After a restful night in Siwa, start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. The meal might include traditional foul (fava beans), taameya (Egyptian falafel), and baladi bread, giving you a delicious start to your day. Once you’re fueled up, you’ll begin your exploration of Siwa with a visit to Dead Mountain.

Dead Mountain is named for its ancient burial sites that dot its slopes. As you begin your hike to the top, the views of Siwa Oasis and the surrounding desert become more and more spectacular with each step. The top offers a panoramic view of the oasis, with its dense palm groves juxtaposed against the vast, barren desert. Your guide will explain the area’s historical significance, including the ancient burial practices and the cultural importance of the mountain. The eerie yet serene atmosphere makes it a fascinating stop that provides insight into the region’s rich history.

From Dead Mountain, head to the heart of Siwa to explore Shali Fortress, a historic mudbrick fortress that dates back centuries. This fortress was once the center of Siwa’s community and was built using the local material known as kershef—a mix of salt and mud. Climbing to the top of the fortress provides a breathtaking view of the oasis, the endless palm groves, and the surrounding desert. The view from the summit is an opportunity for reflection and appreciation of Siwa’s unique landscape. As you explore the ruins, your guide will share stories of Siwa’s fascinating past, from its battles to its role in trade and culture.

Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Amun, an ancient site with strong ties to Alexander the Great. It is said that Alexander visited Siwa to seek guidance from the oracle of Amun and confirm his destiny as a god. The ruins of the temple, with their weathered stone walls and faded hieroglyphs, offer a unique link between Siwa and Egypt’s ancient past. As you explore, your guide will explain the significance of the temple in both Egyptian and Greek history, particularly the legend that ties Alexander to Siwa. This is a great stop for history buffs and anyone interested in the profound influence of ancient Egyptian spirituality.

After your historical exploration, head to Cleopatra’s Spring, a natural spring renowned for its cool, clear waters. The spring is believed to have healing properties, and it is said that Cleopatra herself visited Siwa to bathe in its refreshing waters. The peaceful setting of the spring, with its lush palm trees and calm atmosphere, provides the perfect place to relax and unwind. You can even take a dip in the rejuvenating waters, which is a great way to refresh after the day’s exploration.

After a morning of adventure, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Siwa. The meal will feature traditional Siwan dishes, which may include olives, dates, grilled meats, and fresh bread. A favorite dish in Siwa is the local date-stuffed pastries or fish, freshly caught from the nearby lakes. This is a great opportunity to sample the flavors unique to the oasis and connect with the local culture through food.

In the afternoon, prepare for an exciting safari adventure into the Grand Sand Sea Desert. A 4×4 vehicle will take you over towering sand dunes, where you can feel the thrill of riding through the vast, open desert. The Grand Sand Sea is part of the Sahara Desert, and its mesmerizing landscape of endless sand dunes, some reaching heights of 200 meters, is nothing short of breathtaking. As you navigate the dunes, you’ll have the chance to stop and explore the surreal beauty of this remote and untamed region. The quiet, expansive desert allows for moments of reflection, and the landscape offers countless photo opportunities.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll reach your desert campsite. The traditional Bedouin-style camp is designed for comfort and simplicity, with tents arranged around a central campfire. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a Bedouin-style dinner, which might include dishes such as grilled meats, stews, flatbread, and fresh salads. The meal is cooked over an open flame, adding to the authentic desert experience.

As the night sets in, gather around the campfire for storytelling, music, and relaxation. The clear desert sky offers an unmatched opportunity for stargazing, with the brilliance of the Milky Way visible to the naked eye. The tranquility of the desert night is the perfect way to conclude your exhilarating day of exploration.

Enjoy the silence and serenity of the desert before turning in for a restful night under the stars. Tomorrow, you’ll wake up to the breathtaking sunrise over the dunes, beginning another adventure in the heart of Egypt’s desert landscape.