2-Day Relaxing Family Retreat: Siwa Oasis Local Experience, Egypt
Siwa Oasis, Egypt
2 days
About Siwa Oasis, Egypt
Experience the enchanting allure of Siwa Oasis, Egypt, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Western Desert. This tranquil sanctuary boasts lush palm groves, sparkling springs, and a rich Berber culture. Explore the ancient ruins of the Shali Fortress, take a dip in the rejuvenating Cleopatra's Pool, and marvel at the stunning sunset views from the Mountain of the Dead. Savor the unique flavors of traditional Siwan cuisine and enjoy a thrilling desert safari. Siwa Oasis offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Uncover the secrets of this mystical oasis and create unforgettable memories.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering Siwa's Natural Beauty and Ancient Ruins
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Temple of the Oracle, an ancient temple dedicated to the God Amun. The temple is famous for its oracle, who was consulted by Alexander the Great.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Fatnas Island, a beautiful palm-fringed island in the middle of a salt lake. The serene setting is perfect for a relaxing meal.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Shali Fortress, a 13th-century mud-brick fortress that stands as a testament to Siwa's ancient history. The fortress offers stunning views of the oasis and the surrounding desert.
Dinner
Enjoy a traditional Siwan dinner in a local restaurant. Try the local dishes like tagine and couscous, and don't forget to sample the local dates and olives.
Evening
End your day with a leisurely stroll through the local market, where you can shop for traditional Siwan handicrafts, spices, and jewelry. It's the perfect place to pick up souvenirs to remember your trip by.
Attractions in Itinerary (6)
1Siwa House Museum
A museum showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of the Siwan people.
2Mountain of the Dead
An ancient necropolis featuring tombs dating back to the 26th Dynasty.
3Cleopatra's Bath
A natural spring said to have been used by Queen Cleopatra during her visit to Siwa Oasis.
4Temple of the Oracle
An ancient temple where Alexander the Great was said to have been declared the son of Amun, the Egyptian god.
5Fatnas Island
A small, palm-fringed island in the middle of a salt lake, known for its stunning sunsets.
6Shali Fortress
A 13th-century mud-brick fortress located in the heart of Siwa. It's a prominent landmark that offers panoramic views of the entire oasis.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Shamsi Bread
A traditional bread of Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is made from wheat flour and baked in a special oven. The bread is thin and crispy, often served with local dishes.
Tagen Siwi
A popular dish in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is a type of casserole made with vegetables, meat, and spices, cooked in a clay pot.
Dates
Siwa Oasis is known for its date palms. The dates are sweet and chewy, often eaten as a snack or used in cooking.
Siwan Olives
Siwa Oasis is famous for its olive groves. The olives are often pickled and served as a snack or used in cooking.
Siwan Honey
A local product of Siwa Oasis, Egypt. The honey is made from the nectar of local flowers, known for its unique flavor and health benefits.
Siwan Cheese
A traditional cheese made in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is often served with bread or used in cooking.
Fig Jam
A popular jam made from the figs grown in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is sweet and often served with bread for breakfast.
Siwan Dates Wine
A local wine made from the dates grown in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is sweet and often served with meals.
Siwan Palm Juice
A traditional drink made from the sap of the date palm trees in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is sweet and refreshing.
Siwan Herbal Tea
A traditional tea made from the herbs grown in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is aromatic and often served after meals.
Siwan Salted Fish
A traditional dish in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. The fish is salted and dried, then cooked with vegetables and spices.
Siwan Fig Cake
A traditional dessert made from the figs grown in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is sweet and often served with tea.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Siwa Oasis, Egypt as a tourist is during the cooler months from October to April. During this period, the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring the desert oasis and its attractions. The daytime temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, while the nights are cooler. This is also a great time to experience local festivals like the Siyaha Festival, which is celebrated in November. However, it's advisable to avoid the peak summer months from May to September, as the temperatures can soar up to 40°C.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 7 | Sun | Coptic Christmas Day |
January 25 | Thu | Revolution Day January 25 |
April 10 | Wed | Eid el Fitr |
April 11 | Thu | Eid el Fitr Holiday |
April 12 | Fri | Eid el Fitr Holiday |
April 25 | Thu | Sinai Liberation Day |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day |
May 6 | Mon | Spring Festival |
June 16 | Sun | Arafat Day |
June 17 | Mon | Eid al-Adha |
June 18 | Tue | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
June 19 | Wed | Eid al-Adha Holiday |
June 30 | Sun | June 30 Revolution |
July 4 | Thu | Day off for June 30 Revolution |
July 8 | Mon | Muharram |
July 23 | Tue | Revolution Day July 23 |
July 25 | Thu | Day off for Revolution Day July 23 |
September 16 | Mon | Prophet Mohamed's Birthday |
October 6 | Sun | Armed Forces Day |
October 10 | Thu | Day off for Armed Forces Day |
How to get around
Private Car
Siwa Oasis is quite remote, so many visitors choose to hire a private car from major cities like Cairo or Alexandria. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and make stops along the way.
Public Bus
Public buses run from Cairo and Alexandria to Siwa Oasis. The journey can be long, but it's a cost-effective way to reach the oasis. Once in Siwa, local transportation options are available.
Bicycle
Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation within Siwa Oasis itself. They are an eco-friendly way to get around and allow you to explore the oasis at your own pace.
Donkey Cart
Donkey carts are a traditional form of transportation in Siwa Oasis. They are a fun and unique way to explore the area, and are especially popular for short trips within the town.
Motorcycle
Motorcycles can be rented in Siwa Oasis for those who prefer a faster mode of transportation. They are a popular choice for exploring the surrounding desert and visiting remote sites.
4x4 Safari
For those looking to explore the Great Sand Sea and other desert areas around Siwa, a 4x4 safari is a great option. These tours are led by experienced guides and often include visits to hot springs, sand dunes, and other points of interest.
Foot
Walking is a viable option for getting around within the town of Siwa Oasis itself. Many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other, and the town's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services are not commonly used in Siwa Oasis due to its remote location and the availability of other forms of transportation.
Important information
Currency£ EGP
Time zoneUTC+2
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 123; Fire: 180; Police: 122
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage220 V
Things to know about Siwa Oasis, Egypt as a first time visitor
1
Siwa Oasis is located in the Western Desert of Egypt, approximately 560 km from Cairo.
2
The local language is Siwi, a Berber language, but Arabic and English are also widely spoken.
3
The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's advisable to carry cash.
4
Siwa Oasis is known for its hot desert climate. Summer temperatures can reach up to 104°F (40°C) while winter temperatures can drop to 50°F (10°C).
5
The best time to visit Siwa Oasis is from October to April when the weather is cooler.
6
Siwa Oasis is a conservative area. It's recommended to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.
7
Siwa Oasis is famous for its dates and olives. Don't miss trying the local cuisine which heavily features these ingredients.
8
The Siwa Oasis is not easily accessible by public transportation. The most common way to reach it is by hiring a car or joining a tour from larger cities like Cairo or Alexandria.
9
Siwa Oasis is a relatively safe area, but it's always advisable to follow local customs and regulations, and to be aware of your surroundings.
10
Remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Carry a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
11
Siwa Oasis is a remote area with limited medical facilities. It's advisable to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications.
12
The local time zone is Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC +2.
13
Siwa Oasis has limited internet and mobile phone coverage. It's a good idea to inform family and friends of your itinerary in advance.
14
Siwa Oasis is not wheelchair-friendly due to its sandy terrain and lack of infrastructure.
15
Siwa Oasis has a unique culture and history. It's recommended to hire a local guide to fully appreciate the area.
16
Siwa Oasis is a great place for stargazing due to its remote location and lack of light pollution.
17
Siwa Oasis has a small local market where you can buy traditional handicrafts, spices, and local produce.
18
Tipping is customary in Egypt. It's good practice to tip guides, drivers, and service staff.
19
Siwa Oasis is home to a unique ecosystem. Please respect the environment and avoid littering.
20
Remember to carry a good quality camera. The landscapes of Siwa Oasis are breathtaking and offer great photo opportunities.
Basic Siwi to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | مرحبا | Marhaba | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | مع السلامة | Ma'a as-salama | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | من فضلك | Min fadlak | Making a request |
Thank you | شكرا | Shukran | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | نعم | Na'am | Agreeing or confirming |
No | لا | La | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | عفوا | Afuwan | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | أنا لا أفهم | Ana la afham | When you don't understand what was said |
Do you speak English? | هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟ | Hal tatakallam al-ingliziya? | Trying to find someone who speaks English |
I'm lost | أنا ضائع | Ana daea | When you are lost |
Can you help me? | هل يمكنك مساعدتي؟ | Hal yumkinuk musaadati? | When you need help |
Where is the bathroom? | أين الحمام؟ | Ayna al-hammam? | Looking for the bathroom |
How much does this cost? | بكم هذا؟ | Bikam hadha? | Asking for the price |
I would like to order | أود أن أطلب | Uridu an atlub | Ordering food or drink |
Water | ماء | Maa | Asking for water |
Good morning | صباح الخير | Sabah al-khair | Greeting in the morning |
Good night | تصبح على خير | Tusbih ala khair | Saying goodnight |
I'm sorry | أنا آسف | Ana asef | Apologizing |
Can I have the menu, please? | هل يمكنني الحصول على القائمة، من فضلك؟ | Hal yumkinuni alhusul ala alqaima, min fadlak? | Asking for the menu in a restaurant |
Where is...? | أين هو...؟ | Ayna huwa...? | Asking for a location |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Socks
Swimwear
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Light jacket or sweater for cool evenings
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Insect repellent
First aid kit including any necessary medications
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Health insurance card
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or tour confirmations
Credit and/or debit cards
Cash in local currency
Guidebook or map
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Power bank
Camera
Charger for camera
Memory card for camera
Travel adapter
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Bottled water
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Reusable shopping bag
Notebook and pen
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Weather Conditions
Siwa Oasis, located in the Western Desert of Egypt, experiences a hot desert climate with a significant temperature variation between day and night. The weather is generally hot and dry, with very little rainfall throughout the year. In the summer months, from May to August, the daytime temperatures can reach up to 104°F (40°C), dropping to around 68°F (20°C) at night. Therefore, it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, hats, sunglasses, and a high SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun. However, don't forget to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. The winter months, from November to February, are relatively mild with daytime temperatures averaging around 68°F (20°C), but it can drop to 41°F (5°C) at night. During this period, it's recommended to pack warmer clothing, especially for the evenings. Regardless of the time of year, hydration is key due to the arid climate. Always carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill it regularly. Also, it's worth noting that the desert can be windy at times, so bringing a scarf or bandana to protect your face from sand can be beneficial. Finally, remember that weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before your trip to Siwa Oasis. Enjoy your visit to this unique and beautiful destination!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 24° / 8° | January is a cool month in Siwa Oasis, with temperatures ranging from 8 to 24 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for tourists who prefer milder weather. |
February | 27° / 9° | In February, temperatures start to rise slightly, making it a pleasant time to visit Siwa Oasis. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities. |
March | 30° / 12° | March sees a further increase in temperature, with a range of 12 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for sightseeing and exploring the desert. |
April | 34° / 16° | April is a warm month in Siwa Oasis, with temperatures ranging from 16 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for tourists who enjoy warm weather. |
May | 38° / 20° | May is quite hot in Siwa Oasis, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 38 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for tourists who enjoy hot weather. |
June | 41° / 23° | June is the start of the summer season in Siwa Oasis, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 41 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for tourists who enjoy hot weather. |
July | 42° / 24° | July is the hottest month in Siwa Oasis, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 42 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for tourists who enjoy hot weather. |
August | 42° / 24° | August is also a hot month in Siwa Oasis, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 42 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for tourists who enjoy hot weather. |
September | 40° / 22° | September sees a slight decrease in temperature, with a range of 22 to 40 degrees Celsius. It's a great time for sightseeing and exploring the desert. |
October | 36° / 18° | October is a warm month in Siwa Oasis, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for tourists who enjoy warm weather. |
November | 30° / 14° | November sees a further decrease in temperature, making it a pleasant time to visit Siwa Oasis. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities. |
December | 26° / 10° | December is a cool month in Siwa Oasis, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 26 degrees Celsius. It's a good time for tourists who prefer milder weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by Siwa Oasis, Egypt
Alamein War Museum
A museum dedicated to the World War II battle that took place in El Alamein. It houses a collection of weapons, military garb and tanks.
Qattara Depression
The largest natural depression in the world, offering stunning desert landscapes and a unique ecosystem.
El Alamein Cemetery
A war cemetery for those who lost their lives in the Battle of El Alamein during World War II.
Marina El Alamein
A popular tourist resort town on the northern coast of Egypt, known for its beautiful beaches and Roman ruins.
Agiba Beach
A beautiful and secluded beach located in Marsa Matruh. Known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beach.
Cleopatra's Beach
A historical beach where it is believed that Cleopatra herself once swam. It features beautiful turquoise waters and soft white sand.
Romel Museum
A museum dedicated to the German general Erwin Rommel, also known as the Desert Fox. It houses a collection of his personal belongings and military memorabilia.
Marsa Matruh
A major Egyptian tourist resort and serves as a getaway resort for Europeans as well as Cairenes eager to flee the capital in the sweltering summer months.
