Book cheap flights to Islamabad

If you’re planning on immersing yourself in outdoor activities (which is highly recommended) the best time to visit Islamabad is from September to November and between February and May when temperatures start warming up and the ice starts melting. If a trek through the snow-capped mountains is what you’re after, then go between November and January where you might be lucky enough to see a snow leopard lurking in the mountains.

South African passport holders do require a visa to enter Pakistan. You should ensure that your SA passport is valid for 6 months from the date of your return and has at least 3 blank pages available for stamps.

The Pakistan Embassy is located in Pretoria at the following address:

312 Brooks Street, Menlo Park, 0081, Pretoria Phone: 27-12-362-4072

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Pakistan, however you may want to consider getting vaccinated against Typhoid and Hepatitis A due to possible exposure to contaminated food and water. Tap water is not suitable to drink – stick to bottled water.

Please note that if you are staying in Pakistan for longer than four weeks, the Pakistani government may require proof of polio vaccination before leaving the country. Speak to your doctor about whether this applies to you.

Islamabad is considered to be a reasonably safe city. As when travelling to any new destination, the usual safety precautions apply so be vigilant with your belongings and do not flash expensive jewellery or equipment. Pick-pocketing and petty crimes are prevalent in crowded places like markets and bus stations, so keep an eye on personal items at all times. It is not advised, especially for women, to walk around at night. If possible, stick to large groups and stay in well-lit areas.

It is important to remember that Islamabad is a Muslim territory and a conservative dress code is expected. Shorts and tank tops are not appropriate and women should have their arms and legs covered. Women should behave modestly and not exercise western customs – do not make physical contact with a local man unless he extends a handshake and avoid direct confrontation.

Accommodation options are dotted throughout the city centre, although you’ll find a few hotels concentrated along Jinnah and Margalla Avenues.

Budget accommodation in the city centre is not easy to find, so most people opt to stay a little out of town in Margalla Hills where you’ll be treated to magnificent views overlooking the city.

Depending on your purpose and duration of stay, there are also many prestigious and business hotels located in and around the city centre. For the overnight business traveller, furnished private apartments are available for hire with pick-up from the airport. The Blue Area has some upmarket restaurants and trendy cafés.

In more modern times, Islamabad is home to a melting-pot of cultures and you’ll find many restaurants serving Chinese, Thai, continental and middle-eastern cuisine close to the Jinnah Supermarket. For a night out, try one of the rooftop restaurants or coffee bars located near Kohsar Market to truly experience the city’s famed coffee culture.

Navigating the city is fairly effortless and cheap with the options of metro bus, taxis and car hire. The metro bus operates from one end of town to the other, covering the entire Blue Area and most of 9th Avenue. Buses are air-conditioned with free Wi-Fi. Taxis are also a safe and popular way of getting around. Agree on a fair rate before getting inside and remember that prices increase at night, especially departing from Jinnah Supermarket.

Car hire is also available from companies located in the Blue Area. Some major hotels have their own affordable car hire services, and if you’re not confident driving yourself, a driver can easily be arranged.