Don't be fooled HIGHLANDER is no walk in the park

Temperatures from 15°C to 28°C

To fully enjoy HIGHLANDER, we strongly advise you to prepare physically beforehand. We recommend you backpack train in advance during the months leading to the event. During your physical preparations, don't forget to test the gear also.

All participants should be physically prepared for tackling a 37 km or a 25 km hike smoothly. We recommend some training in the months leading to HIGHLANDER Ras Al Khaimah to prepare for the adventure. 

Above all, you must be able to carry a heavy backpack (practice with a 5-7 kg and increase gradually to 15-17 kg). Make sure you can walk in your hiking shoes and break them in prior to the event.

*The organizer will have training programs with several gyms across UAE that will help get you ready for those who require assistance in training. You can start training now by following our backpacking-specific online training video.

Temperatures from 15°C to 28°C

Get your backpacking checklist here

Backpack checklist

BACKPACK

The backpack you will be carrying will likely be heavy. Your backpack weight on average is between 12 to 18kg depending on how lightweight your gear is.

HIGHLANDER backpack

BACKPACK

The backpack you will be carrying will likely be heavy. Your backpack weight on average is between 12 to 18kg depending on how lightweight your gear is.

Make sure you can walk comfortably in your backpacking shoes and break them in before the event.

Look into ultralight backpacking and thru-hiking methods of walking and packing. Bring only the indispensable items in your backpack and choose natural materials wherever possible.

A fully packed backpack, excluding food and water, should not weigh over 12kg. The lighter, the better!

< 12 kg

The lighter, the better!

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW WHEN ON THE MOUNTAIN

Weather

February is considered the “winter” season in the UAE. Though it is known to be sunny and cool temperatures, rain clouds can form suddenly. In Ras Al-Khaimah it's usually breezy, fresh during the day, and cold at night between 15c to 20c degrees, especially at the highest camp. Expect fog and cold in the morning and up to 24 - 28°C during the day. During the day it will be like a European summer day while at night it will get cold. Temperature can drop 10 degrees Celsius.

Bring well-made and durable all-weather hiking clothing suitable for layering. 

Merino wool is great (especially for underwear) for its quick-drying, anti-fungal, and anti-odor properties.

Food

For reheating food, you will need Butaine & Propane Mix Gas Canister.

Navigation

To find your way around, you must know how to read maps (which will be provided by the Organizer) and you can use handheld GPS or navigation app for phone. GPS files will be shared closer to event date.

Safety

For your safety, all participants must bring a first aid kit.

Littering

We believe our participants love and cherish nature and all its beauty. We know you wouldn’t litter, so please bring a waste bag for your litter.

Littering on and around trails, checkpoints, and mountain lodges are forbidden. Litterers will be disqualified and banned from applying to any future HIGHLANDER events.

Pets

Currently dogs are not welcomed.

PACKING LIST FOR HIGHLANDER UAE

Show your HIGHLADNER ticket at any DECATHLON store in UAE to get 10% discount off your gear purchase

Items marked with (MI) are MANDATORY ITEMS!
BACKPACK
  • backpack (45-50L)
  • backpack liner/cover
  • dry bags (2-5L)
  • ziplock bags
  • trash bag (provided by organizer) (MI)
FOOD & DRINKS
  • camping meals divided by days (provided by organizer)
  • snacks
  • hydration bladder / water bottles (volume 4L) (MI)
  • electrolyte tablets and energy gels
COOKING
  • backpacking stove and canister (MI)
  • cookware & cutlery (MI)
  • matches or lighter
  • biodegradable hand sanitizer or soap
SLEEP SYSTEM
  • tent (MI)
  • sleeping bag (MI)
  • sleeping pad (MI)
  • pillow (recommended-Inflatable or compactable)
CLOTHES
  • warm clothes layer (MI)
  • bandana / hat
  • gloves
  • quick-drying base layer shirt
  • long-sleeve shirt
  • fleece or jumper for cold nights
  • waterproof rain jacket or poncho
NAVIGATION
  • map and trail instructions (provided by the organizer)
  • map cover (provided by the organizer)
  • compass (MI) - (organizer will provide recorded digital trail/GPS file)
  • GPS device or navigation app
LIGHT
  • head torch / flashlight (MI)
  • extra batteries
  • tent light
HYGIENE & PROTECTION
  • toothbrush & biodegradable toothpaste
  • toilet paper - biodegradable
  • small soap - biodegradable if available
  • light towel
  • lip balm
  • insect repellent
  • sunscreen
  • sunglasses
  • first aid kit (MI)
  • survival blanket (MI)
PERSONAL ITEMS & GEAR
  • watch (optional)
  • trekking poles
  • pen and paper
  • phone/camera
  • national ID card of passport
  • money/cash for emergency
  • a copy of itinerary left with family or friends

Get your backpacking checklist here

Backpack checklist
Hikers exercising

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HIGHLANDER ADVENTURE

245 Park Avenue, New York

info@highlanderadventure.com