General
Wildlife Tour (Chitral Markhor) (2024-25)
The Wildlife Tour (Chitral Markhor) provides an immersive experience in the stunning surroundings of Chitral Gol National Park, which is home to the endangered Astor markhor, a rare wild goat species. Nestled in the Hindukush mountains, the park is home to a rich range of wildlife, including Siberian ibex, Ladakh urial, and a variety of bird species such as golden eagles and Himalayan monals. The tour includes picturesque hikes, jeep drives, and wildlife viewing, all while surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, making it an ideal adventure for nature and wildlife lovers.
Itinerary – Wildlife Tour (Chitral Markhor)
The itinerary for the Wildlife Tour (Chitral Markhor) is given below.
Day 02: Fly/drive to Chitral
On this Day
Your wildlife experience begins with an early morning flight from Islamabad to Chitral, which provides a picturesque aerial view of the spectacular mountain ranges, including the Hindukush. If you prefer to drive, you will travel for an entire day via the Swat Motorway and the Lowari Tunnel. The route takes you through lovely valleys and along rivers, providing glimpses of rural life. After arriving in Chitral, check into your accommodation and spend the evening exploring the town, visiting iconic buildings such as the Chitral Fort and Shahi Mosque, and immersing yourself in the local culture.
Day 03: Chitral Town to Chitral Gol National Park
On this Day
After an early breakfast, take an exciting jeep trip from Chitral town to the entrance to Chitral Gol National Park. Begin your trip towards the wildlife shelter located within the park. The 1.5-hour hike will take you through spectacular scenery of cedar trees, valleys, and rivers. When you arrive at the hut, rest and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the snow-capped Tirich Mir, the Hindukush Range's highest peak. As the sun sets, the brilliant hues cast over the peaks offer a breathtaking view. Overnight stays will be at either the wildlife hut or the Summer Palace Fort.
Day 04: Wildlife Exploration in Chitral Gol National Park
On this Day
Rise early to watch the stunning sunrise over the towering mountains, which is a highlight of the journey. After breakfast, you'll start a full day of wildlife exploration in the park. Today, you'll be tracking the endangered Astor markhor, the park's most famous animal, as well as other wildlife like Siberian ibex, Ladakh urial, and even snow leopards. Your guide will also point out the park's diverse bird population, which includes golden eagles and Himalayan monals. The day will be spent trekking through the park's valleys and streams, with plenty of opportunity to relax and enjoy the natural splendor. Return to the Chaghbini hut in the evening to spend the night.
Day 05: Return Trek and Drive to Chitral
On this Day
After breakfast, start your descent from the Chaghbini hut, following the same trekking path through the calm park. As you make your way down, take in the surrounding sceneries and keep a look out for any wildlife you missed the day before. Once at the base, your jeep will transport you back to Chitral. After you arrive, you will have the rest of the day to tour Chitral or relax at your accommodation. Spend the night at Chitral.
Day 06: Fly or drive to Islamabad
On this Day
On the final day of your wildlife tour, take an early morning flight back to Islamabad, or begin your return journey by car. Whether flying over towering peaks or driving through the spectacular terrain of northern Pakistan, the return journey provides even more breathtaking sights.
Day 07: Fly to home country
On this Day
Dates & Cost – Wildlife Tour (Chitral Markhor)
All seasons are considered good for the Wildlife Tour (Chitral Markhor). Considering the inflow of tourists all year round, our dates are open throughout the year and your bookings will be 100% guaranteed even if you are a single traveler. Our prices and dates for this tour (all seasons) are given below.
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Mid-November to February, 2025 | Daily | 900 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Spring | March to May, 2025 | Daily | 900 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Summer | June to Mid- September, 2025 | Daily | 900 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Autumn | Mid-September to Mid November, 2025 | Daily | 900 | 1 pax | BOOK NOW |
| Season | Months | Tour Start Date | Price Per Person (USD) | Minimum Travellers Required | Register |
Holiday Information
- Pickup from hotel or vacation rental before sightseeing
- Drop at hotel or vacation rental after sightseeing
- Guided sightseeing tour according to itinerary above
- Map (hard copy)
- Licensed professional guide (english speaking)
- SUV/mini-van/car (depending on number of people)
- Driver
- All entry/admission tickets
- Bottled water in car (fair usage policy)
- Toll & parking fees
- Drop after 10 pm (Drivers & Guide's working hours end at 10pm)
- Gratuities/tips for guides/drivers, etc
- Meals, snacks and drinks (our guide will make recommendations after consultation with guests)
- Accommodation (can be arranged at additional cost according to your budget)
- Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue)
- Visa to Pakistan (supporting documents can be offered if requested for multiday tours)
- Refunds in case of early tour windup/closure due to any reason
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
As Featured In:
Overview – Wildlife Tour (Chitral Markhor)
Chitral Gol National Park (Urdu: چترال گول نیشنل پارک) is one of Pakistan’s National Parks. It is located in Chitral District, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province, Pakistan, beside the Chitral River, about two hours drive from Chitral town. The park is sometimes called Chitral National Park. This park contains three valleys. multiple glaciers also exist in the park, through which multiple springs flow to form an 18-kilometer-long stream. The frigid water of this brook flows eastward into the Chitral River. The park is abundant with trees, particularly cedar trees. The park also provides habitat for a diverse range of wildlife, particularly the markhor, an endangered wild goat species. The park contains several subspecies, including the Astor markhor. Despite a drop from over 500 to roughly 200 individuals in the park during the 1980s, Chitral National Park continues to have the world’s largest population of astor markhors. The Siberian ibex, Ladakh urial, and Asian black bear can also be found in limited quantities in the park. The snow leopard does not appear to be a permanent inhabitant of the park, but it is occasionally spotted there. Tibetan wolves, red foxes, yellow-throated martens, and Himalayan otters can all be found in the park. Common birds in the park include the bearded vulture, Himalayan vulture, golden eagle, demoiselle crane, peregrine falcon, Himalayan snowcock, Himalayan monal, snow partridge, and rock partridge.
