Travel Plan
Shali Fortress

Home Egypt Siwa Oasis Shali Fortress

ATTRACTION GUIDE · SIWA OASIS

Shali Fortress

The melted-looking ruins of a 13th-century fortified town built from kershef — salt, mud and rock — rising above modern Siwa, with sweeping views over palms and lakes.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
1 hour
Entry
Free
Best time
Sunset
Area
Siwa town

Ruins of a 13th-century mud-brick town.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Shali, Siwa Oasis, Matrouh

  • On foot: In the centre of Siwa town.
  • Bike: Easy to reach by bike.
  • From Cairo: About 9h by car or bus.

The story of Shali (Siwa)

Heavy rains in 1926 dissolved much of the salt-mud walls, and residents moved out.

Parts have been restored, and an eco-lodge reuses the old building style.

Best time to visit

Best season

October to April.

Best time of day

Sunset.

Summer

Very hot.

Tips before you go

  • Climb up at sunset.
  • Climb to the top for sunset.
  • Watch your step on crumbling paths.

Best hotels near Shali (Siwa)

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Adrere Amellal Siwa

Candle-lit eco-lodge.

See prices

Hotels in Siwa Oasis

Eco-lodges.

See prices

Hotels near Shali Fortress

Central.

See prices
All hotels near Shali (Siwa)

What's around Shali (Siwa)

  • Siwa marketAt the base.
  • Cleopatra's Spring10 minutes by bike.
  • Gebel al-Mawta10 minutes.

Questions travellers ask

Is it free?

Yes.

How long do I need?

1 hour.

Is it safe to climb?

Yes, on marked paths.

More in Siwa Oasis

Salt lakes

Salt lakes

Read the guide
Cleopatra's Spring

Cleopatra's Spring

Read the guide
Great Sand Sea

Great Sand Sea

Read the guide
Back to the Siwa Oasis guide
Travel Plan · Shali Fortress Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us