Spantik Peak Expedition - 31 days

Duration

31 Days

Group Size

5-12 People

Season

Summer

Overview

About Expedition

The Spantik Peak Expedition is an incredible 31-day adventure into the Shigar Valley, leading to the breathtaking Golden Peak (7,027m). This expedition is an ideal choice for mountaineers looking to scale a 7,000m+ peak with a manageable technical challenge. The journey begins in Skardu, taking adventurers through Arandu Village, Chogolungma Glacier, and to Spantik Base Camp, where climbers prepare for the summit push. This expedition offers stunning glacier crossings, high-altitude camping, and unparalleled views of the Karakoram Range.

Why This Expedition?

Golden Peak Challenge: Conquer a 7,027m summit known for its striking golden glow at sunrise and sunset.
Perfect for Aspiring 7,000m Climbers: A great training peak for those aiming for 8,000m expeditions.
Dramatic Glacial Terrain: Trek across the Chogolungma and Bolocho Glaciers, navigating their rugged beauty.
Breathtaking Views: Witness majestic panoramas of K2, Broad Peak, Gasherbrum, and other Karakoram giants.
A True Alpine Experience: Experience the thrill of technical ice and snow climbing, with expert guidance from Summit Experts.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Islamabad International Airport

Altitude: 540 m

Details: Upon arrival at Islamabad International Airport, our team will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. You will have time to rest and recover from your journey. In the evening, a detailed expedition briefing will be conducted, covering all essential aspects of the trip. If you arrive early, you will have the opportunity to explore the city.

Day 02: Fly to Skardu, Karakoram

Altitude: 2,498 m

Details:Weather permitting, we take a spectacular mountain flight from Islamabad to Skardu, offering breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat (8,126m). In case of flight cancellations due to weather, we begin an alternative two-day drive to Skardu, stopping overnight in Chilas.

Day 03: Free Day in Skardu

Altitude: 2,498 m

Details: If arriving by flight, this day will be spent finalizing expedition permits, organizing gear, and exploring Skardu Bazaar. If traveling by road, we complete the final leg of the journey, arriving in Skardu in the afternoon.

Day 04: Drive to Arandu Village

Altitude: 2,720 m

Details: A 6–7 hour jeep ride takes us along the Shigar River to Arandu Village, the last settlement before heading into the mountains. The route offers incredible views of desert valleys, rugged peaks, and high-altitude villages.

Day 05: Trek to Chogo Brangsa Camp

Altitude: 3,400 m

Details: Leaving Arandu, we begin our trek across moraines, glacial streams, and rocky paths. The terrain is rugged, but the views of Spantik and surrounding peaks make the journey rewarding. After a 5–6 hour trek, we arrive at Chogo Brangsa for our first night under the stars.

Day 06: Trek to Bolocho Camp

Altitude: 3,820 m

Details: The trek today involves traversing the Bolocho Glacier, requiring careful navigation over crevasses and shifting ice formations. The landscape is otherworldly, with towering ice walls and deep glacial valleys. Camp is set up at Bolocho, offering spectacular sunset views over the surrounding peaks.

Day 07: Trek to Spantik Base Camp

Altitude: 4,360 m

Details: A steep ascent takes us onto the Chogolungma Glacier, where we make our final push toward Spantik Base Camp. The journey takes 6–7 hours, leading to a dramatic setting with panoramic views of Spantik’s Golden Pillar. We establish our base camp here, preparing for the upcoming ascent.

Day 08: Acclimatization at Spantik Base Camp

Altitude: 4,360 m

Details: The following days are dedicated to acclimatization, technical climbing training, and summit attempts. We establish high camps at 5,100m, 5,800m, and 6,300m, gradually making our way toward the final summit push. Depending on weather conditions and climbers’ readiness, we attempt to reach the summit of Spantik, experiencing an unparalleled 360° panorama of the Karakoram Range

Days 09-25: Climbing Days

Details: Enjoy 16 days dedicated to climbing the peak, with ample opportunities for acclimatization and preparation.

Day 26: Departure from Base Camp

Details: The team, along with Summit Experts Tours staff, will leave base camp and begin the trek back. The descent via the Chogolungma Glacier will take approximately 8-9 hours.

Day 27: Trek to Arandu Village

Altitude: 2,720 m

Details: The final leg of our trek brings us back to Arandu Village, where we reconnect with civilization. Here, we celebrate the successful completion of the climb with the local Balti community.

Day 28: Drive to Skardu

Altitude: 2,250 m

Details: A 6–7 hour jeep ride takes us back to Skardu, where we enjoy well-earned rest, hot showers, and a final team dinner to commemorate the adventure.

Day 29: Fly to Islamabad

Altitude: 538 m

Details: We’ll take a morning flight from Skardu to Islamabad. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the hotel. Note that Domestic flights may occasionally be canceled due to weather. In such cases, an overnight stay in Chilas will be arranged (8-10 hours by vehicle).

Day 30: Contingency Day for Flight Cancellations

Details: This day serves as a buffer for potential flight delays. If needed, guests will depart early from Chilas to Islamabad (up to 10 hours of travel). If the flight is successful, this day can be used for sightseeing in Islamabad.

Day 31: Departure

Meals Included: Breakfast

Details: Our staff will transfer all guests to the airport based on their respective departure timings. Checkout time at partner hotels is 12 PM.

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Islamabad International Airport

Altitude: 540 m

Day 02: Fly to Skardu, Karakoram

Altitude: 2,498 m

Day 03: Free Day in Skardu

Altitude: 2,498 m

Day 04: Drive to Arandu Village

Altitude: 2,720 m

Day 05: Trek to Chogo Brangsa Camp

Altitude: 3,400 m

Day 06: Trek to Bolocho Camp

Altitude: 3,820 m

Day 07: Trek to Spantik Base Camp

Altitude: 4,360 m

Day 08: Acclimatization at Spantik Base Camp

Altitude: 4,360 m

Days 09-25: Climbing Days

Details: Enjoy 16 days dedicated to climbing the peak, with ample opportunities for acclimatization and preparation.

Day 26: Departure from Base Camp

Details: The team, along with Summit Experts Tours staff, will leave base camp and begin the trek back. The descent via the Chogolungma Glacier will take approximately 8-9 hours.

Day 27: Trek to Arandu Village

Altitude: 2,720 m

Day 28: Drive to Skardu

Altitude: 2,250 m

Details: A 6–7 hour jeep ride takes us back to Skardu, where we enjoy well-earned rest, hot showers, and a final team dinner to commemorate the adventure.

Day 29: Fly to Islamabad

Altitude: 538 m

Day 30: Contingency Day for Flight Cancellations

Day 31: Departure

Meals Included: Breakfast

Details: Our staff will transfer all guests to the airport based on their respective departure timings. Checkout time at partner hotels is 12 PM.

Packing List

Bags & Packs

Kit bag: One or two large duffel bags of 120L or more (some climbers manage with one, others need two) to transport your kit out to Pakistan and then up to Spantik basecamp. Suitcases and wheeled bags are NOT suitable.
Expedition rucksack: Approximately 70-80L to take your kit from basecamp to higher camps, carrying up to 15kg. Make sure it has a waterproof cover.
Daysack: 30-40L for flights and road transfers. You can use your expedition rucksack instead if you do not want to take this pack. Some do, some don’t, it’s a personal choice.
Dry stuffsacks: Rolltop bags that keep fresh clothing and other important items lime your passports and electronics dry in the event of a total downpour that could seep into your kitbag. Good for quarantining old socks! Please note that Pakistan has now banned plastic bags. In any case, we would always advise buying reusable and sustainable nylon rolltop bags for keeping your kit dry.
Small kit bag or light bag: This is for any kit you intend to leave at the hotel and could even simply be a heavy duty plastic bag if necessary, as you will be taking it home with you. Do note that Pakistan have banned the sale of single-use plastic bags so if you have something reusable this would be preferable.
Padlocks x 2: For use on your kit bag during travel and on the expedition, plus any bag you may leave at the hotel.

Sleeping Gear

5 Season sleeping bag: A 5-season bag with a comfort rating to -25°C is essential. Down is lighter, though more expensive than synthetic. Remember that ratings may vary between manufacturers.
Sleeping mat: We would recommend a full length self-inflating mat, eg. Thermarest, rather than a 3/4 length mat.
Sleeping bag liner: A liner will help keep your sleeping bag clean and provide extra warmth. Silk is best for keeping you a little warmer.

Headwear

Warm headgear x 2: This can be a warm hat, beanie or balaclava – anything to reduce the heat loss from your head.
Wide brimmed hat: Keeps the sun off exposed areas such as your ears, or the nape of your neck.
Sunglasses: A Category-4 wrap around style is highly recommended. These sunglasses allow for the highest available protection against harmful UV light found at altitude and from glare from snow and sand surfaces. It’s worth spending money on good UV filters. Julbo is our preferred supplier.
Ski goggles: We’d recommend Category-3 for days when it may be snowing and very windy. Generally very useful on summit day.
Sunblock: We’d advise factor 50 for trekking – but otherwise buy the highest SPF you can find, as UV intensifies with altitude.
Buff/Scarf: Essential for protection from the sun and dust.
Lip salve: Sun cream generally does not work on your lips and they are very susceptible to burning without proper protection, so it’s important to also have high SPF lipsalve.

Upper Body

Base layer x 3: This is the layer closest to the skin and its principle function is to draw or wick moisture and sweat away from the skin. You can also get thermal base layers for use at higher altitudes that provide an additional insulating layer while still drawing away sweat during times of high exertion.
Mid layer x 2: These are typically lightweight microfleeces or similar technology that provide varying degrees of warmth and insulation without being overly bulky or heavy to pack.
Soft Shell (optional): Optional – These should be windproof (not all are) and insulative. They are mostly made of soft polyester and sometimes resemble a neoprene finish which makes them very mobile and comfortable to wear. Be aware that while they do offer a degree of weather repellence, they are usually not waterproof.
Light insulated jacket: A lighter jacket such as a Primaloft or lightweight down, which can be worn at lower to mid altitudes, is a great addition to your kit and offers greater flexibility with layering.
Gilet (optional): Optional – A great low-volume additional layer to keep your core warm, whether down, primaloft or fleece.
Waterproof top: A good Goretex hardshell jacket, with sealed seams, provides effective defence against wind and rain as your outermost layer. This should be big enough to fit over your other layers.
Down jacket: These provide the best insulation and are worth every penny. They will keep you warm down to around -25C with a couple of layers underneath, the higher the ‘loft’, the better. Our guides usually wear a lighter down or Primaloft jacket underneath their down jackets for greater layering on summit day.
Warm gloves: Consider a light polartec pair or, better still, liner gloves for lower altitudes and evenings as well as a thicker pair like ski gloves for higher altitudes that can be worn in combination with liners.
High altitude down mitts: Worn over liners for summit days on all 6,000m plus expeditions. Mitts provide more warmth than finger gloves. For extreme cold, down or Primaloft fill is recommended.
Waterproof mitts: A great addition for an added windproof or waterproof layer, to fit either over your down mitts high up or your gloves lower down, especially as down ceases to work when it gets wet and takes a long time to dry. Synthetic fill dries much more quickly.

Lower Body

Trekking trousers x 2: These tend to be polyester so they dry quickly after a shower and weigh little in your pack. Consider perhaps a pair with detachable lower legs as an alternative to shorts.
Midweight trousers: These tend to be polyester so they dry quickly after a shower and weigh little in your pack. Consider perhaps a pair with detachable lower legs, as an alternative to shorts.
Waterproof overtrousers: Along with the waterproof jacket, these are an essential piece of kit to keep you dry. They should also be Goretex and hardshell.
Long Johns x 2: An essential thermal insulation layer for your legs.
Underwear: Merino or wicking material is best, we’d advise against cotton. How many pairs you take is entirely up to you!

Feet

High altitude boots: Essential on all our high altitude expeditions, as they are the only way to avoid frostbite. Commonly known as ‘plastics’, these boots are double or triple layered to offer the best insulation and the warmest feet up high. Either La Sportiva G2 SMs, Scarpa Phantom 8000s, La Sportiva Spantiks or more specialised 8,000m boots such as Olympus Mons are suitable. Make sure that your boots fit with 2 pairs of socks for added warmth, with room to wiggle your toes. Avoid trying to break in the boots by training in them, they will break you! Wear them around the house instead, to get used to the weight and feel.
Walking boots: Well-worn in 4-season waterproof boots, with mid to high ankle support.
Trekking socks x 4: Lighter weight merino wool is a good option. Going for a single layer or wearing two pairs is a personal choice.
High altitude socks x 3: These are especially thick to provide maximum insulation. Bring three pairs (keep one pair clean for summit day!) and wear with a thinner inner.
High altitude inner socks: Lightweight inner socks. Merino wool is advisable.
Spare laces: Just in case.
Gaiters: Protect the tops of your footwear from harsh conditions and provide some added insulation.

Technical Equipment

High altitude boots: Essential on all our high altitude expeditions, as they are the only way to avoid frostbite. Commonly known as ‘plastics’, these boots are double or triple layered to offer the best insulation and the warmest feet up high. Either La Sportiva G2 SMs, Scarpa Phantom 8000s, La Sportiva Spantiks or more specialised 8,000m boots such as Olympus Mons are suitable. Make sure that your boots fit with 2 pairs of socks for added warmth, with room to wiggle your toes. Avoid trying to break in the boots by training in them, they will break you! Wear them around the house instead, to get used to the weight and feel.
Walking boots: Well-worn in 4-season waterproof boots, with mid to high ankle support.
Trekking socks x 4: Lighter weight merino wool is a good option. Going for a single layer or wearing two pairs is a personal choice.
High altitude socks x 3: These are especially thick to provide maximum insulation. Bring three pairs (keep one pair clean for summit day!) and wear with a thinner inner.
High altitude inner socks: Lightweight inner socks. Merino wool is advisable.
Spare laces: Just in case.
Gaiters: Protect the tops of your footwear from harsh conditions and provide some added insulation.

Hydration

Water bottle and insulated bottle cover: 3L equivalent – a good combination is a Platypus/Camelbak along with 2 x 1L Nalgene bottles. Use the Platypus before the water starts to freeze at higher camps!
Water purification: Although generally all water is boiled, some prefer to double up and add purification tabs as well. They’re always good to have in your bag. If you’re using tablets, it’s worth taking neutraliser or using Silver Chloride as it has little taste.
Insulated mug: A great addition for hot drinks at the higher camps.
Small thermal flask: Always nice on summit night when it’s cold.
Pee bottle (+ optional Shewee for the girls!): A good idea if you are storm bound at higher camps. A 1L Nalgene bottle is a good option but do make sure you label it appropriately!

Toiletries

Travel towel: Travel towels from the likes of LifeSystems are perfect.
Wet wipes: Preferably biodegradable, these are great for washing when modern shower facilities become a thing of the past.
Alcohol gel: An absolute must-have for good camp hygiene.
Toilet paper: Provided on the mountain, but a spare in your daysack may be useful if you need to hide behind a rock between camps.
Nappy sacks or dog poo bags: Only needed to bag your toilet paper if you are caught short in between camps, or for keeping your rubbish tidy in your tent.
Insect repellent: For early stages and once back down.
Wash kit: Keep it simple on the mountain. Essentials are toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant. Moisturiser is advisable, everything else is a luxury!

Medications

Personal first aid kit: Though your guide will have a basic first aid kit, we recommend you come prepared with useful meds for yourself such as painkillers (Ibuprofen if you can take it and Paracetamol), plus blister plasters, plasters, antiseptic, rehydration sachets and any muscle rubs you wish to use.
Personal medication: Keep this in your daysack.

Miscellaneous

Head torch: We recommend Petzl head torches. Bring spare batteries.
Camera: Bring plenty of spare memory cards, and spare batteries – cold temperatures deplete battery power rapidly and recharging might not be possible above basecamp. The trek can be dusty so some sort of protective camera bag is advisable.
Penknife (optional)
Sewing kit (optional)
Hand warmers: For summit day
Snacks: You will be fed very well and given plenty of snacks each day. However, we do advise bringing a small selection as a bit of comfort. For summit night it’s always good to have a few extra chunky bars or goodies that you particularly like for that extra boost. Energy gels and protein bars are not suitable for this expedition.

Other Checklist/Documentation

Passport: Do not forget this! Your passport should have at least 6 months validity: ie. your passport expiry date needs to be at least six months after the final day of travel. Make sure you also have at least two blank pages.
Copies of passport: Just in case.
Passport photos x 4: We will need these to obtain your climbing and trekking permits.
Visa: You will need to apply for a mountaineering and trekking visa for Pakistan at least 6 weeks before travel – it’s easiest to apply online: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/ A 90-day, single entry visa for a UK trekker is currently US $60, but do check for the updated info.
Dental check up: We recommend you have a dental check-up before your trip. New fillings can be an issue at altitude if there is an air pocket left in the gap.
Money: We recommend you take around US $250 – $400 with you on to the mountain, in small denominations, to tip the Balti team. Plus, about $200 for any extras along the way, satellite phone calls etc. You may wish to bring extra for additional spending such as beers or souvenirs and to cover meals not included in the expedition price.
Travel insurance: Bring a copy of your own travel insurance details along with relevant contact numbers. We recommend looking into deals offered by Global Rescue, True Traveller, the BMC, Austrian Alpine Club or similar insurers. Team members should take out private insurance that covers against cancellation due to medical or personal reasons and it is important that the insurance contains coverage for medical evacuations by helicopter or other means. Many other insurance providers are available and we do recommend that you shop around to get the best cover for you on the expedition you are undertaking. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance for your intended trip, which must include medical evacuation and coverage up to the maximum altitude of this expedition. Please contact the office if you have any queries about insurance for this trip.

Packing List

Bags & Packs

Kit bag: One or two large duffel bags of 120L or more (some climbers manage with one, others need two) to transport your kit out to Pakistan and then up to Spantik basecamp. Suitcases and wheeled bags are NOT suitable.
Expedition rucksack: Approximately 70-80L to take your kit from basecamp to higher camps, carrying up to 15kg. Make sure it has a waterproof cover.
Daysack: 30-40L for flights and road transfers. You can use your expedition rucksack instead if you do not want to take this pack. Some do, some don’t, it’s a personal choice.
Dry stuffsacks: Rolltop bags that keep fresh clothing and other important items lime your passports and electronics dry in the event of a total downpour that could seep into your kitbag. Good for quarantining old socks! Please note that Pakistan has now banned plastic bags. In any case, we would always advise buying reusable and sustainable nylon rolltop bags for keeping your kit dry.
Small kit bag or light bag: This is for any kit you intend to leave at the hotel and could even simply be a heavy duty plastic bag if necessary, as you will be taking it home with you. Do note that Pakistan have banned the sale of single-use plastic bags so if you have something reusable this would be preferable.
Padlocks x 2: For use on your kit bag during travel and on the expedition, plus any bag you may leave at the hotel.

Sleeping Gear

5 Season sleeping bag: A 5-season bag with a comfort rating to -25°C is essential. Down is lighter, though more expensive than synthetic. Remember that ratings may vary between manufacturers.
Sleeping mat: We would recommend a full length self-inflating mat, eg. Thermarest, rather than a 3/4 length mat.
Sleeping bag liner: A liner will help keep your sleeping bag clean and provide extra warmth. Silk is best for keeping you a little warmer.

Headwear

Warm headgear x 2: This can be a warm hat, beanie or balaclava – anything to reduce the heat loss from your head.
Wide brimmed hat: Keeps the sun off exposed areas such as your ears, or the nape of your neck.
Sunglasses: A Category-4 wrap around style is highly recommended. These sunglasses allow for the highest available protection against harmful UV light found at altitude and from glare from snow and sand surfaces. It’s worth spending money on good UV filters. Julbo is our preferred supplier.
Ski goggles: We’d recommend Category-3 for days when it may be snowing and very windy. Generally very useful on summit day.
Sunblock: We’d advise factor 50 for trekking – but otherwise buy the highest SPF you can find, as UV intensifies with altitude.
Buff/Scarf: Essential for protection from the sun and dust.
Lip salve: Sun cream generally does not work on your lips and they are very susceptible to burning without proper protection, so it’s important to also have high SPF lipsalve.

Upper Body

Base layer x 3: This is the layer closest to the skin and its principle function is to draw or wick moisture and sweat away from the skin. You can also get thermal base layers for use at higher altitudes that provide an additional insulating layer while still drawing away sweat during times of high exertion.
Mid layer x 2: These are typically lightweight microfleeces or similar technology that provide varying degrees of warmth and insulation without being overly bulky or heavy to pack.
Soft Shell (optional): Optional – These should be windproof (not all are) and insulative. They are mostly made of soft polyester and sometimes resemble a neoprene finish which makes them very mobile and comfortable to wear. Be aware that while they do offer a degree of weather repellence, they are usually not waterproof.
Light insulated jacket: A lighter jacket such as a Primaloft or lightweight down, which can be worn at lower to mid altitudes, is a great addition to your kit and offers greater flexibility with layering.
Gilet (optional): Optional – A great low-volume additional layer to keep your core warm, whether down, primaloft or fleece.
Waterproof top: A good Goretex hardshell jacket, with sealed seams, provides effective defence against wind and rain as your outermost layer. This should be big enough to fit over your other layers.
Down jacket: These provide the best insulation and are worth every penny. They will keep you warm down to around -25C with a couple of layers underneath, the higher the ‘loft’, the better. Our guides usually wear a lighter down or Primaloft jacket underneath their down jackets for greater layering on summit day.
Warm gloves: Consider a light polartec pair or, better still, liner gloves for lower altitudes and evenings as well as a thicker pair like ski gloves for higher altitudes that can be worn in combination with liners.
High altitude down mitts: Worn over liners for summit days on all 6,000m plus expeditions. Mitts provide more warmth than finger gloves. For extreme cold, down or Primaloft fill is recommended.
Waterproof mitts: A great addition for an added windproof or waterproof layer, to fit either over your down mitts high up or your gloves lower down, especially as down ceases to work when it gets wet and takes a long time to dry. Synthetic fill dries much more quickly.

Lower Body

Trekking trousers x 2: These tend to be polyester so they dry quickly after a shower and weigh little in your pack. Consider perhaps a pair with detachable lower legs as an alternative to shorts.
Midweight trousers: These tend to be polyester so they dry quickly after a shower and weigh little in your pack. Consider perhaps a pair with detachable lower legs, as an alternative to shorts.
Waterproof overtrousers: Along with the waterproof jacket, these are an essential piece of kit to keep you dry. They should also be Goretex and hardshell.
Long Johns x 2: An essential thermal insulation layer for your legs.
Underwear: Merino or wicking material is best, we’d advise against cotton. How many pairs you take is entirely up to you!

Feet

High altitude boots: Essential on all our high altitude expeditions, as they are the only way to avoid frostbite. Commonly known as ‘plastics’, these boots are double or triple layered to offer the best insulation and the warmest feet up high. Either La Sportiva G2 SMs, Scarpa Phantom 8000s, La Sportiva Spantiks or more specialised 8,000m boots such as Olympus Mons are suitable. Make sure that your boots fit with 2 pairs of socks for added warmth, with room to wiggle your toes. Avoid trying to break in the boots by training in them, they will break you! Wear them around the house instead, to get used to the weight and feel.
Walking boots: Well-worn in 4-season waterproof boots, with mid to high ankle support.
Trekking socks x 4: Lighter weight merino wool is a good option. Going for a single layer or wearing two pairs is a personal choice.
High altitude socks x 3: These are especially thick to provide maximum insulation. Bring three pairs (keep one pair clean for summit day!) and wear with a thinner inner.
High altitude inner socks: Lightweight inner socks. Merino wool is advisable.
Spare laces: Just in case.
Gaiters: Protect the tops of your footwear from harsh conditions and provide some added insulation.

Technical Equipment

High altitude boots: Essential on all our high altitude expeditions, as they are the only way to avoid frostbite. Commonly known as ‘plastics’, these boots are double or triple layered to offer the best insulation and the warmest feet up high. Either La Sportiva G2 SMs, Scarpa Phantom 8000s, La Sportiva Spantiks or more specialised 8,000m boots such as Olympus Mons are suitable. Make sure that your boots fit with 2 pairs of socks for added warmth, with room to wiggle your toes. Avoid trying to break in the boots by training in them, they will break you! Wear them around the house instead, to get used to the weight and feel.
Walking boots: Well-worn in 4-season waterproof boots, with mid to high ankle support.
Trekking socks x 4: Lighter weight merino wool is a good option. Going for a single layer or wearing two pairs is a personal choice.
High altitude socks x 3: These are especially thick to provide maximum insulation. Bring three pairs (keep one pair clean for summit day!) and wear with a thinner inner.
High altitude inner socks: Lightweight inner socks. Merino wool is advisable.
Spare laces: Just in case.
Gaiters: Protect the tops of your footwear from harsh conditions and provide some added insulation.

Hydration

Water bottle and insulated bottle cover: 3L equivalent – a good combination is a Platypus/Camelbak along with 2 x 1L Nalgene bottles. Use the Platypus before the water starts to freeze at higher camps!
Water purification: Although generally all water is boiled, some prefer to double up and add purification tabs as well. They’re always good to have in your bag. If you’re using tablets, it’s worth taking neutraliser or using Silver Chloride as it has little taste.
Insulated mug: A great addition for hot drinks at the higher camps.
Small thermal flask: Always nice on summit night when it’s cold.
Pee bottle (+ optional Shewee for the girls!): A good idea if you are storm bound at higher camps. A 1L Nalgene bottle is a good option but do make sure you label it appropriately!

Toiletries

Travel towel: Travel towels from the likes of LifeSystems are perfect.
Wet wipes: Preferably biodegradable, these are great for washing when modern shower facilities become a thing of the past.
Alcohol gel: An absolute must-have for good camp hygiene.
Toilet paper: Provided on the mountain, but a spare in your daysack may be useful if you need to hide behind a rock between camps.
Nappy sacks or dog poo bags: Only needed to bag your toilet paper if you are caught short in between camps, or for keeping your rubbish tidy in your tent.
Insect repellent: For early stages and once back down.
Wash kit: Keep it simple on the mountain. Essentials are toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant. Moisturiser is advisable, everything else is a luxury!

Medications

Personal first aid kit: Though your guide will have a basic first aid kit, we recommend you come prepared with useful meds for yourself such as painkillers (Ibuprofen if you can take it and Paracetamol), plus blister plasters, plasters, antiseptic, rehydration sachets and any muscle rubs you wish to use.
Personal medication: Keep this in your daysack.

Miscellaneous

Head torch: We recommend Petzl head torches. Bring spare batteries.
Camera: Bring plenty of spare memory cards, and spare batteries – cold temperatures deplete battery power rapidly and recharging might not be possible above basecamp. The trek can be dusty so some sort of protective camera bag is advisable.
Penknife (optional)
Sewing kit (optional)
Hand warmers: For summit day
Snacks: You will be fed very well and given plenty of snacks each day. However, we do advise bringing a small selection as a bit of comfort. For summit night it’s always good to have a few extra chunky bars or goodies that you particularly like for that extra boost. Energy gels and protein bars are not suitable for this expedition.

Other Checklist/Documentation

Passport: Do not forget this! Your passport should have at least 6 months validity: ie. your passport expiry date needs to be at least six months after the final day of travel. Make sure you also have at least two blank pages.
Copies of passport: Just in case.
Passport photos x 4: We will need these to obtain your climbing and trekking permits.
Visa: You will need to apply for a mountaineering and trekking visa for Pakistan at least 6 weeks before travel – it’s easiest to apply online: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/ A 90-day, single entry visa for a UK trekker is currently US $60, but do check for the updated info.
Dental check up: We recommend you have a dental check-up before your trip. New fillings can be an issue at altitude if there is an air pocket left in the gap.
Money: We recommend you take around US $250 – $400 with you on to the mountain, in small denominations, to tip the Balti team. Plus, about $200 for any extras along the way, satellite phone calls etc. You may wish to bring extra for additional spending such as beers or souvenirs and to cover meals not included in the expedition price.
Travel insurance: Bring a copy of your own travel insurance details along with relevant contact numbers. We recommend looking into deals offered by Global Rescue, True Traveller, the BMC, Austrian Alpine Club or similar insurers. Team members should take out private insurance that covers against cancellation due to medical or personal reasons and it is important that the insurance contains coverage for medical evacuations by helicopter or other means. Many other insurance providers are available and we do recommend that you shop around to get the best cover for you on the expedition you are undertaking. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the appropriate insurance for your intended trip, which must include medical evacuation and coverage up to the maximum altitude of this expedition. Please contact the office if you have any queries about insurance for this trip.

Spantik Peak Expedition - 31 days

Overview

About Expedition

Why This Expedition?

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Islamabad International Airport

Day 02: Fly to Skardu, Karakoram

Day 03: Free Day in Skardu

Day 04: Drive to Arandu Village

Day 05: Trek to Chogo Brangsa Camp

Day 06: Trek to Bolocho Camp

Day 07: Trek to Spantik Base Camp

Day 08: Acclimatization at Spantik Base Camp

Days 09-25: Climbing Days

Day 26: Departure from Base Camp

Day 27: Trek to Arandu Village

Day 28: Drive to Skardu

Day 29: Fly to Islamabad

Day 30: Contingency Day for Flight Cancellations

Day 31: Departure

Itinerary

Day 01: Arrive at Islamabad International Airport

Day 02: Fly to Skardu, Karakoram

Day 03: Free Day in Skardu

Day 04: Drive to Arandu Village

Day 05: Trek to Chogo Brangsa Camp

Day 06: Trek to Bolocho Camp

Day 07: Trek to Spantik Base Camp

Day 08: Acclimatization at Spantik Base Camp

Days 09-25: Climbing Days

Day 26: Departure from Base Camp

Day 27: Trek to Arandu Village

Day 28: Drive to Skardu

Day 29: Fly to Islamabad

Day 30: Contingency Day for Flight Cancellations

Day 31: Departure

Bags & Packs

Sleeping Gear

Headwear

Upper Body

Lower Body

Feet

Technical Equipment

Hydration

Toiletries

Medications

Miscellaneous

Other Checklist/Documentation

Packing List

Bags & Packs

Sleeping Gear

Headwear

Upper Body

Lower Body

Feet

Technical Equipment

Hydration

Toiletries

Medications

Miscellaneous

Other Checklist/Documentation

FAQs

What is included in the Base Camp Service and what is not?

The Base Camp Service for Spantik Expedition includes essential logistical support up to base camp, but does not cover high-altitude climbing assistance or personal expedition gear.

What is included in the Full Board Service and what is not?

The Full Board Service for Spantik Expedition provides comprehensive logistical and climbing support, ensuring a fully guided experience from base camp to the summit.

What are the weather conditions like for each climb?

How do I train for high-altitude climbing?

What kind of food will be provided at base camp and high camps?

How much weight will I need to carry during the climb?

Can I hire a personal climbing guide or high-altitude porter?

What type of insurance do I need?

What happens if the weather prevents a summit attempt?

How technical is Spantik Peak?

What prior experience do I need?

What is the duration of the Spantik expedition?

Is oxygen required for this climb?

Do I need a climbing permit for Spantik?

What is the success rate for summiting Spantik?

Location

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