3-day Siwa Oasis and Alexandria trip from Cairo

3-day Siwa Oasis and Alexandria trip from Cairo

Cairo to Siwa Oasis & Alexandria: A 3-Day Journey Overview

This 3-day Siwa Oasis and Alexandria trip from Cairo is an unforgettable adventure. It seamlessly blends ancient Egyptian history with the unparalleled tranquility of the Western Desert. It’s the perfect escape for travelers seeking both cultural depth and natural wonders.

The journey begins with a scenic drive, often including a historical stop at El Alamein—a significant WWII site. Then, it heads deep into the Western Desert toward the remote Siwa Oasis.

Here, you’ll step into a world built from kershef (mud-brick and salt), dominated by the iconic ruins of the Shali Fortress. The Siwan portion focuses on relaxation and natural healing.

You will float effortlessly in the turquoise-blue Siwa Salt Lakes, which share properties with the Dead Sea. Additionally, you can take a dip in the legendary Cleopatra’s Bath natural spring.

You’ll also delve into ancient history at the Temple of the Oracle of Amun, famously visited by Alexander the Great.

The itinerary culminates in Alexandria, the Mediterranean’s “Pearl,” where you trade desert silence for vibrant coastal energy. Key highlights include visiting the imposing Citadel of Qaitbay, standing guard where the ancient Pharos Lighthouse once towered. You’ll also explore the fascinating Greco-Roman sites like the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. This tour offers a compelling contrast, moving from the pristine desert landscape of Siwa to the rich, maritime heritage of Alexandria. It is all packed into three days of non-stop exploration.

Details

Duration: 3 Days /2 Nights Trip from Cairo
Tour Type: Private
Availability: Every day
Group Size: from 1 to 8
Languages: Expert archeologist speaks fluent English
Schedule: Booking Online
Pickup & Drop Off: Cairo Hotels

Highlights

El Alamein Museum
El Alamein War Cemetery
German War Memorial
Salty lake
Cleopatra’s bath
Mountain of the Dead
Temple of the Oracl
Shali Fortress

Inclusions

Round transfer with modern A/C cars Cairo to Siwa and back
An expert tour guide speaks English
1-night Siwa hotel accommodations on a Half board basis
1 night Alexandr hotel accommodation on a B/B basis
Lunch at Local restaurant
Water and Snacks
Entry fees for all sights in the program
Taxes and Services

Exclusions

Personal expenses
Alcoholic drinks
Tips

What to bring with you?

Passports
Hat, Scarf
sunglasses & suncream
swimming suits
Heavy clothes in winter

Day 1: From Cairo’s Rush to Siwa’s Oasis Tranquility

Your 3-day Siwa Oasis adventure kicks off bright and early around 05.00 am with breakfast boxes as we leave the hustle of Cairo behind, heading west on a journey that bridges modern life with deep history.

Our first significant stop is El Alamein, a name synonymous with one of the most pivotal battles of World War II. This isn’t just a rest stop; it’s a poignant moment to connect with global history.

We’ll start at the El Alamein Museum, where exhibits tell the powerful story of the battle, showcasing weapons, uniforms, and strategic maps.

Following this, the quiet, somber beauty of the El Alamein War Cemetery offers a chance for reflection. Here, thousands of Allied soldiers are laid to rest, their sacrifice marked by rows of simple white stones.

Also, we’ll visit the contrasting yet equally moving German War Memorial. It’s perched on a ridge overlooking the sea and offers stunning views and a different perspective on the conflict.

After absorbing this history, we’ll get back on the road toward the Mediterranean coast and Marsa Matrouh. We will enjoy a welcome lunch en route to recharge. As the day progresses, the scenery changes dramatically, and the land opens up as we drive deeper into the Western Desert.

The magical Siwa Oasis

We arrive in time for one of Siwa’s iconic sights: catching the sunset at Fatnas Lake, also known as Fantasy Island. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting incredible colors over the still Salt Lake and the palms, is the perfect, calming introduction to the oasis.

Finally, we’ll check into the unique and serene Ghaliet Ecolodge for the night. This stay offers a genuine taste of Siwan hospitality and sustainable living.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 2: Siwan History, Natural Springs, and the Road to Alexandria

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel then explore the rich ancient history and stunning natural landmarks that make Siwa Oasis truly unique.

Our historical deep dive begins at the globally renowned Temple of the Oracle (Temple of Amun). This is a place of powerful myth, famously visited by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE to confirm his divine lineage. Wandering among these stone ruins, you can feel the weight of this ancient consultation that shaped a world empire.

Next, we swap history for relaxation at Cleopatra’s Bath, a gorgeous natural stone spring pool surrounded by palm trees. This crystal-clear water is perfect for a refreshing dip, living up to its legendary name. It is said to be a spot where the famous queen may have bathed. The spring’s consistently comfortable temperature makes it a delightful stop, offering a moment of genuine Siwa tranquility.

No visit to Siwa is complete without exploring the spectacular Shali Fortress. Dominating the town skyline, these incredible ruins—built from kershef, a mixture of mud, salt, and rock—once housed the entire community. Climbing the ancient steps offers incredible panoramic views across the oasis’s palm groves and salt lakes. It is a perfect spot for photos and reflecting on Siwa’s resilient heritage.

After soaking up the last of the oasis’s atmosphere, it’s time for the final leg of the day: the transfer to Alexandria. We leave the quiet desert roads behind, driving back toward the coast and the vibrant, historic energy of Egypt’s second-largest city. Upon arrival in Alexandria, you will check into your hotel, ready for the final day’s coastal exploration.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

3-day Siwa Oasis and Alexandria trip from Cairo

Day 3: Alexandria’s Coastal Treasures and Return to Cairo

Explore the rich Greco-Roman and maritime history of Alexandria, the legendary city founded by Alexander the Great. Complete the journey back to Cairo.

We kick off our historical tour at the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa. This incredible archaeological site is one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages and the largest Roman burial ground in Egypt. It dates back to the 2nd century AD.

Descending through three levels carved into the rock, you’ll witness a fascinating blend of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic styles, including the remarkable funerary banquet hall.

Next up is the striking Pompey’s Pillar, a massive 25-meter-high granite column that stands proudly amidst the ruins of the ancient Serapeum Temple. Erected in honor of Emperor Diocletian in the 3rd century AD, this is a prime example of Roman monumental architecture and a significant landmark marking the heart of old Alexandria.

From the classical ruins, we move to the seafront to visit the powerful Citadel of Sultan Qaitbay. This impressive 15th-century fortress stands guard on the exact spot of the magnificent ancient Pharos Lighthouse. This lighthouse was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Exploring the citadel offers incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea and insights into Egypt’s medieval coastal defenses.

Bibliotheca Alexandrina

After exploring these historic sites, we’ll stop for lunch in Alexandria. Our final scheduled stop is the modern architectural marvel, the Alexandria Library (Bibliotheca Alexandrina). This striking, modern structure serves as a commemoration of the Great Library of Alexandria. It provides a powerful link between the city’s ancient academic past and its vibrant intellectual present. We’ll take time to admire its unique design and grand scale.

With our exploration complete, we begin the final part of our adventure: the drive back to Cairo. You’ll be transferred directly to your drop-off point, concluding your action-packed 3-day journey. This journey transitioned smoothly from the historical battlefield of El Alamein to the stunning tranquility of the Siwa Oasis. Finally, explore the coastal heritage of Alexandria.

Meals: breakfast, lunch.