’s a popular spot for hikers and outdoorsy types, and your day will be spent exploring all that Skardu has to offer. You’ll head to the Skardu Bazaar, where you can pick up any snacks or souvenirs that might be calling your name. Then it’s on to the Manthal Rock Buddha – a sculpture dating back to the 8th century – as well as Kharpocho Fort.
Included Activities:
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Day 4: Hunza Valley (2500M)
Location: Hunza Valley
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, travel north to Passu, a small town surrounded by mountains and glaciers. It sits by the famous Karakoram Highway, which is also known as the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway as it connects the two countries. This is an achingly beautiful part of the world and there’ll be several opportunities to stop and take in views of many 7000 m peaks, including Rakaposhi. You’ll be staying in Passu for the next three nights, using it as your base for exploring the region.
Included Activities:
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Day 5: Hunza Valley (2500M)
Location: Hunza Valley
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to nearby Gulmit today. Take a walk around this remote village and visit a carpet-weaving centre run by the local women. You’ll also hike out to the ruins of Ondra Fort. Sitting atop a rocky outcrop above Gulmit, it would’ve commanded views of several strategically important passes in the area. It’s believed to have been built in the 16th century by a ruler named Qutlug Baig and, as if the historic ruins weren’t enough, there are phenomenal views of both the valley and the surrounding peaks. Later, return to your accommodation in Passu for the night.
Included Activities:
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Day 6: Hunza Valley (2500-2900M)
Location: Hunza Valley
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit the Hussaini Hanging Bridge, described by some as the "most dangerous bridge in the world". Though the bridge’s condition is questionable its location is enviable, suspended above Hunza river and surrounded by jagged mountains. Walk to Borith lake, which sits at an elevation of approximately 2600 m, and out to the impressive Passu Glacier. There’ll be plenty of time to relax and you’ll also see the photogenic Tupopdan (6106 m), which is known as Passu Cones or Passu Cathedral. Sample Passu’s famous apricot cake and yak burgers. In the evening you’ll have a chance to get immersed in the melodious tunes of the region. A local band will play their local instruments, sing songs with you and show you some of their dance moves.
Included Activities:
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Day 7: Shimshal (3100M)
Location: Shimshal
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel by 4WD to the remote town of Shimshal, which was inaccessible by road up until 2003. The road took 18 years to build and was constructed by the local community, who previously had to walk for several days to reach other parts of Hunza. Shimshal is so remote that state prisoners from Hunza were once exiled here as punishment. The locals are resilient and extremely hardworking people. A number of notable Pakistani mountaineers grew up here, which isn’t surprising given the rugged, mountainous terrain. The Shimshali are to Pakistan what the Sherpa are to Nepal, and perhaps the most famous Shimshali are Samina and Mirza Ali Baig, a brother- sister climbing duo. Samina is the first and only Pakistani woman to climb Everest (at the age of 21) and the Seven Summits. She also summited K2 in 2022.
Day 8: Shimshal (3100M)
Location: Shimshal
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Accommodation Name: Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day exploring Shimshal and learn about the challenges that come with living in such an inhospitable environment. Almost every house in Shimshal is powered by solar electricity, as is the local school. Meet the local families and hear their stories, and lace up those hiking boots to head out on Shimshal’s beautiful walking tracks. Take a walk for expansive views of the surrounding area. Enjoy the mountainous surrounds, take some time to relax and acclimatise to the altitude and know that you’re experiencing a destination that few will ever get a chance to visit. If you’re not up for the hiking, you can spend the day getting familiar with the town.
Included Activities:
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Day 9: Karimabad (2500M)
Location: Karimabad
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Say farewell to the locals before returning to Passu by 4WD, then switch into a private van for the drive to Karimabad. On the way we will make a stopover at Lake Attabad and Ganish village. There’s a sad story lurking below Lake Attabad’s shimmering surface. The lake was formed in 2010 after a massive landslide that killed 20 people and displaced many thousands. It also essentially dammed the Hunza River for five months, creating a lake that measures some 21 kilometres across. The dam held, and the lake is now a popular tourist destination renowned for its bright blue water. See it for yourself then explore Ganish, an ancient Silk Road settlement that received a cultural conservation award from UNESCO. In the evening, visit the Karimabad market for some shopping. Karimabad is the commercial hub and capital of the Hunza region.
Included Activities:
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Day 10: Karimabad (2500M)
Location: Karimabad
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Karimabad is a town known for its locally made handicrafts, carpets, and, of course, its next-level views of the surrounding mountains. Today you’ll walk to Baltit and Altit forts, which have stood in the region for over 700 years and are a testament to the valley’s past strategic importance. These towns were crucial for controlling the ancient Asia trade routes and Baltit Fort holds a particularly commanding position above the village. These well-maintained forts were restored by the Aga Khan Foundation, which has also been working on several projects to empower local women’s groups. You’ll have lunch at a cafe run by local women as well as have a chance to meet and speak with some local women during a visit to a women-run woodworking workshop. At sunset, drive up to Duiker for an unforgettable view of the surrounding mountains including – on a clear day – Rakaposhi, Ultar, the Bublimotin, and Spantik.
Included Activities:
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Day 11: Skardu (2228M)
Location: Skardu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, make the drive back to Skardu. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to stop and stretch your legs at the picturesque Upper and Lower Kachura lakes. Stay in Skardu overnight before your flight to Islamabad tomorrow morning.
Day 12: Skardu - Islamabad - Lahore
Location: Lahore
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Depart Skardu for a flight back to Islamabad. From here, your group will drive to Lahore, Pakistan’s second-largest city and the capital of the Punjab region. It’s a wealthy city known for being relatively cosmopolitan with a focus on education and the arts.
Day 13: Lahore
Location: Lahore
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your first full day in Lahore will be spent visiting some of the city’s most famous places. First up is the Walled City of Lahore, which was constructed around the year 1000. Within its walls, you’ll find the Delhi Gate, the World Heritage-listed Lahore Fort, the huge Badshahi Mosque and the ridiculously beautiful Wazir Khan Mosque. The interior is decorated with intricate mosaics and frescoes and the mosque houses historic shops, tombs of Sufi saints and the Shahi Hammam baths. You’ll also visit the tomb of Allama Iqbal, a poet and philosopher who is widely regarded as having inspired the Pakistan Movement (he also had a fantastic moustache). You’ll have time to explore the markets within the Walled City too. Take a walk through the Akbari Mandi, dedicated to grains and spices, or the bustling fish market by Delhi Gate. There is also the Azam Cloth Market, one of Asia’s largest, which houses some 16,000 shops. You’ll also get some time explore the hustling and bustling Anarkali market for some shopping.
Included Activities:
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Day 14: Lahore
Location: Lahore
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
There’s another full day of exploration to be had today. You’ll visit the Tomb of Jahangir, a 17th-century mausoleum built for the Mughal Emperor Jahangir, who ruled from 1605–27. Continue to the splendid Shalimar Gardens, built in the 17th century by the Emperor Shah Jahan and feature waterfalls, ponds and several garden pavilions. Wander through the complex, designed to be a natural utopia on earth, then travel to the Wagah border of Pakistan and India to witness the flag-lowering ceremony. This impressive spectacle attracts both international tourists and locals and features both sets of soldiers performing some seriously macho choreography. The ceremony ends with both flags being lowered simultaneously and a handshake between the soldiers. As the cultural capital of Pakistan, Lahore isn’t short on delicious cuisine to try. For your farewell dinner tonight, head to Lahore’s famous (and mouth-watering) Food Street.
Included Activities:
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Day 15: Lahore
Location: Lahore
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your Pakistan expedition comes to an end today. You are free to leave the accommodation at any time after breakfast, but please ensure you check out by 12 pm.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel (11 nights), Guesthouse (3 nights) -
Meals
14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners -
Islamabad - Faisal Mosque at sunset
Visit the iconic Faisal Mosque in Islamabad at sunset.
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Islamabad - Taxila Museum & archeological sites
Explore the Taxila Museum and its archaeological sites.
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Islamabad - Truck art workshop
Participate in a workshop to learn about Pakistan's famous truck art.
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Skardu - Kharpocho Fort visit
Visit the historic Kharpocho Fort in Skardu.
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Skardu - Manthal Buddha Rock
See the ancient Manthal Buddha Rock in Skardu.
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Skardu - Skardu market visit
Explore the local market in Skardu.
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Skardu - Katpana Desert
Visit the unique Katpana Desert in Skardu.
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Nagar Valley - Rakaposhi view point
Enjoy the view from the Rakaposhi viewpoint in Nagar Valley.
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Gulmit - Women-run carpet weaving center visit
Visit a carpet weaving center run by local women in Gulmit.
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Hunza Valley - Ondra Polygah hike
Hike the Ondra Polygah trail in Hunza Valley.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, and additional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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International Flights
International flights to and from Pakistan are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Pakistan are not included.
Included Activities
Islamabad - Faisal MosqueIslamabad - Taxila museum and ruinsGulmit - Rakaposhi viewpointKarimabad - Local marketGulmit - Local musical performanceGulmit - Ondra Fort ruinsGulmit - Women-run carpet weaving centerGhulkin - Passu's famous apricot cakeGhulkin - Trek to Passu GlacierGhulkin - Passu village walkGhulkin - Trek to Borith LakeGhulkin - Khunjerab Pass driveShimshal - Village tourShimshal - Shimshal day hikeKarimabad - Hopar GlacierKarimabad - Ganish village walking tourKarimabad - Attabad LakeKarimabad - Sunset walk to Eagle's NestKarimabad - Walk to Baltit & Altit FortKarimabad - Women's Project VisitRohtas Fort - Guided tourLahore - Bagh-e-Jinnah (Lawrence Garden)Lahore - Lahore MuseumLahore - Tomb of JahangirLahore - Wagah Border ceremonyLahore - Shalimar GardensLahore - Rangeela rickshaw rideLahore - Badshahi MosqueLahore - Markets of LahoreLahore - Wazir Khan MosqueLahore - Walled CityLahore - Delhi GateLahore - Shahi Hammam
Transport
TRANSPORT IN PAKISTAN:Main roads in Pakistan are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. if you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.TRAVEL TIMES:Distances in Pakistan do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.AUTO RICKSHAWS:On this trip we travel on local style of transport called an auto rickshaw. These small, motorised three wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in Pakistan and do not have seatbelts.FLIGHTS:International airports in Pakistan are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.INTERNAL FLIGHTS:Flights between Islamabad and Gilgit are often delayed or canceled due to poor weather. Your local leader will give you the most up to date information regarding delays to flights. If your flight is cancelled we will endeavour to get your group on the next available flight. Failing that, we will follow our contingency plan by road using a private vehicle.
Accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.ACCOMMODATION:Some of the accommodation along the way is basic or simple, staying in local guesthouses and homestays. Some may have shared bathroom facilities with cold water only. We use a mixture of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of Pakistan experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals.SHOWERS:Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.ROOM ISSUES:If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your tour leader right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
Important Information
1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.2. A scanned copy of your passport is required at the time of booking to provide visa support and book domestic flights. The trip cannot be booked without a scanned passport copy. Please see the Essential Trip Information for more information.3. We use Pakistan Airlines for the included internal flights.4. Due to the demands of travelling at high altitudes a Passenger Self Assessment Form is required for this trip.
Mode of Transport
Transportation in Pakistan includes private vehicles with experienced drivers, local auto rickshaws, and internal flights. Roads can be busy and driving times may be longer than expected. Safety is prioritized, and seat belts are recommended at all times.
Accommodation
Accommodation throughout the tour includes a mix of local guesthouses and homestays, some with basic facilities and shared bathrooms. Rooms may be air-conditioned or non-air-conditioned, and power outages are common. Most properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation will be used during the Pakistan Expedition?
The tour will use a variety of transportation methods including private vehicles, local auto rickshaws, and flights. The roads in Pakistan can be busy and challenging, and the tour leaders have the authority to change transport if safety is a concern. Flights between Islamabad and Gilgit may be delayed or canceled due to weather, with contingency plans in place to travel by road if necessary.
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What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
Accommodation will vary from local guesthouses and homestays to hotels, with some places offering basic facilities. Some accommodations may have shared bathrooms with cold water only, and there may be power outages due to load shedding. Rooms may not always be ready for early check-in, but luggage storage or shared day rooms will be available.
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Are there any specific cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several cultural experiences such as visiting a women's group supported by the Aga Khan Foundation, attending a traditional music performance in the Hunza Valley, and visiting a women-run carpet weaving center in Gulmit. There will also be opportunities to learn about local customs and history from the tour leader.
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What should I know about the internal flights during the tour?
Internal flights are operated by Pakistan Airlines, and flights between Islamabad and Gilgit are often subject to delays or cancellations due to weather conditions. If a flight is canceled, the tour will attempt to book the next available flight or travel by road using a private vehicle as a backup plan.
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What are some of the highlights of the Hunza Valley portion of the tour?
In the Hunza Valley, you will visit the Rakaposhi viewpoint, hike to the Passu Glacier and Borith Lake, and cross the Hussaini Suspension Bridge. You will also experience a traditional music performance and have the opportunity to taste local specialties like apricot cake and yak burgers.
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What is the significance of the Wagah Border ceremony included in the tour?
The Wagah Border ceremony is a daily military practice that takes place at the border between India and Pakistan. It is a highly choreographed event that attracts both locals and tourists, featuring soldiers from both countries performing synchronized drills and ending with a handshake. It is a symbol of the complex relationship between the two nations.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions