We’re very sorry to hear how stressful and disappointing this experience was for you, and we appreciate the opportunity to clarify the situation for others reading this review.
1. The tour did go ahead safely and was completed by two participants.
Several other travellers made considerable efforts to join but were prevented by airline cancellations — something neither they nor we could control. Under the Package Travel Regulations, we must operate the tour if it can run safely and in line with official travel advice.
2. We consistently followed the UK Foreign Office (FCDO) guidance.
At the time of departure, the FCDO did not advise against travel to Islamabad or the areas included in our cycling itinerary. Had that advice changed to “advise against all travel” in the regions we visit, we would have been obliged to cancel the tour immediately.
While some parts of the wider Karakoram region were under separate advisories, these did not apply to the route we planned to use. We also checked conditions daily with our local team, who confirmed the itinerary remained viable.
3. Flight cancellations were outside our control.
Airspace closures led to unpredictable airline changes that affected travellers differently depending on routing and carrier. Our booking conditions — similar to most tour operators — state that refunds cannot be issued when a tour runs as scheduled but a participant cannot join due to third-party disruption such as missed or cancelled flights.
Even so, we did not rely solely on the contract. We:
• Provided written documentation to support insurance claims;
• Reviewed each case individually as a goodwill gesture;
• Assisted with alternative routing where possible.
Several travellers have since received full or partial reimbursements from their insurers. Outcomes varied due to differences in individual policy wording.
4. We do not accept that participant safety was minimised.
We never encourage travel into areas deemed unsafe by the FCDO. When asked about flight operations, we relayed information provided to us by airlines and our local partners at the time. We recognise that fast-changing news can create confusion, but we must base decisions on verified guidance rather than speculation.
5. Why the tour was not cancelled.
Cancelling a trip has significant consequences for all booked clients, including those who were able and willing to travel. As the itinerary remained safe and operable according to the FCDO and our Pakistan team, we were not legally permitted to cancel under the Package Travel Regulations.
6. We regret that the outcome did not meet your expectations.
Missing a long-planned adventure because of circumstances outside your control is deeply disappointing, and we are sorry this experience has overshadowed your previous positive tours with us. As a small, independent company, we aim to be transparent, fair, and consistent in how we manage complex situations such as regional unrest and airline disruption.
We stand by the care, communication, and support provided throughout — but we are genuinely sorry that this situation has led to such frustration. We will continue to review and strengthen how we manage crisis-related travel disruptions so that we can support our riders as effectively as possible in the future.