In Luxor, we have our second day off

In Luxor, we have our second rest day! We cycled over two stages from Safaga to Luxor. The first day from Safaga to our first desert camp was a bit challenging - 108 km, 937 meters of elevation gain, with headwinds and crosswinds.

The second stage, 139 km with only 376 meters of elevation gain, was fantastic... with crosswinds and tailwinds. On these two stages inland, we were frequently accompanied by the police.

Perhaps I should briefly report on what a day looks like for us: Everyone must have their bags packed and ready for drop-off by 6:15 am. Then, there's a short briefing, and we have breakfast at 6:30 am.

Shortly after, the first riders get ready to depart, and by 7:30 am, everyone is on the road. The timing takes some getting used to (at least for me :-)), but it allows us to arrive well before sunset and provides enough time to set up camp.

At noon, a truck is waiting somewhere (the location is, of course, known), and we can refuel with food and/or water. Upon arrival at the next camp, there's soup, then we set up the tents, take a shower (if possible, often cold), and do some laundry.

Around 5 pm, there's a briefing for the next day, and dinner is served by 6 pm. Since we get up shortly after 5 am, everyone is in their sleeping bags by 9 pm at the latest :-)

This morning in Luxor, we had the opportunity to take a hot air balloon tour. It was fantastic!!! We set off at 4:30 am, and we made it back to the camp in time for breakfast.

Now, we have two more cycling days in Egypt, and then, unfortunately, we have to fly to Kigali, which means there are several unplanned rest days :-( Due to the political situation, we cannot cross Sudan and Ethiopia.