Solo Cultural Journey to the Enchanting Siwa Oasis

Whispers of the Past, Sands of the Present

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through time and terrain that left me breathless. Siwa continues to surprise me with its blend of ancient history and natural beauty. It's a place where the past feels palpable, and the present is a serene escape from the modern world.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Ghorob Alwaha. I savored traditional Egyptian flavors, fueling up for the day’s adventures. It's amazing how a simple meal can connect you to a place, especially when enjoyed in the open air, surrounded by the sounds of a waking oasis. I feel so grateful that I decided to come here on my own; it's given me so much time to reflect. I can't wait to get back to Bonn and share all of this with Klaus and the children.

First on the agenda was exploring the vast Siwa Desert. The sheer scale of the landscape is overwhelming, and the silence is broken only by the wind. The rolling dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, an ocean of sand that seems to swallow everything whole. I joined a local guide who navigated the terrain with ease, sharing stories of the desert and its people. I opted for a thrilling 4x4 dune ride. Bouncing over the dunes, I couldn't help but feel a sense of exhilaration, a feeling of being truly alive in this ancient land. The vastness of the desert reminded me of the open spaces of Syria, a comforting echo of home.


Discover the captivating Siwa Desert, a hidden gem in Egypt offering stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures amidst the dunes.

The desert speaks to something deep within us, a reminder of our connection to the earth and the endless possibilities that lie beyond the horizon.

After the exhilarating desert adventure, it was time to delve into Siwa’s ancient past at al-Mawta mountain, also known as the Mountain of the Dead. This historical site is home to dozens of rock tombs adorned with ancient wall paintings. Climbing the mountain was easier than expected, and the panoramic views from the top were simply breathtaking. I could see the entire oasis, a sea of palm trees stretching towards the horizon, with the Great Sand Sea in the distance. The Mountain of the Dead is located about 1km north of Siwa town.


Explore ancient tombs and panoramic views atop Siwa's al-Mawta Mountain, a historical necropolis dating back to the 26th Dynasty.
Exploring the tombs was an eerie yet fascinating experience. The tombs date back to the 26th Dynasty of Ancient Egypt. Many of the tombs consist of one or two chambers. The walls were covered in hieroglyphs and paintings, a testament to the rich history of this place. I was particularly drawn to the Tomb of Si-Amun, which was adorned with depictions of Egyptian gods and goddesses. It was incredible to see the blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences in the artwork. The Mountain of the Dead was believed to be inhabited by spirits of the deceased.

Standing there, surrounded by the echoes of the past, I couldn't help but reflect on the transience of life. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the stories that lie buried beneath the sands of time. I thought about my own journey, the path that led me from Al-Suqaylabiyah to Bonn, and now to this ancient oasis. Each step, each experience, has shaped me into the person I am today.

For lunch, I ventured to Albabenshal restaurant Siwa. This restaurant is known for its authentic Egyptian cuisine and warm hospitality. I savored traditional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, each bite bursting with flavor. I tried a signature tagine dish for an authentic taste, and it was delicious. The restaurant's cozy ambiance made it the perfect spot to relax and recharge after a morning of exploration. I took in the views of the surrounding landscape, which further enhanced my experience.


Experience authentic Egyptian cuisine at Albabenshal Restaurant in Siwa - where every dish tells a story.
As the day drew to a close, I found myself at Alaa Al-Sayyaf, a local bar. Sipping on mint tea, I watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the oasis. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, a perfect end to a day of exploration. I chatted with locals, sharing stories and laughter, feeling a sense of connection to this place and its people. I thought about Klaus and the kids, and how much they would have loved to have been there with me.


Discover the culinary delights of Alaa Al-Sayyaf, the premier seafood restaurant in Siwa, offering fresh and flavorful dishes in an inviting oasis setting.
For dinner, I decided to try Siwa gate بوابه سيوه. The dining scene in Siwa Oasis offers a unique culinary experience for visitors, with a blend of traditional Egyptian cuisine and influences from the Berber culture of the region. I enjoyed dining under the stars, savoring the flavors of the desert.


Experience the allure of Siwa Gate - your gateway to Egypt's hidden oasis filled with rich history and stunning natural beauty.
Tomorrow marks the last day of my journey. I plan to visit Fitnas island and the Art museum. I also plan to visit Siwa Pazar market for souvenirs. It’s hard to believe my time here is coming to an end. Siwa has captured my heart in ways I never expected. It’s a place of stark beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. I leave with a sense of gratitude and a longing to return. I feel refreshed and ready to go back to my family in Bonn. I know that this experience will stay with me forever, shaping my perspective and enriching my life. Perhaps one day, I’ll bring Klaus and the children back here, so they can experience the magic of Siwa for themselves. I’m excited to see them, but I will miss this place.

As I prepare to leave, I know that a part of me will always remain in this enchanting oasis. Until next time, Siwa, shukran.