Overview

This private 3-day tour begins with pickup from a hotel in Cairo or Giza in an air-conditioned vehicle. Upon arrival in Siwa Oasis, the group transfers to a 4x4 desert safari car for activities in the Great Sand Sea. The first stop includes dune bashing and sandboarding on the dunes, followed by watching the sunset in the desert while drinking Siwan tea and having snacks. An entry permit to the desert is required. Next, participants swim in a natural cold lake located in the desert. The tour then visits a hot spring with water sourced from 1000 meters underground. Dinner is served at a hot spring camp in the desert, where guests spend the night and have the option to stargaze and meditate. On the second day, the tour starts at 9:00 am with a visit to the ruins of Shali Castle in central Siwa. This 13th-century mud-brick fortress was built from kershef, a mixture of salt and clay, and originally housed hundreds of people. The visit includes walking over the ruins, passing the Old Mosque with its chimney-shaped minaret, and ending with panoramic views from the top. The next stop is a mountain containing tombs from the 26th dynasty, Greek, and Roman periods, with a visit lasting about one hour. Afterward, the 26th-dynasty Temple of the Oracle is explored; this 6th-century BC temple dedicated to Amun is where Alexander the Great is believed to have been declared son of Amun. The tour continues with a visit to Siwa Salt Lake, known for its clear blue waters and high salt concentration that allows swimmers to float naturally. The lake is also noted for its therapeutic properties for eyes, skin, and sinuses. Visitors then swim in Cleopatra’s Pool, a stone pool fed by a natural hot spring, reputedly visited by the Egyptian queen. Later, the group travels to Fitnas Island, a small palm-covered island in Birket Siwa accessible by causeway. Known as ‘Fantasy Island,’ it offers a peaceful setting to watch the sunset. There is a small cafe for tea or juice, and paddle-boat rides are available. The tour includes a visit to the Siwan House where participants learn about the culture and history of the Siwan people. A short walking tour of Siwa town follows before the return drive to Cairo. The return trip includes two stops at rest houses and takes about eight hours. Meals included are breakfast and lunch. Transportation uses an air-conditioned vehicle from Cairo and a 4x4 desert safari car for desert activities such as dune bashing and sandboarding. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. This tour covers the natural and cultural highlights of Siwa Oasis over three days.

Highlights

Itinerary

Languages

Cancellation policy

• Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.

Additional info