Egypt

How to get from Alexandria to Siwa

Compare all transport options: bus, ferry, train, flight. Prices, durations and tips from a local expert.

⏱
FASTEST
1h
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From
14€
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Distance
477 km
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There are 2 way(s) to get from Alexandria to Siwa

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

🚌 Departure from Alexandria
📍The primary departure point for buses to Siwa from Alexandria is often the Moharam Bey Bus Station (Mubarak Bus Station). It's a central hub for long-distance coaches, well-known to locals and taxi drivers alike.
🚇Moharam Bey Bus Station is centrally located. You can easily reach it by taxi from most parts of Alexandria for around €2-4, taking 10-20 minutes depending on traffic. Local microbuses are a cheaper alternative if you're comfortable navigating them.
⏰Buses to Siwa typically depart once or twice daily, usually in the morning or early afternoon. It's crucial to check the exact departure times for your travel date, as frequencies can change seasonally.
💸 Transport from 14€ per person
⚡ Fastest: 1h
🗓 Book now Secure payment · via 12go.asia
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Practical tips

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Book your bus ticket in advance

Especially for popular routes or during peak season, securing your bus ticket a few days ahead can save you stress. While direct online booking for Egyptian coaches can be tricky from abroad, some platforms like 12go.asia offer options.

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Choose premium coach services

For comfort on longer journeys like Alexandria to Siwa, opt for premium services from companies like Go Bus or Blue Bus. Their VIP or Business Class coaches offer more legroom and amenities compared to standard local buses.

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Pack snacks and water

While buses might make occasional stops, it's always wise to have your own provisions for a 7-hour journey. Hydration is key, especially when traveling through desert regions.

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Arrive early at the bus terminal

To avoid any last-minute rush or confusion, aim to be at the bus terminal at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure. This allows time for ticket verification and finding your bus.

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Be prepared for desert drives

The route to Siwa crosses significant desert landscapes. While scenic, ensure your phone or camera is charged for photos, and be aware that cell signal might be sporadic in certain sections.

🛣️ The journey experience

Planning your trip from Alexandria to Siwa oasis? This route is a classic example of where you need to weigh your options carefully. While a quick flight might seem tempting, the journey to Siwa is primarily an overland adventure, meaning buses are generally your best bet. Knowing when a coach is the smart choice, or when a cheap flight could save you a long haul, is key to a smooth trip in Egypt. We'll break down the honest door-to-door times and costs so you can make an informed decision and avoid any travel headaches.

For the Alexandria to Siwa route, the bus is the most common and practical option. Expect a journey of around 7 hours, with ticket prices typically ranging from €14. There are no direct flights between Alexandria and Siwa, so flying would involve a convoluted and much longer route via Cairo, ultimately making it far less efficient and more expensive than the direct bus.

Ultimately, for destinations like Siwa, embracing the bus network is part of the Egyptian travel experience. While for some very long hauls like Cairo to Aswan, a cheap domestic flight might save you a 14-hour overnight coach, for Siwa, the bus offers a direct, cost-effective, and authentic way to reach this unique oasis. Don't worry about picking the wrong terminal; the main bus operators usually have clear departure points, and we'll guide you through it.

Frequently asked questions — Alexandria → Siwa

✨ Why visit Siwa?

  • ✓ Explore the ancient Shali Fortress, a mud-brick labyrinth offering stunning panoramic views.
  • ✓ Swim in the Cleopatra's Bath, a natural spring pool surrounded by palm groves.
  • ✓ Discover the Oracle Temple of Amun, where Alexander the Great sought divine consultation.
  • ✓ Experience a desert safari to the Great Sand Sea, including sandboarding and Bedouin tea.
  • ✓ Visit the Mountain of the Dead (Gabal el Mawta), ancient tombs with vibrant wall paintings.
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Recommended stay
3 to 4 nights — to fully immerse in the oasis culture and explore its historical sites.

☀️ When to visit Siwa?

DESERTIC ARID

October to April — enjoy pleasant temperatures for exploration and comfortable desert nights.

Jan 😐
Feb 😐
Mar 😊
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Sep 😐
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In Siwa — Plan your stay
Accommodation, activities and tips selected for you
🏨 Accommodation
Hotels in Siwa
Compare the best rates available
via trip.com

What to do in Siwa?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE
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Explore Shali Fortress Ruins
Dominating Siwa, the ancient mud-brick Shali Fortress offers a glimpse into the oasis's past. Wander through its crumbling walls and imagine life centuries ago. Climb to the highest accessible points for panoramic views of the palm groves and salt lakes. Best visited late afternoon for stunning sunset photo opportunities. Allow at least 1-2 hours.
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Swim in Cleopatra's Spring
Also known as Ain Guba, this natural spring is a popular spot for a refreshing dip. The clear, turquoise waters are ideal for swimming, surrounded by palm trees. It can get busy, especially with local families. Visit early morning for a more tranquil experience. There are often small cafes nearby to relax after your swim.
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Watch Sunset at Fatnas Island
Just a short drive from Siwa town, Fatnas Island (or Fantasy Island) is famous for its breathtaking sunsets over the salt lake. Find a spot by the water, grab a mint tea from one of the small kiosks, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon. Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset for the best views.
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Desert Safari to Great Sand Sea
Embark on a thrilling desert safari into the vast Great Sand Sea. Experience dune bashing, visit natural hot and cold springs, and try sandboarding down towering dunes. Many tours include a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars. Ensure you book with a reputable local guide for safety and an authentic experience; expect tours from 30€.
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Visit Temple of the Oracle
The ruins of the Temple of the Oracle (Temple of Amun) are historically significant, where Alexander the Great sought counsel. While much is destroyed, the remaining structures evoke a powerful sense of ancient mystery. The site offers good views over the surrounding area. Combine with a visit to the nearby Gebel al-Mawta (Mountain of the Dead).
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Taste Siwan Olives and Dates
Siwa is renowned for its high-quality dates and olives. Visit a local market or a small farm to sample different varieties. Don't miss the Siwan olive oil, often pressed locally. These products make excellent souvenirs and offer a true taste of the oasis's agricultural bounty. Engage with local vendors for insights into their production.
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Explore Gebel al-Mawta (Mountain of the Dead)
This conical mountain is home to numerous rock-cut tombs from the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. Some tombs, like those of Si-Amun and the Crocodile, feature beautifully preserved frescoes. A local guide can help you navigate and explain the significance of the burial chambers. A small entrance fee typically applies, around 2-3€.
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Cycle through Siwan Palm Groves
Rent a bicycle and leisurely explore the lush palm groves surrounding Siwa town. It's a fantastic way to discover hidden springs, small farms, and observe local life at a slower pace. The terrain is mostly flat and easy to navigate. Ask your guesthouse for bicycle rental options; expect to pay around 5€ for a day.

⏱️ How long to visit Siwa?

3 to 5 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 3 to 5 days is ideal to explore Siwa. This allows ample time to visit the Shali Fortress, Cleopatra's Bath, and experience a desert safari without rushing. Consider adding an extra day if you want to relax by a salt lake or explore more remote oases.

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