BACKPACK
A 20 litre backpack should be more than adequate for carrying all the gear you will need for a day’s trekking. During the hotter months, a backpack with a ventilated back panel will help to keep you cool on strenuous routes. A backpack with a stand-off frame is even better – these usually incorporate a ventilated fabric mesh frame which keeps the back pack itself completely off the back with a large open space between the mesh and the backpack.
FOOTWEAR
A good, sturdy, broken-in pair of walking boots designed specifically for hillwalking and trekking, with good ankle support and a strong, non-slip sole is recommended. Having a waterproof boot is not essential but would be an advantage. Some of the routes involve crossing streams and rivers and also follow a river course for a significant duration, in which case, on those walks where a walk up a river bed a pair of trainers or waterproof sandals would be a good idea to bring along to keep your trekking boots dry. However, the soles need to be in good condition. The smooth boulders and stones in the riverbeds and on the trails can potentially be quite dangerous, even when dry. A shoe with a poor or smooth sole increases the chances of slipping dramatically.
CLOTHING
During the winter, early spring and late autumn months, it is not unusual to experience exceptional periods of sustained sunny weather with pleasant daytime temperatures. However, during this time, the weather is less predictable and there are greater temperature differentials, even during the daytime. Choice of clothing is therefore dependent on the time of year and the weather forecast for the proposed day of the walk. Generally speaking though, the recommendation is for loose light trousers, an upper base layer and a loose shirt/blouse/top with an extra fleece or light jumper as an insurance policy. During the hotter months, the looser and the lighter the clothing, the better.
SUN PROTECTION
Sunburn and sunstroke are serious considerations in Andalucia, especially during the hotter months of the year. Wear a hat with a wide brim and which will stay on your head in windy conditions. Another good option would be a cap with neck and ear protection flaps which will minimise the use of suncream. Eye protection is also very important for two reasons: to protect the eyes from the strong glare and from wind-borne dust and grit on dry windy days. Bring a pair of sunglasses which fully protect the eyes. Wrap around designs are best.
WATER AND FOOD
Dehydration, like sunburn, is a real danger, and probably the single most important risk factor to consider when hiking in the mountains in Andalucia. Always carry a little more water than you think you will need. It’s always better to have and not need it, than to need it and not have it! Bring your own food, whether a couple of sandwiches or snacks or a packed lunch. A heavy ration of food is not needed on those walks where a stop for lunch at a mountain inn or restaurant is programmed, in which case a good idea also would be to bring a light sandwich, chocolate bar, sweets, nuts or dried fruit. Refer to specific walking itinerary for more details of each walk.
FIRST AID KIT
I am a fully qualified First Aid Responder and I always carry a full First Aid kit on every walk. Nevertheless, if you suffer from a particular condition, for example, insect bites or bee stings, and rely on a very specific type of medication for treating it, then you should bring your medication with you as my First Aid kit may not have your specific medication or treatment solution.
OTHER EQUIPMENT
If you are travelling to Spain and prefer not to pack extra gear in your suitcase, or you would like to come on an impromptu walk but you do not have some basic equipment, I have a limited number of rucksacks and walking sticks available for hire at very affordable rates. Reservations recommended. Available on a first come basis.