Markhor Wildlife Tour in Chitral
The Markhor Wildlife Tour is a 7-day trip to Chitral to watch the Kashmir markhor, Pakistan's national animal, with its spectacular spiral horns, in Chitral Gol National Park and the Tooshi-Shasha conservancy.
- Duration7 Days
- PaceEasy to moderate
- Key WildlifeKashmir markhor
- Best SeasonNovember – March
- GroupSmall group, 2–8
Pakistan's National Animal
The markhor, a wild goat with long corkscrew horns, is Pakistan's national animal. Once rare, the Kashmir markhor has made a strong comeback in Chitral thanks to community conservation, and in winter large herds come down close to Chitral town.
On the Markhor Wildlife Tour we watch markhor in Chitral Gol National Park and the Tooshi-Shasha conservancy, with local wildlife watchers. Winter is the rutting season, when males with huge horns display and fight on the cliffs. We also look for birds of prey and visit Chitral town.
Trip Highlights
- Kashmir markhor, Pakistan's national animal
- The winter rut, when males display their horns
- Chitral Gol National Park and Tooshi-Shasha conservancy
- Golden eagles, lammergeiers and Himalayan griffons
- Chitral Fort and the Shahi Mosque
- Community-based conservation success story
Itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Islamabad
Our team meets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel.
Overnight: HotelDay 2Fly to Chitral
Mountain flight to Chitral (or drive via the Lowari Tunnel if flights are cancelled). Afternoon in Chitral town.
Overnight: HotelDay 3Tooshi-Shasha conservancy
Walk to viewpoints in the Tooshi-Shasha conservancy to watch markhor herds.
Overnight: HotelDay 4Chitral Gol National Park
Full day in Chitral Gol National Park with a park watcher.
Overnight: HotelDay 5Markhor and birds
Morning markhor watching, then birds of prey along the Chitral River.
Overnight: HotelDay 6Fly to Islamabad
Flight back to Islamabad, or the road journey if flights are cancelled.
Overnight: HotelDay 7Depart
Transfer to Islamabad International Airport for your flight home.
Overnight: —Wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, and itineraries can change with weather, animal movements and park rules. Your guide will always put safety first.
What's Included
Included
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Hotels in Islamabad and Chitral
- Domestic flights Islamabad–Chitral–Islamabad, or road transport if flights are cancelled
- Breakfast and dinner in Chitral
- Local park watchers
- Private vehicle with an experienced driver, and 4x4 jeeps where needed
- Expert local wildlife guide or naturalist
- National park and conservancy entry fees
- Binoculars and a spotting scope for the group
- Letter of invitation (LOI) for your Pakistan visa
Not Included
- International flights to and from Pakistan
- Pakistan visa fee
- Travel insurance
- Camera fees, drones and professional filming permits
- Tips for guides, drivers and trackers
- Anything not listed under "Included"
Moments from the Trail
Why Choose the Markhor Wildlife Tour?
The Markhor Wildlife Tour is one of the best wildlife experiences in Pakistan, with excellent chances of seeing markhor at close range in winter. It is also a story of hope: local communities now protect the animals that were once hunted almost to extinction.
The pace is easy, with short walks to viewpoints. In summer, Chitral is also home to our Kalash Summer Festival Tour, and in December to the Kalash Winter Festival Tour.
Before you travel, read our Pakistan visa guide and our advice on travel insurance, or browse all our wildlife tours in Pakistan.
Plan the rest of your trip
Good to Know
Sightings
Markhor are seen on most winter days in Chitral, often in large herds, but distances vary. A spotting scope and good binoculars make a big difference.
Comfort & Fitness
Walks are short but can be steep and icy in winter. Bring warm clothing for cold mornings.
Permits & Ethics
We watch from a distance with park staff and follow all national park rules. No feeding or disturbing the animals.
When to Go
November to March is the best time, with the rut usually in December. Read our guide to the best time to visit Pakistan.
Reserve Your Place on the Tour
Message us with your preferred dates and group size, and our team will send you full details and a quote for your Markhor Wildlife Tour.
