The Highland is not for everybody to enter. So before you plan a trip that includes travelling through the Highland you must have few things in mind.

If you are travelling by car (also useful for those on motorbykes):

• Highland roads are usually not for regular family cars! Some are not even for unchanged SUV’s or jeeps.


• Not all roads are open even in the best of summers. And they are usually closed from the first snow until June. Here is a link for road conditions.


• Road can close down with little notice, just a rain shower can have such effect.


• Never drive a road unless you are not in any doubt that it is open. The first few hundred meters/yards might look fine but that does not mean the road is open all the way where you are heading.


• Never driver a road less travelled on your own. Always travel with other cars. ALWAYS.


• Never cross a river unless it is obvious that you have no problem crossing it, you have tested it on foot or you are companioned by someone that knows how to cross that river.


• It is better to cross a glacial river in the morning if it is sunny. All rivers are risky in rain and avoid crossing a river in heavy rain. It is better to wait few hours on dry land than stuck on the top of the car in the middle of the river until rescue team arrives.


• Even if you see an experienced driver cross a river it does not mean that you can also do that. He could be the Tiger Woods of river crossing.


• Weather can change in minutes.


• Check for the weather forecast before you enter the Highland area and give yourself extra time to get in safe place, if the forecast is not that positive. You never know, the weather could hit earlier than expected. Here is a link for the weather forecast


• If you are travelling alone or just in company of one other car make sure that somebody knows about your travel schedule. Ask them to contact the police if you don’t show up as scheduled and cannot be reached by phone or other means.

If you are on foot (can also apply if you are biking or horse riding):

• Always let someone know about your travel plans. You can ask whoever you give this plan to keep it private, but give the plan to somebody.


• It is possible to rent GPS equipment that will also send information on your location. You can send emergency signal from such devices. (This is required for winter travelling over the Highland.)


• Be ready for all kind of weather. Here is a link for the weather forecast
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• Be well dressed with the appropriate hiking outfit. A walk in the Highland is not like a stroll in the park.


• A GPS or compass and good map is essential. A little change in the weather and all landmarks disappear in a minute.


• It can be better to wait for a weather to pass and then continue. If you don’t put you in more danger doing that.


• Find the right place to cross rivers.


• It is better to cross a glacial river in the morning if it is sunny. All rivers are risky in rain and avoid crossing a river in heavy rain unless you have found the safe place to do that.


• Crossing a glacier can be both tricky and dangerous even if you are equipped as needed. Avoid crossing glaciers alone if possible.

Which ever the method of travelling you might need the assistance of rescue team. Have in mind that the team can be hours away. From end of June until first week of September rescue teams are on special Highland watch, but the Highland covers a large area so there can still be long distance for them to travel to reach you. Currently their assistance is free of charge.

If you need rescuing, stay put where you are, if possible. If asked, move to higher ground or where you are more easily spotted. If you are in immediate danger, try to get to safe place. Assist others that are in immediate danger, if you can. Follow direction you get.