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THE SAHARA ADVENTURE COMPANY
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Questions, Answers, Packing Lists, Army Permits, Packing Lists, Liability Release Waiver, Bike & Cycling tours Self Drive, ATV All Terrain Vehicles, Dune Buggies, Trail Dirt Bikes (motorcycles), Certified Off Road Driving Classes, Camping Cars, Camper Trailers & Safety Precautions: We Arrange all logistics for bike & cycling tours anywhere in Egypt:
For Clients who want to ship there 4x4s, ATV All Terrain Vehicles, Dune Buggies, Trail Dirt Bikes (motorcycles), Camping Cars, Camper Trailers to Egypt to self drive during one of our tours are required to contact us at least 6 months in advance. We can arrange all your shipping customs clearing and army permits for you, plus we can handle any other catering and lodging requirements you may have.
For Clients who want to Rent 4x4s, ATV All Terrain Vehicles, Dune Buggies, Trail Dirt Bikes (motorcycles), Camping Cars, Camper Trailers to Egypt to self drive during one of our tours are required to contact us at least 3 months in advance. We can arrange all the logistics and paper work for this type of adventure. All Self Drivers will have to attend a 2 day desert driving Classes with Sahara Adventure team Prior to starting the Expedition. Certified instruction will be provided for all Extreme sports and other activities. To attend a 2 day desert driving Classes with Sahara Adventure Team contact us for class schedules. There is a certified medic or 1st year surgeon on every trip. Plus we use the same expedition grade medical kits used by Himalayan/Alps/Andes climbers and conquers of mount Everest.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- All clients on all 4x4 tours will Be required to singe a liability release. Sign-In Sheet & Acknowledgment of Outing Member Responsibility, Express Assumption of Risk, and Release of Liability I have read the attached Sign-In Sheet & Acknowledgment of Outing Member Responsibility, Express Assumption of Risk, and Release of Liability in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such Injuries and Damages and notwithstanding such risks, I agree to participate in the Outing. Signature : Date: Sign-In Sheet & Acknowledgment of Outing Member Responsibility, Express Assumption of Risk, and Release of Liability I understand that during my participation in this Adham Compound Hotel Outing, I may be exposed to a variety of hazards and risks, foreseen or unforeseen, which are inherent in each Outing and cannot be eliminated without destroying the unique character of the Outing. These inherent risks include, but are not limited to, the dangers of serious personal injury, property damage, and death (“Injuries and Damages”) from exposure to the hazards of travel and Adham Compound Hotel has not tried to contradict or minimize my understanding of these risks. I know that Injuries and Damages can occur by natural causes or activities of other persons, animals, trip members, trip leaders and assistants or third parties, either as a result of negligence or because of other reasons. I understand that risks of such Injuries and Damages are involved in adventure travel such as Adham Compound Hotel Outings and I appreciate that I may have to exercise extra care for my own person and for others around me in the face of such hazards. I further understand that on this Outing there may not be rescue or medical facilities or expertise necessary to deal with the Injuries and Damages to which I may be exposed. In consideration for my acceptance as a participant on this Outing, and the services and amenities to be provided by Adham Compound Hotel in connection with the Outing, I confirm my understanding that: · I have read any rules and conditions applicable to the Outing made available to me; I will pay any costs and fees for the Outing; and I acknowledge my participation is at the discretion of the leader. · The Outing officially begins and ends at the location(s) designated by Adham Compound Hotel. · If I decide to leave early and not to complete the Outing as planned, I assume all risks inherent in my decision to leave and waive all liability against Adham Compound Hotel arising from that decision. Likewise, if the leader has concluded the Outing, and I decide to go forward without the leader, I assume all risks inherent in my decision to go forward and waive all liability against Adham Compound Hotel arising from that decision. · This Agreement is intended to be as broad and inclusive as is permitted by law. If any provision or any part of any provision of this Agreement is held to be invalid or legally unenforceable for any reason, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby and shall remain valid and fully enforceable. · To the fullest extent allowed by law, I agree to WAIVE, DISCHARGE CLAIMS, AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY Adham Compound Hotel, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and leaders from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from Injuries and Damages, even if caused by negligence of Adham Compound Hotel its officers, directors, employees, agents, and leaders, in any way connected with this Outing. I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS Adham Compound Hotel, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and leaders from any claims, damages, injuries or losses caused by my own negligence while a participant on the outing. I understand and intend that this assumption of risk and release is binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, and includes any minors accompanying me on the Outing or joining the outing with my consent. · I have read this document in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such Injuries and Damages and notwithstanding such risks, I agree to participate in the Outing. Signature : Date: For clients under 21 Parent or legal guardian signature is required. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Siwa 4 day Luxury & Student camps will have eco-friendly toilets, showers and wash facilities.
Clients should bring warm clothes to sleep in during winter (wool is recommended), sleeping bags & tents are optional we provide them but some people may prefer there own. Swimming suit sun cream, sunglasses & hat are very important we provide towels. Any one with any medical conditions or allergies should inform us 72hrs prior to arrival. Shorts are worn during the day but long pants and socks during nights. Important are sports shoes and socks plus a pair of sandals. Those traveling to Siwa from Alexandria Should leave just before dawn (5:30am) large groups should travel in convoy and can have some one from Adham compound in lead vehicle for proper directions. (Past Marsa Matrouh a wrong turn can cost a lot of time plus street and direction signs are not clear). Cellular phones both Click&Mobinil (GSM) function in the village of Siwa and on top of a dune near our campsite however the road from Matrouh to Siwa there is NO SIGNAL for 240KM. There is roadside tire repair @150KM from Siwa on the West Side of road (Siwa is south Matrouh is north.) 1. Make sure vehicle is in proper working order. 2. Make sure spare tire is of good Quality & tools for tire change is available. 3. Make sure to fill up the gas tank @ Matrouh 4. Make sure to get a good night sleep before drive or rotate drivers if tired plus bring snacks water and juice for the drive. Lunch will be served @ Siwa @ 13:00 (1:00pm) 5. Drive time apx. 6 hours 6. Make sure convoy stays together -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
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12 Day Expedition SAFARI QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
Clients should submit their passport copies one month prior to safari for army permits.
What should I bring along?
Heat kit:
A hat. (Very important)
Sunglasses. (Important)
Sun block. (Importance depends on your skin type but still very important)
Chap sticks. (Also importance depends on the person but still important)
Loose cotton clothes. (Blue jeans are a bad idea in the desert)
2 liters (½ gallon) cooler jug.
Camp kit:
A good quality flashlight, spare bulb and enough batteries to last you the expedition.
A warm jacket / windbreaker to use at night.
Comfortable and broken in hiking boots
Three seasons sleeping bag.
Bathing suit.
Personal hygiene kit:
Any needed medications.
Toilet paper.
Deodorant
Great memories kit:
Camera, film and necessary batteries.
Diary, scarp book or sketchpad.
How hot will it be?
In winter: 20º – 30º C (68º – 86º F) during the day, 4º – 5º C (39º – 41º F) at night.
In spring and fall: 25º – 45º C (77º - 95º F) during the day and 7º – 8ºC (44º – 46º F) at night.
Am I allowed to bring along and use a GPS?
yes. Each morning the guide will demonstrate today’s travel plan on his maps.
Can I bring my pet?
No.
How much mementos can I take from the desert?
The only things you’re allowed to take are pictures & the onle things you can leave are foot prints.
Personal and Hygiene
What should I wear around the oasis?
Wearing conservative clothing covering most of the body and not kissing in public is your way of showing respect to the culture and traditions of the Oasis inhabitants.
What about going to the bathroom?
Take a few steps in any direction away from the camp and close the imaginary door behind you :).
Will we be able to shower?
Whenever we reach an oasis, we will bathe in a remote hot well. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit.
What kind of tents will we be using?
We provide European style igloo tents. These are easy to assemble and take apart, can withstand heavy wind and are very silent. Each traveler will be given a padded mattress.
How can I freshen up in the middle of the desert?
To save precious water, use a spray bottle.
Safety
Who’s responsible for the expedition members’ safety?
The expedition leader is responsible. Cooperate with him to the best of your ability and you’re guaranteed a pleasant, memorable and safe expedition.
In case of emergencies, will we be able to call for backup?
Our convoys are equipped with satellite phones. Helicopter evacuation is available for 3000$ an hour at the expense of the client.
What about first aid?
The convoy is equipped with a standard first aid kit. Each traveler should bring along any needed medication. These expeditions are not recommended to heart patients or those with back problems.
Will there be a lot of snakes and scorpions?
During winter these dangerous animals are in hibernation state and will not be encountered. During summer, at the beginning of the expedition, your expedition leader will give you instruction on how to avoid them. Primary medical treatment is given on the spot in case you got stung.
Can we climb mountains?
Yes, but avoid climbs that have an above average risk factor. An injury in such a remote place is very hard to handle not to mention that it will spoil the expedition for everyone.
Convoy
How far will we travel each day?
Depending on surface nature and routing plan it can be anything between 200 and 250 kilometers (125 – 155 miles).
How will personal belongings be carried?
Each traveler is allowed keep one small bag with him inside the car. The rest of the luggage is stored on the roof rack. Once we reach the campsite, each traveler should keep his entire luggage inside his tent.
What kind of cars will we be traveling in and what are the seating arrangements?
We use Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 vehicles. Each car will carry 4 people beside the driver. All seats are comfortable forward facing seats.
What if something wrong happens to the cars?
Experienced and levelheaded drivers drive the cars. No unnecessary risks are taken. The cars are well maintained and are in excellent condition. Furthermore each expedition is accompanied by a certified Toyota mechanic and stocked with the necessary spare parts and tires.
What’s our daily schedule? Will we be able to stop and take pictures?
We start moving at 8:30 AM after breakfast and we stop 1 hour before sunset. We stop several times along the way for tee, lunch, pictures and site visiting.
Can the cars talk to each other?
All cars are equipped with VHF radios.
Will we follow the expedition route religiously or will we deviate?
We will follow the route as proposed. However the expedition leader has the right to change the route in case of emergencies (sand storm, illness, mechanical failure, etc.)
How do you find your way in the wide open desert?
The expedition guide navigates using GPS and military maps with traditional navigation tools as backup. Our guides are very experienced and know the desert like the back of their hands.
Camp
Do we light a campfire at night?
If wood is available, we will light a fire for warmth.
Can I cook my own meals?
No, a professional cook accompanies each expedition and prepares all the meals.
Will we be sitting on rocks and car hoods to eat?
For breakfast and dinner we will use proper tables and chairs. Lunch will be served beside the cars en route. Eating utensils will be provided for travelers for the whole trip, so don’t bring your own.
What do we do with the garbage?
Garbage is collected from every campsite, stored on the roof rack and disposed off properly in the next village.
How many will fit in a tent?
Each tent will accommodate 2 people. Single tent use is available but has to be requested before hand.
Will you provide enough drinking water?
Yes, we carry all the needed drinking water plus some more for emergencies. However this water should not be used to shower or wash your hair.
Hard Core Long Term Customized Expiditions 15 to 45 days:
Personal Gear & Equipment
At the outset of the trip, the vehicles will be loaded close to their maximum practical limit, and volume will also be a problem. This requires personal gear to be kept to the necessary minimum. The folowing is a list of necessities. Aside the tent, sleeping bag and foam matress, all others should fit into a bag not exceeding airline carry on size limits. It is possible to leave unneeded items in Cairo ("civilised" clothing, etc.):
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Tent
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Sleeping bag (minimum temperature ~8-12C in March, ~0-3C in December)
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Foam matress
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Small backpack (for daytime items)
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1.5 litre canteen or water bottle
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Plastic or metal mug
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Plastic or metal plate (metal easier to clean with sand)
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Metal cutlery (spoon, fork, knife)
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Swiss army knife
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Torch (with fresh batteries, plus one set spare)
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One pair of good walking shoes (boots not required)
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Thongs or slippers for the evenings
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Light jacket or windbreak
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A warm jumper for evenings
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One pair of long warmer trousers (jeans will do)
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Shorts
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1 T-shirt for every 2 days
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Socks, underwear
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Plenty of wet wipes for cleaning (Johnson's baby wipes, or similar)
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Camera gear & plenty of film (count on one 36 roll per day)
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Spare batteries for any electronically operated equipment (GPS, cameras, etc.)
Note: we will not have any battery charging equipment with us, but You may use Your own provided it fits into the car lighter socket. However please note that you will have to compete with GPS and the Satelite Phone for socket time, so have backup power !
Food & Drinks
The food carried is for compactness, durability and ease of preparation. This does impose some limitation on the possible variety. For breakfast & lunch we will have a selection of jam, pates & cheese or tuna, with packaged rye bread and swedish 'knackebrot', a flat crisp bread that lasts forever.
Hot meals will be in the evening, and include all possible combinations that can be made from rice, spaghetti, mashed potato (powder), canned vegetables and canned meat. A possible four day menu rotation could be: Mexican Chili Beans, Rice Curry, Spaghetti Bolognese, Rice & Sweet-n-sour turkey. Meat will be canned turkey ham (the drivers are Moslem, so no pork products), beans come tinned, rice & spaghetti only need cooking, flavoring will be with Knorr ready made mixes that only need hot water. This enables a full hot meal for a dozen people be prepared with minimum cooking in 15 minutes. We will have a PB gas cylinder and two cookers, plus a variety of pots. Drinks will mainly come in the form of bottled water (in 1.5 litre plastic bottles), plus cooking water in 20 l jerrycans. For evening variety, we will have several flavors of canned soft drinks and beer. For an evening cocktail at sunset, each participant is expected to bring a one litre bottle of their favorite fire water.
Helalth & Dangers
While the deep desert is one of the healthiest places on earth, due to the almost sterile air and surroundings, there are a few risks & dangers. The biggest risk arises from isolation. At the farthest reaches of some trips we will be more than 700 km from the closest inhabited places. Should there be an accident or medical emergency, it's a minimum 2 day trip to reach the closest meagre medical facilities. It's a further 1-2 day trip to any proper hospital. While we will have a well stocked emergency medical kit with us, and the satelite phone enables remote medical assistance, there can be cases where lack of immediate help can lead to serious consequences. To reduce the risk, all participants are requested to have a checkup before the trip.
Other than accidents, which can happen anywhere, the only dangers lurking in the desert are snakes (especially the horned viper), and scorpions. The former are deadly, but are rare and easily avoidable. They leave distinct tracks in the sand, do not actively seek humans, and typically stay dormant in the cooler autumn to spring months. Though both my and other's experience is that only tracks are seen, live snakes very rarely, we will have antivenom with us, just in case.
Scorpions are more common, but less deadly. Though they tend to shy humans, occasionally they crawl under tents or into one's shoes outside, so it's wise to shake one's shoes in the morning before putting them on. Otherwise it's just a matter of avoiding to put one's hand into hollows and crevasses in rocks (why people still do it beats me ?!).
Not exactly life threatening, but the akacia thorns at the valleys of Uweinat and the Gilf can be the cause of nasty and painful surprises. They can lie hidden in sand, and the inch-long needle sharp thorns can even strike through softer rubber soles of slippers and sandals, not to mention one's skin. It's definitely unwise to walk barefoot in the otherwise inviting sand around the camp at Karkur Talh !
All info, photos & maps courtesy of:
Sahara Adventure Company, YEP Expeditions, The Zarzora Expedition (Colonel A. Mistikawy a.k.a. The Desert Fox)&(Wael Abed, The Other Egypt "Travels In No Man's Land"), Anthony Colas, C. Vivian, Frans Lemmens Photography, K Mohsen Photography, Advance Para gliders & Kites, Adham Compound Hotel, Siwa Shali Resort, The Greco Report, The Frank Goddio Society, Fliegel Jezerniczky Expeditions, Venomous Sand Boards, The Storm Rider Guide, The National Geographic society, The Mediterranean Data Base, NASA Applied Siences Directorate, Impossible Pictures, Mazag Productions, The W.W.W. & Local Bedouin Knowledge.