When people think of Egypt, some of their first thoughts are – The Great Pyramids of Giza, mummies, Mo Salah, and of course the Sahara Desert. And fair enough, they are all famous Egyptian attractions.
However, many people are unaware that in the middle of the vast sands of the Sahara in Egypt, there are also some really beautiful oases to visit. This article will highlight the best attractions in Siwa Oasis, a true hidden gem of Egypt
Isolated in the heart of the Great Sand Sea of Egypt and around 50 kilometers from the Libyan border, Siwa Oasis is a paradise with unique attractions, lots of history, and some of the most welcoming people you will ever meet.
After dealing with the madness in Egypt’s most popular places to visit and bustling cities, Siwa Oasis is the perfect place to chill and take time out.
Why is Siwa Oasis worth visiting?
Siwa Oasis could be a massive film set with the many similarities it has with world-famous movies.
The town itself reminds visitors of Tatooine from the Star Wars movie franchise, the planet where Anakin and Luke Skywalker grew up.
In the center of Siwa oasis lies Shali Fortress, which is like a trip back in time when the French Foreign Legion occupied many forts in the Sahara Desert.
Additionally, there’s a temple that resembles scenes straight out of the movie Gladiator, and it comes with its own fascinating history.
And finally, you have turquoise springs that make Leonardo DiCaprio’s “The Beach” look like a cesspit! Bold words right, yet this place is real, and one of the best places to visit in Egypt.
Getting to this amazing attraction in Egypt does take a bit of effort. nonetheless, it will be worth it once you see the incredible things to do in Siwa Oasis.
From Cairo to Siwa Oasis by bus takes 12 hours, (There are no trains or flights to Siwa Oasis) and there are daily departures from Cairo which will cost you only 16 Euro for a single ticket.
If you have some spare time then an alternative option is to break the long drive from Cairo to Siwa Oasis by stopping at Alexandria or Mursa Matruh for a night.
Is Siwa Oasis worth visiting, check out our Instagram post to find out!
So to answer the question – Is Siwa Oasis worth visiting, 100% yes!
Best Attractions in Siwa Oasis: Shali Fortress
After arriving in Siwa Oasis from Cairo, it is impossible not to notice an ancient mud fortress in the centre of the town.
This magnificent ancient structure is called the Shali Fortress and was the main reason we wanted to visit Siwa Oasis. Even before we heard about all the other amazing attractions in Siwa Oasis.
The name “Shali” is a local word that translates to “city,” and in the past, Shali Fortress was home to thousands of residents. Construction of the fort began in the 12th century, taking place on an elevated site to provide protection from invaders.
Back in those days, it would have been very hard to find building materials in the desert. So the locals used whatever they could get their hands on, palm trees, clay, sand, and salt, and built one of the best places in Egypt to visit, and FREE to explore!
In our opinion, Shali Fortress is the best attraction to visit in Siwa Oasis featuring the remnants of numerous ancient houses, a mosque, and old wells. Today, some locals continue to reside in the restored buildings within the fortress.
Inside this massive labyrinth, you can walk around for hours discovering something new around every corner. To get the best view of Siwa Oasis, find your way to the very top, it’s easier said than done.
Best Attractions in Siwa Oasis: The Mountain of the Dead
Just over a kilometer outside of Siwa Oasis is another mountain that stands out in the surrounding landscape. Although it is still one of the best things to do in Siwa Oasis, this mountain is very different when compared to Shali Fortress.
Inside the mountain are hundreds of ancient tombs cut out of rock that were built in pre-Islamic times. At the top of The Mountain of the Dead, you will see some of the best views of Siwa Oasis and its surroundings.
The walk-up is steep but short and can be slippy in some parts. More importantly, don’t fall into one of the many empty tombs in the ground!
The entry fee for Mountain of the Dead, and one of the best attractions in Siwa Oasis is a very reasonable 50 EGP per person
Best Attractions in Siwa Oasis: Temple of the Oracle
An Oracle was a priest in ancient Greece and Egypt whose role was to speak on behalf of the gods through their Divine communication. Often kings and other leaders would travel from far away seeking their guidance, advice, and prophecies.
In 331 BC Alexander the Great was a busy man. While he was building the city of Alexandria he also traveled to Siwa Oasis to speak with the oracle that lived in this temple.
It is believed that the Macedonian leader asked the oracle if he was going to “rule the world.” Legend has it that the answer was yes, but not for very long. After his visit, Alexander went on to live for only eight more years……
Visit the Oracle temple is another must-visit attraction in Siwa Oasis and another bargain of only 50 EGP per person.
Don’t forget to include a quick visit to the ruins of the Temple of Umm Ubayd. Although you’ll only need a few minutes to explore, it’s well worth the visit and is located just 500 meters from the Temple of the Oracle, on your way to the next top attraction in Siwa Oasis – Cleopatra Spring.
Siwa Oasis Things To Do: Cleopatra Spring
There are many springs in Siwa Oasis, both hot and cold. The most famous spring in Siwa Oasis is the Cleopatra Spring, just down the road from the Temple of the Oracle. There are two versions of why the spring is named after Cleopatra.
The first one is that Cleopatra bathed here with Alexander the Great while he was holidaying in Siwa Oasis.
The second version is that the first version is a load of shite and the pool was just named after the Egyptian queen because it sounds impressive!
The spring itself is FREE to swim in and can be a refreshing dip after sightseeing all day.
There are many shops and cafes surrounding the pool that serve juices and coffee but surprisingly not any food. Still, it is a nice place to hang out and relax and one of the best things to do in Siwa Oasis for a chilled afternoon.
Best Attractions in Siwa Oasis: Gabal Dakrur Hiking
Only 3 kilometers from Siwa Oasis lies Gabal Dakrur Mountain Range. You would have noticed this mountain range from the viewpoints of Shali Fortress and Mountain of the Dead.
Once you approach Gabal Dakrur Mountain you will realize that it’s not really that big when looking from close up, which is good news because you are going to hike it!
The entire hike around the mountain range is a 4-kilometer loop, alternatively, you can take a shorter walk just around Gabal Dakrur Mountain (it is clearly marked on Google Maps).
At the top, you will have more panoramic views of Siwa Oasis, endless lands of palm trees, salt lakes, and the Great Sand Sea of Egypt.
Hiking around Gabal Dakrur Mountain is one of the best things to do in Siwa Oasis. Along the hike, you will come across more old abandoned houses, tombs, and chambers cut out of rock. Also, keep a close eye out for some Red Egyptian Foxes that will be out during the day.
All of the above best attractions of Siwa Oasis can be done in one day, either by walking or taking a tour.
Because we are Happy Irish Wanderers, we walked to all the sights. This can be easily done with the help of Google Maps.
Walking is not your thing? No problem, there were tours available for 200 EGP per person, make sure to use your negotiating skills though to get a cheap price!
Best Attractions in Siwa Oasis: Siwa Oasis Salt Lakes
The following day, you may feel a bit sore in your legs if you hiked to all the top attractions in Siwa Oasis. If that’s the case, we have the perfect solution for you! Allow us to introduce the renowned turquoise salt lakes of Siwa Oasis made famous by Instagram.
Some of the pools have a depth of 4 meters but with a salt percentage of 95%, it is physically impossible to sink!
Once you enter the water you immediately float on the top, a very surreal experience!
Instagram v Reality – It is important to note that the reality is that these stunning pools and lakes are actually part of a salt mine and in some places, you will see machinery digging up the ground for salt.
That said, the Siwa Oasis Salt Lakes are a stunning place to visit and the experience of floating on water still makes it a top attraction to visit in Siwa Oasis.
There are no showers nearby so make sure to bring a large bottle of water to rinse all the salt off afterwards.
A pair of flip-flops to walk in is also recommended as salt can be sharp as fxxk!
Finally and MOST importantly, do not get this water in your eyes!! Proper Instagram V Reality eh!! Even so, the Salt lakes of Siwa Oasis are stunning beyond words and without a doubt one of the best attractions in Siwa Oasis.
Siwa Oasis Salt Lakes: How Much Was Our Private Tour?
We got a private driver for 3 hours to bring us to the lakes for 300 EGP in total.
Ask your driver to take you to the less visited sights, as we did, and you can have a massive pool all to yourself.
Most times the drivers will bring gallon bottles of water to wash your self off but this may not always be the case so be prepared.
Best Attractions in Siwa Oasis: Hot Springs to Relax
Siwa Oasis really has some of the best attractions in Egypt!
After floating in the salt pools your driver will bring you to a hot spring as part of your tour.
There are many hot springs available with accommodation in Siwa. However, lazing in these hot pools is still possible even if you are not a resident. 50 EGP per person is one of the best things to do in Siwa Oasis, and will have you relaxing those stiff joints and muscles in a pool to yourself for as long as you want!
It is possible to book a night or two in a resort with a hot spring, but be aware most are about 5 kilometers outside of Siwa Oasis town.
Best Attractions in Siwa Oasis: The Great Sand Sea
All around Siwa Oasis are massive sand dunes that are part of the Great Sand Sea of Egypt. Another popular thing to do in Siwa Oasis is a safari tour that takes you into the desert for some “dune bashing” and sandboarding. Some tours also offer overnight camping which offers the chance to experience some of the most stunning night skies in the world and a hidden gem of Egypt.
Check out the links below to discover just how affordable tours and top attractions in Egypt can be!
Is Siwa Oasis Worth Visiting?
Hands down Siwa Oasis was our favorite place in Egypt!
So, to answer the question, “Is Siwa Oasis worth visiting?” Absolutely!
Yes, it is an effort to get there, and don’t forget you have to backtrack as well. But the price to pay for that effort is unforgettable memories and lots of new experiences!
There is so much to see and do in Siwa Oasis, a tiny hidden gem of Egypt in the middle of nowhere.
The history, the vibes of the local culture, the beautiful attractions of Siwa Oasis. If you haven’t visited Siwa Oasis in Egypt, then you must update your world travel bucket list now!
When is the Best Time to Visit Siwa Oasis?
The best months for a visit to Siwa Oasis are from October to March. During this period, you’ll experience milder temperatures during the day whilst out exploring the best attractions of Siwa Oasis, keep in mind that the salt water lakes will also be cooler!
How Many Days Do I Need in Siwa Oasis
Traveling from Cairo to Siwa Oasis will take a full day. There are overnight buses available for this journey. Once you arrive in Siwa Oasis, you’ll need two days to explore all the best attractions in Siwa Oasis we mentioned earlier. Remember that you’ll need another full day to return to Cairo from Siwa Oasis, as there are no buses to Luxor, so you’ll have to backtrack.
An Egyptian visa on arrival is valid for 30 days. If you have extra time, we recommend setting aside two days for travel to and from Siwa, two days to see the sights, and an additional one or two days if you want to relax in one of the hot spring resorts.
Enjoy Stunning Siwa Oasis!
Have you been to this hidden gem of Egypt before> did you enjoy the best attractions of Siwa Oasis as much as we did? Please let us know about your adventures in Egypt and thoughts in the comment section below.
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