Travel Guide to Siwa Oasis
Discover Siwa Oasis: A serene desert paradise in Egypt offering stunning landscapes, ancient ruins, and a rich cultural experience unlike any other.
Siwa Oasis: Egypt's Hidden Gem in the Desert
Located in the heart of the Western Desert, Siwa Oasis is a lush, green paradise surrounded by golden sand dunes. This remote and tranquil oasis is a world apart from the bustling cities of Egypt, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and rich culture. Siwa is famous for its stunning landscapes, including palm groves, olive orchards, and crystal-clear springs. The Great Sand Sea, with its towering dunes, provides a dramatic backdrop for adventure seekers who can enjoy activities like sandboarding and 4x4 desert safaris. The oasis is also home to the beautiful salt lakes of Birket Siwa and Birket Zeitun, where the high salt content allows you to float effortlessly. History enthusiasts will be captivated by the ancient ruins of the Temple of the Oracle, where Alexander the Great is said to have sought guidance. The Shali Fortress, built from kershef (a mixture of mud and salt), stands as a testament to the area's unique architectural traditions. Siwa is also known for its traditional crafts, and visitors can purchase handmade jewelry, textiles, and pottery as souvenirs. Despite its remote location, Siwa offers a warm welcome to travelers. The local Berber community is known for their hospitality and will make you feel at home. Traditional Siwan cuisine, featuring dishes like tagine and couscous, offers a delicious taste of local flavors. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, lounging by a spring, or stargazing in the desert, Siwa Oasis promises an unforgettable experience.
Local tips in Siwa Oasis
- Visit in the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the extreme summer heat.
- Rent a bike to explore the oasis and its surroundings at your own pace.
- Carry cash, as ATMs are limited and credit card facilities are rare.
- Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Try the local dates and olives, which are some of the best in Egypt.
Popular Attractions in Siwa Oasis
Siwa Oasis offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate any visitor. Explore the ancient ruins of the Temple of the Oracle, where Alexander the Great sought guidance from the gods. Take a dip in the healing waters of Cleopatra's Bath and marvel at the stunning panoramic views from the top of the Mountain of the Dead. Immerse yourself in the local Berber culture by visiting traditional mud-brick villages, enjoying delicious local cuisine, and shopping for handmade crafts. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deep dive into history, Siwa Oasis has something for everyone.
-
Discover the ancient charm of Shali Fortress, a must-visit historical landmark in Siwa that offers breathtaking views and rich cultural insights.
-
Discover the tranquil beauty of Fatnas Island, a hidden gem in Marsa Matrouh, perfect for nature lovers and serene escapes.
-
Discover the enchanting al-Mawta Mountain in Siwa, where ancient history and stunning landscapes create an unforgettable tourist experience.
-
Explore Cleopatra Spring, a historical oasis in Siwa renowned for its healing waters and captivating landscapes, where nature meets ancient history.
-
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Gabal Dakrur in Siwa Oasis, a natural wonder offering stunning views and rich cultural experiences.
-
Explore the stunning Salt Lakes of Siwa, a mesmerizing destination known for its striking beauty and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
-
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Siwa at The Traditional Siwa House, an enchanting museum showcasing local history and architecture.
-
Explore the stunning Siwa Salt Lakes, a natural wonder in Egypt's Siwa Oasis, known for their enchanting turquoise waters and therapeutic properties.
-
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and ancient history of جبل شالي, a premier hiking destination in the heart of Siwa Oasis.
-
Explore the serene Siwa Lake, a hidden gem in Egypt's Siwa Oasis, where nature and tranquility meet in breathtaking harmony.
-
Explore the serene beauty of Tamqrat Garden in Siwa, where vibrant flora meets the tranquility of nature in a captivating oasis.
-
Discover the breathtaking views and rich heritage of Gebel al-Mawta, a mountain peak in Siwa Oasis, Egypt, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
-
Explore the enchanting Siwa Oasis, a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality nestled in the Egyptian desert.
-
Adventure awaits in Siwa Oasis with thrilling sand boarding experiences amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.
-
Experience the enchanting Siwa Oasis, a historical treasure with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
-
Explore Siwa Oasis with ال جبتر مكتب سياحى ورحلات السفاري - Your gateway to adventure and Egyptian culture.
-
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sobek Park, a wildlife refuge in Siwa, where nature and culture intertwine amidst stunning salt lakes.
-
Experience the serene beauty and rich culture of Hidden Place in Siwa, a unique oasis destination in Egypt, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
-
Discover the enchanting Cleopatra's Pool in Siwa Oasis, a historical hot spring offering relaxation amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.
-
Explore Siwa Oasis, a hidden gem in Egypt filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and therapeutic hot springs for an unforgettable journey.
-
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Jabal Jafar in Siwa, where stunning views and serene landscapes await every traveler.
-
Discover the tranquil beauty of جزيرة طغاغين, a hidden paradise in Siwa that offers breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
-
Discover the serene beauty of كامب الجمال, a tranquil oasis park in Siwa, Egypt, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
-
Explore the serene beauty and rich culture of Ain El Araies, a hidden oasis in Siwa, Egypt, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
-
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Siwa Salt Lake, a hidden gem in Egypt's Western Desert, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
-
Experience the tranquil beauty of Malol Spring in Siwa, an oasis of crystal-clear waters surrounded by rich cultural heritage.
-
Explore the breathtaking Siwa Nature Reserve, a serene oasis of wildlife and stunning landscapes in the heart of the Egyptian desert.
-
Discover the serene beauty of the Desert Rose, a stunning garden oasis in Siwa, where tranquility and nature merge harmoniously.
-
Experience the enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Desierto de Siwa, a hidden gem in the heart of the Egyptian desert.
-
Discover tranquility at Ghalit Garden in Siwa Oasis, where nature's beauty and calmness create the perfect escape for travelers seeking serenity.
-
Experience the magic of the desert at Dar Kafoura Camp, a tranquil oasis in Marsa Matrouh offering adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.
-
Discover the awe-inspiring Wüste / Desert View, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in the heart of Marsa Matrouh.
-
Explore the vibrant El Souq Square in Siwa, where culture, commerce, and cuisine come together in a unique marketplace experience.
-
Experience the tranquil beauty of Fitnas Spring in Siwa, a serene oasis surrounded by lush nature and rich cultural heritage.
-
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Siwa's spring, a perfect escape in the heart of Egypt's desert oasis.
-
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Beni Nagdin, a stunning hiking area in Egypt's Siwa Oasis.
-
Experience Siwa Oasis like never before at انكان نوكويس زين كامب, where adventure meets tranquility and culture thrives.
-
Experience the blend of tranquility and culture at New Siwa Ecolodge, a sustainable retreat in the heart of Siwa Oasis.
-
Discover the tranquility of Fathy Gardens, a lush oasis in Siwa, where nature meets serenity amidst the enchanting desert landscape.
-
Discover Siwa Oasis on two wheels with Bike Rental Siwa, your gateway to adventure in Egypt's captivating landscapes.
-
Explore the serene beauty of Ghabet Al-Rasoul, a tranquil garden oasis in Siwa, perfect for relaxation and nature immersion.
-
Experience the serene beauty and cultural richness of السملّوحة, a tranquil park in Siwa Oasis that invites relaxation and exploration.
-
Explore the enchanting Jazira Ftnas, a serene garden oasis in Siwa, perfect for relaxation and nature lovers seeking tranquility in Egypt.
-
Explore the breathtaking views and rich heritage at Jabal at Takrūr, a stunning mountain peak in the heart of Siwa Oasis.
-
Experience the serene beauty of Camp Mahmoud El Tawaty in Siwa, a tranquil garden oasis perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
-
Explore the lush serenity of Siwa's Public Gardens, where nature's beauty meets cultural richness in a tranquil desert oasis.
-
Anima Art Therapy & Culture Center in Siwa: A serene escape blending art and wellness in a culturally rich oasis.
-
Explore the stunning salt lakes of Siwa, a tranquil oasis offering therapeutic waters and breathtaking views for a unique travel experience.
-
Discover tranquility at كامل امانى يقدن, a beautiful garden in Siwa Oasis, perfect for relaxation and nature lovers.
-
Discover breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes at Abou Dora’s Mountain in Siwa, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
-
Explore Siwa's vibrant art scene and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage showcased at this captivating museum.
-
Unwind in the serene beauty of Fitnas Island, where nature meets history in the heart of the Siwa oasis.
-
Experience serenity and self-discovery at the Meditation Oasis in Siwa, a tranquil retreat in the heart of Egypt's stunning landscapes.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Siwa Oasis
When is the best time to go to Siwa Oasis?
Local Phrases
-
- Helloواحد
[wahed] - Goodbyeمع السلامة
[maa esslama] - Yesأيوه
[ayo] - Noلا
[la] - Please/You're welcomeعفوا
[afwan] - Thank youشكرا
[shokran] - Excuse me/Sorryآسف
[asif] - How are you?إزيك
[ezayak] - Fine. And you?تمام. وأنت؟
[tamam. want?] - Do you speak English?بتتكلم إنجليزي؟
[betetkalem inglizi] - I don't understandمش فاهم
[mash fahem]
- Helloواحد
-
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseعايز أشوف القائمة من فضلك
[ayez ashuf el qaema men fadlak] - I don't eat meatأنا مش بآكل لحم
[ana mesh baakol lahm] - Cheers!في صحتك
[fi sahtak] - I would like to pay, pleaseعايز أدفع من فضلك
[ayez adfaa men fadlak]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseعايز أشوف القائمة من فضلك
-
- Help!نجدة!
[nagda!] - Go away!اروح!
[erouh!] - Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
[etssel beshorta!] - Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
[etssel bateeb!] - I'm lostضايع
[daye] - I'm illأنا مريض
[ana mareed]
- Help!نجدة!
-
- I'd like to buy...عايز أشتري...
[ayez ashtari...] - I'm just lookingأنا بس بشوف
[ana bas beshoof] - How much is it?بكام ده؟
[bekam da?] - That's too expensiveده غالي أوي
[da ghali awe] - Can you lower the price?تقدر تنزل السعر؟
[taqdir tenzel el saar?]
- I'd like to buy...عايز أشتري...
-
- What time is it?كام الوقت؟
[kam el waqt?] - It's one o'clockالواحدة
[alwahda] - Half past (10)نص عشرة
[nos ashera] - Morningصباح
[sabah] - Afternoonعصر
[asr] - Eveningمساء
[masa] - Yesterdayأمس
[ams] - Todayاليوم
[alyom] - Tomorrowغدا
[ghadan] - 1واحد
[wahed] - 2إثنين
[ithnein] - 3تلاتة
[talata] - 4أربعة
[arbaa] - 5خمسة
[khamsa] - 6ستة
[seta] - 7سبعة
[sabaa] - 8ثمانية
[thamania] - 9تسعة
[tisa] - 10عشرة
[ashara]
- What time is it?كام الوقت؟
-
- Where's a/the...?وين ال...
[wein el...] - What's the address?إيه العنوان؟
[eh el anwan?] - Can you show me (on the map)?تقدر توريني على الخريطة؟
[taqdir tureenya ala el khareeta?] - When's the next (bus)?إمتى الباص الجاي؟
[emta el bas el gay?] - A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
[tazkara (ela ...)]
- Where's a/the...?وين ال...
History of Siwa Oasis
-
Siwa Oasis, nestled in the Western Desert of Egypt, has been a vital hub for over a millennia. The oasis's history dates back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting that it was inhabited as early as the Paleolithic era. The natural springs and fertile lands made it a sanctuary for early settlers, who established one of the most isolated and unique communities in Egypt.
-
Siwa Oasis gained significant prominence in antiquity due to the Temple of the Oracle of Amun. This oracle was one of the most revered in the ancient world, second only to the Oracle of Delphi in Greece. The temple became a pilgrimage site for many, including Alexander the Great, who visited in 331 BC to seek divine affirmation of his role as the son of Zeus and to be crowned as the pharaoh of Egypt.
-
One of the most notable historical events in Siwa's history is the visit of Alexander the Great. In 331 BC, during his conquest of Egypt, Alexander traveled to Siwa to consult the Oracle of Amun. According to historical records, the oracle confirmed his divine status, profoundly influencing his subsequent campaigns and the establishment of his empire.
-
Due to its remote location, Siwa Oasis remained relatively isolated from mainstream Egyptian and later Roman influences. This isolation allowed the Siwan culture to develop uniquely, preserving Berber languages and traditions. The local Siwi people developed distinctive customs, architecture, and social structures that are still evident today.
-
In the medieval period, Siwa became an important node in trans-Saharan trade routes. Caravans passed through the oasis, bringing goods like salt, dates, and olives from the desert to coastal cities and vice versa. This trade activity contributed to the economic and cultural richness of Siwa, integrating it into broader regional networks while maintaining its unique identity.
-
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Siwa Oasis began to attract the attention of archaeologists and historians. Excavations in the region uncovered significant artifacts, temples, and tombs that shed light on its ancient past. Modern developments have brought infrastructure improvements, but the oasis remains a place where history and tradition are deeply interwoven into daily life.
-
Today, Siwa Oasis is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern tourism. It draws visitors from around the world who are eager to explore its historic sites, such as the Temple of the Oracle, the ancient fortress of Shali, and the Cleopatra’s Spring. Despite the influx of tourists, the Siwan people continue to uphold their cultural heritage, ensuring that the oasis remains a living testament to its rich history.
Siwa Oasis Essentials
-
Siwa Oasis is located in the Western Desert of Egypt, approximately 50 kilometers east of the Libyan border and some 560 kilometers from Cairo. The most common way to reach Siwa is by road. You can take a bus from Cairo, Alexandria, or Marsa Matruh. The journey from Cairo to Siwa by bus typically takes around 9 to 10 hours. Alternatively, you can hire a private car or taxi for a more comfortable and quicker trip. There are no direct flights to Siwa, but you can fly to Marsa Matruh and then take a bus or taxi to Siwa.
-
Once in Siwa Oasis, the most common forms of transportation are bicycles, motorbikes, and tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws). Bicycles can be rented from various shops around the town. Tuk-tuks are a popular and affordable way to get around and can be hailed on the street. For those looking to explore the surrounding desert, 4x4 vehicles are available for hire, often with a local guide.
-
The official currency in Egypt is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). While some hotels and larger businesses in Siwa may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, particularly for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Siwa, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before arriving, as ATMs may occasionally run out of money or be out of service.
-
Siwa Oasis is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and always be aware of your surroundings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Siwa, but it is always best to stay vigilant. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
-
In case of emergency, dial 123 for medical assistance and 122 for police. Siwa has a local medical center that can handle minor health issues, but for more serious medical emergencies, you may need to be transported to a larger hospital in Marsa Matruh. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Siwa where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
-
Fashion: Do dress modestly, as Siwa is a conservative area. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing. Men should also dress modestly. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Do not eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A smile and a nod are also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
-
To experience Siwa Oasis like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Siwan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the oasis's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Shali Fortress, Cleopatra's Bath, and the Temple of the Oracle. For a unique experience, take a desert safari to the Great Sand Sea and spend a night under the stars. Tasting the locally produced dates and olive oil is a must.
Trending Landmark in Siwa Oasis
Nearby Cities to Siwa Oasis
-
Things To Do in Alexandria
-
Things To Do in Minya
-
Things To Do in Beni Suef
-
Things To Do in Tanta
-
Things To Do in Cairo
-
Things To Do in Zagazig
-
Things To Do in Asyut
-
Things To Do in Benghazi
-
Things To Do in Damietta
-
Things To Do in Ismailia
-
Things To Do in Sohag
-
Things To Do in Crete
-
Things To Do in Heraklion
-
Things To Do in Suez
-
Things To Do in Port Said