Secret Tips for Tourists & Visitors at Siwa Oasis (Western Desert), Egypt
Siwa Oasis is one of Egypt’s most hidden and magical destinations, offering breathtaking desert landscapes, rich history, and unique Berber culture. Unlike mainstream tourist spots, Siwa remains untouched and authentic, making it a perfect place for adventure seekers, history lovers, and nature enthusiasts. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some secret tips and expert recommendations for visiting Siwa Oasis.
1. Best Time to Visit Siwa Oasis
Best Months: October to April (Avoid summer due to extreme heat).
Winter (December-February): Ideal for desert safaris, hot springs, and stargazing.
Spring (March-April) & Autumn (October-November): Perfect for exploring temples, cycling, and visiting salt lakes.
Avoid June to September – Siwa is one of the hottest places in Egypt with temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F).
2. How to Get to Siwa (Secret Travel Hacks!)
By Bus (Best Budget Option):
- Daily buses from Cairo (West & Middle Delta Bus Company) – 12-14 hours journey.
- Cost: Around 350-400 EGP ($10-$12).
- Tip: Take the overnight bus to save time and enjoy a more comfortable journey.
By Private Car (For Comfort):
- If you’re traveling in a group, hire a private driver from Cairo or Marsa Matrouh for a more flexible trip.
By Flight (Not Available!)
- There’s no airport in Siwa, so flying isn't an option. The closest airport is Marsa Matrouh, 4-5 hours away by road.
3. Where to Stay – Best Hotels & Eco-Lodges
Siwa is famous for eco-friendly hotels that blend into the desert landscape.
Best Unique Accommodations in Siwa:
Adrère Amellal Eco-Lodge – Luxury desert lodge with no electricity, offering candle-lit rooms and organic food
Taziry Ecolodge – A peaceful retreat with stunning desert views.
Siwa Shali Resort – A mix of comfort and traditional architecture.
Albabeer Ecolodge – Budget-friendly and run by locals.
Secret Tip: Stay in an eco-lodge instead of a regular hotel to enjoy authentic Siwan hospitality and a sustainable experience.
4. Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems in Siwa
Historical & Cultural Sites
The Oracle Temple of Amun – Where Alexander the Great was declared a god.
Shali Fortress – A centuries-old mudbrick fortress with stunning views of Siwa.
Mountain of the Dead (Gebel Al-Mawta) – An ancient burial site with tombs from the 26th Dynasty.
Natural Wonders
Siwa Salt Lakes – Float effortlessly like in the Dead Sea. Best visited at sunrise or sunset.
Cleopatra’s Bath (Ain Juba) – A famous hot spring where Cleopatra is said to have bathed.
Fatnas Island (Fantasy Island) – A hidden gem for sunset views over Birket Siwa Lake.
Adventure & Off-Roading
4x4 Safari in the Great Sand Sea – Go on a thrilling desert safari over sand dunes.
Sandboarding in the Dunes – One of the best places in Egypt for sandboarding.
Camel Riding & Bedouin Tea Experience – Explore the desert like a true nomad.
Secret Tip: Hire a local Siwan guide instead of a tourist company for better prices and a more authentic experience.
5. What to Eat in Siwa – Local Delicacies
Siwan food is influenced by Egyptian, Berber, and Bedouin traditions, using fresh dates, olives, and natural ingredients.
Must-Try Siwan Dishes & Drinks:
Taguella Bread – Traditional Berber flatbread baked in the sand.
Siwan Date Cake – Made from local dates and honey.
Siwan Olive Oil & Olives – Some of the best olives in Egypt come from Siwa!
Siwa Tea – Locally grown herbal tea, often served with desert herbs.
Camel Milk & Date Smoothies – Unique to Siwa and highly nutritious.
Secret Tip: Visit a local Siwan family home or ask a guide to take you for a traditional Berber meal experience.
6. Budget Travel Tips for Siwa
Avoid Expensive Tours: Instead, hire a local guide for cheaper and more authentic experiences.
Rent a Bike (Best Transport in Siwa!) – Siwa is small and best explored by bicycle.
Bring Enough Cash – No international ATMs available! Only Egyptian pounds are accepted.
Book Accommodation in Advance – Siwa’s best eco-lodges fill up quickly, especially in winter.
Shop for Handmade Crafts at the Siwa Market – Siwan women make beautiful silver jewelry, baskets, and embroidered scarves.
7. Cultural Etiquette & Safety Tips
Since Siwa is a conservative Berber community, visitors should respect local traditions.
Dress Modestly – Women should wear long skirts/pants and cover shoulders. Men should avoid shorts in town.
Ask Before Taking Photos – Especially when photographing locals or women.
Avoid Public Drinking – Alcohol is not widely available and should be consumed only in designated areas.
Respect Quiet Hours – Siwa is a peaceful place; avoid loud music in the evening.
Be Cautious with Swimming in Salt Lakes – The water is highly salty and can irritate your eyes.
Secret Tip: If you want to buy authentic souvenirs, visit the Women’s Handicraft Center in town, where you can buy handwoven Siwan products while supporting the local community.
Summary: Siwa Oasis Secret Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: October to April (Avoid summer heat).
Best Way to Get There: Overnight bus from Cairo or private driver from Marsa Matrouh.
Best Place to Stay: Eco-lodges like Adrère Amellal or Taziry Ecolodge.
Must-Visit Attractions: Oracle Temple, Shali Fortress, Salt Lakes, and Great Sand Sea.
Top Activities: Sandboarding, 4x4 safaris, camel rides, and stargazing.
What to Eat: Siwan date cake, Taguella bread, and herbal desert tea.
Best Way to Explore: Rent a bicycle or tuk-tuk for cheap transport.
Insider Tip: Stay with a local guide for a truly authentic experience.
Siwa is one of Egypt’s most unique destinations, full of history, adventure, and local culture. If you respect the traditions and embrace the simplicity of life here, you’ll have an unforgettable travel experience.
