How safe is northern Pakistan for a western tourist wanting to travel independently?

I would like to see this part of the world on my own, but using local guides when I have to. I fell in love wit hthe mountains there after seeing a TV programme about the snow leopards- where exactly in Pakistan is this area?

Are the tribal parts of Pakistan and the area close to the Afghan border safe or accessible?

I am white British, male, 22. Interested in natural history- this would be my reason for going. I would also like to learn about the people there.

Thanks!

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