Siwa oasis Egypt travel Guide

Western desert is part of Saharan desert and it is considered as the largest desert in the world that covers 5000km from east to west and 2000km north to south. The trade routes that have been created crossing Sahara in both direction emerged the need of a chain of settlements that are situated along the trade routes that ofer protection and stopover for the caravans.

Siwa oasis

Siwa oasis is in a depression with the length of 75-80 km and width of 5-10 km, 18 meters below. It is well known for its rich landscape of olive, palm trees, several natural springs and salt lakes.

General overview Adrere Amellal, Taziry and Talist Eco lodges

Although there are three Eco Lodges, Adrere Amellal, Talist and Taziry, that areclose to El Gari village, yet the research will focus on Adrere Amellal and Talist for data accessibility reason.

Siwa Salt Lake

The lake is 95% pure salt, used by the Siwan people for thousands of years to build their houses. The salt is also harvested to make lamps which are believed to have healing properties. The waters of the lake are crystal clear and pleasant to swim in. The high salt content also means you won’t drown, even though the lake is four metres deep!

Siwa Salt Lake is an extraordinary natural wonder that captivates visitors with its mesmerizing beauty and unique eco-system. This stunning lake lies in the heart of the Siwa Oasis in the Western Desert of Egypt, and it is renowned for its sparkling crystal clear waters, vast salt pans, and stunning scenery. The shimmering white and blue hues of the Siwa Salt Lake make it a paradise for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. 

The tranquil atmosphere this lake presents is perfect for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a serene environment. The Siwa Salt Lake boasts an impressive area covering over 200 square kilometers, and it is the second-largest saltwater lake in Egypt. Despite being enclosed by desert sand dunes, the lake forms a unique habitat for rare aquatic species such as flamingos, migratory birds, and several species of fish.

Experts believe that the Siwa Salt Lake is a fascinating geological phenomenon that was formed over millions of years. The lake's brine water is rich in minerals and produces high-quality salt, which attracts visitors from across the world to its shores. 

With its unique features and stunning vistas, an experience in Siwa Salt Lake is unforgettable. From watching a spectacular sunrise or sunset to floating effortlessly on its calm waters, this oasis is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the wonders of nature and enjoy pure tranquility.

Adrere Amellal 

Adrere Amellal was built on Siwa Lake by the White Mountain. It consists of 42 rooms. Water: the Eco lodge depends on underground water to cover the hotel needs. Sewage is treated by wetland. Energy: the water is heated depending on the gas provided by the government. The Eco lodge is illuminated by torches and beeswax candles. Natural building material: as for building material, the eco lodge was built using natural material, using the same methods that it was used in the typical Siwan houses for the roof and walls. Garden: It has an organic farm that covers the need of the Eco lodge. 

Taziry

Taziry was built at the footstep of Red Mountain facing the White Mountain. It consists of 30 rooms. Water: the Eco lodge depends on underground water to cover the hotel needs. Sewage is treated by wetland. Energy: heating water depends on solar water heating panels and photovoltaic cells are used to serve the kitchen and reception to minimize the use of fossil fuel resources. Natural material: as for building material, the eco lodge was built using natural material, using the same methods that it was used in the typical Siwan houses for the roof and walls. Garden: It has an organic farm that covers the need of the Eco lodge. Solid waste: solid waste management is taking into consideration; the organic waste is used as compost and inorganic waste is segregated and sent for recycling.

Taziry has been built at the footstep of the famous Red Mountain of Siwa, facing the magnificent White Mountain; overlooking the vast Gary Lake, and the timeless dunes of the Great Sand Sea. At Taziry, we provide a unique return to nature experience, where one can truly since this magical energy of Siwa.

Talist 

Talist is located 10 km away from El Gari village. It consists of 10 rooms. Water: the Eco lodge depends on underground water to cover the hotel needs. Sewage: is treated by septic pit. Energy: the water is heated depending on the gas provided by the government. Photovoltaic cells are used to illuminate the rooms and kitchen facilities. Natural material: as for building material, the eco lodge was built using natural material with integration of conventional materials that helps to overcome certain challenges that are associated with building with Karsheef.

Explore & experience the magical places

Local attractions in Siwa

Shali Fortress in Siwa oasis

Shali Fortress is a 13th-century mud-brick fortress located in the heart of Siwa Oasis in Egypt. It is the oldest and most important building in Siwa, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is the old city and castle in the heart of the Siwa oasis in the Libyan desert in Egypt.it was named Shali in the local Siwan dialect and was built by the Syrians. They used it to defend themselves from other neighboring tribes.

The fortress is a popular tourist destination, and offers stunning views of Siwa Oasis. It is also a great place to learn about the history and culture of the Siwan people.

In the center of Siwa, the ruins of the fortress of Shali of the 13th Century are imposed. Constructed from a material known as a kerchief, "(a mixture of salt rocks from the salt lakes of the region and clay).

On the way up there is the entrance of a mosque that was the only original building of the renovated Shali. Along the way there are also handicraft and fabric shops, all very original and different from those found in the rest of Egypt, it is worth visiting for those who want to bring souvenirs of this unique region. 

The people of Siwa speak their unique and rare language called the Amazigh language. They are mostly Berbers who settled in the region and their origins are from Syrian and Lybian tribes. The term "Berber" comes from the term "barbarous" that uses by the Greeks and Romans to designate any people who do not speak their languages ​​and are not part of their cultures. 

This language includes a series of variants spoken in different countries such as Morocco, Algeria, Libya, Tunisia, Mali, Niger, and Egypt.

The city is surrounded by a sturdy building wall that has only one entrance called “The Bab Anshal”, meaning the gate of the City, and on the northern side of the city wall there is the ancient mosque, which is the oldest mosque built with mud in Africa, and after a century passed, a second gate was opened on the southern side of the wall near the oil press called “Bab Athrat”, meaning the new door and a third door opened after a century had passed, called “Qaduha” for women only. 

The city includes the Al-Ateeq Mosque and the Sheikha Hasina Mosque, known as the Tandi Mosque, in addition to the city's houses and ruins of its buildings. 

The ancient city of "Shali" includes 6 deep water wells that served the people of the oasis in drinking water. The restoration work has been completed, making the village eligible for a visit with its ruins, reflecting the city's history and its historical value.

Tombs of Jabal el Mawta

This great mountain is also known as “Mountain of the Dead” in which graves were dug dating back to the Greco-Roman period. The limestone hill is home to over 700 Roman and four 26th Dynasty tombs carved into the rock face. The four 26th Dynasty tombs are open to the public and feature well-maintained mural drawings.

The Tombs of Jabal el Mawta, also known as the Mountain of the Dead, is an ancient necropolis located in the desert hills near the city of Siwa in Egypt. The site is home to a collection of tombs and burial chambers .

The tombs at Jabal el Mawta are carved directly into the rock formations, creating a labyrinth of underground chambers and passageways. Each tomb is unique in design, with elaborate carvings, paintings, and inscriptions that offer a glimpse into the beliefs and customs of the people who created them.

One of the most significant tombs at Jabal el Mawta is the Tomb of Si Amun, which is thought to have been built during the reign of Ptolemy II in the 3rd century BC. The tomb features stunning frescoes and relief carvings that depict scenes from Egyptian mythology, including the afterlife and the gods and goddesses associated with death.

Another notable tomb at Jabal el Mawta is the Tomb of Niperpathot, which is believed to have been built during the Roman period. The tomb features intricate carvings of the deceased and his family, as well as scenes from daily life, such as hunting and fishing.

Visitors to Jabal el Mawta can explore the tombs and underground chambers, which offer a unique insight into the funerary practices and beliefs of ancient Egypt. The site is also surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including the desert hills and the nearby Siwa Oasis.

In recent years, the Tombs of Jabal el Mawta have become increasingly popular with tourists and archaeologists alike. The site has undergone several preservation and restoration projects, ensuring that these fascinating and historic tombs will be available for future generations to explore and appreciate.

Gabal el Mawta Siwa | Mountain of the Dead

Tomb of Mesu-Isis Tomb of Mesuisis

In Egypt's Siwa Oasis, Gebel al-Mawta, which means the "Mountain of the Dead", has several terrace-like levels that contain tombs. In the middle terrace, about twenty meters to the east of the tomb of Si-Amun, the best known tomb in the area, is that of Mesu-Isis, named not for the tomb owner but for his wife.

The best paintings are in the Tomb of Si Amun, where beautifully coloured reliefs portray the dead man – thought to be a wealthy Greek landowner or merchant – making offerings and praying to Egyptian gods. Also interesting are the unfinished Tomb of Mesu-Isis, with a beautiful depiction of cobras in red and blue above the entrance; the Tomb of Niperpathot, with inscriptions and crude drawings in the same reddish ink you can see on modern Siwan pottery; and finally the Tomb of the Crocodile, whose badly deteriorating wall paintings include a yellow crocodile representing the god Sobek.

Tomb of Si Amun Jabal el Mawta

Excavations were performed in 1997 by the SCA, 30 tombs beside and directly in front of (Si-Amun) tomb and these tombs extend to the east, they are huge, uninscribed and rock cut tombs. A limestone sarcophagus lid was discovered, as well as a complete limestone sarcophagus, a mummy with full wraps, wheat ears that were put outside the tomb’s door at the left side.In 2003 excavations were done in front of (Si-Amun and Mesu-Isis tombs) area and 24 tombs in different size and with nearly one plan (Loculi) were found; this plan consists of descending stairs then an entrance leading to a hall then a burial chamber and sometimes side rooms exist. Most of the tombs were uninscribed and not painted with some exceptions of tombs having a plaster layer at their entrances. The tombs contained many bodies and skeletons with wraps.

Not much is known about Si-Amun, who would have been buried in this beautifully painted tomb. From the tomb’s paintings he appears to have been of Greek descent, having curly black hair, a beard and moustache and fair skin, and to have married an Egyptian. In the scenes that cover the tomb’s western wall, he is variously shown seated in a chair, in judgment before the god Osiris, and swaddled in the bandages of a mummy. The eastern wall portrays Si-Amun worshipping the gods Amun and Osiris. Look for Si-Amun’s oldest son, cloaked in panther skins, and for the red gridlines left by the tomb’s artist. On the ceiling, the goddess Nut reaches across an inky sea of stars and solar boats. Rows of vultures and falcons rim another section of the ceiling.

Tomb of the Crocodile Jabal el Mawta

This tomb is named for the yellow crocodile painted on one of its entrance walls. At the back of the tomb are also paintings of blue and yellow foxes. In the painting showing the god Thoth writing, note the live bird tied to the stem of the table.

This tomb's name comes from its wall painting of a yellow crocodile representing the God Sobek. Many of the paintings inside are badly deteriorating.

Tomb of Niperpathot Jabal el Mawta 

Ni-per-pa-thoth means “The one who belongs to the House of Thoth.” The owner of this 26th Dynasty tomb also bore the title “Prophet of Osiris and Scribe of the Divine Books,” and it is Osiris that we see him worshipping throughout the tomb. In a scene from daily life, he is shown leading four cows. The burial chamber branches off into a series of small halls or chambers.

Niperpathot worships Osiris who sits on a stool with the goddess Hathor beside him. Before Osiris is an offering table and opposite it stands Niperpathot. The tomb owner's head is shaved and he wears a necklace, a long apron with a panther's skin over it and sandals. The stand of the offering table is in the shape of a lotus flower, and over it appears six loaves of bread, a gazelle, two geese and a cucumber. Two vases of wine hang from the table edge, while two others stand beneath it. Hathor is depicted with a human body and a cow's head. Her diadem is the sun-disk between the two horns, surmounted by two feathers.

On the wall at the left side of the entrance, just to the right and behind Hathor, a long inscription which is a hymn addressed to the god Thot. To the left on the wall stands Niperpathot, holding in one hand the rope. The ends of the ropes are attached to four calves and in the other hand the owner holds a whip. This depiction represents a well known ceremony called the "dragging of the four calves", which we find on other tomb walls beginning in the 18th Dynasty. The same scene was depicted in temples beginning in the Old Kingdom. The four calves must be of different colors. One is red, the second white, the third black and the fourth is spotted.

This tomb probably dates to the 26th Dynasty, making it one of the oldest in the necropolis. Interestingly, though he was the principal god in the Oasis during the 26th Dynasty, Amun is not mentioned in the tomb at all. Though our knowledge of this period is very limited for the Siwa Oasis, it seems probable that the worship of Osiris was established sometime before the worship of Amun came to prominence, and that there was a temple for Osiris in Siwa with its own priests. Beware, when visiting this tomb, that it also contains a mummified skull complete with hair, that we are told, the custodian will sometimes produce with a flourish in hopes of startling the visitors.

The Temple of the Oracle of Amun

During his campaign to conquer the Persian Empire, Alexander the Great visited the oasis.

His court historians claimed that the Oracle of the Temple of Amun confirmed him as both a divine personage and the legitimate Pharaoh of Egypt. Not far from this temple are the remains of Um Ubeyda temple. 

Entrance to the temple of the Oracle of Zeus-Amun (6th century BC) The rock of Aghurmi, on which it stands, was considered sacred by primitive tribes who worshipped here, long before the first temple was built. Greeks coming from Cyrenaica thought the rock to be an omphalos, a point of union between dark and light, which could favour the messages of an oracle, as at Delphi. Said to be infallible as the voice of Zeus-Amun united as one god, it was particularly revered by the Spartans, and Pindar even wrote an ode to the divinity which was kept for centuries under the altar. The responses were not always clear, and often could be understood only by hindsight. 

The Athenians, for example, consulted the oracle of Siwa before invading Sicily in 415 BC, where they were soundly defeated, because the commander-in-chief Nikias had misinterpreted the response, regarding an eclipse of the moon. In a moment of fury, because just as the oracle of Siwa had predicted, his conquests in Africa were not proving as easy as he had hoped, in 524 BC Cambyses of Persia, son of Cyrus, sent an army of 50,000 men from Thebes to destroy the temple; they were totally obliterated by a sandstorm, leaving not the slightest trace.

Explorers have been looking for them ever since. And the most famous visitor, Alexander the Great in 331 BC sought here divine confirmation of his role as emperor. Some say his tomb lies here in Siwa.

The Temple of Um Ubeydah

he Temple of Umm Ubayda is an ancient temple located in the heart of the Siwa Oasis, in the Western Desert of Egypt. The temple is one of the most significant historic sites in the region, and offers a fascinating insight into the religious beliefs and practices of the ancient Egyptians.

The second famous temple at Siwa oasis was once a part of the temple of Oracle. It has inscribed colored rocks that still exist until now, it also still preserving its ancient writings and paintings, it is wonderful, you should visit t if you are interested in the ancient Egyptian heritage.

The temple is built from local materials, including sandstone and mud bricks, and was designed in the traditional Egyptian style. It features a series of courtyards, hypostyle halls, and sanctuaries, as well as a sacred lake and a network of underground tunnels.

One of the most striking features of the Temple of Umm Ubayda is its stunning artwork and decorations. The temple is adorned with intricate carvings, paintings, and reliefs that depict scenes from Egyptian mythology, including the gods and goddesses.

In the 20th century, the Temple of Umm Ubayda was rediscovered by archaeologists and restoration experts, who began a series of extensive restoration and preservation projects. Today, the temple is open to visitors from around the world, who come to explore its ancient halls and courtyards, and to marvel at the incredible artwork and craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians.

Visitors to the Temple of Umm Ubayda can also explore the surrounding Siwa Oasis, which is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and traditional way of life. The oasis is home to a rich array of flora and fauna, as well as a number of historic sites and cultural attractions.

Overall, the Temple of Umm Ubayda is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of ancient Egypt. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and practices of one of the world's oldest civilizations, and is a testament to the enduring legacy of the pharaonic civilization.

The Temple of Um Ubeydah

Cleopatra’s Water Spring

Cleopatra’s Water Spring is a natural spring located in the Siwa Oasis, which is situated in the western desert of Egypt. The spring is named after Cleopatra, the famous queen of Egypt, who is said to have bathed in the waters of the spring during her visits to the oasis.

The spring is located about 2 kilometers from the center of Siwa town and is surrounded by palm trees and other vegetation. The water in the spring is crystal clear and is believed to have healing properties due to its high mineral content.

According to local legend, Cleopatra visited the oasis during her reign and was so enchanted by the beauty of the spring that she ordered a palace to be built nearby. She also reportedly used the water from the spring for her personal hygiene and beauty treatments.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Cleopatra’s Water Spring is a popular tourist attraction in the Siwa Oasis, drawing visitors from around the world who come to swim in the cool, refreshing waters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The spring is also a popular spot for picnics and relaxation, with shaded areas and benches available for visitors to use.

Overall, Cleopatra’s Water Spring is a unique and beautiful destination in the Siwa Oasis, offering visitors a chance to connect with history while enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility of the desert oasis.

Jabal Dakrour | Mountain of Reconciliation

Jabal Dakrour This Mountain is most famous for the traditional Siwan therapeutic treatments given to calm the ailments of Rheumatism and Arthritis. The Sand Bath treatments consist of burial in the desert sand, up to the neck, whereby a small tent shades the face from the hot sun. Afterwards, a slow cooling process is given with herbal tea.

photo credit by salma mohamed

In fact, Gebel Dakrour (Dakrour Mountain) renowned for the healing qualities of its hot sands. It is since ancient times. The hot sands in fact is the major source of the red pigment used in Siwan pottery. People come from all around Egypt and the world during the summer months to be interred in sand baths. In fact, they have properties of healing rheumatism. The sand bath lasts approximately 20 minutes and you will be buried up to your neck in the hot desert sand. The process is usually repeated for any aching part of the body for 3 to 5 days.

photo credit by salma mohamed

The therapy indeed is stunning as it has almost a magical effect. In fact, rheumatic and arthritic pains will be greatly dissipated. After the heat of the sand you will need a few hours to recover. In fact, it recommended that you sit in a shady place and drink tea. Many of those who experience the healing properties of Gebel Dakrour’s sand baths return time and time again to heal their pains.

photo credit by salma mohamed

People from all over the world come to visit Dakrour Mountain in Siwa Oasis to enjoy hot sand baths, which are characterized by their ability to treat joint pain, skin diseases, and many other things during the Siwa Oasis tour from Cairo. 

Siwa residents celebrate every year by going to Dakrour mountain and staying in old houses and tents on the mountain for 3 days, in celebration of their feast, which was established 160 years ago, after the end of wars and disputes between the western tribes and eastern tribes of Siwa, and there is many of Egyptians and tourists come to enjoy with this famous event during their trips.

Jabal Dakrour, also known as the Mountain of Reconciliation, is a prominent natural landmark located in the Siwa Oasis, in the Western Desert of Egypt. Rising majestically above the surrounding landscape, this mountain holds great significance for the local community and offers visitors a unique experience. 

Jabal Dakrour is renowned for its distinct shape and towering presence. It is characterized by its rugged, rocky formations and dramatic cliffs that create a breathtaking panorama. The mountain's name, "Dakrour," translates to "reconciliation" in Arabic, and it holds great cultural and historical importance for the people of Siwa.

The Mountain of Reconciliation has been a traditional meeting place for centuries, where tribal leaders and community members would gather to discuss important matters, settle disputes, and seek resolutions. It was believed that the mountain held a special energy that fostered understanding, harmony, and reconciliation among people. 

Visitors to Jabal Dakrour can embark on a hike or a guided trek to reach its summit. The journey is an adventure in itself, as the path winds through rugged terrain, ancient rock formations, and desert landscapes. As you ascend, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Siwa Oasis and its surrounding natural beauty.

Reaching the peak of Jabal Dakrour provides a sense of accomplishment and offers a serene and peaceful environment. Many visitors find the experience to be spiritually uplifting, as they take in the vastness of the desert, feel the gentle breeze, and appreciate the silence and tranquility of the surroundings. 

The Mountain of Reconciliation also offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Siwa Oasis. On the mountain's slopes, you may encounter remnants of ancient structures, including tombs and rock carvings that date back centuries. These archaeological sites provide a fascinating insight into the region's past and its connections to ancient civilizations.

Additionally, the mountain is known for its captivating sunsets, when the changing colors of the sky paint a mesmerizing backdrop against the rocky landscape. It is a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts, who seek to capture the beauty of the desert and its unique geological formations. 

Visiting Jabal Dakrour allows you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the Siwa Oasis. Whether you seek a sense of adventure, a moment of contemplation, or a connection with history, the Mountain of Reconciliation offers a memorable experience that will leave a lasting impression.

As you explore Jabal Dakrour, be sure to respect the environment and the cultural significance of the site. It is important to preserve its natural beauty and uphold the spirit of reconciliation and harmony that the mountain symbolizes for the local community.

Fatnas Island

Of course you cannot go to siwa without swinging by Fatnis island to watch the sunset. The place is beautiful indeed.

This small island is located 10 minutes from Siwa town. You will find dates farm in this island and it has a fresh water spring that you can swim in. It offers a spectacular view to Siwa Lake for sunset.

Fatnas Island in Siwa: A Serene Oasis of Tranquility

Introduction:

Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Siwa Oasis in Egypt, Fatnas Island stands as an enchanting gem in the heart of the Sahara Desert. This secluded paradise offers a respite from the bustling world, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its serene beauty. In this article, we delve into the allure of Fatnas Island and the unique experiences it offers to visitors seeking tranquility and natural splendor.

A Natural Oasis:

Fatnas Island, also known as Geziret Fatnas, is a small, idyllic island situated in the middle of Lake Siwa, the largest saltwater lake in the Siwa Oasis. Surrounded by palm trees and shimmering blue waters, the island presents a breathtaking sight that transports visitors to a world of tranquility and natural abundance.

Lush Vegetation and Biodiversity:

Despite its location in the arid desert, Fatnas Island boasts a surprising wealth of lush vegetation. The island is adorned with verdant palm groves, olive trees, and other plant species, creating an oasis-like environment. The vegetation provides shade, a gentle breeze, and a haven for numerous bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Fatnas Spring 

Thermal Springs and Healing Waters:

Fatnas Island is home to natural thermal springs that emerge from underground reservoirs. These thermal springs offer a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the rejuvenating properties of the healing waters. The warm, mineral-rich springs provide a soothing and therapeutic experience, perfect for relaxation and revitalization.

Tranquil Retreat and Recreational Activities:

Fatnas Island serves as an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and tranquility. Visitors can explore the island's winding paths, take leisurely strolls along the shores of Lake Siwa, or simply find a shaded spot to unwind and soak in the serene atmosphere. The island also offers opportunities for boating, swimming, and picnicking, allowing visitors to connect with nature and indulge in leisurely activities.

Cultural Significance:

Fatnas Island holds cultural significance within the local community of Siwa Oasis. It is often used as a venue for traditional celebrations, festivals, and cultural events. Visitors to the island may have the chance to witness local music performances, dances, and other artistic expressions that showcase the unique heritage of the Siwan people.

Preservation and Sustainability:

Preserving the natural beauty and ecological balance of Fatnas Island is of utmost importance. Efforts are made to maintain the island's delicate ecosystem, ensuring sustainable practices and responsible tourism. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment, avoid littering, and appreciate the island's pristine surroundings.

Fatnas Island in Siwa Oasis offers a haven of tranquility, where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature's beauty. With its lush vegetation, thermal springs, and serene atmosphere, the island provides an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking peace and rejuvenation. Fatnas Island stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature, inviting us to appreciate and protect these precious oases in the desert landscape.

This fairly secluded pool is on a small island in the salty Birket Siwa, accessible across a narrow causeway. Nicknamed ‘Fantasy Island’ for its idyllic setting, the pool is about 6km from Siwa Town, and surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery. It's an idyllic place to watch the sunset, and there’s a small cafe among the palms, which is good for a spot of tea or a puff of shisha .

Old mosque of Shali Fortress in the Siwa Oasis

the Old Mosque of Shali Fortress, completed in 1203, is perched peacefully atop a small hill in Siwa Oasis, a remote village 185 miles (300 kilometers) south of the Mediterranean Sea. The location was chosen for its elevated position in case of attack from nomadic raiders. The old mosque survives today as the oldest monument built in Shali as well as the oldest mosque in the world constructed using karshif, a unique earthen material produced naturally through the calcification of earth mixed with salt from the soil. The rough, undulating texture of the façade still bears the handprints of the original builders As Shali has evolved, the mosque has remained a perpetual and unremitting symbol of the history and community of Siwa Oasis.

Devastating floods in the early and late 20th century, bombings in World War II, and modern developments in the town beginning in the 1980s have destroyed many ancient structures. Concrete has replaced the vernacular karshif building materials, threatening the historic and architectural integrity of Siwa Oasis. 

Despite its small size and state of dilapidation, the mosque remains an important symbol of the community and a place of religious rituals and celebration. Preservation of the site will help to engage the town in the karshif tradition and conserve and protect a vital icon of the region.

Abu Shuruf siwa oasis

Abu Shuruf spring

Located 20 miles east of Siwa, the Abu Shuruf spring is a source of precious water for the local villagers of Az-Zaytun, as well as being a popular swimming hole. During Roman times, a stone wall was built around an artesian spring that discharges warm water from a boulder pile in the pool’s center.

Abu Shuruf Spring which has a superbly refreshing and cool water that comes constantly from underground and is unique for swimming and perfect spot for picnic and relaxing.

Roughly 15 feet deep, Abu Shuruf spring also has a sand boil at its bottom. An underwater doorway allows water to flow into an irrigation canal , which has a solid floor and walls. The same irrigation system is used in a number of springs found in the Siwa area.

Shiatta lake .. Salt lake

Salt lakes are abundant in Siwa, and they are reputed to have therapeutic properties. The most well-known is "Al-Tibtah," which is highly salty and beneficial for sinus, skin, and eye conditions as well as being calming and offering a lovely scenery.

Shiata Lake, known for its chilly water even on the warmest days, and the Flamenco birds that live there are equally noteworthy.

Siwa Oasis will never stop fascinating you! Shiatta is a Lake in Siwa Oasis, locates Sixty kilometres west of Siwa town, this astonishing salt lake on the edge of the great sand sea. It's a stop for migratory birds like flamingos. Now, you know your next destination.

Your eyes will gaze at the natural beauty of Lake Chita while watching the birds as they path in the siwa waters will be a very overwhelming feeling.

Bir Wahed

Bir Wahed means in English "Well Number 1". Bir Wahed is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Siwa. A favorite excursion among local guides is the cold freshwater lake at Bir Wahed 15 km away on the edge of the Great Sand Sea. 

Once over the top of a high dune, you come to a hot spring, the size of a large Jacuzzi, where sulphurous water bubbles in a pool and runs off to irrigate a garden. Cooling down in the lake, and then watching the sun setting over the dunes while soaking in a hot spring, is a surreal experience.

Bir Wahid, also transliterated as Bir Waheed and as Bir Wahid, is a sulfurous hot spring, the size of a large jacuzzi on the shores of the Great Sand Sea. Cooling off in the nearby freshwater lake and watching the sun setting over the dunes is a surreal experience.

More information about Bir Wahed Siwa Oasis:

Because it’s far from town, women can wear bathing suits here without offending locals. Bir Wahed can only reached by 4WD. So if you don’t have your own, you’ll need to hire a guide and car. Permits are needed to visit Bir Wahed. The best way to see this hot spring is to leave early in the morning with plenty of water.

Underground wells are one of the most important places for medical tourism and nature is a key factor in the maintenance of these wells, and Egypt includes a variety of wells and underground springs that is effective in the treatment of an endless number of skin diseases. Healing tourism makes use of the hot sulfur water and is well-practiced in Siwa Oasis, God's Paradise in his land. You can enjoy a 3-day Siwa Oasis from Cairo at a very affordable price.

El Zeitun lake

The Zeitoun Lake, the largest salt lake in the Siwa Oasis, appears to be a mirage of the sparkling waters of any paradise beach at first glance. A lake totaling more than 12,000 hectares appears on the border of the wilderness 600 kilometers east of Cairo, on the way east from Siwa in Egypt's Western Desert. For centuries, the area has remained isolated. Even when it opened to tourism in the 1980s, it remained outside of Egypt's major tourist sites, which helped to preserve its unique and vulnerable nature.

if anyone knows anything about Siwa, it’s the Oasis’ infamous Salt Lakes that bring thousands of visitors to Zeitun Lake yearly, and especially with Egypt’s tourism on the rise. Compromised of more than 90% of salt, what doesn’t swim, floats – so you need not worry if you can’t (plus its only four meters deep).

Not only does the salinity of the lakes help you read a book floating on your back – and relax your whole being, which is actually therapeutic –  but they’re also known to have natural healing properties for the skin, sinus and eyes. This has essentially put Siwa under both the medical and recreational tourism umbrellas.

Ain el-Arais (Tamusa Spring) Siwa oasis

Siwa is rich and famous with its springs of mineral water, that’s said to have some medical benefits if you take baths in it, that’s why Siwa has a medical reputation for its sand and water. Experience the ancient Egyptian bathing and the potential healing benefits with the natural water bubbles.

The closest spring to central Siwa is Ain Al Arais, a cool, inviting waterhole with a grotto-like bottom, just five minutes’ walk from the main market square. A casual cafe-restaurant is right beside the spring.

In Siwa, you can visit the Water Springs and enjoy the water's healing properties alongside its cozy and comfortable enjoyability.

Ain Qurayshat 

Ain el-Qurayshat has many olive oil presses concentrated together, an adjacent residential zone, and a temple. Olive oil was an important commodity during the Roman Period and the crop was introduced across North Africa, and particularly Libya, at this time. The introduction of olive oil production may indicate migrants who initiated this crop and familiarized the locals with the production of olive oil as well as managed its export. The houses are mud-brick and built around large courtyards, reflecting a more Romanized plan than traditional Egyptian practices (Kuhlmann 1998), again signaling connections to the Roman Mediterranean.

Bilad el-Rum 

just north of Kharmisah, around 17km northwest of Siwa Town, the City of the Romans has about 100 tombs cut into the rock of the nearby hills and the ruins of a stone temple, among the spots rumoured to be the final resting place of Alexander the Great.

The archaeological sites in the oasis had six famous temples. Four of them were located in the east which comprised the Temples of Umm Ubaidah, Olives, Abu Shrouf, and Qasr Al Ghasham. The other two temples, the Bilad al-Rum and the Two Pillars were located in the west of Siwa Oasis. The Oracle Temple, one of the two temples dedicated to pilgrims of Amun, was situated about 4 km south of Siwa in the town of Aghourmy.

House of Siwa Museum

The House of Siwa Museum is a unique cultural institution located in the heart of the Siwa Oasis, in the Western Desert of Egypt. The museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the Siwan people, a Berber ethnic group who have lived in the oasis for thousands of years.

Maraqi is also where Liana Souvaltzi, a Greek archaeologist, claimed in 1995 to have found Alexander's tomb. Her findings proved controversial and the Egyptian authorities revoked her permit and closed the site.

This place will allow you to take a closer look at the life of the inhabitants of Siwa, their ancient clothing, jewelry, wedding dresses, musical instruments, and ancient tools; you will be surprised by how beautiful they are, and they will leave you speechless of astonishment of how beautiful the Siwan life is.

House of Siwa Museum