Great Wall Facts – Preparations for First-Timer

Great Wall Facts – During my first trip to the Great Wall, I did not plan and prepare at all. I guess it is the masochistic thing in me. And I suffered.

That’s why for the rest of you (especially first-timer), I feel that it is best to know what and what not to bring /do for your climb of the Great Wall.

I have categorized the tips into 3 sections for ease of reading.

Here goes:

Great Wall Facts 1: When is the Best Time to Visit?

The best times to visit the Great Wall are in spring (in the month of May) and autumn (September or early October).Why? It is usually sunny and pretty cooling. And you can just use your umbrella as a walking stick up the wall.

During the summer (June to August), it is much hotter in Beijing. If you do not mind having a tan while trekking, they are perfect for you.

Which months should you avoid visiting the Wall? They are the winter months which usually stretch from November to April. During those periods, you tend not see any tourists.

Check out more at Beijing Weather Report!

Great Wall Facts 2: What Should I Wear?

During the summer season, I would advise all of you to wear shorts for daytime trekking. However, during the evening, it is advisable to wear warmer clothes such as jacket or sweater. One more thing – put some sunscreen and wear sunglasses to avoid the strong ultraviolet radiation.

This is especially recommended during the evenings in autumn. For day time in autumn, a not-so-thick long-sleeved sweater should be OK. It really depends how well you handle the cold. As I am of the larger proportion, T-shirt and shorts were OK for me during Autumn.

For the ladies – Apply moisturizer to moisturize your skin as it is dry in spring, autumn and winter.

For the ladies again – Wear scarves to protect your face as it is quite windy in spring, autumn and winter. This is due to the high altitude at the Great Wall.

For your feet, just wear trainers. Please do not wear high-heels unless you are a sadomasochist, especially if you are a guy! This is because there are steep inclines along the wall.

Think COMFORT!

One last thing, pack an umbrella to protect you from the sun as well as possible rainy days.

Great Wall Facts 3: Should I Pack Food?

Usually, I bring some snacks up there with 2 bottles of Mineral Water. If you’re worried, grab a burger from McDonald’s before arriving at the Wall.

For a hike of 2-3 hours, please make sure you drink enough before coming to avoid dehydration, especially during the hot summer. More importantly, please remember to visit the toilet first before embarking your climb. There are no washrooms midway, except those around the ticket office and the entrance.

I have had some near-embarrassing moments due to this negligence. Need I say more?

Great Wall Facts 4: Health and Safety Tips

Please avoid going to the Great Wall in bad weather (heavy rain, storm or thunderstorm). It is highly dangerous and not worth the risk.

Please hold on to the handrail when walking up. I know they may not be clean but it is better to slip and fall at certain steeper sections of the Wall. I have seen enough of people slipping and hurting themselves during their trek.

If you have the space (make space for it) in your backpack, please carry some medicines for cold, carsickness and Band-Aids. You’ll never know when you need them.

I guess that’s all for today.

Please do not ignore these tips.

Better be safe than sorry.