Start Early
On warm days, it is often more comfortable to start early. Temperatures are usually lower in the morning and the sun is less strong. For some hiking routes, it is therefore a good idea not to wait too long before setting off. Especially when you have a longer stage ahead, an early start can make a big difference. Always check the information for your route in advance and take the expected temperature into account.
Take Enough Water
Staying hydrated is important when hiking in warm weather for several hours. Always take enough water with you for the entire stage. Do not automatically assume that you will be able to buy water or refill your bottle along the way. On some hiking routes, you may not come across a shop, restaurant or other facility for a long time. How much water you need depends on the individual, the temperature and the length of the walk. In warm weather, it is important to think about this carefully in advance.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
The sun can be strong in the Canary Islands, even when the temperature feels lower because of the wind. A cap or hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are therefore important parts of your hiking gear. Do not forget to protect your neck and other areas of skin that are exposed to the sun for longer periods. There may be very little shade on open routes. Take this into account when preparing for your hike.
Wear Lightweight Clothing
Lightweight, breathable hiking clothing is comfortable in warm weather. Choose clothing that allows you to move easily and helps heat and moisture escape. An extra lightweight shirt can be useful when you are walking in the sun for a longer period. A thin long-sleeved layer can also provide additional protection from the sun.
Adjust Your Hiking Pace
When hiking in warm weather, you do not need to maintain the same pace as you would in cooler conditions. Walk at a comfortable pace and take a short break when you need one. Heat can make you feel tired more quickly, especially when climbing. It is better to adjust your pace in good time rather than waiting until your body tells you that you are doing too much. A hiking holiday is not about speed. You have the whole day to complete your stage.
Take the Terrain into Account
A temperature of 25°C does not feel the same on every hiking route. An exposed route without shade can feel much warmer than a trail at higher altitude where there is more wind. The terrain also makes a difference. A long climb in full sun places more demands on your body than a flat walk along the coast. So do not look only at the temperature. Also consider the length of the stage, elevation changes, the amount of shade and the opportunities to stop along the way. Would you like to know how the hiking grade of a hiking holiday is determined? Read more about the hiking grade.
Listen to Your Body
If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, a headache, nausea or unusual tiredness while hiking, take them seriously. Find a cool or sheltered place, rest and drink enough water. If you do not feel better or your symptoms get worse, ask for help. It is always better to temporarily stop a hike than to keep going simply because you want to complete the planned stage.
Heat and Altitude
In the Canary Islands, temperatures and conditions can change significantly during a single hike. When you walk from a coastal town to higher ground, it may become considerably cooler along the way. The opposite can also happen. A descent towards the coast may mean that temperatures rise considerably. Take the entire route into account, rather than just the weather forecast for your starting point.
Our Practical Tip
When hiking in warm weather, it is better to allow yourself a little extra time. Start early, take enough water with you and make sure you are well protected from the sun. And above all: listen to your body. A hiking holiday is not a race. When you adjust your pace and take a break when needed, hiking in warm weather becomes much more enjoyable. For our hiking holidays, you receive information about the route and the stage you will be walking in advance. This allows you to prepare properly for each hiking day.
