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.

Shali Fortress is a significant historical landmark in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. This 13th-century mud-brick fortress is one of the oldest and most well-preserved structures in the area. The fortress was originally built as a protective measure against invading tribes. /n Today, Shali Fortress is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress and enjoy panoramic views of the Siwa Oasis and the surrounding desert. The fortress is also a great place to learn about the history and culture of Siwa Oasis. The architecture of the fortress is quite impressive, with its high walls and narrow passageways. Visiting Shali Fortress is a great way to experience the history and beauty of Siwa Oasis.

A 13th-century mud-brick fortress that offers panoramic views of the Siwa Oasis.

An ancient temple where Alexander the Great was said to have been declared the son of Amun, the Egyptian god.

The Temple of the Oracle is one of the most significant historical sites in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. This ancient temple is believed to have been visited by none other than Alexander the Great. According to historical records, Alexander made a long journey to this temple to consult the oracle about his divine status. /n The temple is now in ruins, but it still stands as a testament to the rich history of Siwa Oasis. The architecture of the temple is also quite impressive, with its stone walls and columns. Visiting the Temple of the Oracle is like taking a step back in time. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.

An ancient temple believed to have been visited by Alexander the Great for an oracle consultation.

A natural spring said to have been used by Queen Cleopatra during her visit to Siwa Oasis.

Cleopatra's Bath is a natural spring located in Siwa Oasis. According to local legend, the spring was used by Cleopatra during her visit to Siwa. /n The spring is surrounded by palm trees and rocks, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The water is warm and clear, making it a popular spot for a refreshing dip. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a unique swimming experience, Cleopatra's Bath is a must-visit attraction in Siwa.

A natural spring believed to have been used by Cleopatra.

A museum showcasing the history, culture, and traditions of the Siwan people.

The Siwa House Museum is a cultural gem located in the heart of Siwa Oasis. This museum is home to a variety of exhibits that showcase the traditional lifestyle and culture of the Siwa people. From ancient artifacts to traditional clothing and tools, visitors can get a glimpse into the past and learn about the unique heritage of this region. /n The museum is housed in a traditional Siwa house, adding to the authenticity of the experience. The staff are knowledgeable and eager to share their love for their culture with visitors. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the local culture, the Siwa House Museum is a must-visit.

A museum showcasing the traditional lifestyle and culture of Siwa.

A vast desert landscape of dunes and sand sheets, offering opportunities for sandboarding and 4x4 adventures.

The Great Sand Sea is one of the largest sand-covered areas in the world, spanning approximately 72,000 square kilometers. This vast desert region, located in the Western Desert of Egypt, is a sight to behold. Its endless expanse of golden sand dunes, stretching as far as the eye can see, creates a surreal and mesmerizing landscape that is sure to captivate any visitor. /n Despite its seemingly inhospitable environment, the Great Sand Sea is a popular spot for adventurous tourists. It offers unique experiences like sandboarding and dune bashing, which are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Additionally, the region is also known for its stunning sunsets, which paint the sky in a myriad of colors and provide a perfect backdrop for the undulating sand dunes. Despite its remote location, the Great Sand Sea is relatively accessible from Siwa Oasis, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting this part of Egypt.

The Great Sand Sea is a vast desert region in Egypt, offering stunning landscapes and unique experiences.

An ancient necropolis featuring tombs dating back to the 26th Dynasty.

Mountain of the Dead, or Gebel al-Mawta, is a significant landmark in Siwa Oasis. This ancient necropolis is home to hundreds of tombs dating back to the 26th Dynasty. /n The tombs are carved into the mountain and feature intricate inscriptions and decorations. The most famous of these is the Tomb of Si Amun, which is adorned with beautiful frescoes. The mountain offers stunning panoramic views of Siwa Oasis, making it a popular spot for sunset viewing. Whether you're interested in history or just want to enjoy the view, Mountain of the Dead is a must-visit attraction in Siwa.

An ancient necropolis offering panoramic views of Siwa.

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.

Shali Fortress

Temple of the Oracle

Cleopatra's Bath

Start your day with a visit to the Shali Fortress, a 13th-century mud-brick fortress that offers panoramic views of the oasis. It's a great place to get a sense of the history and culture of Siwa.

Enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch in a local restaurant. Try some local delicacies like molokhia, a green soup made from jute leaves, or shawarma, a popular meat dish.

After lunch, head to the Temple of the Oracle, also known as the Temple of Amun. This ancient temple is said to have been visited by Alexander the Great and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Have dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try more traditional Egyptian dishes. Don't miss the chance to try koshari, a popular street food dish made with rice, lentils, and pasta.

End your day with a relaxing soak in Cleopatra's Bath, a natural spring known for its therapeutic properties. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Exploring the History and Culture of Siwa

Siwa House Museum

Great Sand Sea

Mountain of the Dead

Start your second day with a visit to the Siwa House Museum, where you can learn more about the local culture and history. The museum features a collection of traditional Siwan artifacts.

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try dishes like ful medames, a fava bean dish, or ta'amiya, the Egyptian version of falafel.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Great Sand Sea, a vast desert landscape that offers stunning views and the opportunity for sandboarding.

Enjoy your last dinner in Siwa at a local restaurant. Try dishes like stuffed pigeon or mahshi, stuffed vegetables.

End your trip with a visit to the Mountain of the Dead, an ancient necropolis with tombs dating back to the 26th Dynasty. It's a hauntingly beautiful way to end your visit to Siwa.

Adventure and Relaxation in the Desert

UTC+2

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 services are not commonly used in Siwa Oasis due to its remote location and the availability of other forms of transportation.

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.

Shamsi Bread

A popular dish in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is a type of casserole made with vegetables, meat, and spices, cooked in a clay pot.

Tagen Siwi

Siwa Oasis is known for its date palms. The dates are sweet and chewy, often eaten as a snack or used in cooking.

Dates

Siwa Oasis is famous for its olive groves. The olives are often pickled and served as a snack or used in cooking.

Siwan Olives

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 Honey

A traditional cheese made in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is often served with bread or used in cooking.

Siwan Cheese

A popular jam made from the figs grown in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is sweet and often served with bread for breakfast.

Fig Jam

A local wine made from the dates grown in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is sweet and often served with meals.

Siwan Dates Wine

A traditional drink made from the sap of the date palm trees in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is sweet and refreshing.

Siwan Palm Juice

A traditional tea made from the herbs grown in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is aromatic and often served after meals.

Siwan Herbal Tea

A traditional dish in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. The fish is salted and dried, then cooked with vegetables and spices.

Siwan Salted Fish

A traditional dessert made from the figs grown in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. It is sweet and often served with tea.

Siwan Fig Cake

Coptic Christmas Day

Revolution Day January 25

Day off for Revolution Day January 25

Spring Festival

Eid el Fitr Holiday

Eid el Fitr

Sinai Liberation Day

Labor Day

Day off for Labor Day

Arafat Day

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha Holiday

June 30 Revolution

Day off for June 30 Revolution

Public Holiday

Muharram

Day off for Muharram

Revolution Day July 23

Prophet Mohamed's Birthday

Armed Forces Day

Day off for Revolution Day July 23

Day off for Armed Forces Day

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.

Alamein War Museum

The largest natural depression in the world, offering stunning desert landscapes and a unique ecosystem.

Qattara Depression

A war cemetery for those who lost their lives in the Battle of El Alamein during World War II.

El Alamein Cemetery

A popular tourist resort town on the northern coast of Egypt, known for its beautiful beaches and Roman ruins.

Marina El Alamein

A beautiful and secluded beach located in Marsa Matruh. Known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beach.

Agiba Beach

A historical beach where it is believed that Cleopatra herself once swam. It features beautiful turquoise waters and soft white sand.

Cleopatra's Beach

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.

Romel Museum

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.

Marsa Matruh

Alexandria

Aswan

Cairo

Hurghada

Luxor

Sharm El Sheikh

Salt lake with close-up of crystalized salt

Handmade traditional carpets at souvenir shop

Siwa Oasis is located in the Western Desert of Egypt, approximately 560 km from Cairo.

The local language is Siwi, a Berber language, but Arabic and English are also widely spoken.

The local currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's advisable to carry cash.

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).

The best time to visit Siwa Oasis is from October to April when the weather is cooler.

Siwa Oasis is a conservative area. It's recommended to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.

Siwa Oasis is famous for its dates and olives. Don't miss trying the local cuisine which heavily features these ingredients.

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.

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.

Remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Carry a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.

Siwa Oasis is a remote area with limited medical facilities. It's advisable to carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications.

The local time zone is Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC +2.

Siwa Oasis has limited internet and mobile phone coverage. It's a good idea to inform family and friends of your itinerary in advance.

Siwa Oasis is not wheelchair-friendly due to its sandy terrain and lack of infrastructure.

Siwa Oasis has a unique culture and history. It's recommended to hire a local guide to fully appreciate the area.

Siwa Oasis is a great place for stargazing due to its remote location and lack of light pollution.

Siwa Oasis has a small local market where you can buy traditional handicrafts, spices, and local produce.

Tipping is customary in Egypt. It's good practice to tip guides, drivers, and service staff.

Siwa Oasis is home to a unique ecosystem. Please respect the environment and avoid littering.

Remember to carry a good quality camera. The landscapes of Siwa Oasis are breathtaking and offer great photo opportunities.

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.

In February, temperatures start to rise slightly, making it a pleasant time to visit Siwa Oasis. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 sees a further decrease in temperature, making it a pleasant time to visit Siwa Oasis. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities.

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.

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!

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2-Day Siwa Oasis Adventure: Outdoor Activities & Sightseeing with Friends

About Siwa Oasis, Egypt