Siwa Oasis Egypt: Things to do in Siwa Oasis

Siwa Oasis Egypt is a paradise of desert and crystalline springs, old ruins, and the culture of the Amazighs. Siwa is an idyllic small oasis, with a history and natural beauty, and is surrounded by large dunes of sand, and green date palms. With the convenient e-Visa Egypt system, the traveler keen on visiting Siwa Oasis in Egypt can easily plan his trip and travel comfortably and without any stress.

About Siwa Oasis Egypt

Siwa Oasis Egypt is a hidden desert gem known for its natural springs, ancient temples, and preserved Berber culture.

Where is Siwa Oasis?

Siwa Oasis is situated in the Western Desert of Egypt and its geographical characteristics are just spectacular. The green oasis in the sea of sand dunes is surrounded by immense golden sands. Siwa is isolated by the Great Sand Sea on the west and the Qattara Depression on the northeast to form a feeling of seclusion and peace.

The fresh water springs have sprinkled the oasis forming green patches of vegetation that are in sharp contrast to the desert. The most renowned of these springs is Ain Suhaila which is a spring with crystal clear waters and scenic location. The oasis is fertile and agricultural productivity is contributed by the fact that the place is surrounded by the abundant date palm groves, olive orchards, and other fruits bearing trees.

Siwa Oasis Egypt

What is Siwa Oasis famous for?

Siwa is represented as a small rural town that is quite peaceful. The sandy roads are lined with palm trees and mudbrick houses and sometimes have the leisurely movement of tuk-tuk or donkey carts.

Siwa Oasis as a destination would be the best place to rest and spend a couple of days to adopt a slow lifestyle. Surprisingly, being of small size, Siwa boasts a wide range of offerings.

The natural beauty of the oasis is the main attraction. With more than 300 clear water springs, hot springs and salt mines pools, all the places are ideal with a nice cafe where one can have refreshing juices or have a cup of tea. The town is surrounded with the green groves of palm trees and immerses into the charm of the gardens that beautify it.

To experience Egypt’s diverse religious history, complement your Siwa journey with a visit to Coptic Cairo Egypt, home to some of the world’s oldest Christian landmarks and sacred churches.

Things to do in Siwa Oasis

There's a wealth of attractions and activities to explore in Siwa Oasis, Egypt, that travelers should not miss adding Siwa Oasis to their Egypt itinerary. Take a look at the diverse sites and experiences outlined below.

Visit the Temple of the Oracle

The Temple of the Oracle, which is dedicated to the worshiped Egyptian god Amun-Ra, is a product of centuries of evidence of the spiritual and cultural significance of the Siwa Oasis. Anyone who visits this site is made to experience a fascinating voyage of the interplay of divination and Egyptian beliefs of ancient times.

Upon visiting the temple, the visitors are welcomed by the remains of a building that used to reverberate with prophecies and divine revelations. The sense of reverence and historical echo is still evident despite the time-induced effects of weathering. The structure of the temple, which is left ruined, gives the impression of the greatness that the temple comprised, serving as a backdrop to the stories of people who needed guidance within the sacred walls of the temple.

Entrance Fees:

• Cost for Egyptian nationals: 5 Egyptian Pounds
• Fee for international visitors: 50 Egyptian Pounds

Temple of the Oracle

And if you're looking to take home a piece of Egyptian culture, wander through the vibrant Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where traditional crafts, spices, and local treasures await in every corner.

Discover Shali Fortress

Shali Fortress is a symbolic mud-brick building, which has decayed with time, but it still offers a physical relationship with the history of Siwa. Wandering through its ruins makes the visitor explore the traditional Berber constructions and obtain the information about the historical development of the town.

You can explore sandy streets in between palm trees, where you sometimes meet donkey carts or tuk-tuk, but the Shali Fortress is a silent witness of the eternal soul of Siwa. This historical heritage, with its own unique charm, also contributes a note of culture to the oasis, and a trip to the Shali Fortress is the inevitable component of the Siwan adventure.

Shali Fortress

After immersing yourself in Siwa’s serene desert charm, explore the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of a famous mosque in Egypt, where centuries of Islamic heritage come to life in the heart of Cairo.

Take a Desert Safari

Setting off to a Desert Safari in Siwa Oasis Egypt, is one of the thrilling experiences in the huge and fascinating scenery of the Sahara. The Desert Safari is an experience offering all the five senses to some extent whether one is riding a 4x4 car or whether one is on a camel ride to see the traditional beauty of the desert. Watch the ever changing sands, experience the beat of desert winds and experience the vastness of the Great Sand Sea.

The trip also provides a special view of natural beauty in Siwa and one can have a close bond with the majestic and calm environment of the desert. The Desert Safari is something a person cannot afford to miss especially those who want the adventurous experience of the oasis environment.

Experience many activities in the Siwa desert

Read more: White desert Egypt: Facts information and safety

Mountain of the Death

The Mountain of the Dead, a modest hill, houses tombs dating back to the 26th dynasty, spanning the Ptolemaic and Roman eras. Discovered during World War II, the tombs served as a shelter for Siwans amidst the conflict involving German, British, and Italian forces in the region.

Among the tombs, Si Amun, Mesu Isis, Niperbathot, and the Crocodile tomb stand out for their historical significance and aesthetic appeal. Unfortunately, during the war, foreign troops removed sections of the tombs' walls, intending to transport them back to their respective countries.

Entrance Fees:

• Cost for Egyptian nationals: 5 Egyptian Pounds
• Fee for international visitors: 50 Egyptian Pounds

The Mountain of the Dead

Siwa Oasis Salt Lake

Siwa Oasis Egypt is graced by the presence of a unique and mesmerizing natural wonder – the Siwa Oasis Salt Lake. This ethereal lake, also known as Bir Wahed, is a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the desert, creating a stunning contrast to the lush landscapes of the oasis.

The Siwa Oasis Salt Lake attracts travelers because of its high salinity, creating an otherworldly environment where the boundaries between earth and sky seem to blur. The lake's salt formations take on intricate patterns, resembling delicate lacework that stretches as far as the eye can see. During certain times of the day, the play of sunlight on the salt crystals creates a dazzling spectacle, casting a dreamlike glow across the landscape.

Siwa Oasis Salt Lake

Experience the Local culture

Visit the local markets in Siwa to experience the vibrant colors and flavors of the region. Purchase handmade crafts, locally produced goods, and traditional Siwi attire.

Moreover, travelers can enjoy the festive atmosphere if coming to Siwa Oasis Egypt during the Siyaha where you can learn the traditional dance, and watch music performances with people on this oasis.

No trip is complete without tasting the cuisine of that location. From date-based sweets highlighting the region's abundant palms to olive products reflecting thriving orchards, the cuisine offers a delightful array of flavors. Must-try dishes include "Aseed," a hearty blend of flour, butter, and milk, and "Shelatin," featuring spiced meat in a flavorful broth. Siwan herbal teas add a refreshing touch to the culinary journey. 

Souvenir market in Siwa

To complete your exploration of Egypt’s diverse destinations, don’t miss the famous landmarks in Cairo Egypt, home to iconic sites like the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum.

Weather in Siwa Oasis Egypt

Siwa experiences its most favorable weather between November and March, when morning average temperatures in Egypt hover around 25 degrees Celsius.. Desert climates are typically scorching in the morning and exceptionally cold in the evening, making the winter months the optimal time for a visit while avoiding the extreme summer heat. 

Weekdays, especially avoiding Fridays and Saturdays, ensure fewer crowds at popular tourist sites. Additionally, the full moon days in October provide an excellent opportunity to witness the annual Feast of Seyahet. On the other hand, if the purpose of the visit is medical tourism, the summer months may be more suitable.

If you’re fascinated by Egypt’s ancient history beyond the desert, explore the royal tombs and legends of the Valley of the Kings Egypt, one of the most iconic archaeological sites in Luxor.

What’s the best way to get to the Siwa Oasis?

Siwa Oasis Egypt is accessible by land, offering travel options for those seeking to explore its heavenly beauty. One can opt for a road trip, either driving independently or using the West Delta Bus service. Private mini buses or vans are also available for rental. For those starting the journey from Cairo, the route encompasses the Cairo-Alexandria desert road, followed by the Wadi El Natrun-Alamein road. Subsequently, travelers traverse the North Coast road until reaching Marsa Matrouh, from where they embark on the road leading into the desert.

Getting to Siwa Oasis Egypt is easy

Are you traveling to Egypt and do not have a visa yet? Egypt Immigration Services will assist you in preparing the documents to match the visa requirements. Within a few days, travelers can apply for an Egypt e-visa without visiting the Embassy. The process is done online in simple steps with a stable internet connection. Get ready to travel to Siwa Oasis Egypt right now!

For a well-rounded Egyptian experience, pair Siwa’s desert serenity with the stunning shores and coral reefs of Red Sea Egypt.

Conclusion

Siwa Oasis Egypt, with its ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature. This desert gem invites travelers to unravel its mysteries, immerse themselves in its traditions, and marvel at the resilience of its people. As we explore Siwa's wonders, let us embrace the responsibility to preserve and sustain this oasis for future generations, ensuring that its magic continues to captivate and inspire for centuries to come.