Overview
A remote Western Desert oasis near the Libyan border, Berber in culture and language, with springs, salt lakes and palm groves.
Attraction
Siwa Oasis
A remote Berber oasis near the Libyan border, with salt lakes, palm groves and its own language.
Why Visit Siwa Oasis
The most distinctive place in Egypt culturally - a Berber community with its own language, its own building tradition, and the temple where Alexander consulted the oracle.
History of Siwa Oasis
Siwa's Temple of the Oracle was famous across the ancient Mediterranean; Alexander the Great travelled here in 331 BC and was reportedly acknowledged as a son of Amun. The mud-and-salt fortress town of Shali was founded in the 13th century and largely abandoned after prolonged rains.
Best Time to Visit Siwa Oasis
October to April. Summer is severe this far into the desert.
How to Get to Siwa Oasis
About 560 km from Cairo and 300 km from Marsa Matruh on the coast, by road. Plan on a long drive each way and at least two nights.
Nearby Attractions
Tours That Include Siwa Oasis
Plan Your Visit to Siwa Oasis
Want to include Siwa Oasis in your Egypt itinerary? Browse our tours or ask for a custom plan.
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