At 5am the police escort pics us up and follows us along the Nile. After 30 km we reach the first checkpoint where they are supposed to switch. Unfortunedly,  Mahmoud the checkpoint commander is sleeping and no one dares to wake him or take responsibility. 50 minutes later we can continue cycling with a new escort.  We just cycle a few km until a new checkpoint with a similar leadership issue. I had enough and call our friend Helmy who intervenes. It worked and we cycle smooth all day. Outside Luxor the police suddenly turns and we can continue alone. Its a tourist hotspot and apparently considered safe. We continue along the Nile to the village of Al Aydah where get invited to sleep in the mosque. The major and city council all come to invite us for tea. Wonderful hospitality.