Your unforgettable Siwa Oasis adventure begins with a hassle-free Cairo hotel pick-up at 1:00 AM. Prepare for an 8-hour scenic drive through Egypt’s awe-inspiring Western Desert, passing expansive sand dunes, and witnessing the beauty of Egypt’s remote landscapes on your way to the tranquil Siwa Oasis. As you arrive in Siwa around 9:00 AM, your first stop is the Temple of the Oracle, one of the most historically significant sites in Egypt. This temple, where Alexander the Great consulted the oracle to confirm his divine heritage, offers insights into the fascinating mix of Egyptian, Greek, and ancient Mediterranean cultures.
Next, you’ll visit Siwa Salt Lake, renowned for its high salinity, providing a unique experience where you can float effortlessly, similar to the Dead Sea in Jordan. The natural healing properties of this saltwater lake are well-known, and visitors enjoy relaxing in its therapeutic waters. From there, you’ll head to Cleopatra’s Bath, a natural spring steeped in royal legend. It’s believed that Cleopatra, the famed Egyptian queen, bathed in these waters to preserve her beauty, making this a popular destination for those seeking to experience a piece of ancient Egyptian luxury.
Continue your journey with a visit to the Temple of Amun, also known as Umm Ubaydah Temple, which dates back to the 30th Dynasty. This remarkable site offers fascinating insights into ancient Egyptian religion, particularly the worship of Amun-Ra, one of Egypt’s most important gods. The temple’s architecture and design reflect the grandeur of Egypt’s ancient religious practices.
Following the temple visit, you’ll enjoy a delicious traditional Siwan lunch at Abdo Restaurant, famous for its Siwan cuisine, a rich and unique blend of Berber and Egyptian flavors. This culinary experience allows you to sample dishes made from locally grown ingredients, including olives, dates, and fresh vegetables, as well as hearty meat stews.
In the afternoon, you’ll embark on an exhilarating 4×4 desert safari across the vast expanse of the Great Sand Sea. This dune-filled desert is one of Egypt’s most stunning and untouched regions, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike. During your desert journey, you’ll visit the Bir Waheed Hot Springs and Cold Springs, both famous for their therapeutic properties. The natural minerals in these springs are believed to have healing effects on the body and are a perfect way to relax after a thrilling desert safari.
As the sun begins to set, you’ll experience a calming Bedouin tea ceremony in the desert, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the vast, serene desert landscape. This moment of peace allows you to reflect on the day’s adventures while sipping traditional Bedouin tea and enjoying the picturesque desert sunset.
To end your day, retreat to your comfortable eco-lodge in Siwa Oasis, where you can rest and rejuvenate under the stars, surrounded by the natural beauty of Egypt’s Western Desert. The eco-lodges in Siwa offer an authentic experience, with traditional architecture and an intimate connection to the desert surroundings.