Siwa

A remote oasis known for its unique culture, ancient ruins, and stunning landscapes, Siwa is famous for its palm groves, salt lakes, and the Oracle Temple of Amun.

About the Destination

Siwa is Egypt's most remote and magical oasis, close to the Libyan border, with palm groves, salt lakes and hot springs surrounded by the Great Sand Sea. Its Berber (Amazigh) people have their own language and traditions.

What Siwa is known for

The mud-brick fortress of Shali in the town centre; the Temple of the Oracle, consulted by Alexander the Great; Cleopatra's Spring and other springs for swimming; floating in the salt lakes; the Mountain of the Dead with its painted tombs; and sunset at Fatnas Island. Jeep safaris go into the dunes for sandboarding and hot springs.

Best time to visit

October to April. Summer is very hot; winter nights are cold.

How long to stay

Three to four days, as the journey is long.

Tips

Dress modestly, as Siwa is conservative. Carry your passport for checkpoints and cash for the town.

Gallery

Siwa

Siwa Weather

Getting there

Reaching Siwa can be an adventure in itself. The nearest major airport is in Marsa Matrouh, about 300 kilometers (186 miles) away. From there, visitors can take a bus or taxi to Siwa. There are also bus services from Cairo and Alexandria

Attractions

Cleopatra's Spring

Mountain of the Dead (Gabal al-Mawta)

Oracle of Amun Temple

Activties

Plan your Journey

Popular Attractions

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with the local heritage, our list of popular attractions will help guide your journey and ensure you don't miss the must-see locations

Cleopatra's Spring

Cleopatra�s Spring, also known as the Spring of Juba, is a popular spot for a refreshing swim, with legends suggesting that Cleopatra herself bathed here, making it a charming and historical destination in Siwa.

Mountain of the Dead (Gabal al-Mawta)

The Mountain of the Dead, located near Siwa, is home to numerous rock-cut tombs dating back to the Ptolemaic and Roman periods, featuring fascinating wall paintings and inscriptions that provide insights into ancient Egyptian burial practices.

Oracle of Amun Temple

The Oracle of Amun Temple, located in Siwa, is famous for its historical significance as a site visited by Alexander the Great, showcasing ancient architecture and inscriptions that highlight its importance in ancient Egyptian spirituality.

Shali Fortress

Shali Fortress is an ancient mud-brick fortress in Siwa that offers stunning panoramic views and insights into the history of the oasis, making it a significant cultural landmark.

Siwa Salt Lakes

The Siwa Salt Lakes are known for their high salt content, allowing visitors to float effortlessly, similar to the Dead Sea. The lakes also offer therapeutic properties and beautiful scenery, making them a popular destination for relaxation and wellness.

Accommodation

Siwa has unique eco-lodges built from salt-mud (kershef), palm-grove guesthouses and simple town hotels.

Famous Hotels

An eco-lodge by a salt lake is the classic Siwa experience; some are lit only by candles.

Adrere Amellal

A luxurious eco-lodge built entirely from local materials, offering a unique blend of comfort and authenticity.

Al Nyhaya Ecolodge

A unique ecolodge offering a serene retreat with a focus on traditional architecture and sustainability.

Albabenshal Guesthouse

A charming guesthouse built in traditional Siwan style, offering a blend of cultural heritage and modern comforts.

Bayt Barbara

A boutique ecolodge offering a tranquil retreat with a focus on local culture and sustainability.

Beit Dina

A cozy ecolodge providing a unique blend of comfort, tradition, and sustainability.

Shali Lodge

An eco-friendly lodge offering a unique blend of traditional architecture and modern amenities.

Siwa Shali Resort

A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Siwa Oasis, providing a homely atmosphere and personalized service.

Talist Ecolodge

A peaceful ecolodge offering a blend of traditional Siwan charm and modern amenities.

Food Experience

Siwan food is built on what the oasis grows: dates, olives and vegetables, cooked slowly in the traditional way.

Favorite Cuisines

Buy dates and olive oil from local shops, and try a Siwan dinner at a lodge.

Dates

Siwa is famous for its dates, sold fresh, dried and as date paste.

Siwan Olives

Olives and olive oil from the oasis groves.

Abu Mardam

Meat cooked in the hot sand, a local festive dish.

Bedouin Tea

Sweet green or black tea with mint.

Transportation & More

Siwa is about eight to nine hours' drive from Cairo, via Marsa Matrouh on the Mediterranean.

Transportation Options

Inside the oasis, bicycles and donkey carts are the local way to get around.

By Road

Overnight buses and private cars run via Marsa Matrouh.

Bicycles

Rent a bike to visit the springs, Shali and Fatnas Island.

Donkey Carts and Tuk-tuks

Cheap local rides around the oasis.

4x4 Safaris

For the dunes, hot springs and the Great Sand Sea.

Popular Activties

From thrilling adventures to cultural immersions, each city offers unique experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests.

Siwa Oasis All Inclusive 3 Days & 2 Nights Tour From Cairo&Giza

The Siwa oasis is one of the Western Desert’s most magical areas, but it’s more than an 8-hour drive from Cairo. Say no to hellish bus journeys and yes to the comfort of your own private vehicle with rest stops, snack breaks, and a guide.

From $290

Siwa Oasis Private Tour from Cairo

Cairo to Siwa Oasis takes you across Egypt’s Western Desert on a private three-day tour with private transportation and a private guide. Visit the Temple of Amun, Shali Fortress, and Cleopatra’s Pool, swim in the salt lakes, and head into

From $427

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