4 days tour package to Siwa oasis from Cairo

Traveling to Egypt’s Siwa Oasis is a journey into a land where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly. This 4-day tour, operated by Marsa Alam Tours, promises an immersive experience that covers iconic sites, natural wonders, and desert adventures. With a reputation for excellent reviews and a comprehensive itinerary, this tour stands out as a memorable way to explore one of Egypt’s most unique destinations.

What we love about this tour is its perfect balance of historical insights, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic experiences, all wrapped in a well-organized package. The inclusion of key sites like the Temple of the Oracle, Fatnas Lake, and Gebel Al Dakrur makes it a rich cultural journey. Plus, the opportunity to explore the Great Sand Sea in a 4×4 and enjoy glamping under the stars adds a special adventure vibe. The tour also offers the chance to visit El Alamein’s WWII memorials, which adds an interesting historical layer.

One thing to keep in mind is the long drives involved—total travel time from Cairo to Siwa is around 8 hours each way—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy road trips and don’t mind some long hours on the road. Despite this, the experiences along the way, especially the stop at El Alamein, add depth and context to your journey.

This tour will suit adventure seekers, history buffs, culture lovers, and anyone eager to see Egypt’s lesser-known treasures. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a well-rounded, authentic experience with knowledgeable guides and a taste of desert life.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary: Combines historical sites, natural wonders, and desert adventures.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of each site.
• Authentic experiences: From hot springs to sandboarding, offering memorable activities.
• Long drives: Be prepared for extended travel times but enjoy scenic stops along the way.
• Good value: The itinerary covers many highlights at a competitive price.
• Comfort options: Includes camping in traditional tents or relaxing accommodations in Siwa.

An In-Depth Look at the Siwa Oasis Tour

Getting Started: What’s Included?

This 4-day package costs around $1,045.71 per person, which, considering the extensive itinerary and inclusions, offers solid value. The tour features pickup from Cairo, group discounts, and a mobile ticket, making it convenient. It’s a private tour for your group only, allowing for a more personalized experience. The reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, especially highlighting Wael and Khaled for their expertise and friendly approach.

Day 1: A Journey Through History and Nature

The adventure kicks off early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Cairo or Giza at 5:00 am. Expect a 3-hour drive to El Alamein, with a brief coffee stop en route, which is perfect for stretching legs after a long car ride.

Once at El Alamein, you’ll explore key WWII memorial sites like the War Museum, British, German, and Italian cemeteries. Reviewers mention that the War Museum is small but packed with uniforms, weapons, photographs, and battlefield memorabilia. The War Cemeteries are beautifully maintained, and the stories behind these memorials—highlighting the fierce battles fought here—add a poignant touch.

At Fatnas Lake, you’ll enjoy spectacular sunset views. The lake’s small island and surrounding gardens are ideal for photos, and the lush trees, including banana and olive trees, provide a peaceful environment before heading to Siwa. Dinner in Siwa at a local restaurant offers a taste of traditional cuisine, and accommodation at Ghaliet EcoLodge—built among palm trees—sets the scene for a restful night immersed in nature.

Day 2: Exploring Siwa’s Ancient and Natural Wonders

The second day begins with a breakfast at your hotel before heading out at 7:00 am for a full day of exploration. The Temple of the Oracle of Amun, also known as the Alexander the Great Temple, is your first stop. This site is believed to be where Alexander sought confirmation of his divine parentage. The temple’s hilltop location promises stunning views of Siwa’s salt flats and lush vegetation—a photographer’s dream.

Next, you’ll visit the salty Lake Siwa, famous for its hyper-salinity—similar to the Dead Sea—allowing you to float effortlessly. Reviewers loved swimming here, noting that it’s a fantastic way to relax and enjoy the healing properties of the mineral-rich waters.

Following that, you’ll visit Cleopatra’s Pool, a legendary spring where ancient travelers and Cleopatra herself reputedly swam. The spring’s warm waters are perfect for relaxing and taking in the desert surroundings.

The afternoon involves a visit to Umm Ubaydah Temple, a nearly destroyed structure built by Pharaoh Nectanebo, which adds an element of archaeological intrigue. The day wraps up with lunch in a local Siwa restaurant and a thrilling sandboarding session in the Great Sand Sea—an activity acclaimed by reviewers as Egypt’s best sand dunes for boarding.

Afterward, you’ll experience secluded freshwater lakes and Bir Wahed hot springs, ideal for unwinding. As the sun sets, enjoy Bedouin tea and then camp overnight in high-quality Lotus Bell tents in Al Nyhaya. The tents, equipped with mattresses, mosquito nets, and heating options, promise comfort amid the desert landscape.

Day 3: History and Culture in Siwa

The third day kicks off with breakfast at the camp, then a return to Siwa town to visit Shali Fortress—a mud-brick structure built centuries ago, which has endured harsh weather thanks to the salt-rich materials used in its construction. Reviewer highlights mention the fortress as a fascinating maze of narrow alleys, representative of traditional oasis living.

Next, the Mountain of the Dead reveals tombs from different eras—Ptolemaic, Roman, and 26th Dynasty—cut into the side of a conical mountain. The Gebel Al Mawta tomb, with its detailed paintings and the statue of goddess Nut, showcased in reviews as the most beautiful in Siwa.

The afternoon offers a relaxing half-day at Ali Khaled Camp, set on Dakrur Mountain. Visitors enjoy hammocks, hot springs, and a plunge pool, with many reviewers mentioning the hiking up Dakrur Mountain for its healing sand baths and sunset views. This balance of history, nature, and leisure makes for a well-rounded day.

Day 4: The Return Journey via Marsa Matrouh

On the final day, after breakfast, your journey back to Cairo commences. En route, you’ll stop at Marsa Matrouh, famous for its white sandy beaches and clear waters. Several reviews mention Cleopatra’s legendary baths here, adding a splash of myth and history to the coastal stop.

The 6-hour drive allows for reflection on the trip’s highlights and captures the scenic beauty of Egypt’s Mediterranean coast. Though the journey is lengthy, the stops and the story-rich sites make it well worth the travel time.

Authenticity and Value

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about feeling connected to Egypt’s lesser-explored corners. The guides’ expertise shines through, with reviewers emphasizing their knowledge and friendly manner—especially noting Wael and Khaled for their stories and local insights.

The value for money is notable when you consider both the extensive itinerary and the inclusions like hot springs, sandboarding, and camping. The accommodation in high-quality Lotus Bell tents offers a comfortable taste of desert life, versus more standard hotel stays. Many travelers appreciated the authentic food experiences and the chance to see peaceful, natural sites away from the hustle of Egypt’s more touristy areas.

The long drives are a trade-off; the trip involves around 8 hours of travel each way, but the scenery, stops, and historical sites make it manageable and even enjoyable. Reviewers mention the scenic stops and well-maintained transport which help break up the journey.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is a private experience, meaning your group gets personalized attention.
• It’s suitable for adventure lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking authentic moments.
• Meals and camping are included, letting you fully experience the local environment without extra costs.
• The early start and long days mean packing comfortable clothes and being prepared for some fatigue.
• The weather can influence the experience, with some reviews noting the importance of good weather for the best experience.

The Sum Up

This 4-day tour to Siwa Oasis offers a comprehensive, well-organized exploration of Egypt’s hidden gem. With a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and desert camping, it promises an authentic adventure that goes beyond the typical tourist trail.

If you’re craving cultural richness, scenic landscapes, and adventure activities like sandboarding and hot springs, this tour ticks all those boxes. The knowledgeable guides, high-quality accommodations, and thoughtful itinerary make it stand out for travelers eager for a true taste of Siwa.

While the long drives might not suit everyone, the overall experience—the stunning views, the historical insights, and the peaceful desert nights—make it a journey worth undertaking. Suitable for adventurers, history buffs, and nature lovers, it’s a chance to see Egypt through a different lens—one of tranquility, legend, and unspoiled beauty.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from your Cairo or Giza hotel is included, making the start of your adventure smooth and hassle-free.

How long is the trip from Cairo to Siwa?
The drive takes approximately 8 hours, with a stop at El Alamein for sightseeing en route.

What historical sites are included in the tour?
You’ll visit the Temple of the Oracle of Amun, Shali Fortress, and Gebel Al Mawta tombs—each with its unique story and archaeological significance.

Are meals included in the package?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with special emphasis on local cuisine and traditional dishes.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay in high-quality Lotus Bell tents designed for comfort, with mosquito nets, heating options, and shared facilities.

Is camping part of the experience?
Yes, one night is spent camping in the desert at Al Nyhaya, with options to enjoy a night under the stars.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is private, allowing for some customization, especially regarding activities like sandboarding or relaxing in hot springs.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some walking and outdoor activities, but no extreme physical exertion is required. Be prepared for some long drives.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, hats, swimwear for lake swimming, and a camera for capturing breathtaking moments.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention solo travelers feeling well cared for and enjoying the personalized attention.

To sum it up, this 4-day Siwa Oasis tour balances history, nature, and adventure, providing an authentic Egyptian experience that’s hard to match. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or seeking a peaceful escape, it offers a memorable, well-rounded journey into Egypt’s desert treasure.