Siwa Sunset Desert Safari Sand board activity & Optional Dinner

Exploring the Siwa Sunset Desert Safari: Sandboarding, Dunes, and Desert Nights

Our review focuses on the popular Siwa Sunset Desert Safari offered by Touritos, a 6-hour adventure that promises a blend of adrenaline, natural beauty, and culture. While we haven’t personally participated, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an authentic, exciting experience perfect for those seeking adventure and scenic landscapes.

What we love about this tour is the dynamic mix of activities—from high-energy dune bashing to relaxing dips in hot springs. The guides’ expertise shines through in traveler comments, making it clear this isn’t just a cookie-cutter desert trip. Plus, the chance to enjoy traditional Siwan cuisine under a blanket of stars offers a memorable cultural touch. The only thing to consider is that the price of $80 reflects a comprehensive experience, but travelers should prepare for a full day of outdoor activities. This tour suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious to see a different side of Egypt beyond the pyramids.

Key Points

• Authentic desert adventure with dune bashing and sandboarding
• Stunning sunset views complemented by Siwan tea and snacks
• Cultural immersion with a traditional dinner cooked under the sands
• Expert guides ensure safety and enrich the experience
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

The Overview: A Day in the Western Desert’s Heart

The Siwa Sunset Desert Safari is a well-rounded outing designed to take you beyond the oasis into the rugged beauty of the Western Desert. Starting from your hotel in Siwa, a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 Land Cruise whisks you into the dunes. This isn’t just a sightseeing tour—it’s an active, engaging experience that promises plenty of thrills, scenic views, and cultural highlights.

The main attraction is the dune bashing—a term that might make adrenaline junkies smile—where expert drivers expertly navigate the high dunes, creating a rollercoaster ride over the shifting sands. Sandboarding is your chance to try your balance on the slopes, which travelers describe as both fun and surprisingly accessible, with one reviewer mentioning how it feels like you’re on another planet.

The Itinerary in Detail: What’s Included and What to Expect

Starting Point: From Your Hotel to the Desert

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Siwa hotel, usually around mid-afternoon. Once aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, the adventure begins with a direct drive into the Western Desert. This transportation setup ensures comfort after a day of exploration and keeps the focus on the scenery rather than logistics.

Dune Bashing and Sandboarding

The highlight for many is the dune bashing—a high-energy ride up and down giant dunes that feels both exhilarating and safe, given the expertise of the guides. As one reviewer expressed, “They drive you all around the desert up and down the dunes, it’s lots of fun.” If you’re into adrenaline, this part alone justifies the price.

Sandboarding follows, giving you a chance to slide down the dunes on a board—a simple but thrilling activity. Travelers say it’s surprisingly manageable even for beginners, and the experience of gliding over the sand offers that quintessential desert thrill.

Swimming at the Cold Lake and Hot Spring

After all the bouncing around, it’s time for a cool-down. The Cold Lake provides a refreshing break, perfect for dipping your toes or even a quick swim. Following that, the hot spring offers a warm, mineral-rich soak—ideal for relaxing muscles after the bashing fun. Reviewers mention that these natural water spots are a highlight, with one describing the experience as “completely spectacular.”

Sunset and Cultural Refreshments

As the sun begins to dip, the group gathers to enjoy Siwan tea, fruits, and snacks while watching the sunset over the dunes. The views are stunning—think vast, endless sands painted with warm hues—and the tea adds a comforting, authentic touch. The guide will likely share stories or insights about the desert’s significance, enriching the experience.

Desert Camp and Traditional Dinner

The evening culminates at a desert camp, where a traditional Siwan dinner is served. Unlike typical buffets, this meal is cooked under the sands, a method that locals swear imparts unique flavor. Reviewers rave about the cooked lamb, describing it as one of the best they’ve had in Egypt, emphasizing the authenticity of the experience.

After dinner, the night sky takes over. Many mention star gazing as a peaceful, almost meditative activity—perfect for reflection after an active day. The camp atmosphere offers a rustic charm, with some travelers noting that it’s a great chance to disconnect from modern life.

Return to Your Hotel

The tour wraps up with a return drive back to Siwa, usually under the stars, with a sense of having truly experienced the desert’s magic.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The $80 cost includes everything needed for the experience:

• Air-conditioned vehicle for smooth transport
• Desert safari permit, ensuring you’re legally and safely exploring
• Dinner at the desert camp, featuring a traditional Siwan meal cooked under the sands
• Snacks, fruits, and Siwan tea to enjoy during sunset
• All fees and taxes are covered

Extras like personal expenses or additional drinks are not included, and tipping is not mandatory but appreciated—a nice gesture to guides who go the extra mile.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, with one describing Magdy and Senosy as making the day “really special.” Many travelers appreciate guides who are attentive and eager to share stories, making the experience more than just a ride.

The scenery consistently impresses—giant dunes, endless sands, and starry skies. One reviewer called it “completely spectacular,” emphasizing how photogenic and surreal the landscape feels. The sand dunes are described as surprisingly cool underfoot, which is good news if you’re barefoot like some travelers.

The dinner cooked under the sands receives high praise, with one comment calling it “among the best lamb I’ve eaten in Egypt.” That authenticity adds a memorable flavor to the entire experience, blending natural surroundings with local traditions.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance—on average, this tour is booked 22 days ahead, so planning early ensures availability.
• Wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for outdoor activities and possibly cooler evenings.
• Bring sun protection—hat, sunglasses, sunscreen—especially if you’re sensitive to the sun during dune bashing.
• Camera or smartphone—you’ll want to capture the stunning sunset and starry skies.
• Prepare for a full day of activities, so carry water and light snacks if needed.
• Group sizes are usually limited, but the tour can accommodate up to 100 travelers, ensuring a lively atmosphere.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Siwa Sunset Desert Safari offers a well-rounded day packed with adventure and cultural discovery. It’s ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those wanting a taste of authentic desert life. The combination of adrenaline activities, natural thermal waters, and a traditional dinner makes it a memorable outing, especially for travelers interested in seeing the desert’s diverse landscapes.

Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a blend of thrill and tranquility will find this tour highly rewarding. It’s also a good choice for travelers who value local guides and cultural authenticity, as many reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge.

The only caveat is the physical aspect—if you’re not comfortable in outdoor environments or with bouncing rides, this might be a bit intense. However, for most, the stunning scenery, friendly guides, and unique experiences will outweigh any minor inconveniences.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Siwa, making the start of your day seamless.

What should I wear for the desert activities? Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, along with sun protection, is recommended. Many travelers prefer modest attire to respect local customs.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 6 hours, from pickup to return, allowing enough time for all activities.

Are the dune bashing and sandboarding suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but it’s best to check with the provider for age restrictions or specific safety recommendations.

What is included in the price? The price covers transportation, desert permit, activities, snacks, tea, and dinner at the desert camp.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is the dinner cooked under the sands really authentic? According to travelers, yes—it’s a traditional Siwan method that imparts a special flavor, and many say it’s among the best they’ve had.

This Siwa Sunset Desert Safari offers an engaging way to experience the Western Desert’s natural beauty, thrill, and culture—all in one memorable package. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or simply wanting to enjoy a peaceful sunset over dunes, this tour is worth considering for an authentic desert adventure.