How to Visit Siwa Oasis Independently as a Budget Backpacker

Tucked away in the remote Western Desert and near the border with Libya, Siwa Oasis feels like a world apart and it’s a must-visit for adventurous travellers. For budget travellers and solo backpackers, it’s entirely possible to visit Siwa Oasis independently and on a budget. In this guide, we’ll share how to explore this hidden gem without the need for expensive tours.

Surrounded by vast sand dunes and salt lakes, this tranquil oasis is home to a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Steeped in ancient traditions, Siwa has been inhabited for over 4,000 years, and its unique history is woven with Egyptian, Berber, and Roman influences. The oasis is best known for its distinctive mud-brick architecture that blends harmoniously with the desert landscape, its freshwater springs, lush palm groves, and vast salt flats. Siwa remains one of Egypt’s most remarkable and remote destinations where travellers can experience a side of Egypt that few see.

How to Get to Siwa on a Budget

The only bus company that operates direct routes to Siwa is West Delta Bus, with services from both Cairo and Alexandria. If you’re departing from Alexandria as I did, you can easily find the company’s office at the bus station and buy your ticket directly there. I made the mistake of purchasing mine online through a third-party website and ended up paying €16 instead of the actual 320 EGP (around €6). Save yourself the extra cost and just buy it at the station!

Since there’s only one direct bus per day from Siwa to Cairo, I opted for a more flexible route. First, I took a public minivan to Marsa Matruh for 120 EGP (around €2.30). From there, I caught a more frequent minibus to Cairo for 225 EGP (around €4.20). This option not only saved time but also allowed for more travel flexibility.

Since Siwa is near the Libyan border, be prepared to show your passport a lot in the police checkpoints on the way to Siwa after Marsa Matruh.

How to Get Around Siwa

Since Siwa is small and compact, most of its attractions can be reached by walking, cycling, or taking a tuk-tuk. I walked to most places, but some attractions are quite far from the town centre. Tuk-tuks are a convenient option for getting around, but make sure to agree on the price before the ride to avoid overpaying. My preferred way to explore was by renting a bicycle from a guesthouse or a local shop. Cycling through the oasis, past palm groves and salt lakes, was not only budget-friendly but also a great way to take in the scenery at my own pace.

Top Things to Do in Siwa Independently

I spent four days in Siwa, simply enjoying the quiet and peacefulness, and I never once felt bored or out of things to do. The journey here is long, over 1400 km to go into the desert and back, so most travellers skip it. However, that’s exactly what makes it special.

Explore Shali Fortress

Built from locally sourced mud brick, this fortress was once the heart of Siwa’s ancient town. Its narrow, winding streets and tall, crumbling walls tell the story of a time when the fortress offered protection from invaders and harsh desert conditions. Though much of it has been eroded by time and weather, it’s still possible to climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the oasis and surrounding desert at sunset.

Wander through Siwa Town

Wander around the old town and experience the local Berber culture, visit the market, and try traditional Siwan food.

Swim in Cleopatra’s Pool

The Cleopatra Spring is a serene and picturesque natural spring nestled in the heart of Siwa Oasis. Surrounded by lush palm trees, this freshwater pool is fed by the spring’s clear, cool waters, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. According to local legend, Cleopatra herself bathed in these waters, adding an air of mystique to the site.

Temple of Oracle

The Temple of the Oracle of Amun was once a sacred place of worship dedicated to the god Amun. The temple is best known for its connection to Alexander the Great, who visited in 332 BCE to seek guidance from the oracle. It is said that the oracle declared him the son of Amun, a prophecy that greatly influenced his sense of destiny and his subsequent rise to power.

Float in Siwa’s Salt Pools

The salt pools of Siwa Oasis are man-made during salt mining which then is filled with the water from underground springs. The salt deposits along the edges of the pools give them a unique, white, crystalline appearance, making them particularly photogenic. Locals have used the pools for centuries, both for their salt production and for their therapeutic properties, as the mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing benefits for the skin. Visitors to the salt pools can enjoy a refreshing dip, float effortlessly in the buoyant water, and marvel at the beauty of the salt-encrusted surroundings, making it an unforgettable experience in Siwa’s desert landscape.

Sunset in Fatnas Island

Fatnas Island, also known as Fantasy Island, is a small, picturesque oasis set on the tranquil shores of Lake Siwa, just a short bike ride from Siwa town. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and overlooking the saltwater lake, it’s one of the best places in Siwa to watch the sunset. There are small cafes on the island which serve traditional Siwan tea and fresh juices, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Visit Gebel al-Mawta (Mountain of the Dead)

This archaeological site, located just outside the main town, is an ancient necropolis, home to hundreds of tombs carved into the mountain’s limestone cliffs. The tombs, which vary in size and style, are decorated with intriguing wall paintings and inscriptions that offer glimpses into the spiritual beliefs and practices of the time.

Other Things to Do in Siwa

There are plenty of other activities and excursions to enjoy in Siwa Oasis, with the most popular being the desert tours into the Great Sand Sea. These tours typically include sandboarding down towering dunes, visiting the cold and hot springs hidden in the desert, and watching the sunset from breathtaking viewpoints. Many tours also stop at the fossilized seashells, remnants of an ancient ocean that once covered this region. While most guesthouses and local guides offer these tours, it’s also possible to arrange a private trip for a more personalised experience.

Where to Stay

Siwa offers a variety of picturesque accommodations to suit all budgets, from budget-friendly guesthouses to charming ecolodges. As a backpacker, I stayed at Olive Garden House Siwa, which I highly recommend. Tucked away from the bustle of the town, it truly felt like an oasis within the oasis. The courtyard is a lush garden filled with vibrant flowers, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The family that owns it was incredibly hospitable and welcoming, making my stay feel more like a home than just accommodation.

Where to Eat

There are plenty of places to eat in the centre of Siwa, including charming cafés serving fresh fruit juices and local specialities. For a delicious and budget-friendly meal, I highly recommend Koshary Karim, where I enjoyed a hearty and affordable plate of koshary, Egypt’s beloved street food.

If you’re in the mood for something more refined, Tekeyet Elamir Restaurant & Café is an excellent choice. It stands out from other restaurants in Siwa with its beautifully designed interior, where the floor is uniquely made of salt, blending perfectly with the oasis’s natural aesthetic. The menu offers a variety of breakfast dishes, hearty meals, fresh juices, and desserts, and they even have a proper espresso machine—a rare find in Siwa. I definitely recommend trying one of their tagines, which are cooked to perfection. The restaurant also houses a small museum dedicated to Siwa’s history, making it a fantastic spot to enjoy a meal while learning more about the oasis’s rich heritage.

Budget Breakdown & Costs

Siwa is surprisingly budget-friendly, possibly due to its location off the typical tourist trail. Unlike more popular destinations like Luxor or Aswan, where accommodation and food can be basic yet expensive, Siwa offers better quality for a much more reasonable price. What stood out to me most was that I didn’t feel the need to negotiate prices constantly or worry about being overcharged. Whether you’re looking for affordable guesthouses, delicious local meals, or inexpensive transport options, you can experience the oasis without spending a fortune.

Also, most of the main attractions in Siwa, such as Shali Fortress, the Salt Pools, and Cleopatra’s Pool, are free of charge. Here are some examples of my costs during my visit in February 2025:

Siwa is a cash-based economy, and ATMs are limited (only a couple exist in town, and they don’t always work). It’s best to withdraw enough cash before arriving in Siwa, either in Cairo or Marsa Matruh.

Essential Travel Tips

Best time to visit

Siwa experiences extreme desert temperatures, so the best time to visit is between October and April, when daytime temperatures are pleasant and evenings are cool. Summers can be scorching which makes outdoor exploration uncomfortable. If you visit in winter like me, be prepared for really pleasant temperatures during the day but very chilly nights.

Cultural Considerations

Siwa is one of the most traditional and conservative regions in Egypt. Most local women wear burqas or niqabs, covering their entire faces. As a female traveler, you’ll naturally attract some attention, so it’s best to dress as modestly as possible, covering your shoulders and knees. While a headscarf is not required, wearing loose-fitting clothing is both respectful and helps ensure a more comfortable experience. Men should also dress conservatively, as wearing shorts is uncommon among locals.

Safety

As a solo female traveler, I felt extremely safe in Siwa. I walked everywhere, even after dark, without any issues. The locals were incredibly friendly and welcoming, and children would often run up to me, excitedly shouting “hello“ multiple times. While you will naturally stand out as a foreigner and may get some curious stares, it never felt uncomfortable or unsafe, just genuine interest.

Final Thoughts & Personal Experience

After the chaos and intensity of other places in Egypt, I originally planned to visit Siwa for just a couple of days, but I kept extending my stay. The peaceful atmosphere of my oasis guesthouse, the delicious food, and the endless fascinating places to explore made it incredibly hard to leave.

In fact, Siwa was my favourite place in all of Egypt – crazy, right? Unlike anywhere else in the country, Siwa felt genuinely relaxing. No scammers, no pushy vendors, and the best part: barely any tourists. Without the usual crowds, there was no hassle – just warmth, kindness, and authenticity. It was the only place in Egypt where I truly felt the hospitality of the locals without the sense that they were expecting something in return.

Beyond the friendly people, Siwa’s raw beauty was unforgettable. The otherworldly salt pools, endless sand dunes, ancient ruins, and serene desert sunsets made it feel like a place frozen in time. The journey to get there may be long and remote, but I’d return in a heartbeat. Siwa is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave. I’d urge everyone to go there before its authenticity gets ruined with mass tourism.

Want to Continue to Explore Egypt Independently?

If you’re planning a solo adventure across Egypt and want more tips, itineraries, and budget travel advice, check out my How to Backpack Egypt Independently: A Budget Travel Guide. This comprehensive guide includes all the information you need to travel Egypt on your own, from must-see sites to tips on getting around on a budget. Whether you’re exploring the Pyramids in Giza, trekking through the Sinai Peninsula, or relaxing in Aswan, this guide will help you make the most of your Egyptian adventure.