Cairo: Siwa Oasis & Shali Fortress All inclusive 3 days Tour
A visit to Siwa Oasis and Shali Fortress from Cairo provides a unique experience, combining the tranquility of a desert oasis with the historical richness of ancient ruins.
Overview
A visit to Siwa Oasis and Shali Fortress from Cairo offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty and historical exploration. Nestled deep in the Western Desert of Egypt, Siwa Oasis is known for its serene palm groves, natural springs, and stunning salt lakes, creating a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
Shali Fortress, located within Siwa, adds a layer of historical intrigue. Built from "kershef," a mixture of salt and clay, the fortress dates back to the 13th century and offers panoramic views of the oasis and its surroundings. Despite its partially ruined state, the fortress provides insight into the architectural ingenuity and communal life of its time.
This journey combines the tranquility of desert landscapes with the cultural richness of ancient traditions, making it a must-visit destination for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. The trip from Cairo typically involves a long drive, but the captivating scenery and unique experiences make it well worth the effort.
Day 1: Departure from Cairo to Siwa Oasis
Early Morning Departure: Start your journey from Cairo, traveling approximately 750 km (466 miles) to Siwa Oasis, a drive of 8–10 hours. A private air-conditioned vehicle or a guided tour is recommended for comfort.
Scenic Route: Travel via the Cairo-Alexandria Desert Road, the coastal road near Marsa Matrouh, and finally inland to Siwa. Enjoy views of desert landscapes, coastline, and villages.
Lunch Stop: Pause for lunch, preferably in Marsa Matrouh, to sample local cuisine and rest.
Arrival: Reach Siwa in the late afternoon or early evening. Check into an eco-lodge or guesthouse for an authentic desert stay.
Evening Leisure: Explore the local market, try traditional Siwan dishes, or relax at your accommodation.
Day 2: Exploring Siwa Oasis and Shali Fortress
Morning: Visit Shali Fortress, a 13th-century mudbrick structure that was once the heart of Siwan life. Despite its weathered state, the fortress offers captivating ruins, narrow alleys, and panoramic views of the oasis.
Photography: Sunrise or sunset visits enhance the dramatic beauty of the fortress, perfect for photos.
Evening: Optional additional exploration or relaxation at your accommodation.
Day 3: Siwa Highlights and Return to Cairo
Explore the Mountain of the Dead, a hill with rock-cut tombs from the 26th Dynasty, Ptolemaic, and Roman periods. Admire the murals and learn about ancient burial customs.
Relax by Siwa’s salt lakes, where the high salinity makes floating effortless and the surreal scenery is ideal for photography.
Lunch and Final Exploration: Enjoy a local meal, shop for handicrafts, or stroll through Siwa’s palm groves.
Return to Cairo: Depart in the early afternoon to ensure arrival in Cairo by late evening, retracing the scenic route.
Select date, participants and language
Excursion Itinerary
After welcoming you from your hotels in Cairo, our journey will begin. there will be a break for lunch on the 8-hour journey
Duration: 1 Hour
We arrived at siwa oasis, after checking in to our hotel, you can visit the bazaar as a free time, we will continue our way the next morning
2. at the end of the day, it's the last evening at our hotel. the next morning, your bags should be ready, we will return to Cairo.
Visit the Mountain of the Dead, where there are numerous rock tombs dating back to Roman times. The tombs are decorated with fascinating murals and offer insights into ancient burial practices.
Explore the salt lakes of Siwa, where the high salinity of the water makes swimming effortless. Salt formations and clear waters create a landscape that is perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
Have lunch at a local restaurant. Take some time to explore the village areas of Siwa, shop for local crafts or take a final stroll through the palm groves.
Great, at the end of 3 days, we will take you back to your hotels to say goodbye to you.
For reference only. Itineraries are subject to change.
Highlights
- ● The Siwa oasis is one of the Western Desert’s most magical areas.
- ● 10-hour drive from Cairo.
- ● Explore the Great Sand Sea by 4WD, with dune bashing, sandboarding, and a desert sunset.
- ● See salt lakes, ancient ruins, Fatnis Island, and more.
- ● Explore the tranquil Siwa Oasis and historic Shali Fortress on a desert adventure.
What's Included and What's Not?
Included
- Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Cairo to Siwa Oasis in a private, air-conditioned vehicle
- Accommodation: 1-2 nights stay in Siwa at a local eco-lodge or guesthouse
- Meals: Lunches and dinners as specified in the itinerary
- Entrance Fees: Entry tickets to Shali Fortress, Oracle Temple, Mountain of the Dead, and other sites
- Guided Tours: Professional English-speaking guide for all major sites
- Desert Safari: 4x4 desert safari with a traditional Bedouin dinner and entertainment
Not Included
- Any extra not mention in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
Not Suitable For This Activities
- ●People with mobility impairments
Not Allowed This Activities
- ●Pets
- ●Smoking in the vehicle
Important Information
What to Bring
Information Before Booking
- ●Stay in eco-lodges or guesthouses for an authentic desert experience.
- ●Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) and stay hydrated during the desert explorations.
- ●Siwa as ATMs may not be readily available in more remote areas.
- ●Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for moderate physical activity.
Know Before You Go
- ●The drive from Cairo to Siwa Oasis takes around 8-10 hours, covering 750 km (466 miles). Ensure you are comfortable with long road trips.
- ●We will make our tour with a special, air-conditioned vehicle for comfort.
- ●There is no breakfast in the morning. lunch and dinner will be provided in the places to be determined.
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