Winter sunrise on the Nile, viewed from the dahabiya.
It is no accident that ancient Egyptian spiritual beliefs feature the sun and sun-related gods and goddesses. Egypt can be very hot and the sky is clear, bright and cloudless in some areas even throughout Winter.
We want our guests to be comfortable as they explore on land or sail on the dahabiya with us, we want you to get the maximum enjoyment from your tours.
The Aten, or sun disc, worshipped as the main deity during the reign of Akhenaten.
You may come from a country where you are accustomed to heat and bright sunlight, but you probably do not usually spend hours walking around temples and tombs made of rock at sites where the sun beats down on dry, hard earth, or visiting deserts.
To be prepared before you travel, follow our tips so you will remain comfortable and healthy during the hot days here.
To prevent discomfort from heat and sunlight:
- Drink more water, cool but not icy cold, especially if you are walking. Our Dahabiya Nile Sailing guests are gifted reusable water bottles which can be refilled onboard.
- Wear a hat with enough brim to provide shade to your face and the back of your neck. Hats in natural fibres such as cotton, straw or palm leaf are best, because wearing synthetic fibres makes you sweat more and feel hot.
- Wear loose, light coloured clothing made from natural fibres such as cotton, linen, hemp, silk, or mixes of these. Synthetic fibres not only have a negative impact on the environment, they don’t allow your body to adjust to temperature the way natural fibres and fabrics do.
It seems counter-intuitive to put on clothes rather than wear less in the heat, however having your arms and legs covered in loose pants, skirts and shirts protects you from sunburn and the impact of heat. - Bring a bandana or scarf that you can dampen with cool water and drape around your neck.
We understand some people are uncomfortable with high collars close to their neck, but a damp scarf loosely draped around your collarbones and shoulders should keep you comfortable and cooler. - If possible, avoid being in direct sunlight in the middle of the day to early afternoon. This is not always possible with tours, but we try to ensure guests are able to avoid the hottest times of day when we can.
- Avoid alcohol and overconsumption of coffee and tea which can dehydrate you.
Egypt has a wealth of cool, non-alcoholic drinks for you to try, ask your guide or our crew on board the dahabiya about what is available.
Karkade, a tea made from hibiscus flowers grown in many places throughout Egypt, is a healthy alternative to coffee and tea, it is as delicious cold as it is hot. - Avoid exercise when it is very hot, and drink plenty of water if you do exercise.
- Children and older people can be more vulnerable to heat, so if you have either in your care pay attention to how they are feeling and ensure they are comfortable.
If you feel unwell at all, please alert your guide.
Egypt’s blue sky days provide magnificent contrasts in the deserts and at historic sites, and preparation for hot days will allow you to more comfortably enjoy your visit.
