In short
- Hypersaline water provides extreme natural buoyancy.
- Water shoes are required to walk on jagged salt crystals.
- Splashing causes severe eye burning; keep your head above water.
In this article
The Siwa salt lakes are hypersaline pools scattered across the desert. They feature vivid turquoise water and a high salt concentration that makes sinking impossible. Floating here feels similar to swimming in the Dead Sea.
Why do you float in the Siwa salt lakes?
You float because the water has a massive salt concentration, creating high density and extreme buoyancy.
The intense salt levels make the water much denser than the human body. As a result, you stay at the surface without paddling or treading water. The pools are highly buoyant, allowing you to lie flat on your back and float effortlessly.
What are the rules for swimming?
You must avoid splashing water into your eyes and stay out if you have fresh cuts or recently shaved skin.
The extreme salinity will cause severe burning in your eyes. Move slowly to keep the water still. Open wounds, scratches, or newly shaved skin will sting immediately upon contact with the water.
What should I wear to the salt lakes?
Wear a standard swimsuit and sturdy water shoes to protect your feet from sharp salt edges.
While conservative dress is strongly recommended in Siwa town, swimsuits are acceptable at the designated tourist lakes. Water shoes are essential because the pool bottoms consist of jagged salt crystals that easily cut bare feet.
What should I pack for the swim?
Bring a travel towel, fresh water to rinse off, sunscreen, and local cash.
- Water shoes: Prevents foot cuts from the salt rock.
- Travel towel: Necessary for drying off quickly.
- Sunscreen: Protects from the intense daytime desert sun.
- Cash: Carry Egyptian Pounds (EGP), as credit cards are rarely accepted.
What should I do immediately after floating?
Rinse off at a nearby natural freshwater spring to remove the heavy salt residue from your skin.
Siwa Oasis has hundreds of natural freshwater springs. Plan to visit one right after your float. The salt dries quickly in the desert heat, leaving a thick white crust on your skin and swimsuit.
How much time is needed at the lakes?
Plan for 1 to 2 hours at the Siwa Salt Lakes.
This gives you enough time to float in the pools, take photos, and dry off. The intense sun and extreme salt mean most visitors only stay in the water for 15 to 30 minutes at a time.
Questions travellers ask
Can I dunk my head in the Siwa salt lakes?
No, you should never dunk your head. Getting the highly concentrated salt water in your eyes causes severe pain and burning.
Do I need an entry ticket for the salt lakes?
Access to the general salt lakes is free. Entry tickets are usually only required for specific historical sites like the Temple of the Oracle and Shali Fortress.
Are there mosquitoes near the salt lakes?
Yes, mosquitoes are common in Siwa due to the many springs and agricultural areas. Pack mosquito repellent for your visit.
