SIWA OASIS
Siwa Oasis is an extraordinary Berber settlement deep in the Western Desert of Egypt, renowned for its unique culture and ancient history. It is a tranquil, palm-shaded haven, completely isolated from the modern world.
This subregion is a center of spiritual and historical significance, famously home to the Oracle Temple of Amun. It is a place of natural wonders, from salt lakes to hot springs, offering a truly unique Egyptian experience.
Most Popular Attractions
Historical & Architectural Sites
Shali Fortress (Shali Ghadi): The impressive ruins of the 13th-century mud-brick (kershef) city center, which provides spectacular views and is the heart of Siwan history.
Temple of the Oracle (Aghurmi): The site where Alexander the Great sought consultation from the Oracle of Amun, confirming his divinity and right to rule.
Temple of Amun (Umm Ubaydah): Located near the Oracle Temple, these are the remains of a larger temple dedicated to the Egyptian god Amun.
Mountain of the Dead (Gebel al-Mawta): A conical hill with numerous rock-cut tombs from the 26th Dynasty and Ptolemaic period, including the Tomb of Si Amun.
The Ruins of Aghurmi: The fortress ruins surrounding the Temple of the Oracle, offering glimpses into ancient Siwan life.
Siwan House Museum: A small museum dedicated to preserving and displaying the traditional Siwan culture, including wedding attire, crafts, and silver jewelry.
Old Siwan Mosque: An ancient mosque, still in use, built with the local kershef material.
Tomb of the Crocodile (Gebel al-Mawta): A tomb within the Mountain of the Dead featuring impressive wall paintings.
Abu Shorouf Roman Spring: The ruins of a Roman-era spring bath house, indicating the ancient occupation of the area.
Zaitoun Roman Temple: A less-visited temple ruin located outside the main town, offering quiet contemplation of the past.
Fatnas Island (Fantasy Island) Fortress Ruins: Small, picturesque ruins on the popular island accessible via a causeway.
Natural Wonders & Leisure
Cleopatra’s Bath (Ain el-Hammam): A natural stone spring pool, popular for swimming and believed to have been used by Cleopatra.
Salt Lakes: Siwa is famous for its high-salinity salt lakes, which allow bathers to float effortlessly. The crystalline pools offer a unique and therapeutic experience.
Bir Wahed (Well One): A hot spring located deep in the Great Sand Sea (part of the Sahara), perfect for a relaxing bath under the stars.
The Great Sand Sea Dunes: The expansive, towering sand dunes surrounding the oasis, offering thrilling safari and sandboarding opportunities.
Lagoon of Siwa: The central body of water around which much of the town is situated, ideal for photography and bird watching.
Tawghaghin Spring: Another of the numerous freshwater springs and pools scattered throughout the oasis, surrounded by palm groves.
Date Palm Groves and Olive Orchards: Siwa is known for producing some of the best dates and olives in Egypt. Guided tours through the groves are available.
Gebel Takrour (Siwa’s Highest Dune): A famous dune often climbed at sunset for panoramic views of the entire oasis.
Lake Ziway: A saltwater lake offering unique floating experiences and views.
Agouza Spring: A smaller, less crowded spring often visited by locals.
Activities & Experiences
Soak in the Salt Lakes (Siwan Sea): Experience the incredible buoyancy of the hypersaline salt lakes. Floating effortlessly is a must-do activity, often referred to as a “natural spa.”
Sunset at Fatnas Island (Fantasy Island): Drive or cycle to this small peninsula in the western lake for one of the most spectacular sunset views over the water and palm groves.
Explore the Shali Fortress: Wander through the ancient mud-brick ruins of the 13th-century fortress, which offers a historical glimpse into the oasis’s past and panoramic views of the town.
Visit the Mountain of the Dead (Gabal al-Mawta): Climb this small hill dotted with rock-cut tombs from the 26th Dynasty, most notably the Tomb of Si-Amun, known for its well-preserved, colorful murals.
Desert Safari and Sandboarding: Embark on a thrilling 4×4 desert safari into the Great Sand Sea. Experience the adrenaline of sandboarding down enormous dunes.
Swim in Cleopatra’s Bath: Relax and swim in this natural stone pool, an ancient thermal spring fed by underground sources. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Discover the Oracle Temple (Temple of Amun): Explore the ruins of the famous temple where Alexander the Great sought counsel from the Oracle of Amun in 331 BC.
Cycle Through the Date Palm and Olive Groves: Rent a bicycle and leisurely explore the vast expanse of the oasis, stopping at local farms and enjoying the peaceful rural scenery.
Relax in the Hot Springs (Bir Wahed): Take an evening trip into the desert to relax in a secluded natural hot spring, which is especially restorative after a day of exploration.
Experience Traditional Siwan Life: Arrange a visit to a local Siwan house or cultural center to learn about the unique Berber-influenced traditions, textiles, and cuisine.
Shop for Siwan Handicrafts and Dates: Visit the central souq (market) for unique silver jewelry, distinctive embroidered work (Siwan stitch), and the region’s famous high-quality dates and olive oil.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking and Cycling: The central town of Siwa is very walkable, with the Shali ruins, Cleopatra’s Bath, and the main souq all within easy reach. Renting a bicycle is the preferred method for exploring the nearby palm groves, Fatnas Island, and various springs.
Tuk-Tuks: Three-wheeled tuk-tuks are the most common form of transport for short distances within the oasis and are easily hailed. Negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in, as they do not use meters.
4×4 Vehicles (Desert Trips): For activities like sandboarding, visiting Bir Wahed (Hot Spring), or full desert safaris, you must hire a licensed 4×4 vehicle with an experienced local guide. Do not attempt to drive into the desert alone. Arrange these trips through your hotel or a reputable local agency.
To/From the Oasis: Siwa is remote. The most common way to arrive is via long-distance buses (usually from Cairo, Alexandria, or Marsa Matrouh). The journey is long but affordable. Private transport or a shared taxi can also be arranged but will be significantly more expensive.
Respectful Dress: Siwa is a conservative community. While swimming, wear modest swimwear. Outside of swimming and your hotel, men and women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees, especially when in the town center, temples, or residential areas.
The Siwan People (Berber Heritage): The people of Siwa have a unique culture and language (Siniwi, a Berber dialect) distinct from the rest of Egypt. They are proud and welcoming, and showing respect for their traditions is paramount.
Siwan Dates and Olives: The oasis is famous for its agricultural produce. Make sure to try the different varieties of Siwan dates (especially the soft, fleshy types) and purchase local, cold-pressed olive oil.
Photography: Always ask for permission before taking a photo of a Siwan person, particularly women. They may prefer not to be photographed. Be especially mindful around the residential areas of Shali and the villages.
Hidden Gems:
Temple of Umm Ebeyda: A lesser-visited but historically significant temple ruin, primarily a single wall, near the Oracle Temple.
Local Bakeries (Fiteer): Seek out a local place to try Fiteer, a delicious, flaky pastry that can be eaten sweet with honey and cheese, or savory with meat and vegetables.
The Salt Cave Experience: Some local venues offer a room constructed entirely from salt bricks, which is believed to have therapeutic respiratory benefits. It’s a unique and calming experience.
Top Restaurants
Abdu Restaurant [$5-$15] – A long-standing, very popular spot in the town center, famous for authentic, good-value Egyptian and Siwan staples like foul (fava beans) and excellent tameia (Egyptian falafel), frequented by locals and travelers.
OLA restaurant مطعم عُلا [$8-$20] – Known for offering Siwan specialties, including the famous Siwan Camel Stew, in a casual, traditional setting. A must-try for local cuisine.
Nour El Waha Garden Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located within the Nour El Waha Hotel, this garden restaurant is known for its quiet, beautiful atmosphere and for serving traditional Egyptian and Siwan dishes, often featuring local ingredients.
Fahmi’s Garden [$8-$18] – A tranquil, garden-set restaurant that serves local and Egyptian comfort food. The setting offers a peaceful escape from the main street.
Tekeyet Elamir Restaurant & Café [$5-$15] – Offers authentic Egyptian cuisine in a warm atmosphere. A great option for traditional staples like grilled meats, rice, and fresh salads.
New Star Siwa [$5-$15] – A reliable local restaurant serving popular Egyptian favorites and basic grilled dishes in a no-frills setting.
مطعم علي عليوة للمشويات (Ali Aliwa Grills) [$8-$20] – Focuses on authentic Egyptian barbecue and grilled meats (mashwiyat), offering a taste of regional grilling tradition, popular with a local crowd.
Muhra [$5-$15] – A small spot known for serving up authentic Egyptian cuisine, great for experiencing traditional flavors in Siwa.
مطعم أبو أيمن (Abu Ayman Restaurant) [$5-$15] – A straightforward spot in the heart of Siwa offering traditional Egyptian dishes and a classic, unpretentious local feel.
Restaurant Oussama Baghi [$5-$15] – A family-friendly option offering authentic Egyptian cuisine, known for being a dependable choice for a traditional meal.
Alahrar Restaurant [$5-$15] – A basic but very popular local establishment for cheap, freshly cooked Egyptian food.
The Chicken Place [$5-$15] – Open primarily in the evenings, this spot is known for its straightforward and delicious half-chicken, rice, salad, and tahina meals—a true local favorite.
Bab en Shali [$10-$20] – Offers traditional food in a historic or traditionally styled setting, often featuring Siwan communal dining style.
The Bedouin Roof Restaurant (مطعم بدو) [$10-$25] – Located on a rooftop, this place offers a mix of authentic Bedouin cuisine and Siwan dishes, often with nice sunset views.
Kenooz Restaurant (in El Souk Square) [$5-$15] – Known for serving local food in the vibrant main market square, providing a truly local, bustling dining experience.
مطعم ملوكى (Royal Restaurant) [$5-$15] – A small, local restaurant that offers savory crêpes and other simple dishes popular in the area.
Al-Babinshal Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers a blend of traditional and modern Egyptian/local dishes in a comfortable dining atmosphere, often a slightly more refined local experience.
East West Cafe [$5-$15] – A very basic cafe in town that is known for being inexpensive and cooking everything fresh, though it may take a little time.
Joba Lounge [$10-$20] – Offers a relaxing atmosphere, often with low seating and a good place for shisha and a bite of local food.
Nacho Siwa Restaurant & Cafe [$10-$20] – Offers a unique blend of traditional Egyptian/local cuisine, often influenced by the Berber culture of the oasis.
Koshary KARIM [$3-$8] – A dedicated spot for Koshary, Egypt’s beloved national dish of rice, macaroni, lentils, and fried onions, served with a spicy tomato sauce.