Siwa Oasis Expedition

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Mountain of the Dead, Salt Lakes, and Cleopatra Spring⌄

   Explore Gebel al-Mawta, a hill adorned with rock-cut tombs from the 26th Dynasty (c. 664–525 BCE) and Ptolemaic-Roman periods. These ancient burial sites, once used by Siwa’s elite, feature faded paintings of afterlife rituals and highlight the oasis’s spiritual significance. A local guide shares tales of the Ammonite priests, connecting the site to Siwa’s oracle heritage.

   Striking turquoise pools sustained by underground springs. Harvested for salt since ancient times, these lakes powered Siwa’s trade along caravan routes to Libya and Sudan, underscoring its role as a desert hub.

   Cycle to Juba Spring, popularly called Cleopatra’s Spring, a natural pool fed by an ancient aquifer. Though not directly tied to Cleopatra, its name evokes Siwa’s appeal to Hellenistic visitors. Relax or swim, discovering the communal water-sharing customs vital to oasis life.

   Meals: Dinner

   Overnight: Traditional mud-brick eco-lodge, a sustainable accommodation reflecting local architecture.

2. 2Amoun Temple and Great Sand Sea Safari⌄

   Visit the Temple of Amoun, a 6th-century BCE limestone shrine dedicated to the oracle of Amun-Ra. This sacred site attracted figures like Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, who sought its divine counsel.

   Travel to the Great Sand Sea, a sprawling dune landscape on the Sahara’s edge, via shared 4x4 to reduce environmental impact. Once a route for ancient caravans, this desert shaped Bedouin navigation traditions. Activities include: Sandboarding: Glide down dunes, a playful nod to Siwa’s desert heritage—beginners can try smaller slopes. Sunset Viewing: Witness the sun sink below the dunes, a serene tribute to the desert’s timeless allure. Bring a scarf for wind protection. Bonfire & Dinner: Gather around a fire for a BBQ or tagine prepared by Bedouin hosts, paired with Siwan tea and date-based drinks like lebisa, rooted in local hospitality. Siwan Drinks & Tea: Sip herbal teas under the stars, accompanied by Bedouin oral histories.

   Meals: Breakfast · Dinner

   Overnight: Traditional mud-brick eco-lodge, a sustainable accommodation reflecting local architecture.

3. 3Shali Fort, Free Time, and Departure⌄

   Wander through Shali Fort, a 13th-century mud-brick fortress made of kershef (mud and salt). This stronghold once protected Siwa’s Berber-speaking residents from raiders, its labyrinthine alleys fostering community life until the 20th century. A guide explains Siwa’s matrilineal customs and the fort’s social importance.

   Stroll through Siwa’s lively market on foot, exploring the different stalls filled with handmade crafts and local products. Engage with the artisans, learn about bartering in shopping, or watch palm weaving—a glimpse into centuries-old traditions.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Traditional mud-brick eco-lodge, a sustainable accommodation reflecting local architecture.