Frequently Asked Questions

Climate Information, Cancellation Policies and more

Seasons and Weather

While it is possible to climb in Hong Kong all year, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Hong Kong has a tropical climate, with a dry season (roughly October to April) and a wet season (May to September). During the wet season the forecast tends to be very unstable. Sometimes a downpour will be predicted and never materialize, and occasionally heavy rains will go on much longer than predicted. The good news is that the rock in Hong Kong is all granite that doesn't weaken appreciably if wet, and generally has a grainy texture which is climbable even if damp.

By the same token, Hong Kong summers tend to be very hot and humid, and heat-related injuries are a major concern. For the above reasons, locations with long, exposed approaches and crags which are in the sun all day are considered out-of-season from May to September and are not available for booking during that time.

On the other hand, the lack of water flow and the colder temperatures in January and February mean that canyons are not in condition and are not available during those times.

Cancelation Policies

Weather Cancelations:

Hong Kong Mountaincraft will make a judgment on the viability of an outing no later than 2 hours before the scheduled start time at the latest, and potentially much earlier if the forecast is particularly dire. In the event that a session cannot go forward, Hong Kong Mountaincraft will either reschedule free-of-charge or issue a full refund. Hong Kong Mountaincraft reserves the right to make all final decisions on weather cancelations.

All other Cancelations:

A client may cancel any session up to 72 hours before the scheduled start time and receive a full refund. Less than 72 hours, the cost of the session is considered non-refundable. This is because guides and equipment must be secured beforehand, and last-minute cancelations lead to irrecoverable costs. An exception is made in the case of inclement weather as enumerated above.

Borrowing Equipment and Personal Gear

HONG KONG MOUNTAINCRAFT DOES NOT RENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE OUTSIDE OF HKMC ACTIVITIES.

Program Gear:

Hong Kong Mountaincraft provides all technical equipment for each session. We also provide personal protective gear for each participant.

For rock climbing this includes:

Harness
Helmet
Climbing Shoes

For Canyoning:

Harness
Helmet
Gloves

We do not provide specific footwear for Canyoning.

Personal Gear:

Participants may use their own personal protective gear (helmet, harness, climbing shoes, belay devices) provided it passes an on-site inspection by HKMC personnel. If you would like to bring your own equipment, please indicate this on the Participant Registration Form.

What to Bring

Food and Personal Care:

Hong Kong Mountaincraft does not serve food, so if you have booked a full-day session then it is a good idea to pack a lunch. Guides will be carrying extra water but each participant should bring a liter for each activity.

Guides will be carrying a first aid kit, sunscreen, and bug spray.

Clothing and Footwear:

Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing for an active day out. Sun protection is recommended especially for the summer months. No open-toed shoes and no crocs, please. All activities will require at least a short approach hike, so please wear sturdy footwear with decent grip.

For canyoning activities, please be aware that all canyons are wet canyons and may involve a small amount of swimming. All clothing and bags are likely to be fully submerged.

For multipitch and canyoning activities, we cannot be responsible for laptops, tablets, books or other articles left at the base of routes, and it is best not to bring those items if possible.