2025 Siwa Oasis Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

On the last day at Siwa Palace Hotel, my heart felt strangely emotional from the morning. Having spent several days here enjoying the leisure of Siwa, I had grown even more attached to the place. When I opened the window, warm sunlight and palm trees greeted me. I stepped out into the yard, sat quietly, and started the day with a cup of coffee. The hotel perfectly captured the traditional essence of Siwa while maintaining a clean and cozy interior, making it a comfortable space to relax. The staff were always kind and attentive, going above and beyond even for small requests, which left me feeling deeply grateful. Before checking out, I took one last slow walk through the hotel garden. A gentle breeze blew, and the sunlight softly settled around me. I lingered intentionally, knowing this tranquility would be my final memory of Siwa. After packing my belongings, I returned the key at the front desk and exchanged farewells with the staff. One of them said, "Siwa will be waiting for you," with a smile, and those words touched my heart once again. My last day at Siwa Palace Hotel ended warmly and peacefully.

#HawaiiAirlineEvent Siwa Palace Lodge Hotel was the most satisfying accommodation during my trip to Siwa. Overall, the traditional architecture and nature-friendly atmosphere were impressive, and the interior of the guest rooms were neat and tidy, so I felt comfortable throughout my stay. What I liked the most was the swimming pool. I didn't know I would find such a pretty swimming pool in the middle of the desert. The pool surrounded by mud walls and palm trees had a perfect atmosphere, and the water was clean, so it was perfect for relaxing on a sunbed after swimming. The staff was also very friendly and helped me with anything I needed, and the breakfast was simple, but it was local food served with warm tea, so it made the travel destination feel even better. The quiet and leisurely atmosphere was truly healing, and if I could stay in Siwa for a few more days, I would want to stay longer at this accommodation.

#HongKongFlightEvent Salt Lake in Siwa, an oasis town in Egypt💙 When you think of Egypt, everyone thinks of the pyramids, the Sphinx, Abu Simbel, and mummies, but the place I highly recommend after traveling around Egypt for 8 months is the salt lake in Siwa! ❤️ Even people who can't swim can leisurely float around! I tried to sink, but it never sinks because of the salt 😆 Something to watch out for is that if you have a wound, it's better not to do it and you should never touch your face with the water When you arrive at Siwa, you have to bargain but 200 pounds was a reasonable price after agreeing with the tuk-tuk drivers 200 pounds (about 5,600 won) ▪️Included Cleopatra Hot Springs + Salt Lake + Crescent Hot Springs The 9th and 10th pictures are Cleopatra Hot Springs and Crescent Hot Springs #Salt Lake #Siwa #Egypt #Egypt Travel #Overseas Travel #2024WishEvent

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

We stayed in a hotel called Siwa Relax Retreat. It was an Eco Lodge with no electricity in the rooms, just candles. You could charge your phones in the main reception area. The main attraction here is the salt lake in which the rooms are very close to. The rooms have salt rocks on the floor, so you need something on your feet when you get out of bed. The air here is so clean, and sleeping surrounded by salt rocks is very beneficial to your health. #awesomepic

Go to Siwah

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 When I first arrived at Siwa Oasis, the ride to Palace Lodge Hotel by tuk-tuk was truly exciting. The exotic scenery in the middle of the desert, the houses made of earth, and the laid-back atmosphere of the locals made me feel like I had entered a completely different world. The scenery of Siwa Village seen while riding a tuk-tuk on a dusty road was like a scene from a movie, and when I arrived at Palace Lodge, I couldn't help but be amazed. Everything from the exterior of the building to the interior was decorated in a traditional Egyptian style, so I felt like I was really immersed in the local culture. The high-ceilinged rooms, arched doors, and fabrics with traditional patterns were in harmony, making the atmosphere itself very attractive. Above all, it was a perfect match for the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of Siwa, and the sunset viewed from the hotel was also very beautiful. Siwa Palace Lodge was more than just a place to stay; it was a space where I could truly feel the emotions and atmosphere of Siwa. 📍 Location Siwa Palace Lodge, Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

#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 Siwa Oasis Salt Lake boasted a truly unrealistic landscape. The sky was reflected on the clear and transparent water, and the bottom was covered with white salt crystals, so it felt like the boundary between the sky and the ground disappeared. When I went there myself, I understood why people call it a ‘natural spa’. Even if you just dip your feet in the water, you can feel the saltiness, but strangely, your skin became soft and felt purified. Some salt lakes are open to swimming, and the high salt concentration made your body float, so even beginner swimmers could safely float on the water. It was like a short break under the hot desert sun, and the quiet atmosphere was healing. The surrounding scenery was also peaceful and open, so it was nice to just sit and look at the sky without thinking about anything. The sparkling salt crystals were beautiful, and it was a great place to take pictures. If you go to Siwa Oasis, you absolutely must visit the salt lake. It’s an experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. 📍 Location Salt Lakes, Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

#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

#ThailandAirlineEvent Siwa Palace Lodge was a unique accommodation full of Egyptian sensibility. The round dome-shaped room structure was impressive, and each wall and piece of furniture had a traditional atmosphere, so it really felt like I was in Siwa. The staff was also very kind and helped me with everything from check-in to tour reservations, and the atmosphere of the accommodation was quiet and peaceful, so my mind was calm. There was a small pool and swimming pool filled with hot spring water, so I was able to heal coolly even in hot weather, and the desert scenery from the poolside was fantastic. If you want to truly feel the charm of Siwa, Palace Lodge is the best choice. 📍 Location Siwa Palace Lodge, Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

In Siwa and the oasis, tuk-tuks serve as a taxi-like mode of transportation. Riding through the desert breeze at a leisurely pace while visiting historical sites was truly a unique experience. The local driver kindly explained various spots around the area, making me feel less like a tourist and more like I was briefly immersed in the life of a local. I was able to efficiently visit various historical landmarks such as Shali Fortress, the Temple of Amun, and Cleopatra's Spring in a short amount of time. The traditional Siwa houses and the oasis scenery along the way were equally moving. Every moment—from the wind and earthy scents felt on the tuk-tuk to the smiles of the people—left a lasting impression. It was a precious opportunity to experience a different side of Egypt that can't be found in other cities. 📍 Location Siwa, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

#ThailandFlightEvent One of the most memorable places during my trip to Siwa was definitely Cleopatra Spring. The spring water surrounded by circular stones was deeper and clearer than I thought, and the waves reflecting the sunlight sparkled, making it feel as if time had stopped. People were cooling off by soaking their feet or lightly wetting their bodies, even while wearing clothes, and I enjoyed soaking my feet and looking at the surrounding scenery. There were also small shops and cafes near the spring, so I was able to enjoy the quiet atmosphere while drinking cool mango juice. I think the harmony of the quiet atmosphere of Siwa and the historical site made Cleopatra Spring even more special. It was an unforgettable time to relax in the middle of an oasis.

#ThailandFlightEvent Cleopatra Spring was one of the must-visit points during my trip to Siwa. The water was clear and round, and locals and tourists could freely go in and swim and rest. I didn't go into the water, but it was cool and atmospheric just by looking at it. There were many trees and it was quiet around the spring, so it was nice to take a walk, and there were small and cute souvenir shops. In particular, you must try the mango juice sold next to the spring. The sweet and rich taste of mango made me forget the intense Egyptian sunlight. A glass of mango juice among the clear spring water and green trees was an unforgettable leisure. 📍 Location: Cleopatra Spring, Siwa Oasis, Egypt

The highlight of my trip to Siwa was undoubtedly the Sahara Desert tour. The vast, soft sand dunes stretching endlessly were truly stunning, and the desert shimmering under the golden sunlight was so beautiful that I couldn't take my eyes off it. Riding the safari car over the dunes felt thrilling, almost like a roller coaster. We stopped midway to try sandboarding, and although I was a bit scared at first, I quickly got the hang of it and couldn't stop laughing as I slid down. The sensation of gliding down the sand was indescribably exhilarating. The sand touching my feet was incredibly fine and warm, and leaving my own trail on the untouched dunes was a memorable experience. The Sahara Desert isn't just a hot place; it's a serene and mystical destination that heals both the eyes and the soul. 📍 Location: Siwa Desert, Egypt

#ThailandFlightEvent The sunset at Siwa Palace Lodge in Siwa Oasis, Egypt was truly an unforgettable experience. The hotel is a 5-star hotel with an outdoor pool, garden, restaurant, and bar, and I was able to spend a leisurely time in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.  The moment of ending the day by sitting by the pool at sunset and looking at the red sky was truly ecstatic. The silence of the desert and the warm sunlight combined to make it feel as if time itself was passing slowly. The dome-shaped rooms of the hotel reflect traditional Egyptian architecture, creating a unique yet cozy atmosphere. In addition, the attentive service of the friendly staff made my stay even more comfortable.  Watching the sunset at Siwa Palace Lodge meant more than just a view. It was a precious time where I could feel true peace by becoming one with nature.

Located at the heart of Siwa Oasis, Cleopatra's Spring (also known as 'Juba Spring') is a unique destination where ancient Egyptian legends blend with the beauty of nature. This spring was mentioned by the ancient Greek historian Herodotus and is famous for the legend that Queen Cleopatra enjoyed bathing here. The spring is a circular stone pool with clear, warm water that flows continuously. With a temperature of about 29–30°C, it is perfect for cooling off from the desert heat. Locals and travelers alike enjoy swimming here, surrounded by palm trees and sand dunes that create an exotic landscape. Around the spring, there are cozy cafes where visitors can relax after swimming or enjoy fresh mango juice. This place is particularly known for its connection to Siwa's traditions, as local women used to bathe here for beauty and blessings before their weddings. Cleopatra's Spring offers travelers to Siwa Oasis a unique opportunity to experience both history and nature. This extraordinary experience in the middle of the desert will leave lasting memories.

During a tour of the Siwa Oasis in Egypt, I tried sandboarding in the Sahara Desert. At first, I thought, "Sandboarding in the desert? Really?" But yes, you actually do it. Carrying a board up the endless sand dunes and sliding down was both thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking, but the excitement outweighed the fear. While sandboarding, I could feel the serenity and grandeur of the desert with my whole body. Sliding down the dunes, the sound of the wind and the scattering sand created a breathtakingly beautiful scene. Even if you fall, it's okay—you can just sink into the soft sand. It was a fun and safe activity. The Sahara Desert is truly a special place. Just walking or gazing at it is enough to leave you in awe. Experiencing an activity like this in such a place made for unforgettable memories. If you ever visit Egypt, make sure to try sandboarding at least once.

One of the most memorable spots in Egypt's Siwa Oasis was undoubtedly Cleopatra's Spring. This is a place steeped in legend, said to be where Queen Cleopatra herself bathed. Just standing in this historic location filled with ancient tales was a magical experience. The spring, surrounded by circular stones, was deeper than expected, and its warm temperature attracted many travelers who enjoyed relaxing in the water. The surroundings featured a picturesque blend of palm trees and sand dunes, creating an exotic landscape. Next to the spring, there were small cafes and souvenir shops, making it the perfect spot to sip on mango juice and unwind. The peaceful and laid-back atmosphere unique to Siwa made the experience truly special. It felt like stepping back in time for a brief moment, creating a cherished memory.

Upon arriving in Siwa, the first thing I did was take a tuk-tuk tour of the city's historical sites. The tuk-tuk, being lower and more open than a car, allowed me to experience the surroundings up close and immerse myself in the atmosphere of Siwa with all my senses. The Shali Fortress looked even more mysterious as the sun began to set, and the Amun Temple and Oracle Temple stood quietly, leaving a deep impression. At Cleopatra's Spring, I dipped my hand in the water, and as the tuk-tuk continued to move, I enjoyed the serene village vibe nestled within the oasis. The tuk-tuk tour moved at a pace that was neither too fast nor too slow, perfectly matching the rhythm and time of Siwa. It was a healing experience in itself. This unique tour, only possible in Egypt, is definitely worth trying. 📍 Location Siwa, 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

#ThailandAirfareEvent Siwa Cleopatra Spring & Mango Juice Review During the Siwa Oasis Tour, I also stopped by Cleopatra Spring. The spring where the legendary queen bathed was smaller than I thought, but the clear glass-like and mysterious atmosphere was really impressive. There were local children swimming in the water, and the surrounding trees and stone walls gave off a natural atmosphere. There were a few simple shops nearby, and I bought a glass of mango juice there. I don't know if it's a mango from Siwa, but it was juicy and sweet, and it really woke up my tired body from the desert tour. Sitting at a shaded table, drinking mango juice, and feeling the breeze, I felt like I was really enjoying the leisure of Siwa, Egypt. 📍 Location: Cleopatra Spring, Siwa, Egypt

#ThailandFlightEvent A glass of mango juice at Cleopatra Spring in Siwa The Cleopatra Spring I visited during my trip to Siwa, Egypt was truly unique. Just like the old legend, the water had a mysterious energy, and the palm trees and stone walls near the spring added to the tranquil atmosphere. Some travelers actually went into the water and swam, and it felt like a healing spot in an oasis. There were a few small local shops near the spring, and I bought some mango juice at one of them. The mango juice in a refrigerated bottle was stronger and sweeter than I thought, so it was perfect for refreshing my mood. A glass of mango juice under the strong Egyptian sunlight was really sweet! I still vividly remember that moment of sitting leisurely with the exotic scenery. 📍 Location: Cleopatra Spring, Siwa, Egypt

#ThailandFlightEvent The most beautiful time of the day at Siwa Palace Lodge was at sunset. Under the red desert sky, the sunset seen from the lodge pool was truly fantastic. I felt as if time had stopped as I quietly watched the sunset while soaking in the water. The sound of Islamic prayers heard from afar added to the tranquil atmosphere, making the fact that this was Egypt even more special. The scenery created by the unique dome-shaped buildings of Palace Lodge and the palm trees blending in with nature was like a scene from a movie. The warm water that washed away the fatigue of the day, and the red sunset reflected on it. All of these moments were the unforgettable highlights of Siwa's trip.

#ThailandAirfareEvent Siwa Oasis, a tour of the city ruins that feels like going back in time The tour of Siwa, Egypt, felt like traveling back in time. I rode a tuk-tuk through the quiet alleys and looked around the ruins that remained in various parts of the town. It felt like I was really ‘traveling’ in a quiet and heavy atmosphere, not a noisy tourist attraction. The Shali Fortress was really impressive with the wind blowing through the collapsed mud walls and the sunset shining through them. This fortress, where traces of people once lived, was an old building, but it still felt like it had a strong vitality. I also looked around the small ruins and market nearby, and it was even more special because the simple lives and traditional culture of the Siwa people were melted into it. Since there weren’t many tourists, I was able to quietly appreciate the ruins and take plenty of pictures. Although it was a short time, the tour of the Siwa city ruins left a deep impression on my heart, and it was a special experience that I absolutely must not miss in Egypt. 📍Location Siwa Old Town, Shali Fortress, Siwa Oasis, Egypt

#ThailandFlightEvent Situated in the middle of Siwa Oasis, Palace Lodge left a strong impression from the moment I first saw it. The traditional dome-shaped building built with mud walls contained the unique charm of Siwa, and the structure that seemed to be one with nature was impressive. The interior of the room was simple but meticulously decorated, and the palm trees and desert scenery spread out beyond the window. The staff was also very friendly, and they helped me with everything from tuk-tuk pickup to tour reservations from the moment I arrived in Siwa. Above all, there was a small pool filled with hot spring water and a large swimming pool inside the accommodation, so it was perfect for playing in the water during the day and resting under the quiet desert sky in the evening. If you want to feel both Egyptian sensibility and comfort, I highly recommend Siwa Palace Lodge. 📍 Location Siwa Palace Lodge, Siwa Oasis, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt