Travel Plan
Salt lakes

Home Egypt Siwa Oasis Salt lakes

ATTRACTION GUIDE · SIWA OASIS

Salt lakes

Brilliant turquoise pools in white salt flats near Siwa, so salty that you float effortlessly — a desert version of the Dead Sea.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
2 hours
Entry
Free (tours paid)
Best time
Midday for colour
Area
Around Siwa

Turquoise pools where you float easily.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Siwa salt lakes, Matrouh

  • Car: 15–20 minutes from Siwa town.
  • Tours: Often combined with desert safaris.
  • Bike: Possible but sunny.

The story of Siwa Oasis

The pools formed in old salt quarries; the salt is still harvested.

Locals believe the water helps the skin.

Best time to visit

Best season

October to May.

Best time of day

Late morning.

Summer

Water is warm; sun is strong.

Tips before you go

  • Rinse off afterwards.
  • Bring fresh water to rinse.
  • Avoid getting salt in your eyes.

Best hotels near Siwa Oasis

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 Siwa Oasis

What's around Siwa Oasis

  • Siwa town20 minutes.
  • Great Sand SeaNearby.
  • Fatnas Island15 minutes.

Questions travellers ask

Can I swim?

Yes, you will float.

Is it free?

Yes, but most go on tours.

How long do I need?

1–2 hours.

More in Siwa Oasis

Shali Fortress

Shali Fortress

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 · Salt lakes Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us