Islamabad - Post Report Question and Answers
Do you feel that it is safe to walk, run or hike outside? Are there areas where bike riding is possible? What is the availability and safety of outdoor space for exercising? Are these easily accessible?
You can easily and safely walk on the diplomatic enclave (which is fairly large), though some people were concerned about the stray dogs and wild boars you might encounter. I never had any issues. Islamabad is not otherwise a terribly walkable city, though each sector of town has a large market square that is more or less pedestrian only and is where most of the shopping and restaurants are clustered. You can walk in those with no problem. Sidewalks are very limited and drivers can be unpredictable. Many people rode bicycles for exercise. There is quite good hiking in the Margalla Hills, which are small mountains immediately next to the city (15 minutes from the embassy). It was my favorite activity outside summer, when it's too hot. There are a few RSO-approved trails and several more you can get permission to hike on a case-by-case basis that are usually approved with no issue. - Sep 2026