Western Desert
Siwa Oasis
واحة سيوة
Remote oasis of salt lakes, palm groves and the Oracle of Amun.
Siwa Oasis lies near the Libyan border, below sea level, among salt lakes, palm groves and freshwater springs. Its old town of Shali was built from kershef, a mix of salt and mud. Siwa is home to the Temple of the Oracle of Amun, consulted by Alexander the Great, and keeps its own Amazigh language and traditions.
Highlights
- The Shali fortress at sunset
- The Temple of the Oracle
- Floating in the salt lakes
- Cleopatra's Spring
Good to know
- A long drive from Cairo or Marsa Matruh: plan at least three nights.
- Siwa is conservative: dress modestly in town.
Ways to experience it:Desert & safariEco-tourism & protected areasWellness & medical tourismRoad trips & self-driveLuxury & tailor-madeFood, crafts & living culture
- Suggested visit
- 2 days
- Coordinates
- 29.2032°N, 25.5195°E (approximate)
- Status
- Editorial draft · unverified
- Sources
- Text checked against these sources on 2026-11-05.
Opening hours, ticket prices and access rules are not shown. They will be added only after confirmation with the responsible authority.
