Egypt · Desert Safari

3-Day Siwa Oasis Tour from Cairo with Great Sand Sea Desert Safari

3 Days Round trip from Cairo Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the Great Sand Sea on a desert safari with sandboarding
02 Float in Siwa's salt lakes and swim at Cleopatra's Spring
03 Visit Shali Fortress, the Oracle Temple, Mountain of the Dead, and Dukrur Mountain
04 Learn about the Siwan traditional lifestyle at the Siwan House
05 Watch the sunset from the desert and from the island while tasting Siwan tea

Siwa Oasis is one of the Western Desert's most magical areas, and this 3-day journey from Cairo lets you explore it in the comfort of a private vehicle with rest stops, snack breaks, and a guide. Discover the Great Sand Sea by 4WD with dune bashing, sandboarding, and a desert sunset, then experience Siwa's salt lakes, ancient ruins, and Fitnas Island. Along the way, enjoy refreshing springs, striking desert scenery, and a closer look at the oasis's unique culture and landscapes.

Siwa Oasis is one of the Western Desert's most magical areas, and this 3-day journey from Cairo lets you explore it in the comfort of a private vehicle with rest stops, snack breaks, and a guide.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Cairo, Siwa Oasis

Languages English, French, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Journey from Cairo to Siwa Oasis

Morning: Depart Cairo very early by bus. The journey to Siwa can take 10-12 hours or more, depending on the route and any stops, so pack snacks, water, and entertainment for the long ride.
Evening: Arrive in Siwa and check in to your hotel or eco-lodge.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner and prepare for the next day's adventures.

Day 02

Discover the Highlights of Siwa Oasis

Morning: Visit the Shali Fortress, the old town of Siwa, a unique mud-brick structure.
Explore the ruins and enjoy panoramic views over the oasis.
Afternoon: Visit Cleopatra's Bath, a natural spring where you can take a refreshing dip.
Then head to the Temple of the Oracle at Aghurmi, where Alexander the Great is said to have consulted the oracle.
Late afternoon/Evening: Enjoy a sunset camel ride or donkey cart ride into the Great Sand Sea. This is a highlight for many visitors.
Consider a desert camp for the night if you are feeling adventurous.

Day 03

Bir Wahed and Return to Cairo

Morning: Visit Bir Wahed, a remote hot spring in the desert.
Enjoy the therapeutic waters and the stunning desert scenery.
Alternatively, you could visit the Mountain of the Dead, a necropolis with ancient tombs.
Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, you might have time for some souvenir shopping in the local market or another short visit.
Late afternoon/Evening: Begin the long journey back to Cairo by bus.
You will likely arrive late at night or early the next morning.

Where this trip takes you

Great Sand Sea dunes, Shali Fortress mud-brick ruins, Cleopatra's Bath spring, Bir Wahed hot spring

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Cairo 2 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Breakfast (3)
Lunch (2)
Dinner (2)
Tour guide
AC car
Safari tour
City tour
Tickets included

What's Not Included

Tipping

What to bring

Things to consider:

Transportation: The bus is the most common way to get to Siwa. Research different bus companies and book in advance. Private car hire is possible but expensive. Flights are rare.
Accommodation: Siwa has a range of hotels and eco-lodges. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Food: Siwan cuisine is unique. Try local specialties like tagine and dates.
Weather: Siwa is hot and dry, especially in the summer. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
Culture: Siwa has a strong Berber culture. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Guides: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended for exploring the oasis and desert.
Packing: Pack for hot weather, including comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.