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Viewpoint · Siwa, Matrouh
Fatnas Island
A palm island on the edge of one of Siwa’s salt lakes, connected to the mainland by a causeway, visited in the late afternoon to watch the sunset over the lake and the desert.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Fatnas Island
Fatnas is about 6 km west of Siwa center, on the edge of one of the oasis’s large salt lakes. It used to be an island surrounded by water; today it is linked to the land by a causeway, among palm trees and a small spring.
In the late afternoon, locals and visitors gather at the lakeside cafés to watch the sun set over the lake and the dunes on the far side, with sky and water changing color.
The lake is salty, with salt crusts on the shores, and the surrounding palm groves are part of the oasis’s date fields.
The road to Fatnas passes through palm groves irrigated by narrow channels, and many visitors make the trip by bicycle, returning to town after dark.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours, including the sunset.
Best time
During the last rays of daylight.
How to get there
Head west along the palm-road, about 6 km from the center, by bicycle or taxi.
Tip
Bring a jacket in winter: it cools quickly after sunset.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Fatnas Island
What is Fatnas?
It is a former palm island on the edge of a Siwa salt lake, connected to the land by a causeway, sought for its sunset views.
Where is Fatnas?
About 6 km west of Siwa center.
When should you go to Fatnas?
In the late afternoon, to watch the sunset over the lake and the desert.