2 Days trip to Siwa Oasis and Alexandria from Cairo
We offer a 2-day private tour from Cairo to Siwa Oasis and Alexandria. Explore Siwa’s salty lakes, the Temple of Amun, and enjoy thrilling desert safaris. In Alexandria, visit the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, and Qaitbay Citadel before returning to Cairo.
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.
After a restful night at your eco-lodge in Siwa Oasis, you’ll begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on your scenic journey to the historic coastal city of Alexandria, a city that has long been a melting pot of cultures and a hub of ancient knowledge.
The drive offers picturesque views of Egypt’s countryside as you head toward one of the Mediterranean’s most famous cities. Upon arrival, your first stop is the Roman Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, a unique archaeological site that fuses Egyptian, Greek, and Roman influences. This burial site, dating back to the 2nd century AD, provides a fascinating glimpse into Alexandria’s multicultural past and is renowned for its intricate carvings, statues, and frescoes, offering an incredible view of Alexandria’s Roman heritage and ancient Egyptian architecture.
Next, make your way to Pompey’s Pillar, one of Alexandria’s most iconic landmarks. Standing 25 meters high, this red granite column has been a symbol of the city’s rich history. While the name might suggest a connection to the Roman general Pompey, it actually honors the Roman Emperor Diocletian. The pillar offers breathtaking panoramic views of Alexandria’s ancient architecture and the Mediterranean coast, making it a must-visit spot for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
From here, continue your historical journey at the Citadel of Sultan Qaitbay, a formidable fortress built in the 15th century to defend Alexandria from Crusader invasions. This historic fortress is strategically located on the coastline and was constructed using the ruins of the ancient Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. As you explore the fortress, you’ll learn about its significant role in Alexandria’s military history while enjoying sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea.
After a day of history and exploration, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local Egyptian restaurant, where you can indulge in Alexandrian cuisine. Known for its abundance of fresh seafood, Alexandria offers a variety of traditional dishes such as seafood tagine, fatta, and koshari, as well as local specialties that reflect the region’s unique culinary heritage.
In the afternoon, visit the El Mursi Abu Al Abbas Mosque, an exquisite Islamic mosque built in the 18th century over the tomb of a revered Spanish scholar and saint. This architectural masterpiece is a fusion of Mamluk and Ottoman influences, showcasing the diverse cultural and religious heritage of Alexandria. The mosque’s intricate design, ornate decorations, and stunning minarets are a testament to Alexandria’s multicultural legacy.
After exploring Alexandria’s vibrant mix of Islamic, Roman, and ancient Egyptian heritage, you will begin your journey back to Cairo. As you travel back, you will have the opportunity to reflect on the remarkable history, architecture, and culture you’ve experienced over the course of this enriching two-day journey.
