Plan your visit

Plan your Siwa visit

Prepare for a long journey. The drive from Cairo takes 9 to 12 hours, but the destination is highly rewarding.

Siwa Oasis

Siwa, Matrouh Governorate, Egypt

GPS 29.2032, 25.5197

Options to reach the oasis.

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Bus: West & Mid Delta Bus Company operates direct overnight and daytime services from Cairo or Alexandria to Siwa Oasis.	9-12 hours from Cairo	Budget-friendly, usually 250-400 EGP	Buses usually make a rest stop midway at the coastal city of Marsa Matrouh.
Car: Private transfers or self-driving via the Alexandria Desert Road, connecting through Marsa Matrouh.	8-10 hours from Cairo; 4 hours from Marsa Matrouh	Varies by vehicle type and fuel	The route from Marsa Matrouh to Siwa is a fully paved highway with gas stations spaced out along the way.
Tour: All-inclusive guided tour packages departing from Cairo, Alexandria, or El Alamein with private 4x4 vehicles.	Multi-day trips (3-5 days recommended)	Starting around $280-$350 per person	Convenient as they typically include accommodation, local transport, safari permits, and historic site entrance fees.

QuietModerateBusyPeak

Travel between October and April. Autumn, winter, and spring offer cooler temperatures. Avoid the summer desert heat, which can be intense.

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for town visits.
Swimsuit for the salt lakes and hot/cold natural springs.
Water shoes to protect feet from sharp, jagged salt crystals at the lakes.
Light jacket or fleece, as winter nights in the desert can get surprisingly cold.
Sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for the intense daytime desert sun.
Ample cash in Egyptian Pounds (EGP), as ATMs are limited and credit cards are rarely accepted.
Mosquito repellent, due to the many springs and agricultural areas.
Travel towel for drying off after visiting Cleopatra's Spring or the salt pools.
Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes for exploring the rocky Shali Fortress and Mountain of the Dead.

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Always carry your passport and visa.

There are multiple military and police checkpoints along the Marsa Matrouh road.

Suggested schedules to make the most of your time.

A full day exploring the town's ruins and natural pools.

08:00
Temple of the Oracle
Visit early to beat the heat and crowds.
10:00
Mountain of the Dead
Explore the rock-cut tombs from the 26th Dynasty.
13:00
Cleopatra's Spring
Swim in the freshwater pool and grab a fresh juice.
16:30
Shali Fortress
Climb the 12th-century mud-brick ruins for sunset views.

Bring modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This respects local customs in town. You will also need a swimsuit for the lakes.

Pack water shoes to protect your feet from sharp salt crystals. Bring a light jacket; desert nights get cold in winter.

Easiest way to do it

72 h 4.9 (403)

From$325per person

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

How long should I stay in Siwa Oasis?

Plan for at least 3 to 5 days. The travel time from Cairo takes up almost two full days.

What should female tourists wear in Siwa Oasis?

Conservative dress is strongly recommended. Cover your shoulders and knees in the main town. Swimsuits are acceptable at designated tourist springs.

Are there mosquitoes in Siwa Oasis?

Yes. The hundreds of freshwater springs and large agricultural areas attract mosquitoes. Bring mosquito repellent.