Siwa is a vast oasis in Egypt’s Western Desert, or what most people know as the northeastern edge of the enormous Sahara Desert of northern Africa. It is around 10 kilometers long and 6 to 8 kilometers wide.
Siwa is Egypt’s most well-known oasis, located about 560 kilometers west of Cairo. With a population of only 33,000 people, this desert oasis features 200 springs and is one of Egypt’s most remote historic settlements.
…Because the site's roots are entrenched in mystical oracles and major historic personalities such as Alexander the Great, the history behind the settlements of Siwa is absolutely intriguing.
• How to get the most out of Siwa?
The best way to enjoy Siwa is to take it slowly. So don’t go on a weekend trip. For such a short period, the trip is too long and the destination is too enticing. Take a week or at least five days to fully appreciate Siwa.
• What to see and do during your Siwa travel ?
1 Attractions
Shali Fortress – It’s the crumbling majesty of a once five-story fortified fortress that hovers over Siwa town in a very beautiful way. You can stroll through the labyrinthine remains, which eventually reach to the top and pass through a functioning mosque. The fortress provides panoramic views over the oasis and is a fantastic place to observe sunrises or sunsets.
2 Activates
Glide on the salt lakes of Siwa – the little salt lakes of Siwa are beautifully blue and salty. They’re a lot of fun to float around on, and they’re wonderful for watching sunsets.
3 The food and shopping
Enjoy the delicious Siwa dates and olives – dates and olives are Siwa’s main crops. At the local market, you may buy a variety of products such as dates, dates jam, olives, olive oil, olive oil soap, and olive jam.
Bedouin Food – Bedouins serve traditional food such as rice, meat and veggies for your meals. It’s accompanied by a cup of tea.
Given its isolation, ancient and modern tourists alike agree that Siwa is a special place. Its remoteness and quiet are unrivalled, and the fact that it’s difficult to reach – though not impossible – means it attracts considerably fewer people than the rest of Egypt’s Nile Valley attractions. Siwa is definitely a lovely and memorable addition to any visit to Egypt for anyone who has 3-4 extra days in Egypt to spend to a trip out here.
