Cycling in the desert in Strong Winds heading through the Southern Sahara was certainly extreme.
This is an extremely unforgiving environment, lots of people every get in trouble so it’s important to be prepared. Strong, hot winds drive towards the equator across the Saharan desert. These winds create powerful dust storms with incredible speed that make visibility almost impossible. Shade is a very precious commodity, so it is really important to make sure you are well covered!
What To Do When Cycling In The Desert
- You get dehydrated extremely quickly, so taking at least one gallon a day is essential. The most effective way is to use water rucksacks.
- The winds are incredibly strong, so wear glasses to shield yourself from the frequent sandstorms.
- Wear sunscreen and a Turban (this was also to avoid any potential terrorist activity)
- Sounds obvious but make sure you ride on a dependable bike (and carry inner tubes)
- Temperatures regularly get to 45 degrees. Are you sure you can handle this heat?
What Is Cool About Riding In The Desert
- Amazing peacefulness, gives you time for contemplation
- Deserts are magical places
- Hardly any traffic
- You can camp anywhere you want
- The night sky is so magical
- During the sandstorm, the wind whispers the secrets of the life to you
In this video, Nicolas is making his way along a main road in the Sudan, deep in the Sahara desert. The Sahara is an extremely unforgiving place, where winds regularly exceed 60 mph. It was hard going for Nicolas, as he averaged a 14 hour ride daily for a total 50 km.
After being told by officers at a checkpoint that the area is a red zone, meaning that kidnappings and terrorist activity is a very real threat, he took some time to assess his options. The line between bravery and stupidity is a very thin one! Knowing that terrorists often target areas with white people, and the Sahara won’t many white people, he decided to take the risk.
Here is a short video from his journey.
For more videos from Nicolás Marino, please visit his page.
