Egypt's Oasis Diversity: Discover How Many Await Your Exploration

Since Egypt is mostly known for the Sahara desert and the Pyramids in Giza, some people may ask if there are any oases. And if yes how many and is there any famous oasis in Egypt among them? The next paragraph will introduce the 6 known oases including some more known as Siwa.

Fayoum Oasis

The oasis covers approximately 1270 square miles and it is only 1,5 hour drive from Cairo. Its rich history dates back to ancient times. According to some evidence, the place used to be a prosperous agricultural region back then. 

The place is home to a couple of archaeological sites and Lake Qarun. The lake used to be called Lake Moeris after King Moeris. The real name of the king was Amenemhat III but the Greeks used gave him their own name. Some of the historical sites were built during his time too. For example the Pyramid of Hawara, the ancient city of Karanis, or the Temple of Sobek.

The oasis offers some additional natural treasures – especially the nearby Wadi el Rayan with stunning waterfalls and sand dunes.

Even today the oasis remains dependent on agriculture. It still has an important role in the local economy. People tend to grow wheat, fruits, and cotton in its soil.

You can also consider exploring Karun Palace on the northern shore of Lake Qarun. Or iconic water wheels, the Medinet Madi Temple. The presence of crocodile God Sobek is evident in the Temple of Ptolemy VIII, or the Al-Farafra temple.

To witness the Roman period visit Ancient Karanis City, now an archaeological site with houses, temples, and a bathhouse. If you like handmade items visit Tunis Village and learn about pottery and traditional crafts, and take the chance to meet with the artisans.

The best time to come is during winter. Especially if you want to do outdoor activities.

Farafra Oasis

If you decide to visit the Black and white Desert in Egypt, you will definitely cross this famous oasis in Egypt. It lies closer to to border with Libia between Dahkla and Bahariya Oasis. There are sources with information about the prehistoric settlements and rock art found in the area. Besides the out of the earth white limestone desert landscape you can visit the Badr Museum made of mud. There are also two hot springs – Bir Sitta, and El-Mufid. People who live there rely on agriculture. You will find many plant-based fields with dates, melons, olives, and rice.

Baharia Oasis

Another famous oasis in Egypt covers 2000 square kilometers and it used to be part of an old donkey trading route. In ancient times the place was great at wine production. Nowadays the main attraction for tourists is the Golden Mummies. Some years ago many well-preserved mummies were discovered there. The primary form of livelihood for people who live there is agriculture. Mostly dates, olives, and citrus fruits.

It is located near the black desert and the Baharia salt lake. You can also visit an El Bawiti museum. Usually, it is open daily from 8 am to 4 pm. It houses The Oasis Heritage Museum where you will find artform from a local self-taught Beduin and artist named Mahmooud Eed.

Dakhla Oasis

Some scientists believe that many years ago the oasis used to be a massive lake and water supply for big animals. Its population is 25,000 people. There are many hot springs scattered around and you can do some hiking there. In general, there are over 500 water sources with some picturesque cliffs and gardens. If you ask yourself what to see there – for example Mut city. In translation Mut means mother. The place is considered one of the oldest in population. 37 km away is the Tomb of Muzawaka. Then you can visit the Al Qasr city. Its history dates back to the Ottoman Empire. When strolling the streets you can observe interesting Mamluk decorations and doors. More hot springs await a couple of kilometers north of Mut.

Other options include the Ethnographic Museum, or Bir Al Hagar temple dedicated to Amon, Mut, and Jonsu.

Siwa Oasis

A quick look at the map will give you information that this famous oasis in Egypt lies very close to the Liba border. The place is quite isolated. The easiest way how to get there is by car from Marsa Matruh. As with the other oases people in there also rely on agriculture – mainly the production of dates and olives. Many people may know about it in connection to Alexander the Great who visited the temple of Amon. He was trying to get an oracle to tell him if he was really the legal pharaoh of Egypt.

There are many salt lakes, and charming mud buildings, and its drinkable water with many minerals has become very popular. Many companies started to produce and ship this water abroad.

You can also visit the Mountain of the Dead necropolis on the sandstone hill. Another option is to visit the village of Shali. Shali means in English city. The place was built from clay saturated with salt. The city has one wall with one entrance with the ancient and oldest mosque built in Africa.

Kharga Oasis

The largest and most populated oasis in Egypt. Its history is very long with evidence of ancient settlements and rock art. It also used to serve as a military outpost. 

Kharga Oasis boasts an array of remarkable archaeological sites, each offering a unique window into ancient Egypt’s religious and cultural practices. Among these treasures is the Temple of Hibis, a majestic tribute to the revered deities Amun, Mut, and Khonsu, showcasing the enduring legacy of Pharaonic devotion. Additionally, the Necropolis of El Bagwat stands as a poignant testament to Egypt’s Christian heritage, housing over 263 tombs that speak volumes about the spiritual beliefs and customs of early Christian communities.

Another interesting site to consider is Qasr Al Ghuita – a sand temple dedicated to the gods Amun, Junsu, and Mut. Or the sandstone temple Qasr Al Zayan dedicated to the god Amon.

The primary livelihood for locals in Kharga Oasis revolves around agriculture and farming, with a focus on cultivating date palms as well as a variety of vegetables and grains.