Name: egypt tour packages
Price range: $

Details
Photos

4-Day Alexandria and Siwa Oasis tour from Cairo

4-Day Alexandria and Siwa Oasis Adventure from Cairo: Overview

This 4-Day Alexandria and Siwa Oasis tour from Cairo is an extraordinary journey that swiftly transitions you from the bustling energy of the capital to the timeless tranquility of Egypt’s Western Desert. It’s a perfect blend of ancient coastal history and remote oasis exploration, designed for travelers seeking both cultural depth and rugged adventure.

The trip typically begins with a drive from Cairo to the Mediterranean port city of Alexandria, allowing you to explore Greco-Roman history. Must-see attractions include the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, the towering Pompey’s Pillar, and the majestic Citadel of Qaitbay. This quick coastal immersion sets the stage before heading deep into the Western Desert.

The majority of the adventure is dedicated to the mystical Siwa Oasis, a true desert paradise. Here, you’ll discover the unique Amazigh culture and iconic natural wonders. Key historical sites include the ruins of the Shali Fortress (built from local kershef—salt and mud-brick) and the legendary Temple of the Oracle, famously visited by Alexander the Great.

The Siwa experience is defined by nature: floating effortlessly in the high-salinity Siwa Salt Lakes, soaking in the warm waters of Cleopatra’s Spring, and, most thrillingly, an exhilarating 4×4 desert safari into the vast Great Sand Sea.

This tour offers a profound contrast between the Mediterranean’s heritage and the desert’s untouched, healing serenity, culminating in a reflective drive back to Cairo. It’s an unforgettable escape into the heart of Egypt’s most captivating landscapes.

Details

Duration: 4 Days /3 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

The Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa
The Library of Alexandria
Pompei Pillar
The Citadel of Sultan Qaitbay
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 Alexandr hotel accommodation on a B/B basis
2-night Siwa hotel accommodations on a Half board 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: Cairo to Alexandria – Greco-Roman Heritage and Coastal Gems

Your immersive 4-day Alexandria and Siwa Oasis tour begins with an early morning transfer from Cairo to the coastal metropolis of Alexandria, the “Pearl of the Mediterranean.”

The full day is dedicated to exploring the city’s extraordinary Greco-Roman and historical landmarks. First, visit the massive Pompey’s Pillar (also known as Diocletian’s Column), the largest standing Roman victory column in Egypt, located amid the ancient ruins of the Serapeum.

Next, descend into multi-level underground burial complex of the Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages, famous for its fascinating fusion of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artistic styles.

Enjoy a delicious traditional Egyptian lunch at a highly-rated local restaurant, often featuring fresh seafood on the Mediterranean waterfront.

The afternoon features a stop at the modern architectural masterpiece, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Alexandria Library), a stunning cultural hub and a tribute to the great ancient library.

Conclude the day with an exterior viewing of the magnificent Qaitbay Citadel (Fort Qaitbay), a 15th-century Mamluk fortress strategically built on the precise site of the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria (Pharos), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Check in for your overnight stay at a comfortable Alexandria hotel after a rewarding day of history and culture.

Meals: breakfast, lunch

Day 2: Alexandria, El Alamein History, and Desert Arrival at Siwa Oasis

After enjoying breakfast at your Alexandria hotel, check out and begin the significant drive west, traveling from the Mediterranean coast to the depths of the Western Desert.

Your first stop is the historically pivotal site of El Alamein, home to the famous World War II battles. You will visit the poignant El Alamein War Museum (or El Alamein Military Museum), a crucial landmark detailing the decisive North African campaigns between Allied and Axis forces, offering deep historical insight into the conflict.

Following the museum, you’ll pay respects at the nearby somber El Alamein War Cemetery (Commonwealth War Graves), a meticulously maintained final resting place for thousands of soldiers.

The visit continues to the beautifully unique German War Memorial and the distinguished Italian Memorial, each commemorating the fallen from their respective nations.

A satisfying lunch is provided en route as you undertake the long but increasingly scenic journey across the desert plains.

This desert drive leads you directly to the legendary Siwa Oasis, a remarkable cultural and natural haven.

Upon arrival, your first Siwa attractions experience awaits: heading to Fatnas Lake (often referred to as Fantasy Island) to capture the magical and world-renowned Siwa Oasis sunset, a spectacular moment of tranquility over the palm groves and saltwater.

Conclude the day with a traditional dinner and an authentic overnight stay at the unique and sustainable Ghaliet Ecolodge (or similar quality Siwan accommodation), immersing you in the oasis’s distinct, unplugged environment.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3: Immersive Siwa Oasis Adventure

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a tasty breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day of historical wonder and high-octane desert adventure in the heart of the Siwa Oasis.

Alexander the Great Temple

Your journey into history begins at the legendary Alexander the Great Temple, also widely known as the Temple of the Oracle of Amun in Aghurmi. This site is famous for the visit of Alexander the Great in 331 BCE, who journeyed across the Western Desert to consult the powerful Oracle.

The priests of Amun (the ancient Egyptian equivalent of Zeus) confirmed his divine status as the “Son of Amun,” which was crucial for legitimizing his rule over Egypt. Explore the captivating ruins and feel the echoes of ancient prophecy at this paramount Egyptian historical site.

Then drive to the salty lake

Next, drive out to experience one of Siwa’s most spectacular natural wonders: the Siwa Salt Lakes. These crystal-clear turquoise water pools are renowned for their extraordinarily high salt concentration, allowing you to effortlessly float on the surface, similar to the experience of the Dead Sea.

Visitors seek out these mineral-rich waters for their acclaimed therapeutic properties for skin conditions and muscle aches, offering a unique blend of relaxation and holistic wellness in a stunning desert setting.

Cleopatra’s bath

Continue your refreshing tour with a visit to Cleopatra’s Bath, also known locally as Ain Juba or Ain al Hammam. This tranquil natural spring is one of the most famous in the oasis, filling a stone pool with warm waters that maintain a comfortable, constant temperature.

According to ancient legends, the legendary Queen Cleopatra VII herself bathed in this very spring. It is the perfect spot for a rejuvenating dip and some beautiful photography amidst the palm groves.

Temple of Umm Ubaydah or Amun temple

Conclude your morning historical exploration at the ruins of the Temple of Umm Ubaydah or Amun temple, located near the Oracle Temple. While often connected to the Oracle site, this is the main ruin complex dedicated to the Egyptian god Amun.

Though much of its artwork and inscriptions have faded due to erosion, you can still grasp the scale and significance of this major religious center, which was a beacon of influence in the ancient world, drawing pilgrims from across the Mediterranean.

Local lunch at a Siwan Restaurant

Enjoy a much-deserved local lunch at an authentic Siwan Restaurant. Indulge in the traditional cuisine of the Siwan people, often featuring delicious, slow-cooked tagines, local dates, and the region’s famous olive products. This is an essential cultural experience to taste the distinct flavors of the Western Desert oasis.

Jeep 4×4 safari into the vast Great Sand Sea.

The afternoon brings an adrenaline-pumping Jeep 4×4 safari deep into the vast Great Sand Sea, a breathtaking expanse of the Sahara Desert. An experienced local guide will take you on a thrilling 4×4 expedition over massive, towering dunes and shifting sand formations. This desert adventure showcases the monumental scale and solitude of Egypt’s Western Desert, leading you to an unparalleled location for the next activity.

Sandboarding

During your safari, you will stop at some of the colossal dunes for an unforgettable sandboarding adventure. Siwa is famed for having some of the best dune surfing locations in the world. Strap in and glide down the steep, golden slopes, an exhilarating activity that offers spectacular views of the unending Great Sand Sea panorama.

Traditional Bedouin tea ceremony

As the sun begins its dramatic descent over the dunes, you will be treated to a traditional Bedouin tea ceremony. Gather around with your guides to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of Bedouin culture while sipping on sweet tea, a perfect, serene contrast to the day’s high-energy activities. This tranquil moment provides a chance to witness an unforgettable desert sunset.

Back to hotel

Finally, your 4×4 expedition will bring you safely back to the hotel for the night, concluding your incredible, adventure-filled day.

Day 4: Siwa Historical Landmarks and Reflective Journey to Cairo

Your final morning in the remarkable Siwa Oasis is dedicated to visiting its most iconic historical landmarks before embarking on the long journey back to the capital.

Your first stop is the towering Shali Fortress (or Shali Ghadi), the symbolic heart of Siwa. Explore the fascinating ruins of this 13th-century mud-brick city, which was constructed using kershef (a mixture of salt, mud, and rock).

The crumbling ancient fortress offers spectacular panoramic views across the palm groves and the modern town, providing incredible photo opportunities and insight into the resilient Siwan architecture and communal life.

Next, visit Gebel Al – Mawta (Mountain of the Dead), a distinctive conical hill used as a vast Roman-era necropolis. Here, you will descend to view several important tombs, including the famed and beautifully preserved Tomb of Si Amun, known for its vibrant and rare Greco-Roman murals and Egyptian funerary art.

After concluding your final Siwan sightseeing, you will begin the lengthy, but reflective, desert drive from Siwa to Cairo.

A final lunch en route is provided, allowing you to reflect on your extraordinary 4-day Alexandria and Siwa Oasis adventure. In fact, this tour contrasting the quiet serenity of the desert with the bustling energy awaiting you back in Cairo.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner