Exploring Egypt's Magical Oasis of Siwa and its Healing Salt Lakes

Exploring the Magical Oasis of Siwa in Egypt

Hidden deep in Egypt's Western Desert lies the stunning oasis of Siwa, one of the country's best kept secrets. About 300 miles from bustling Cairo, Siwa feels like it's worlds away with its laidback vibe and natural wonders unlike anywhere else in Egypt.

Dotted with hundreds of freshwater springs, Siwa is home to numerous lakes that make this desert oasis so lush. At the heart of the oasis lie three main salt lakes - Lake Maraki, Lake Zeitoun and Lake Siwa, each with their own unique characteristics.

Lake Maraki - The Popular Picnic Spot

The largest and most visited of Siwa's salt lakes is Lake Maraki. Measuring about 2 miles long and half a mile wide, this serene lake has water that's an incredible shade of turquoise that seems to glow under the North African sun. The contrast of the vivid water against the desert landscape is stunning.

Thanks to its proximity to town, Lake Maraki is the go-to spot for swimming, kayaking and lazy picnics under swaying palm trees. The water here is warmer and shallower than Siwa's other lakes, making it more family-friendly. Local children joyfully splash and play in the lake's tranquil waters.

Lake Zeitoun - The Sacred Lake

Within walking distance from Maraki lies the equally impressive Lake Zeitoun. Smaller but deeper than Maraki, Zeitoun is considered a sacred lake by locals. According to legend, this lake was a gift from God to the people of Siwa. The name Zeitoun means "olives" in Arabic, named after the olive groves dotting the lake's shores.

Zeitoun is ringed by lush date palm plantations and ancient ruins. Formed by a natural spring, this mineral-rich lake has waters that are a brilliant shade of blue. The lake's cool waters attract swimmers looking to escape the intense desert heat. Ornately decorated traditional boats can be rented for special occasions or just soaking up the scenery.

Lake Siwa - The Secluded Oasis

The most remote of Siwa's saltwater lakes is Lake Siwa, situated around 9 miles from town. Surrounded by nothing but desert sands, this secluded lake sees far fewer visitors than Maraki and Zeitoun. To reach it requires a drive through vast palm groves and past dozens of tiny springs.

Encircled by swaying reeds, the stunning waters of Lake Siwa range from pale green close to shore to deep blue farther out. Made for those seeking complete tranquility, you might find you have the whole lake to yourself. The silence here is absolute bliss. Stay until sunset to witness the lake's colors morph into a painter's palette of pink, orange and gold as the sun dips below the horizon.

Soaking in the Healing Waters

All three lakes are rich in natural minerals like sodium chloride, calcium, magnesium and potassium, giving the water its salty flavor. With high concentrations of salt and minerals, soaking in these lakes is akin to immersing yourself in warm seawater. Many believe the waters have natural healing properties beneficial to skin conditions like psoriasis and rheumatism.

A Float Like No Other

One of the best ways to experience Siwa's salt lakes is to simply float in their warm buoyant waters. The high salt content makes floating easy, giving you the sensation of bobbing in the Dead Sea. Lay back and relax, letting the water soothe aches and pains. Gaze at the vast desert and sky overhead as you gently drift across the surface.

Therapeutic Mud Baths

In addition to swimming and floating, Siwa's lakes allow you to soak up their therapeutic benefits via mud baths. Using mineral-rich mud from the lake shore blended with the water makes for a smoothing, skin-softening treat. Apply the mud all over your body and allow it to dry before rinsing off for super soft, glowing skin.

Cleopatra's Pool

Adjacent to Lake Siwa lies Cleopatra’s Pool, an ancient natural spring thought to be where the iconic Egyptian queen once bathed. The pool features azure waters with underwater caves and tunnels to explore while swimming. The springs here tumble down from surrounding rock outcroppings, adding to the pool's magic.

Desert Adventures Around the Lakes

While soaking up Siwa's salt lakes is a highlight, the surrounding desert landscape offers plenty of adventures. Here are some top things to do to fully experience this hidden gem:

Dunes & Desert Safaris

4x4 desert safaris through the Great Sand Sea allow you to take in panoramic desert vistas. You'll ride over massive dunes and might spot gazelles gracefully navigating the sands. Stop to stargaze at night when the sky comes alive with shooting stars.

Mountain Biking & Dune Boarding

Bike through palms and around the lakes for a breeze-filled ride. For more of an adrenaline rush, sandboard down the dunes. You'll get your heart pumping as you glide and weave down the sandy slopes.

Ancient Ruins & Forts

The oasis is home to the awe-inspiring 13th century Adrère Amellal fortified village built from salt blocks. Nearby Shali Fortress offers panoramic views of the entire oasis. Temple and tomb remains dating to Alexander the Great can be explored.

With its trifecta of beautiful lakes, refreshing springs and sweeping desert landscape, Siwa is a hidden gem that needs to be on your Egypt bucket list. Its laidback vibe, charming people and wealth of natural wonders make it the ultimate place to unwind surrounded by untamed beauty.

FAQs

Where is the Siwa Oasis located?

The Siwa Oasis is located in Egypt's Western Desert, about 300 miles from Cairo. It is one of Egypt's isolated oases, situated close to the Libyan border.

What makes the Siwa Oasis unique?

Siwa is made unique by its hundreds of freshwater springs which form lush lakes in the middle of the desert. The oasis has over 300 days of sunshine per year and is dotted with ancient ruins.

What are the main lakes in Siwa Oasis?

The three main salt lakes are Lake Maraki, Lake Zeitoun, and Lake Siwa. Each has its own distinctive characteristics. Maraki is the largest and most visited. Zeitoun is considered sacred. Siwa is the most remote and secluded.

What activities can you do at the lakes?

Popular activities at the lakes include swimming, floating in the buoyant salty waters, boat tours, picnicking on the shores, and applying therapeutic mud baths from the mineral-rich mud.

What is there to see and do around the wider oasis?

Around Siwa you can go on desert safaris, dune boarding, bike through palm groves, visit ancient ruins like the Temple of the Oracle, and explore nearby mountain ranges.