Siwa Oasis Travel Guide

Emerging like a mirage from the vast expanse of Egypt’s Western Desert, Siwa Oasis is a verdant jewel that defies the barrenness surrounding it. As you approach, the sight of this Edenic island, replete with mineral springs, salt lakes, and a sea of olive and palm groves, is nothing short of miraculous.

In the heart of Siwa lies Shali, the oasis’ main town, where the past whispers from every corner. The strange, yet captivating ruins of the Shali Fortress loom over the town center, a testament to a bygone era. Wander along its sandy paths to discover the Temple of the Oracle, a site steeped in legend, once visited by Alexander the Great to seek wisdom from the Oracle of Siwa. The journey through time continues with a dip in Cleopatra’s Pool, where it is said the legendary queen herself once bathed. The experience in Siwa is not complete without exploring its rich cultural tapestry, best represented in the intricate Siwan crafts and the enchanting Siwa House Museum.

For the adventure-seekers, Siwa offers exhilarating escapades into the Great Sand Sea with a desert safari or the thrill of quad biking across the Western Desert’s undulating dunes. The oasis, encircled by lakes too saline for fishing, is an ancient hub for olive and palm cultivation. With over 300,000 palm trees, 70,000 olive trees, and numerous fruit orchards, Siwa is a haven for diverse bird species like falcons and quails. A stroll through these lush groves is a serene encounter with nature, where the oasis’s tranquility is its most captivating allure.

Dominating the center of Siwa is the 13th-century Shali fortress, constructed from Kershef – a unique blend of salt rocks from local salt lakes and mud. The fortress, gradually eroding with each rainfall, offers a poignant reminder of the relentless march of time. Climbing to the top, one is rewarded with breathtaking views of the oasis and its surroundings, a panorama that captures the essence of Siwa’s enduring beauty and tranquility.