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 Walking in Western Andalucia is an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether it is to enjoy the stunning scenery, searching for particular plants or enjoying photography and birdlife the Sierras offer something for everyone.
Even if you are familiar with the area there are still some essentials in order to be properly prepared for a hike into the hills.
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Compass
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Basic first aid kit containing bandage, gauze pads, plasters and an antiseptic cream.
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Altough you may want to "get away" completely you should take a mobile phone with you. After all it only would be used in the rare event of an emergency and the rest of the time it can be turned off. Mobile coverage may also be weak in the mountains
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Always tell at least one person where you will be walking and roughly what time you expect to be back
Carry plenty of water and juice. Food for energy is important not only to keep your stomach happy but also your mind. If your brain is lacking in essential sugars you cannot make correct decisions for your safety. Healthy foods such as nuts, fruit, muesli bars, (some chocolate) and sandwiches are a better type of food to take walking.
Wearing comfortable walking shoes or boots is important, especially when tackling difficult terrain. They are designed for comfort and safety and if looked after will last for many years. In spring you may start off walking in good weather conditions, but a gain in altitude of a few hundred meters and it will be a different story. Normally a medium weight sweater and a light wind/rain proof jacket should be sufficient.
Ordinance survey maps in Spain are not updated on a regular basis. Dirt tracks and trails that are marked on the maps may not have been maintained. Often the route is over-grown, ploughed up, or sometimes a fence has been erected across it. I would recommend that you don’t rely on just one track or trail for your route, look for options before you set out on your walk, as dead-ends can be really frustrating. Some tracks and goat trails may not be marked on the maps. You can find a map shop in most towns or ask at your hotel or guest house.
Slightly different rules apply during the summer
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It is a good idea to start a walk in early morning or evening. Try to finish a morning walk by 13.00 at the latest.
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Shorts or lightweight trousers (to avoid scratches on your legs) and a t-Shirt or shirt with collar keeps you cool and the sun off your neck. A hat is important, even though it may be hot it’s better than getting heat stroke. (A woven grass hat allows more air through). You may be tempted to use open footwear, however proper boots or shoes offer more support and comfort and safety.
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High factor sun block is recommended. When you are out walking for several hours a slight burn on the shoulders, arms or behind the knees can rub on your clothing. Always carry extra sun block to top up after a while as sweat will wear it off.
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Take as much water as you and your group can carry, especially if you are not sure how long you will be out walking. Take regular sips of water rather than drinking a lot every hour. Take advantage of any natural springs to cool off your head and arms only drinking it if there is a notice clearly stating it is safe to drink.
During the winter months dressing in layers is better than wearing one thick sweater or fleece. Carry a waterproof jacket in case of rain. Take a spare pair of socks, a woolly hat, scarf & gloves. It is best to treat your walking shoes or boots with a waterproofing agent the day before a walk.
Carry about two litres of water per person, you may not feel thirsty while you are walking but dehydration still occurs in cold, dry conditions. Past a certain point it is difficult to re-hydrate your body.
While walking in the campo you will more than likely pass by a farm or two. Some people can be put off by the idea of a dog lurking behind a barn waiting to pounce on the “happy wanderer”. If you approach a farm expecting to meet a dog it tends to take the shock out of the “bark”. A lot of bigger dogs will be tied up, if not you must be confident and stand your ground. If the dog starts to advance stamp your foot and shout “FUERA”, which means away or get out. Repeating this as you walk past their territory usually works quite well, if you still feel a bit un-nerved pretend to pick up a small rock while shouting “FUERA”. If you are still not sure about passing through the dog’s territory, find another way around the farm. Always walk away with confidence NEVER RUN. I have found more often than not that if you show no fear and use an aggressive tone in your voice they will walk away.
In short, whatever time of year you walk in the mountains ;
- Wear the correct clothing and footwear
- Always carry plenty of water
- Make sure at least one person knows where you are walking
- Carry first-aid kit and know some basic first – aid techniques.
Have a great time exploring the sierras!
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