Desert Dreams: More than 15 Unforgettable Sites to Explore in Siwa

Siwa Oasis

The enigmatic Siwa Oasis is located on the edge of the Great Sand Sea, just 50 kilometers from the border between Egypt and Libya.

Siwa is a small town compared to Cairo, which has a population of 25 million. The Siwan district has a population of about 25,000 people and seems even smaller. However, despite its small population, there are plenty of amazing things to do.

Siwa offers much to visitors, including hot and cold springs, vast sand dunes, and an interesting history. Siwa may not be the easiest place to reach in Egypt, but once you’re there, you won’t want to leave. Here are some must-see spots and experiences.

 

The Oracle of Amun (Temple of the Oracle)

The Oracle of Amun, an ancient temple located in the heart of the Siwa Oasis, is one of the most enigmatic and fascinating places in Egypt. This sanctuary, dedicated to the powerful god Amun, was for centuries a center of spiritual significance, not only for the locals but also for prominent historical figures.

Its fame spread throughout the ancient world, attracting pilgrims and rulers from distant lands, eager to consult the oracle and receive divine guidance.

One of the most famous episodes linked to this sacred site is undoubtedly the visit of Alexander the Great. According to legend, in 332 BC, the young Macedonian leader crossed the desert to reach the temple and consult the oracle. It was here that Alexander received confirmation of his divine status, with the oracle acknowledging him as the son of Zeus-Amun.

This event not only solidified his legitimacy as a ruler but also gave him an aura of invincibility and destiny, fueling the myth surrounding him.

Today, visitors to the Temple of the Oracle can walk among the ruins of this ancient structure, breathing in the atmosphere rich with history and mystery. Although time and the elements have taken their toll on the stones, the energy of the place remains palpable. The ruins offer a glimpse into an era when gods walked among men, and answers to crucial questions were sought through sacred rites and ceremonies.

Shali Fortress

The Shali Fortress, an impressive mudbrick structure located in the heart of the Siwa Oasis, stands as one of the most distinctive and captivating symbols of the region. Originally built in the 13th century, the fortress has withstood over 800 years, a testament to the resilience and determination of the Siwa people.

Its massive walls, built using the ancient mud construction technique known as “kershef,” rise against the desert sky, creating an unmistakable silhouette that dominates the surrounding landscape.

The labyrinthine streets within the fortress tell stories of a time when Shali was the heart of life in the oasis. The narrow, winding passages, designed to protect the inhabitants from invaders and harsh weather conditions, offer a fascinating journey into the past, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of an ancient fortified settlement.

Cleopatra’s Pool (Ain Guba)

This natural spring, where it is said that the legendary Queen Cleopatra bathed, is a tranquil oasis within an oasis, a fascinating natural wonder nestled in the lush Siwa Oasis.

Fed by an underground network of springs, the calm surface of the spring reflects the surrounding palms and desert landscapes, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Visitors are irresistibly drawn to the charm of this historical site, eager to experience the same soothing and rejuvenating properties that are believed to have once revived the famous queen of the Nile.

Gebel al-Mawta (Mountain of the Dead)

Ascending to the ancient necropolis of Gebel al-Mawta, visitors can embark on a captivating journey through Siwa’s burial traditions, exploring tombs carved into the rock that date back to the 26th dynasty and the Ptolemaic period.

This evocative mountain serves as a tangible connection to the region’s rich heritage, inviting reflection on the customs and beliefs that once guided the people of Siwa.

Fatnas Island (Fantasy Island)

Nestled in breathtaking landscapes, Fatnas Island, also known as Fantasy Island, is an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty. Surrounded by the shimmering waters of a salty lake and shaded by a lush canopy of palms, this island represents a serene and picturesque break from the vast, arid desert surrounding it.

The true magic of Fatnas Island becomes evident when the sun begins to set. At that magical moment, the entire island is bathed in a warm golden glow, transforming the landscape into a dreamlike vision.

The Great Sand Sea

An immense expanse of undulating dunes on the edges of Siwa. As far as the eye can see, towering dunes rise and fall in a hypnotic rhythm, their gently sculpted slopes casting shifting shadows across the landscape. The sheer scale and grandeur of this sea of sand is humbling, a testament to the immense geological forces that have shaped the region over countless millennia.

Siwa House Museum

Located in the heart of the ancient Siwa Oasis, the Siwa House Museum represents an extraordinary testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and enduring traditions. The museum offers a deep immersion into the daily life of the Siwa people, revealing how their culture has evolved and adapted over the centuries in response to the surrounding desert environment.

Bir Wahed

Nestled in the vast stretches of the Sahara Desert, Bir Wahed is a true oasis of tranquility and rejuvenation. This charming hot spring, fed by abundant underground thermal waters, offers visitors a unique and indulgent natural spa experience, providing a chance to escape the scorching heat and immerse in the soothing embrace of the Earth’s healing waters.

Dakrour Mountain

This majestic peak is renowned for its therapeutic hot sand baths, an ancient and unique practice that has drawn visitors to its slopes for centuries, attracted by the promise of relief from debilitating rheumatic pain and other ailments.

Temple of Umm Ubaydah

Nestled in the shadow of the imposing Temple of the Oracle, the remains of the Temple of Umm Ubaydah are a poignant reminder of Siwa’s eternal historical importance and the region’s deep connection with the pantheon of ancient Egyptian gods.

Salt Lakes

Siwa is surrounded by several salt lakes, known for their surprising turquoise color and therapeutic properties. The salt content is so high that it is impossible to sink, making it a unique swimming experience.

The Village of Aghurmi: A Glimpse of Siwan Life

The village of Aghurmi offers a fascinating window into traditional Siwan life. Perched on a hill overlooking the vast oasis, this ancient settlement provides an extraordinary panorama of Siwa’s natural beauty.

Adhere Amellal: An Oasis in the Desert

Adrere Amellal is more than just an eco-lodge; it is an immersive experience in the heart of the Siwa Oasis. Built entirely in harmony with the surrounding environment, this unique retreat showcases the essence of sustainable living.

Siwa’s Olive and Date Farms

Siwa is famous for producing olives and dates. Visitors can visit the farms, learn about traditional cultivation methods, and taste some of the best products in Egypt.

The Siwan Traditions Museum

The Siwan Traditions Museum is a window into the soul of the Siwa Oasis, a place where the culture and traditions of the Siwan community come to life. This museum is a true treasure trove that carefully preserves the region’s cultural heritage, offering visitors a deep immersion into the unique lifestyle of the oasis’s inhabitants.