Siwa Oasis is found in the Western Desert of Egypt, between the Qattara Depression and the Great Sand Sea. Siwa Oasis is mostly inhabited by Berbers whose culture is different from much of Egypt.

The oasis is one of Egypt's most isolated places of human settlement and is very far from the Nile valley where most Egyptians live.

Siwa Oasis' popularity is in its unique culture and the ancient role as home to an oracle Amun. While isolated, Siwa's history is as long as that of Egypt - and a perfect place for off-the-track Egypt tours.

Activities

While in Siwa Oasis, you can enjoy any of the following activities.

  • Swim in Cleopatra's Pool
  • Visit the Moon Pools
  • Visit Shali Fortress
  • Hike the nearby sand dunes
  • Visit Mountain of the Dead
  • Visit Temple of the Oracle
  • Visit Great Sand Sea
  • Photography

When To Visit

Siwa Oasis can be visited at any time of the year but the best time is in the cooler months between November and March. This is when the temperatures are more comfortable and you can enjoy moving about from one place to the next with some ease.

This is the period when temperatures in Egypt are slightly low and it is Egypt's high season for travel. Since Siwa is a distant and less crowded attraction, you don't need to worry much about the crowds.

Related article: When is the best time to visit Egypt

Getting There

Siwa oasis is located near the border with Libya, and some 560 kilometers from Cairo.

The drive from Cairo to Siwa takes about 8 hours. Driving from Alexandria to Siwa Oasis takes around 6.5 hours. The best option is using a rental car since there is limited direct transport between either of the cities and Siwa Oasis. 

Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Cairo and fly directly to Siwa Oasis. There aren't very many scheduled flights but they can be arranged in most evenings.

Where To Stay

There are many options for where to stay while visiting Siwa Oasis. Whatever your budget and preference, you will find a place to stay.

Most hotels in Siwa are built using traditional eco-friendly methods but with modern amenities.