Caves of Baqal Hike
Event Date
October 24, 2026
Event Time
3:30 pm
Event Description
Explore a beautiful wadi, pass abandoned stone houses, and discover the hidden Caves of Baqal. One of AFT Mountain Adventures’ signature trails, introduced to the UAE hiking community.
The hike begins with an easy walk through a boulder-filled wadi, passing abandoned stone houses along the way. The trail gradually climbs deeper into the wadi, leading us to the hidden Caves of Baqal. We’ll explore three caves located next to each other and enjoy a longer break here before retracing our steps back through the wadi.
This is one of the signature trails introduced to the UAE hiking community by AFT Mountain Adventures – a chance to discover a quieter side of the Hajar Mountains and explore some of their hidden features.
This hike is located in the Emirates of Ras al Khaimah. Drive time from Dubai to hike start point is about 1 hour & 30 minutes. Drive time from RAK City is about 45 minutes.
BEGINNERS PLUS – LEVEL 4/10
This hike is suitable for physically fit beginner hikers, those with basic local hiking experience. Participants should be active and comfortable with a somewhat challenging hike and up to 5 hours of walking. Participants must be able to carry a backpack weighing up to 5 kg for the duration of the hike. Physically active children aged 10 and above are welcome to join.
To learn more about AFT’s hiking difficulty levels and find the level most suitable for your fitness and experience, please follow the link.
| LEVEL: | Beginners Plus |
| DIFFICULTY: | 4/10 |
| DISTANCE: | ± 9 km |
| DURATION: | ± 5 hours |
| ELEVATION GAIN: | ± 170 m |
| TERRAIN: | A mix of off-road track, single hiking trail with some uneven rocky slopes. |
| NOTE: | The route profile reflects the planned route. Actual distance, elevation gain and duration may vary depending on trail conditions, weather and the group’s pace and ability. The hike leader may adjust the route during the hike when necessary. |
– Insurance coverage
– Professional mountain guide(s) and assistant guide(s)
– Certified Wilderness First Aiders
– Gear advice, hiking tips and local knowledge about UAE flora & fauna
– Carpooling assistance, subject to available space
– Hiking Gear
– Vehicle insurance
The list below is a general guide to help you prepare for the hike. Final recommendations may vary depending on the route and weather conditions and will be shared with confirmed participants before the event.
Please make sure to bring the following essentials:
– A small backpack with cushioned shoulder and waist straps
– Mid- to high-cut hiking boots or hiking shoes with good grip (avoid joggers/trainers)
– Comfortable, loose-fitting hiking trousers and a shirt
– Energy bars and snacks
– At least 2 litres of water, plus electrolytes/hydration drinks
– Sun protection: hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
– Headlamp with spare batteries
Although any car can reach the hike starting point, 4x4s or SUVs are recommended. If you’re coming in a regular car, don’t worry – we’ll help arrange a seat with someone driving a 4×4 for the short off-road section.
Carpooling is coordinated among confirmed participants through a dedicated WhatsApp group. While we do our best to help participants find a ride, carpooling availability cannot be guaranteed.
A WhatsApp group will be created 24-36 hours before the event for confirmed participants, where you may be able to find a ride partner. If you are unable to find a suitable carpool option, the full cost of the hike will be refunded.
All first-time participants must complete the AFT Waiver & Emergency Information Forms, which will be sent after payment is received.
Participants must carry their Emirates ID or a copy of their passport with them during the hike.
Bookings are accepted exclusively through the AFT website: www.aftadventures.com.
Signing up or expressing interest through social media, messaging apps or any other platform does not guarantee your spot. Your place is confirmed only after completing the booking and payment through the AFT website.
Registration usually closes approximately 24 hours before the hike starts. However, as spaces are limited, registration may close earlier once the hike reaches full capacity. We strongly recommend booking early to secure your place.