Hiking

Hiking is for many people, the best way to see places. The scenery change is gradual, you have time to look and get the feel of the environment. You can walk on your own and meditate, absorbing the landscape, or you can chat with someone, sharing what you see. The pace can be leisurely or brisk, but in all cases, for a growing number of adventure tourists, this is the most mind-relaxing form of travel. More often than not, a hiking trip will involve some climbing, if only to get a broader perspective of the surroundings once in a while.

Hiking and climbing in the desert can be as strenuous as you choose; the most important measure of safety you must take is to plan your trip with persons that share a same taste for physical challenge.

There are many formulas for the organization of a hiking trip, one of the best suited for the Egyptian desert is to put the heavy luggage, kitchen, supplies and camping equipment on camels that walk with the group. Carrying only a light backpack, hikers can travel longer distances, can negotiate more difficult terrain and are able to explore around more. A more modern version is to use a truck instead of camels, the truck meeting the hikers only at night.

Some tips:
- Use a walking stick, place it over your neck across your shoulders and hang your hands on either side. This gives you a good walking posture, reduces sweating from the armpits and helps proper breathing.
- Synchronize your pace with your breathing, inhale-two steps, exhale- two steps. (Or any other pattern that suits you)
- Inhale and exhale deeply, proper CO2 ventilation reduces fatigue and increases stamina.

- Avoid animated conversations while walking; they put you out of breath and may be a nuisance for other members of the group.
- Wear 2 layers of socks; thin pure cotton inside and a thicker, sweat absorbing layer over it.

- Stop every hour or so for a 10-minute break, take off your shoes and socks, wash and dry thoroughly your feet.
- Bring an adequate supply of socks, one fresh set for every day or more if the weather is really hot or the terrain particularly dusty.
- Only carry what you need in your backpack; if you're walking by day leave your torch in the luggage. But do take 2 bottles of water, a couple of oranges, dried dates, peanuts, binoculars, paper and pen, light sandals, toilet paper, a pocket knife, compass, whistle, a small towel and a clothespin, sunscreen and an extra set of socks. Ooh, and some cream, adhesive plaster and gauze for those blisters!
- Always keep visual contact with the group (except for going to the toilet!)
- If you become separated from the group, stop, find an elevated spot nearby and climb on top. Whistle, look out and wait for someone to find you.
- Drink plenty of water; some people even drink a measure of oral rehydration solution every morning for added pep!

Hiking is a social form of travel, there is a strong bond that forms between members of a group and there are more occasions to interact with local culture. Walking by a Bedouin hut, you may be invited in for a cup of tea, or offered some artifacts for sale. You may be allowed to take a picture but only if you promise to send a print back!