Cycling the Nile from Cairo to Khartoum: Is it safe to do alone?
Replies: 5 - Last Post: Sep 14, 2012 7:19 PM Last Post By: research
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Cycling the Nile from Cairo to Khartoum: Is it safe to do alone?
Hi there,I'm thinking about cycling this route early in 2013, if by then the world is still the one we know ... Well, the story is ever since reading the books by Wilbur Smith (the Egyptian) I've been longing for such a journey, to see the Blue and White Niles near Khartoum. Then I forgot the whole thing due to the conflict in Sudan years ago. Recently the thought came back to me: maybe I can give it a try? Personally, I have some experience in long-distance cycling (have done several european countries and 10month trip to Brasil and the guyanas), with all the necessary biking and camping gears, and enthusiasm. Regarding the detailed plan: nothing yet. My foremost concern is about the safety. If I keep to the main road or the river Nile, will it be safe enough for a lone cyclist? I will be doing my best to act low-key, nothing on my body and bike will show anything new or flashy ... Will that be enough?
Please share your opnion and thoughts. Thanks in advance for any reply.
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Certainly within Sudan you should have no problem from the "bad guys", I can't say the same for Egypt. The main road doesn't always follow the river and your biggest worry would entail bad driving by idiots, namely the majority. The road is quite monotonous and very hot. If you go by the river it will be very slow, hot, dusty with few places for rest and replenishment.It is possible to do it.................
Dave
2
I would get in touch with Midhat Mahir in Khartoum. He runs a travel agency and he also happens to be a serious cyclist. His website is below. I found him a very helpful guy (regardless of whether you are putting any significant business his way) and I'm sure he'd happily give you some advice.http://www.tour-sudan.com/
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@WanderinWilco, I think most of the biking days will be in Egypt, where I'll try to visit as many interesting sites as possible geographically.@itchyfeet38 Thanks for the information. I'll contact Mr Mahir to ask for his advice on the planning.
4
Hi!I am pretty sure it is safe to do it by yourself. On my way down from Norway to South Africa (www.capetocape2012.com) me and my bicycle are now on the boat in Aswan. Cairo - Aswan has been quick and easy (except for the 40 degrees temperatures). I took the Nile-road. Between Dayrout and Qena I had a police escort driving 20 meters behind me (for free, quite friendly guys - though they rather have you put your bike on their car).
Will try to see if I can give an update when I made it to Khartoum.
Cheers,
Gijs
