Overview
Astor markhor hunting follows the classic spot-and-stalk approach, which is common for most mountain hunts. Hunters employ optics to locate the animals, often during the morning when they are most active. Once a suitable mature male is identified, the hunters cautiously close the distance. Mountain-dwelling animals are not accustomed to threats from above, so the stalk frequently necessitates a lengthy and meticulous detour to position themselves above the markhor and approach it from downwind. In the early years of the program, some hunters expressed concerns that local guides, despite their intimate knowledge of the animals and terrain, lacked expertise in trophy estimation and other necessary aspects of trophy hunting. However, it appears that this issue has become a thing of the past.
| Days | Plan | Residence |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive at Islamabad International Airport, transfer to hotel (512m). | Hotel in Islamabad |
| 2 | Fly to Gilgit or drive from Islamabad to Chilas. | Hotel in Gilgit or Chilas |
| 3 | Drive from Chilas to Gilgit, then proceed to Hunza and Passu. | Camp in Passu |
| 4-6 | Hunting period in the Hunza-Passu area (3 days). | Camp in Passu |
| 7 | Drive from Hunza-Passu back to Gilgit (1500m). | Hotel in Gilgit |
| 8 | Fly to Islamabad or drive from Gilgit to Besham. | Hotel in Bisham or Islamabad |
| 9 | Islamabad sightseeing or drive from Bisham to Islamabad (512m). | Hotel in Islamabad |
| 10 | Islamabad sightseeing and transfer to the airport for outbound flight. | Fly Out |
Services Included
- Professional local guide with multilingual support.
- Private transportation with experienced driver.
- Airport pick-up and drop-off (where applicable).
- Accommodation in handpicked hotels, guesthouses, or camps.
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) as specified in the itinerary.
- Entry fees for all mentioned cultural, historical, and natural sites.
- All applicable taxes and permit arrangements.
- Guided cultural interactions and storytelling sessions.
- Complimentary mineral water throughout the tour.
- First aid kit and emergency support.
- Traditional welcome reception and farewell dinner.
- Basic photography and drone assistance (where permitted).
Services Not Included
- International flights to and from Pakistan.
- Visa fees and processing charges.
- Travel insurance (mandatory for trekking and hunting packages).
- Personal gear and clothing (e.g. trekking boots, jackets, etc.).
- Tips and gratuities for guides, porters, and drivers.
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, snacks, and laundry.
- Any additional activities not listed in the itinerary.
- Excess baggage charges or additional transport requirements.
- Medical expenses or evacuation costs (if any).
- Optional add-ons like paragliding, rafting, or helicopter tours (unless pre-booked).
