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Desert safari

3-Day Siwa Oasis Adventure: Ancient History, Great Sand Sea & Salt Lakes

From $500 per person
Duration
3 days / 2 nights
Runs
Every Day
Type
Private, just your group
Booking
Confirmed within 24 hours
Places
Cairo, Marsa Matrouh, Siwa Oasis

Overview

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Discover Siwa's ancient landmarks, enjoy a thrilling 4x4 safari across the Great Sand Sea, and experience the unique floating waters of its spectacular salt lakes.

Day 1: Cairo – Siwa Oasis – Fatnas Island Sunset

Your journey begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cairo. Enjoy a long but comfortable drive west toward Siwa Oasis, crossing the vast landscapes of Egypt's Western Desert. The journey takes approximately nine hours, including rest stops along the way.

Upon arrival in Siwa, check in at your hotel or eco-lodge and take some time to relax after the journey.

In the late afternoon, head to Fatnas Island, one of Siwa's most beautiful sunset locations. Situated on the edge of Lake Siwa and surrounded by palm trees, the island offers spectacular views across the water toward the distant desert mountains.

Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and watch the sunset create beautiful colors over the lake before returning to your accommodation.

Overnight: Siwa Oasis

Day 2: Historical Siwa – Great Sand Sea 4x4 Safari

After breakfast, begin exploring the historical landmarks of Siwa Oasis.

Start with a visit to Shali Fortress, the historic center of Siwa's old town. Built using traditional kershef materials, a mixture of salt, mud, and local stone, this remarkable settlement reflects the unique architectural heritage of the Siwan people. Explore its narrow pathways and discover the history of this ancient community.

Continue to the Temple of the Oracle at Aghurmi, one of Siwa's most significant archaeological sites. Dedicated to the god Amun, the temple became famous throughout the ancient world for its oracle. According to historical tradition, Alexander the Great visited this sanctuary during his journey through Egypt.

Next, visit the Mountain of the Dead (Gebel Al-Mawta), an archaeological site containing numerous rock-cut tombs dating back to different historical periods. Explore the ancient burial chambers and discover their decorated walls and fascinating historical details.

Continue to Cleopatra's Spring, one of Siwa's most famous natural freshwater springs. Enjoy the refreshing surroundings and learn about its place in local tradition.

Later, get ready for an exciting desert adventure as you board a 4x4 vehicle and head into the magnificent Great Sand Sea.

Drive across impressive golden dunes and experience the excitement of dune driving in the heart of the Western Desert. Stop along the way to enjoy sandboarding, sliding down the soft dunes while surrounded by breathtaking desert scenery.

Continue to a natural warm spring, where you can relax and enjoy a refreshing swim in the middle of the desert, subject to current access arrangements.

After an unforgettable afternoon of desert exploration, return to Siwa for the evening.

Overnight: Siwa Oasis

Day 3: Siwa Salt Lakes – Return to Cairo

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing morning visiting the famous Salt Lakes of Siwa, one of the oasis's most remarkable natural attractions.

Known for their exceptionally high salt concentration and beautiful turquoise colors, these lakes offer a unique floating experience. Enter the water and enjoy floating effortlessly on the surface, surrounded by striking natural scenery. Take memorable photographs and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before preparing for your departure.

After your visit, begin the return journey to Cairo. Enjoy the changing desert landscapes along the way, with rest stops during the drive.

Upon arrival in Cairo, transfer to your hotel, marking the end of your three-day Siwa Oasis adventure.

End of Tour

  • Shali fortress and the Oracle of Amun
  • Great Sand Sea by 4×4 with sandboarding
  • Salt lakes and Cleopatra’s Spring
  • Sunset at Fatnas Island

Where and when

Location: Siwa Oasis

Sessions: 06:00

What's included

Included

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cairo or Giza
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle and 4×4 in the desert
  • 2 nights at an eco-lodge in Siwa
  • Breakfast and dinner daily, bottled water
  • Entrance fees and desert permits for the listed sites

Not included

  • Tips
  • Personal expenses
  • Anything not listed as included
  • Lunches

Photos

Your route

  1. Cairo & GizaPyramids · then by private car
  2. Marsa Matrouhthen by private car
  3. Siwa
  • Stop
  • By road
  • Famous sight

Good to know

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

October to April is the most comfortable time, with warm days and cool evenings, so it is also the busiest and highest-priced season. May to September is hot, especially in Luxor and Aswan, but sights are quieter and prices are lower. We plan summer days around early starts and a long midday break. Christmas and New Year sell out early.

What is included in the price?

Each trip lists exactly what is included and what is not. In general our prices include private transport, a private Egyptologist guide, entrance fees for the listed sites, hotels or cruise as described, and the meals shown. International flights, visas, tips, drinks and optional extras are not included.

Are your trips private or in a group?

All our trips are private: just you and the people you travel with, your own guide and your own driver. You never share a vehicle or a guide with strangers. Nile cruise ships are shared with other guests, but your sightseeing on shore is private.

Is Egypt a good trip for children?

Yes. Children love the pyramids, felucca sails and the Red Sea. On our tours, children under 3 travel free when sharing their parents' room, children aged 3 to 11 pay 50% of the adult price, and from 12 they pay the adult rate. Hotels, cruises and some activities have their own child rules, which we follow and show in your quote. On domestic flights, babies under 2 pay the airline's infant fare, and children from 2 need their own seat at the airline's fare. Tell us their ages and we will plan shorter visits, pool time and family rooms.

Can you plan a slower pace or help with limited mobility?

Yes. Because every trip is private, we can plan shorter days, more rest and fewer stairs. Some ancient sites have uneven ground and steps, so please tell us about any mobility needs when you ask for a quote and we will be honest about what is practical.

How does tipping work in Egypt?

Tipping is part of daily life in Egypt and is not included in our prices. Small tips for drivers, guides, cruise crews and hotel staff are customary; your planner will send you a simple guide with typical amounts before you travel, so you are never left guessing.

Can I reach you on WhatsApp during my trip?

Yes. Once you book, you get a WhatsApp number for your planner and a local contact on the ground. Message us any time during your trip if something needs changing.

Hi, I'm Tarek. I'll plan your trip with you.We are available 24/7

From / person

$500

Before you go