Siwa Oasis 3-Day Private Sandboarding Safari from Cairo

Western Desert, Cairo



Private 3-day Siwa trip from Cairo, led by the Middle East's first certified sandboarding instructor. Sandboard the Great Sand Sea, float the salt lakes, soak in Bir Wahed, and sleep in a hotel.

Highlights

  • Stand at the Oracle of Amun, where Alexander the Great sought his prophecy
  • Swim in the palm-fringed pool of Cleopatra's Spring
  • Sandboard the Great Sand Sea and bathe in Bir Wahed's desert hot spring

Description

Trade the city for Egypt's remote west on a three-day escape to Siwa Oasis, near the Libyan border. Day one is the long, scenic drive from Cairo into the Western Desert, ending with a welcome dinner at your oasis hotel.

Day two dives into Siwa's history: Gebel Al Mawta (the Mountain of the Dead) and its rock-cut tombs, the Temple of the Oracle of Amun where Alexander the Great once sought his fate, a swim in the cool waters of Cleopatra's Spring, lunch in the ruins of Old Shali, and sunset over Lake Siwa from palm-covered Fatnas Island.

Day three heads into the Great Sand Sea - the salt lakes, Bir Wahed's hot sulphur spring and cold pool, and dune crossing with sandboarding timed for golden hour - before a last stop at the sandcastle ruins of Old Shali and the drive back to Cairo.

Small groups, an English-speaking guide throughout, two nights' hotel, meals as listed, entrance fees, and sandboarding equipment all included.

Includes

  • Accommodations: 2 nights' hotel/eco-lodge accommodation in Siwa (3-day), use '3 nights' for the 4-day option
  • Transportation: Round-trip transport from Cairo by private A/C vehicle
  • Transportation: 4x4 jeep for the Great Sand Sea and desert sites
  • Meals: Daily breakfast, lunches and dinners as per the itinerary
  • Activities and tickets: All entrance fees (Oracle of Amun, Mountain of the Dead, Old Shali, Cleopatra's Spring)
  • Activities and tickets: Bir Wahed hot spring & cold lake stop
  • English-speaking guide throughout
  • Sandboarding equipment
  • Bottled water during the drives

Excludes

  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Tips/gratuities for guide and driver
  • Optional extra activities
  • Travel insurance
  • Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

Important Information

  • Siwa is a remote desert oasis near the Libyan border, about 8–9 hours from Cairo, so expect long but scenic drives on travel days. Pack light layers: hot days and cool desert nights, plus a warm jacket for the Great Sand Sea. Bring comfortable closed shoes, sandals, a hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. A swimsuit and quick-dry towel are handy for Cleopatra's Spring and Bir Wahed hot spring. Carry some cash (Egyptian pounds) for souvenirs, tips and small purchases, as cards are rarely accepted in Siwa. Mobile signal and internet can be limited in the desert. Modest, respectful clothing is appreciated in the village and at religious/heritage sites. The tour involves some walking on uneven ground and sandy terrain. Please share any dietary needs, medical conditions or mobility concerns in advance so we can prepare. Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Cairo, accommodation in Siwa Oasis, guided visits to the Oracle of Amun, Gebel Al Mawta, sandboarding in the Great Sand Sea, and swimming in natural springs.
The tour provides a scenic private drive from Cairo to Siwa Oasis in the Western Desert, taking several hours through desert landscapes.
Sandboarding takes place in the Great Sand Sea, a vast desert area near Siwa Oasis known for its high dunes.
Yes, the itinerary includes swimming in natural pools like Cleopatra's Spring and Bir Wahed's desert hot spring.
The Oracle of Amun in Siwa Oasis was an ancient Egyptian temple where Alexander the Great reportedly received a prophecy about his future.
Yes, the Siwa Oasis 3-Day Private Sandboarding Safari welcomes solo travelers and offers private guiding throughout the trip.
The best time to visit is from October to April when temperatures are milder; check the tour provider for seasonal availability.
No special permits are required for tourists; the tour operator handles all necessary arrangements for the trip.
Sandboarding involves climbing dunes and sliding down, which requires moderate physical fitness but no prior experience.
Accommodation is provided in a local oasis hotel or guesthouse within Siwa Oasis, offering authentic desert lodging.

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