Top Attractions at the Mountain of the Dead
In the heart of the magical Siwa Oasis in Egypt, a major stop on many Egypt Tour Packages, there is the Mountain of the Dead or as locals call it, Gebel al-Mawta. This limestone hill is dotted with ancient tombs and is a must-see destination for travelers on Egypt Luxury Tours or even the creators of adventure in the Egyptian desert. Walking through history beneath the serene charm of the desert, a splendid view of the oasis, palm groves, and twinkling salt lakes awaits from the ridge. Actually, more than a cemetery, Mountain of the Dead is an eternal jewel that attracts history buffs, photographers, and tourists from all over the world on Egypt tour.
The History of the Mountain of the Dead of Siwa
The Mountain of the Dead dates back to the Egyptian 26th Dynasty (around the 6th century BC) and remained in use through Greek and Roman times. This fascinating site, with its rock-cut tombs decorated in colorful wall paintings and hieroglyphs showing gods, goddesses, and daily life scenes, has become a popular stop on many Egyptian adventure tours and safari packages. Exploring these ancient tombs offers a unique adventure in the Egyptian desert, blending history, culture, and mystery in one unforgettable experience.
During World War II, during bombing raids, the residents of Siwa used the tombs for shelter-a very fascinating chapter in the story of the mountain. This combination of ancient history and modern-day resilience makes Mountain of the Dead a must-see on Egyptian tour packages or an adventure through the Egyptian desert.
Tombs & Caves of the Mountain of the Dead
The mountain holds tombs of various sizes, from smaller chambers to huge and beautifully decorated rooms. Some of the highlights of Egypt Tour for tourists to visit include:
1-Tomb of Si-Amun: In a kind of mixture of Egyptian and Greek styles.
2- Tomb of MSW Isis: Known for its bright-colored paintings on the walls.
3-The Crocodile Tom:Named due to certain carvings that are associated with the god Sobek.
Walking around these tombs during your Egyptian Day Tours or desert adventures is like time travel going back thousands of years.
Visiting the Mountain of the Dead: Tips & Timing
Whether you will be seeing the Mountain of the Dead on your Cairo day tour,or joining safari trips in Egypt, here is how you will make the most of your visit:
1.Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon; weather is cooler and good photos can be taken.
2. What to Wear: Light clothes with good-soled shoes; sunglasses and a hat highly recommended.
3. Entry Fee: Yes, there is a small fee.
4. Hire A Guide: Promotes the view with local interesting stories.
5. Photography: Allowed and recommended!
Attractions Nearby Siwa Oasis to Discover
An Egypt luxury tour in Siwa Oasis is incomplete without venturing to other gems:
1-The Oracle Temple of Amun: The place where Alexander the Great was declared to be the son of Zeus-Ammon.
2- Cleopatra's Bath: A natural thermal spring, ideal for unplugging after a safari trip in Egypt.
3- Shali Fortress: Sunset views in all their glory from this mud-brick stronghold.
4- Fatnas Island: Being there facilitates having quality moments among palm trees and lakes.
5- Siwa Salt Lakes: Here you float in effortless ease through mineral-rich waters.
Often brought in conjunction trips in Egypt, these attractions are perfect complements to the Mountain of the Dead.
Why You Should Visit the Mountain of the Dead
Egypt's most fascinating ancient landmark is the Mountain of the Dead, an example of the remote past. It is not a collection of graves chiseled into the mountainside; it is a chronicle of the people who lived, worked, and were honored within the Siwa Oasis. Visitors can walk through the unique rock-cut tombs, see the breathtaking carvings, and imagine living in this desert town centuries ago. Whether you are on an Egypt tour, a cultural tour, or a desert safari, Mountain of the Dead is something that will be etched forever in your memory. The breathtaking landscape, combined with history and mystery, makes this destination a must for anyone visiting Egypt.