Strap on your hiking boots and keep your camera handy as you set off on the Al Hayl Castle Hike. Set amidst a panoramic vista of mountains and date palms, this hike is a paradise for photographers. This cultural gem boasts a rich history from the 250 year old castle to petroglyphs dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. The watchtower along the hike offers commanding views to the East and the West of Wadi Hayl.
While a small amount of boulder hopping is required, the hike offers a very gradual ascent with generous amounts of shade throughout. With spectacular scenery, a rich history, and the occasional challenge, this hike is the perfect way to get your foot into hiking throughout the UAE.
N.B: Please see the tentative itinerary for this trail including scheduled dates, below. Kindly note that details such as elevation, meet up times, location, trail info etc., serve as a guide only and that ECC Adventures has the right to cancel or change these dates and itinerary as required without any prior notice.
Final details related to each event will be confirmed with those who have booked online, at least 24 hours before the start of each hike via a WhatsApp group chat created closer to the time of the hike. So, please ensure that you receive the most-up-to-date itinerary before joining the hike.
Example itinerary:
- 6:00 AM – 6:15 AM: meet at ADNOC Service Station | Fujairah Entrance, and convoy to the trailhead
- 7:15 AM: Begin hike
- 11:15 AM – 11:45 AM: Finish hike, possible tour of the fort.
Some incline, uneven terrain, scrambling sides of the canyon and waterways at points, hazardous species.
[Beginners add 2, Experienced hikers subtract 2 to difficulty]
- Experienced and certified mountain guide (English speaking)
- Outdoor education, Assistant Guide/s
- First Aid
- Hat
- Backpack
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- 1-2 liters of water (DEC – MAR) | 2-3 liters of water (for the rest of the months).
- Salted snacks and/or fruit for a few hours of hiking with a little extra.
- Hiking boots or trainers with good grip/not worn out.
- Shorts or comfortable hiking pants/leggings.
- T-shirt light pullover for sun protection/warmth in the morning/evening.
- Trekking poles (optional to help with balance or mitigate fatigue).
