Western Desert, Egypt
May-October brings hot days. Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Long sleeves and pants shield from intense sun. Evenings cool down, so a light jacket or sweater is good.
November-April has warm days but very cold nights. Layering keeps you comfortable as temperatures change.
Comfortable walking sandals or lightweight walking shoes for uneven surfaces around Shali and town.
Closed-toe shoes (sneakers or light hiking boots) protect feet from hot sand, stones, and critters during safaris and sandboarding.
Flip-flops or slip-on sandals are useful for relaxation or around natural springs. Water shoes recommended for salt lakes.
Organize them before your trip and keep them secure.
Egypt uses 220V, 50Hz, Type C and F plugs. A universal travel adapter makes charging possible for all devices. Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked for local SIM cards.
Pack extra batteries and memory cards. A dust-resistant camera bag safeguards gear in the desert. Download offline maps and translation apps.
Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for photos and documents.
Bring an External hard drive or large USB stick for photo backups.
Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure internet access.
A well-prepared Personal first aid kit contributes to a comfortable and healthy trip to Siwa.
The desert sun is intense. Use high-SPF sunscreen and reapply frequently. Insect repellent combats mosquitoes, especially near water.
Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots needed for uneven surfaces and historical sites. A small daypack for essentials.
For springs and salt lakes, pack a modest swimsuit. Water shoes are recommended for sharp salt crystals.
Tour operators typically supply tents and sleeping bags. A personal sleeping bag liner or headlamp can be useful.
Long bus journeys make comfort items useful. Secure your belongings with locks or a money belt.
Stay hydrated with a reusable bottle and lessen plastic waste. A scarf and headlamp are versatile for the desert environment.
For charging devices off-grid.
Carry out all your trash.
Paperless reading material.
For cultural immersion.
Pack layers for varying temperatures. Prioritize culturally modest clothing. Cash is preferred over cards for local purchases.
Carry essential documents and digital backups. Stay hydrated with a reusable water bottle. For desert activities, rely on local tour operators for specialized equipment and guidance.
