Cairo 3-Day Tour to Enchanting Siwa Oasis

Escape to the tranquil beauty of Siwa Oasis with a 3-day adventure from Cairo. Discover the charm of this remote desert paradise, known for its natural springs, ancient ruins, and breathtaking landscapes. Visit the Temple of the Oracle, where Alexander the Great sought his prophecy, and relax by the salt lakes and palm groves. This journey offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and nature in one of Egypt’s most enchanting destinations.

A 3-day trip from Cairo to the Siwa Oasis offers a unique experience that combines Egypt’s rich history, stunning desert landscapes, and the serene beauty of one of the country’s most remote and mystical destinations. Siwa Oasis is located in the Western Desert, approximately 750 km (466 miles) west of Cairo, near the border with Libya. Known for its ancient ruins, salt lakes, hot springs, and traditional Berber culture, Siwa is a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Day 1: Cairo to Siwa Oasis

Morning: Departure from Cairo

• Departure Time: Leave early in the morning from Cairo to maximize your time in Siwa. The drive takes approximately 5 hours by car .

Lunch Break and Scenic Stops

• Rest Stops: Along the journey, stop at small towns or scenic spots for lunch and to take in the desert landscape. You might also pass through Marsa Matruh, a coastal city, before heading deeper into the desert toward Siwa.

Afternoon: Arrival at Siwa Oasis

• Check-In: Once you arrive in Siwa, check into your hotel or guesthouse. The town is known for its traditional mud-brick houses and peaceful atmosphere.
• Relax and Explore: After checking in, you can take a light stroll around the town. Explore the narrow streets, see the local markets, and admire the architecture of the traditional Berber houses. Visit the Siwa House Museum to learn about the local culture and history of the oasis.

Evening: Sunset at the Mountain of the Dead

• Sunset View: Head to the Mountain of the Dead (Jebel al-Mawta) to watch a stunning sunset over the oasis. This hill is dotted with ancient tombs carved into the rock, and it offers panoramic views of Siwa and the surrounding desert.

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Siwan cuisine. Try local dishes such as koushari, tagine, or dates grown in the oasis.

Day 2: Exploring Siwa Oasis

Morning: Visit the Temple of Amun and the Oracle Temple

• Temple of Amun: Start your day with a visit to the Temple of Amun, one of Siwa’s most famous ancient sites. This temple was historically significant because it housed the Oracle of Amun, which was consulted by Alexander the Great during his journey to Egypt in 332 BC.
• Oracle Temple: Visit the Oracle Temple, located just a short distance from the Temple of Amun. This is where Alexander the Great received his prophecy, cementing his legendary status as a ruler. The ruins still have inscriptions and carvings to explore.

Late Morning: Cleopatra's Spring and the Siwa Salt Lakes

• Cleopatra’s Spring: Visit Cleopatra's Spring, a natural spring surrounded by palm trees. The clear, fresh water is said to have been frequented by Cleopatra herself, and it is a relaxing spot to enjoy the beauty of Siwa’s landscape.
• Salt Lakes: Head to the Siwa Salt Lakes, which are famous for their therapeutic properties. The lakes are shallow, with stunning turquoise water, and a great place to relax. You can take a dip in the water or simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Lunch: Traditional Siwan Meal

• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant where you can sample traditional Siwan dishes, such as dates, palm bread, and grilled fish caught from the local lakes.

Afternoon: Jeep Tour in the Desert

• 4x4 Jeep Safari: In the afternoon, take a desert safari in a 4x4 vehicle to explore the surrounding desert landscapes. A guided jeep tour allows you to visit natural hot springs, remote sand dunes, and stunning desert scenery.

  • Great Sand Sea: Head into the Great Sand Sea, where you can experience the vastness of the desert. Stop for a fun sandboarding session or enjoy a thrilling ride through the dunes.
  • Bir Wahed Hot Spring: Visit the Bir Wahed Hot Spring, where you can relax in the warm, naturally occurring water.

Evening: Sunset at the Great Sand Dunes

• Sunset in the Desert: Enjoy a desert sunset at the Great Sand Dunes. The colors of the sunset over the golden sand are spectacular and provide a perfect end to an adventurous day.
• Return to Siwa: Head back to your accommodation to relax and freshen up after your desert exploration.

Dinner: Enjoy another traditional Siwan dinner. Consider trying dates or a desert-based dish like camel meat or locally grown vegetables.

Day 3: Relaxation and Return to Cairo

Morning: Visit the Siwa Oasis Palms

• Palm Groves: In the morning, take a short walk through the palm groves surrounding Siwa. The oasis is home to a vast number of date palms, and you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the area, as well as the scenic beauty of the palms against the desert backdrop.
• Local Markets: You can visit the local market to buy some handmade crafts, dates, or local spices to bring back as souvenirs.

Late Morning: Siwa Lake

• Siwa Lake: Visit Siwa Lake for a relaxing time. You can sit by the lake, enjoy a quiet atmosphere, and reflect on the experiences of your trip to the oasis.

Lunch: Final Traditional Meal

• Enjoy a final meal in Siwa before you begin your journey back to Cairo. Choose from local restaurants that serve traditional Egyptian and Siwan cuisine.

Afternoon: Begin Journey Back to Cairo

• After lunch, depart for Cairo. The drive back will take around 6 hours depending on road conditions. You may want to break up the journey with a few stops along the way for rest and refreshments.

Evening: Arrive in Cairo

• You will likely arrive in Cairo in the evening, marking the end of your 3-day Siwa Oasis adventure.

Tips for the Trip:

• Weather: The weather in Siwa can be very hot during the summer months, so it's best to visit in the spring or fall when temperatures are more comfortable.
• Packing: Bring light, breathable clothing for daytime, and a jacket for cooler evenings. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Accommodation: There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses in Siwa, including traditional mud-brick structures that offer a unique and authentic experience.

This 3-day itinerary to Siwa Oasis offers a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, adventure, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the unique desert landscapes and timeless charm of Egypt's hidden oasis............

Inclusions

• air conditioned car
• fluent experienced guide
• mineral water on tour
• entrance fees
• lunch every day 

exclusions

• tipping
• extra expenses