[2025 Siwa Oasis Attraction] Travel Guide for Siwa Oasis (Updated Jul)

I made the 10 hour drive (with a private driver) from Cairo to Siwa Oasis and discovered a land of pure bliss! Siwa is in the western desert of Egypt and it feels like a completely different place. It has its own people (Berber-speaking Sudanic people) and they live in these really interesting mud houses. There are a few sights to see in Siwa like the Cleopatra Spring, Fatnas Island (best sunset), Salt lakes (such a cool experience), Oracle Temple, Shali Fortress and many more. I spent some time with a local guide who told me all about the history and local culture and I enjoyed my relaxed evenings at the boho campsite where you can choose air conditioned cottages or the simple fanned hotels. My camp provided breakfast and dinner which were always delicious and even though I was on my own, I never felt lonely. There are different types of hotels and camp sites all around Siwa and they offer a calm and peaceful environment. There are also plenty of souvenir stores ones you enter the town side near the fortress and a few local restaurants. #freehotelstay

My visit to Siwa Oasis was a huge relief from the chaos and constant hassle of Egyptian cities. The people are welcoming and actually try to help you, instead of scamming you or making you pay for something you don't need like in other places in Egypt. I've stayed in Forest Camp Siwa which I 100% recommend, super cheap, good breakfast, very pretty and comfortable. The best attractions to visit are abandoned Shali Fortress in the centre of the village where you can climb to the top and get a view of the whole oasis, Cleopatra Pool, clean and refreshing with good restaurants next to it, the Salt Lakes where you can experience floating and Sulphuric Hot Spring where you can warm up at night and sandboard on the nearby dunes during the day.

🚙 Matlu → Oasis of Siva: The ultimate cross-country guide to crossing the Sahara This mysterious 300-kilometre route that connects the Mediterranean to a desert oasis is North Africa’s hardest self-driving experience – World War II military highways intersect with flowing sand dunes, Bedouin camel teams swoop out your car window, and you’ll touch the true soul of the Sahara in the 8 hours when cell phone signals disappear altogether. 🗺️ Core route details Total route length: 320 km (only 1/3 is paved road) Duration: 7-9 hours (including stay) Elevation Change: Sea Level → Dune Area (+180m) → Siva (-15m) Segmentation Road Book: 1️⃣ Matlu-Qara Oasis (160 km) - South along "Military Highway 60" through the southern flank of the Alamein Battlefield - milestone: ▫️ 45km: Abandoned British Army Radar Station (climbable) ▫️ 92km: Black Volcanic Rock Area (The British Patient was filmed) ▫️ 130km: Qara Oasis Refill Station (the only gas station) 2️⃣ Qara Oasis - Great Sand Sea (80 km) - Turn into pure desert road section, need to switch four-wheel drive mode - Key coordinates: ▫️ N29°12'45", E25°33'10": WWII crash wreckage (P-40 fighter) ▫️ N29°04'11", E25°47'33": Moving Dune Observation Point (best photo shoot 1 hour before sunset) 3️⃣ Great Sand Sea - Siva (80km) - Crossing the crescent-shaped sand dune complex, coconut groves appear when approaching Siva - Hidden landmarks: ▫️ 5km before Salt Lake: Underground underground river outcrop (can be filled with natural spring water) 🔧 Pre-trip preparation list | Vehicle | Toyota Land Cruiser/Nissan Patrol (Chassis Raised Version) At least 2 cars to travel, with 2 full size spare tires | Navigation | Garmin GPSMAP 66i (with Sahara Offline Map) Paper map + compass backup | survival | 20L drinking water/car, military compressed dry food, first aid kit (with anti-snake venom serum) | Protection | Sand mask, satellite phone, high frequency radio - Visibility <1 m during sandstorms Vehicle modification suggestions: - Install desert tires (tire pressure reduced to 1.0-1.2 Bar) - Installed front winch (capacity ≥4.5 tons) - Carry aluminum sandboard (more resistant to high temperatures than plywood) 🛣️ Three challenge sections 1. ``Eye of the Devil'' Sand Wo District (37 km south of Qara) - A series of sand pits, need to maintain a speed of more than 40km/h to prevent car sinking - Technique: Follow the front tire marks, direction fine-tuning magnitude <15 degrees 2. ``Blade Line'' Side Slope (N28°59'16''E25°41'22'') - 35° inclined sand slope, the body is suspended on one side for 200 meters - Law of Survival: All passengers move to the uphill side, disabling braking 3. Flowing Sand River Bed (15 km close to Siva) - The surface is hard but actually loose, need to use tree branches to explore the way - Trapped car self-rescue: dig sand until hard bottom is seen, sand board inserted at 30° Communication code: - Waving a red bandana = asking for aid - Double flash of car lights three times = hazard found ⚠️Itinerary taboos - Absolutely forbidden to leave the track for more than 50 meters (there may be unexploded bombs underground) - No entry into the Dasha Sea section after 3pm (night temperature drops sharply to 5°C) - Encountering a single-peaked camel team must put out the fire and give way (sacred right of the Bedouin) 🌌 How to play in the secret realm on the way War Archeology: Use metal detectors near radar stations to find medals (relics of the British 7th Armored Division are common) Starry Sky Camping: The granite platform at N29°08'09" E25°44'27" is a certified stargazing spot by the International Dark Sky Association Fossil Hunter: There are a large number of marine life fossils in the mountains west of Qara oasis (specimen <5cm can be taken away). There will be an epiphany as your wheels roll over the former supply line of Rommel’s Corps, washing away the yellow sand on the shores of Siva’s salt lake – this desert has never been conquered, he has only graciously allowed you to pass through.

#ThailandFlightEvent I was surprised that there was a place like this in Siwa Oasis, Egypt. A salt lake at the edge of the desert, the water was so clear and transparent that it was hard to believe. I floated right away when I dipped my body, and it felt like I was floating in zero gravity. My skin felt soft because of the high salt concentration, and the lake sparkling in the sunlight was a beauty that was hard to express in words. There was only a slight breeze around the quiet lake, and there weren't many people, so it felt like a secret place that only I wanted to know. The photos came out really pretty, so it was the perfect place to take the best shots of my life. It was the most unique moment during my trip to Egypt, and an unexpected healing time in the middle of the desert. 📍 Location Salt Lakes, Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt Relaxing under the hot sun and in the cold salt lake. Time and reality were forgotten here.

#ThailandAirlineEvent I took a tour around Siwa Oasis in Egypt by tuk-tuk. It was so new because it had a completely different atmosphere from other parts of Egypt, and I really liked the quiet and secluded feeling. The tuk-tuk was driven by a local guide, and even though I didn't speak English well, I was able to communicate well with hand gestures. It was comfortable because it went around every nook and cranny from the Shali Fortress to the salt lake, the Amun Temple, and the center of the oasis, and I was able to feel the local atmosphere of Siwa more deeply. The view from the top of the Shali Fortress is so pretty, and the yellow-colored buildings look like a painting when the sun sets. The salt lake was still clear and mysterious, and since I was traveling by tuk-tuk, I could enjoy the scenery while feeling the wind while moving, which was a different kind of fun. The entire city is quiet and relaxed, so if you like a leisurely trip to see and feel things rather than a fast trip, Siwa is the best choice. I recommend taking the tuk-tuk tour in the morning when it's not too hot or at sunset. 📍 Location Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

The moment I arrived at Siwa Palace Lodge, I was struck by its distinctly Egyptian vibe. From the exterior to the interior, the hotel is built entirely in traditional Siwa style. The rounded dome-shaped rooms were a unique structure I had never seen before, leaving a lasting impression. The mud walls, arched doors, and spaces constructed with natural materials provided a special experience, as if I were in the middle of the desert. Above all, the staff were incredibly friendly. Although their English was a bit limited, they always helped with a smile, assisting with tuk-tuk rides and tour bookings, making my stay comfortable. Siwa itself is a quiet and peaceful place, and the lodge amplified that serene atmosphere. The hotel also features a small pool and hot spring where you can cool off in Siwa's hot weather. Lying on a sunbed by the pool, gazing at the desert landscape beyond the palm trees, was truly a healing experience. Siwa Palace Lodge is more than just a place to stay; it’s a special space where you can immerse yourself in Siwa’s culture and enjoy a tranquil retreat. If you’re planning a trip to Siwa, I highly recommend this accommodation. 📍 Location Siwa Palace Lodge, Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

I spent an entire day touring the city of Siwa Oasis in Egypt on a tuk-tuk. This tranquil and peaceful oasis village, located in the middle of the desert, offered a refreshing experience. Riding the tuk-tuk with the breeze on my face made the hot weather much more bearable. The tuk-tuk driver, a local from Siwa, was well-versed in the area's major historical sites, allowing us to navigate efficiently. He also made sure to stop at great photo spots, which added to the overall satisfaction of the tour. Our first stop was the Shali Fortress, where the crumbling mud walls stood as a testament to history. The view of Siwa from the top was absolutely stunning. We then visited the Temple of Amun, Cleopatra's Bath, and the Salt Lakes, each offering a unique atmosphere that kept the tour engaging. Passing through the local market was also memorable, as I got to observe the daily lives of the merchants and browse for souvenirs. The tuk-tuk tour turned out to be much more rewarding than expected and far more efficient than walking. In a vast and serene area like Siwa, utilizing local transportation truly enhances the travel experience. 📍 Location Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

As soon as I arrived at Siwa Oasis, I took a tuk-tuk tour. The weather was too hot for walking, and the distances between tourist spots were quite far, so riding a tuk-tuk turned out to be a great choice. With a local driver, I visited Shali Fortress, Amun Temple, the Salt Lake, and the city market. The feeling of the breeze while riding was refreshing, and seeing the oasis scenery up close was a unique experience. Shali Fortress still has its crumbling mud walls intact, allowing you to feel the ancient history of Siwa. The view from the top was breathtaking. I also stopped by modest Islamic mosques and local markets, where the people of Siwa were incredibly friendly, and the tuk-tuk driver was cheerful. Thanks to the tuk-tuk, I could comfortably explore the vast and hot Siwa, capturing every little scene of its charm. Tuk-tuks can navigate narrow paths that big buses or cars cannot, which made the experience even more satisfying. 📍 Location Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

#ThailandFlightEvent Siwa Oasis was one of the most mysterious places during my trip to Egypt. Among them, the Temple of Amun was a must-see. It was a ruin that remained in the middle of the desert, but standing inside it made me feel like I had traveled back in time thousands of years. In particular, there is a legend that Alexander the Great came to receive an oracle, so when I stood there in person, I felt a strange tension and excitement at the same time. Each wall and pillar that looked like ruins seemed to contain a story from that time, and the dry air and quiet scenery made the atmosphere even more dramatic. The temple was not large, but it was full of spiritual energy that contrasted with the quiet desert. There were few tourists, so I was able to appreciate it quietly, and the sight of the sunlight seeping into the ruins at sunset was truly impressive. 📍Location Temple of the Oracle of Amun, Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt An ancient temple I encountered in the desert. If you want something deeper than the glamour of Egypt, the Siwa Oasis is a must-see.

One of the most tranquil and mystical places in Egypt, I visited Siwa Oasis. The salt lake in the middle of the desert sparkled with emerald hues, and its beauty was truly hard to believe. The high salinity of the water allows you to float effortlessly, and it even made my skin feel smoother, offering a more rejuvenating experience than a spa. The lake's scenery, reflecting the sky like a mirror, was so overwhelming that it couldn't be fully captured by a camera. As for the Temple of Amun, though it stands in ruins, it still exudes a powerful presence. Knowing that Alexander the Great himself visited this site to receive an oracle made standing there feel like stepping into the heart of ancient mythology. Exploring the ruins amidst Siwa's unique serene and peaceful atmosphere felt like time had come to a standstill. 📍 Location Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt (Search "Temple of the Oracle of Amun" or "Siwa Salt Lakes" on GPS) Siwa was the most extraordinary and mystical experience of my Egypt trip. The desert, salt lake, and historical sites all left a lasting impression.

The Siwa Oasis in Egypt is famous for its salt lake, but the city of Siwa itself is beautiful and makes you feel like you've traveled back in time 🌴 Tuk-tuks are the norm instead of passenger cars. Also, since it's a city in the desert, it's a bit earthy, so if you're concerned about that, it's useful to have a scarf that covers your mouth. The city is compact, so it's recommended to walk slowly. It's a warm city where local children will greet you enthusiastically. There are plenty of facilities necessary for sightseeing, such as museums and ruins, restaurants serving local cuisine, souvenir shops related to the salt lake and desert 🏜️, and shops. The city center is a bit noisy with car directional sounds and horns, so if you want to enjoy a quiet time, we recommend going to a location a little away from the center. #0yentravel

#AprilTravelSupport My experience at Siwa Salt Lake was truly unforgettable. I was completely absorbed in the beauty of nature as I floated on the endless salt-covered lake. I was able to fully enjoy my own time in the tranquil scenery, and the sparkling salt surface reflecting the sunlight was truly beautiful. It was a truly special experience, and I definitely want to go back. #SiwaSaltLake #SaltLakeTravel #RelaxationInNature #PeacefulLandscape

#AprilTravelSupport Floating on the Siwa Salt Lake was truly an unforgettable moment. Floating on the vast and endless salt lake gave me a mystical feeling as if I was floating in space. The salt covered the surface of the lake, so it felt like I was walking on a sparkling salt floor rather than water. The sky and surrounding scenery I saw while floating above it were truly spectacular, and the light of the salt reflecting in the sunlight added to its beauty as it shone like a jewel. In the silence of the surroundings, I felt like I had become one with nature, and the time I spent here was so peaceful and healing that it felt like time had stopped. The quiet and mysterious atmosphere of the Siwa Salt Lake gave me a special experience that cannot be compared to anything else. #SiwaSaltLake #SaltLakeTravel #BecomingOneWithNature #QuietScenery #SaltLakeExperience #MysteryOfNature

#AprilTravelSupportThe experience of floating on the Siwa Salt Lake was truly amazing. The entire lake was covered in salt, so the feeling of floating on the water was special, like walking on a starry night sky. The salt crystals sparkled in the sunlight, and it was a spectacular sight in itself, and I could feel nature completely in the quiet atmosphere around me. I was able to enjoy the tranquility of being in my own world while floating on the vast and endless lake, and everything came together perfectly, making it a truly healing moment. #SiwaSaltLake #SaltLakeExperience #PeacefulTravel #BeautyOfNature #HealingTravel

#AprilTravelSupportThe moment I was floating on the salt lake was truly mystical. Floating on the salt-covered lake, I felt like I was walking on the bottom, not the water. The calm and endless scenery made me feel like I was in another world. The salt sparkled as the sunlight shone, and the reflected light was so beautiful, and I experienced a moment where it felt like only me and nature existed in the calm atmosphere around me. The peacefulness of that moment was so deeply moving that I can't express it in words. #SaltLake #MysteriousLandscape #CharmOfNature #SaltLakeExperience #PeacefulTravel

#AprilTravelSupportThe experience of floating on the salt lake in Siwa was truly unique and wonderful. The surface of the lake was covered with salt, so it felt like floating on the clear and calm waves, as if I was in a dream. The surrounding scenery was so peaceful that I couldn't say anything and just immersed myself in the beauty of nature. As I floated on the salt lake, I felt like the sky and the earth were connected, and while enjoying that quiet time, my mind also felt organized. The wind was also blowing coolly, so every moment felt like a special gift to me. #SiwaSaltLake #SaltLakeTravel #QuietTime #RelaxationInNature #TheGreatnessOfNature

#AprilTravelSupportThe experience of floating on the Siwa Salt Lake was truly a dreamlike time. The feeling of floating on the vast salt lake was like being in another world, and the surroundings were so quiet and peaceful that I felt like I was one with nature. The surface of the lake was covered with sparkling salt crystals, so it felt like walking on ice, and it created a mysterious atmosphere. The light reflecting under the sunlight was really beautiful, and while floating while looking at the scenery, I felt like all my worries disappeared. I felt the greatness of nature in the silence that seemed to be cut off from the world and healed. It's a place I really want to go back to. #SiwaSaltLake #RelaxationInNature #QuietScenery #SaltLakeExperience #HealingTravel

#HawaiiFlightEvent Small and large pools each have their own charm. Small pools are cozy in themselves and feel like a personal space. They are in harmony with the surrounding nature and are perfect for dipping your feet in the water or taking a light swim. They have a small and simple charm, allowing you to spend more comfortable and leisurely time. Also, these small pools are often less visited by people and often retain their natural appearance. On the other hand, large pools have a wide and open charm that matches their size. You can enjoy leisurely swimming or freely moving your body in the water, allowing you to do various activities. Large pools themselves provide more space for people and sometimes allow you to better appreciate the magnificent natural scenery. In addition to swimming in the water, large pools have the advantage of allowing you to feel the surrounding environment more spaciously and experience more nature. Small pools provide personal healing, while large pools offer more active and diverse experiences. The two pools have different charms depending on their size and purpose, and the peace and vitality that can be obtained from each environment is special in itself.

#HawaiiFlightEvent I had a really special time swimming in the Oasis. I could forget the heat of the desert when I got into the blue and clear water. The quiet atmosphere of the Oasis and the surrounding nature made me feel like I was in another world. I could avoid the hot desert sun and feel the cool breeze while swimming in the water. Swimming in this peaceful environment was truly healing itself, and it was the most memorable moment of my trip.

#HawaiiFlightEvent I once again felt the beauty of the desert while swimming in the oasis of Siwa. The moment of soaking in the clear water and feeling the quiet nature around me was so peaceful. I was able to completely heal myself while soaking in the cool water of the oasis and forgetting the hot weather. The scene where the vast landscape of the desert and the water come together was truly special and a unique experience that could only be felt here. The time spent leisurely swimming and appreciating the beauty of nature remained as an unforgettable memory.

#HawaiiAirlineEvent I enjoyed swimming in the oasis of Siwa. I could forget the heat of the desert and feel cool while soaking in the clear and clean water. The nature around the oasis was really beautiful, and I enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere there while swimming. The wind, sunlight, and quiet scenery I felt while swimming in the water were really fantastic. It was special to be able to have such a peaceful experience in the middle of the desert. In particular, it was even better because the water was deep and wide, so I could swim freely. Swimming in the oasis of Siwa was a special memory of my trip.

#HawaiiFlightEvent The salt lake had a truly unique charm. The color of the water changed depending on the depth of the lake, so in one place it was dark and deep, and in another place it was clear and bright. It was truly amazing to see all these colors constantly changing as they reflected the sunlight. Some areas were so deep that you couldn't see the bottom of the water, while other areas felt calm and peaceful. Floating in this salt lake with its various appearances allowed me to fully experience the wonders of nature, and the experience remained as a very special memory.

#HawaiiFlightEvent The salt lake had a truly unique charm. The color of the water changed depending on the depth of the lake, so in one place it was dark and deep, and in another place it was clear and bright. It was truly amazing to see all these colors constantly changing as they reflected the sunlight. Some areas were so deep that you couldn't see the bottom of the water, while other areas felt calm and peaceful. Floating in this salt lake with its various appearances allowed me to fully experience the wonders of nature, and the experience remained as a very special memory.

#HawaiiFlightEvent The Sea and Salt Lakes were a natural wonder in their own right. It was amazing how different areas of different depths and sizes coexisted in one lake. Some areas were small and deep, so they had darker colors, while others were wide and shallow, so they had bright colors. These various appearances harmoniously blended together, allowing me to fully experience the beauty of nature. The scenery, which changed like a painting as the water color changed according to the sunlight, was truly captivating. The Sea and Salt Lakes gave me a special experience just by floating in the water.

The salt lakes in Siwa are fascinating because they come in various forms. Some are small and deep, while others are vast and seemingly endless. The water colors also vary, ranging from deep blue to light turquoise, and they change depending on the sunlight, creating a stunning visual effect. Among them, the lakes with deep, dark hues that seem bottomless are particularly mysterious. Despite being salt lakes, each one offers a completely different allure, making it enjoyable to explore and admire. I remember spending a long time marveling at their beauty. Make sure to find the prettiest spots!

#HawaiiFlightEvent The moment I immersed myself in the salt lake of Siwa, the feeling of the water gently pushing me up and floating on its own was so amazing. I didn't know the salinity would be this high, and I laughed because I didn't sink even though I pushed hard in the water. It was so comfortable that I felt like I was floating in the air, and the time I spent floating looking at the sky was an indescribable healing. As I let my body go to the water and floated without thinking, all the fatigue from the trip disappeared. It was a magical moment of nature that can only be felt in Siwa.

#HawaiiAirlineEvent The salt lake of Siwa Oasis made me feel like I was in another world. The salinity was so high that my body floated naturally as soon as I put my feet in, and that moment was really amazing and fun. The feeling of floating on the water as if lying in the air without exerting any strength made me forget about gravity. The warm sunlight and the quiet scenery combined to make my mind calm, and the time spent floating on the water felt like meditation. The salt lake experienced in an exotic atmosphere was the highlight of my trip to Siwa.

#HawaiiAirlineEvent The experience at the salt lake was an unforgettable moment. As soon as I immersed myself in the clear, transparent water, I was amazed that I floated without any strength, and it felt as if gravity had disappeared. The bottom of the water was sparkling with white salt crystals, and the way they reflected the sunlight was so beautiful. The water tasted very salty, and my skin was left with a slippery salty feeling, but even that was a special experience. It was a truly healing time to feel the mystery of nature with my whole body in the quiet scenery.

#HawaiiAirlineEvent The experience at the salt lake was an unforgettable moment. As soon as I immersed myself in the clear, transparent water, I was amazed that I floated without any strength, and it felt as if gravity had disappeared. The bottom of the water was sparkling with white salt crystals, and the way they reflected the sunlight was so beautiful. The water tasted very salty, and my skin was left with a slippery salty feeling, but even that was a special experience. It was a truly healing time to feel the mystery of nature with my whole body in the quiet scenery.