This oasis town, located in Egypt’s western desert, is a quaint getaway that contains the best of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Boasting breathtaking landscapes, ancient ruins, and therapeutic springs, Siwa Oasis is meant for travelers who look forward to an exhilarating experience, relaxation, and a glimpse of real Egyptian life. Following are 20 fun things one can do in Siwa Oasis to make your visit full of lifetime moments.
1. See the Ancient Ruins of Shali Fortress
Overview
Shali Fortress is one of the major symbols when it comes to Siwa and is made from kershef, a type of local mud-brick. The remains of this very ancient fortress date back to the 13th century and let you glance at the rich history of the region.
What to Expect
You can walk along the remains of this fortress, climb to the top for views over the oasis, and wander the narrow alleys with their appealing architecture.
Why It’s Fun
History and scenery combine in a magical atmosphere. The view from the top is especially good at sunset, with the desert assuming warm colors.
2. Visit the Oracle Temple of Amun
Overview
The Oracle Temple, the Temple of Amun, is an important and interesting site that ancient Egyptians visited in their quest for guidance from the oracle. It considered one of the most important in the ancient world.
What to Expect
Take a tour into the ruins to discover the history of the temple and its significance in Egyptian mythology. Read all the interesting inscriptions and traces of rituals that took place there.
Why It’s Fun
The temple provides the experience of being in touch with Ancient Egypt’s mystery. Events in history and a pensive atmosphere turn this building into an absolute tourist attraction.
3. Take a Dip in Cleopatra’s Bath
Overview
Cleopatra’s Bath: close by Siwa, is a natural source; one can see very clear water and peace. The belief exists that even the queen took a bath in these miraculous waters.
What to Expect
A swim amidst lush palm trees and a striking desert landscape in spring will be rejuvenating. The waters are said to possess therapeutic properties, so it is an ideal spot for relaxation.
Why It’s Fun
Well, swimming in a historical place amidst nature is something one can never forget. It is an excellent relaxation avenue-best way to while away time in Siwa.
4. The Siwa House Museum
Description
Acquaint yourself with the traditional life of the Siwans by visiting the Siwa House Museum, set up in a renovated mud-brick building. It contains local artifacts and ethnographic exhibits.
What to Expect
You will see exhibits of the traditional costumes, tools, and kitchen utensils of the Siwan people, besides photographs depicting the historical evolution of the oasis.
Why It’s Fun
It showcases the unique culture of Siwa and is a great way to learn about the traditions and way of life of this magical oasis.
5. Desert 4×4 Safari
Overview
Taking a 4×4 through the deserts surrounding Siwa is a very thrilling adventure as you get to see several breathtaking landscapes of sand dunes, salt lakes, and oases.
What to Expect
Take a guided safari deep into the desert to enjoy activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and visiting remote desert springs.
Why It’s Fun
Speeding across the dunes in search of these hidden pockets deep in the desert is a thrill that is arguably one of the true adventure activities that you’ll always remember from your trip.
6. Visit the Salt Lakes of Siwa
Overview
The famous salt lakes around Siwa are Lake Siwa and Lake Birket Siwa. They are colored awesomely and have very peculiar ecosystems.
What to Expect
You may take casual walks around the lakes, swim in the saline water, or just enjoy the great sights. The lakes are also good for bird watching, especially migratory birds.
Why It’s Fun
The surreal landscapes, besides the fact that one gets to float in saltwater, make for a surreal experience. Colors of the lakes, especially those of the sunrises and sunsets, are great to see.
7. Relax in the Siwan Hot Springs
Overview
Siwa is famous for its natural hot springs, which are known to be very therapeutic. Among these, the most popular hot springs are the Bir Wahed and the Ain Qadim.
What to Expect
You can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters, which are said to aid several ailments. Some hot springs are situated in especially beautiful surroundings that enhance the relaxation experience even further.
Why It’s Fun
A combination of soothing water and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect place to relax and recharge from a day of exploration.
8. Discover the Mountain of the Dead
Overview
In the Mountain of the Dead, one finds numerous tombs that are dug into the rock surface. Dating to the 26th dynasty, this provides a very good example of the burial practices of Siwa.
What to Expect
Follow the labyrinth of tombs with extensive carvings and hieroglyphics. It is possible to see great views of the oasis and the desert beyond from atop the mountain.
Why It’s Fun
Fascinating history and artistry on the tombs offer interesting ‘discovery’ while you wander through this ancient site.
9. Cooking class
Overview
Siwan cuisine is very distinctive; created under the influence of Egyptian and Berber cultures. A cooking lesson is a fun way to learn about the local products and traditional ways of using them.
What to expect
You could also prepare traditional dishes like couscous, tagines, and salads with fresh vegetables and fruits. Many of the classes involve practical participation in which you will be able to take part in the preparation.
Why It’s Fun
Cooking classes are not only instructive but are also a good way of tasting Siwa’s flavors. Dining on a meal you have prepared brings personal tone to the experience.
10. Buy Local Handicrafts
Overview
Handicrafts consist of traditional pottery, woven textiles, and jewelry. At the local markets, one can find the availability of a great number of souvenirs, which differ according to their uniqueness.
What to Expect
Browse through shops and stalls jam-packed with handmade crafts and, of course, haggle to your heart’s desire to get the best prices. Many of the artisans are highly proud of their works and enjoy telling their stories.
Why It’s Fun
This helps the local community, on one hand, and takes a souvenir of Siwan culture home with you. Each piece speaks its own story and is a reminiscence of the adventure.
11. Attend a Traditional Siwan Wedding
Overview
Attending a traditional Siwan wedding, in case this chance comes your way, would prove to be quite an experience of the culture and hospitality of locals.
What to Expect
With music, dancing, and traditional nuptial rites, Siwan weddings are a very good way of passing time. Usually, guests arriving at weddings are greeted with food and drinks, which creates an explosion of color and hospitality.
Why It’s Fun
Being part of a local wedding will put you right in the middle of the culture and joy of Siwan people expressing themselves in one of their most happy rituals. You will definitely experience something unique and unforgettable.
12. Siwa Oasis on Bike
Overview
The biking is so much fun because it gets you to explore the landscapes and find all these hidden spots in your pace.
What to Expect
Bicycles can be rented and take on routes that will take you through groves of palms, along salt lakes, and other historical points of interest. Grounds are flat and easy for every level of rider to master.
Why It’s Fun
The Cycling tour will provide you with an opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful scenery of the area while getting a little exercise in the process. It’s one of those things that can help someone bond well with Mother Nature as well as the local environment.
13. Amon Temple of the Oasis Visit
Overview
The Amon Temple, also commonly referred to as the Temple of Siwa, represents another significant archaeological monument that dates back into the era of ancient Egypt.
What to Expect
Go to the remains of the temple that is located just facing the desert landscape. The place still retains many inscriptions and remnants from the times when worship was part of it.
Why It’s Fun
The history and tranquility associated with this site will attract any tourist to the area. This can be a quite ideal time for some soul-searching about the lost culture that the Siwans lived.
14. Stargazing in the Desert
Overview
Siwa Oasis’ isolation makes it perfectly placed for stargazing away from city lights.
What to Expect
Embark on a guided tour in the desert to a quiet spot, lie back, and marvel at the stars. The skies are clear, and light pollution nonexistent; therefore, the views of the Milky Way and constellations are stunning.
Why It’s Fun
Star gazing in the serene desert is something surreal. It is a great way to wrap up an adventure-filled day, reconnecting you to nature and the universe.
15. Explore Traditional Souks of the Oasis
Overview
The local souks in Siwa are an energetic place to witness the daily activities of the Siwan people in action.
What to Expect
Browse the market stalls full of fresh produce, spices, textiles, and traditional crafts. The pulsed atmosphere and fragrance of spices give an absolute sensory experience.
Why It’s Fun
The souks introduce you into the local life in which you will meet very friendly vendors. A fun way to shop for unusual items and communicate with the locals.
16. Experience Siwa’s Music and Dance Culture
Overview
The local music and dancing of Siwa form a big part of its traditions, and it often finds itself at the center of celebrations or cultural events.
What to Expect
When possible, join the locals in a performance of their local music or even a festival that showcases some of the traditional dances. You may even find local musicians playing in the streets.
Why It’s Fun
A way to feel the pulsating rhythms and dances of color as a way to buddy with Siwan culture. It’s one great lively celebration and most surely an unforgettable one.
17. Visit the Fatnas Island
Overview
Fatnas Island is a small island in the middle of Lake Siwa. It is known for its landscapes and surroundings being peaceful.
What to Expect
One can also take a relaxing boat to the island and enjoy a picnic or swim in the lake. When on the island, one may obtain very striking views of the surrounding waters and desert.
Why It’s Fun
Fatnas Island offers a haunting type of beauty that makes it an ideal retreat from daily monotony. It is a place where one can retreat for quiet and spend time in nature.
18. Explore the Old Siwa Village
Overview
The old village of Siwa is replete with narrow streets and traditional architecture that speaks volumes to the character of Siwa’s culture.
What to Expect
Take a stroll through the old village and gaze around at the mud-brick buildings with the beautiful designs. You may also happen upon some of the locals conducting their daily affairs, giving you an aspect of everyday life.
Why It’s Fun
Visiting the old village in person makes you feel more connected to Siwa’s history and culture. Its area is charmingly filled with both stories and traditions.
19. Photography Tour
Overview
Siwa boasts great landscapes and cultural sites that feature perfect photography tours. Take a photography tour and get pictures to help capture the essence of the oasis.
What to Expect
This will take one through scenic locations, ruins, and busy markets, while guides enlighten one on issues such as composition and lighting.
Why It’s Fun
Whether a professional or beginning photographer, capturing the beauty of Siwa is a rewarding experience. You’ll leave with stunning images and lasting memories.
20. Participate in Eco-Tourism Activities
Overview
Siwa is concerned with sustainable tourism and maintaining the natural beauty of the place. It allows one to be able to give back to the community as well in an eco-tourism activity.
What to Expect
Join local conservation initiatives, such as tree planting, animal monitoring, and cleaning the community. Most tours also promote responsible travel practices.
Why It’s Fun
Eco-tourism will enable you to contribute to positive impacts on the environment and still make you enjoy your travel. It is the most gratifying way to associate yourself with nature and to contribute to local cultures.
Conclusion
Siwa Oasis is one of the most interesting places that may be filled with numerous activities for any traveler. Visiting the ruins from ancient times, relieving in natural springs, and absorbing themselves with locals will make Siwa a special combination of adventure and calmness. From history to nature, to the taste of traditional life, Siwa Oasis in Egypt has it all. So, pack your bags and prepare for a lifetime journey of enchanting landscapes, rich culture, and well-preserved heritage.
