Things To Do
in As Sallūm
As Sallūm is a small Mediterranean town in Egypt’s northwest, it combines a quiet fishing harbor with a gateway feel to the western desert. The town sits near the Libyan border and offers uncrowded beaches, simple coastal cuisine, and scenery that ranges from sea views to desert horizons. Life here revolves around the harbor, local cafes, and long stretches of shoreline that meet a stark, arid interior.
Visitors come for relaxed coastal vibes, limited crowds, and the chance to experience life at Egypt’s western frontier.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the local markets, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of As Sallūm. Try some traditional Egyptian breakfast items such as ful medames and taameya, while enjoying the bustling atmosphere. Interact with the friendly vendors and locals, adding a personal touch to your exploration.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour to the nearby historical sites, including ancient ruins and forts that offer a glimpse into the region's rich past. Engage with the knowledgeable guides, who will share fascinating stories and insights about the area. Don’t forget to capture the stunning landscapes and historical architecture.
As the sun sets, find a local café to sip on Egyptian mint tea and relax after a day of exploration. Engage with the locals and learn more about their daily lives, traditions, and cuisine. The evening ambiance offers the perfect setting for conversations under the stars as the town slowly settles down.
Begin your day with a hike through the nearby natural reserves, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Early mornings are perfect for birdwatching, as the area is home to various bird species that are most active at this time. The serene environment provides a refreshing start to your day.
After a fulfilling morning of hiking, head to a local restaurant for lunch that features fresh seafood from the Mediterranean coast. Sample exotic dishes made with local ingredients while enjoying the views of the sea. Follow up your meal with a visit to a nearby beach for some leisure time sunbathing or swimming.
As twilight approaches, enjoy a beach bonfire while mingling with fellow travelers and locals, sharing stories and laughter. The sound of waves crashing under the moonlight sets a magical atmosphere. Relish some grilled seafood, a local specialty, while enjoying the company of new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧋Cappuccino | $1-2 |
| 🛏️One night in budget hotel | $25-50 |
| 🚕Taxi 1 km | $0.75-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Uncrowded beaches and coastlines
- Direct access to Mediterranean scenery and desert landscapes
- Authentic local culture and seafood-focused cuisine
- Close-knit community feel and fewer tourist crowds
- Limited tourist infrastructure and services compared to larger towns
- Border-area location can mean fewer frequent transport options
- Weather can be extreme in summer; plan accordingly
- Border security advisories may affect travel plans
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "كم السعر؟" - How much is this?
- "أين المطار؟" - Where is the airport?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "أنا بحاجة إلى طبيب" - I need a doctor
- "ماء" - Water
- "ساعدني!" - Help me!
Places to Visit in As Sallūm
Visit one of these nice places.
A long waterfront promenade with fishing boats and clear sea; ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Bustling harbor scenes with nets, boats, and market activity—great for candid shots in the morning or late afternoon.
Wide sandy dunes meeting the sea; perfect for silhouettes and wide coastal landscapes at golden hour.
High vantage points along the coast offering distant views toward the Libyan border; use discretion and respect local guidelines when photographing border areas.
Food in As Sallūm
As Sallūm Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught sea bass fillets grilled and served with lemon, olive oil, and herbs in many coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
A tomato-based stew loaded with fish, shrimp, and peppers; a coastal specialty in local fish restaurants.
A flaky, versatile pastry that can be enjoyed sweet with honey or as a savory base at cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh catches daily, from small fry to larger fillets; ideal for tasting seafood or buying ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees in town centers and religious sites; seek permission before photographing people; be polite and patient in markets.
Safety
Tipping in As Sallūm
Ensure a smooth experience
It’s customary to tip service staff around 5-10% in sit-down restaurants if a service charge isn’t included; small tips to porters, taxi drivers, and shop staff are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot and dry with sea breezes offering some relief; expect strong sun, high UV, and plenty of outdoor activity during early mornings and late afternoons. Hydration and sun protection are essential, and sea swims are popular if lifeguard coverage exists.
Mild days with cool evenings; humidity is generally low but it can be windy near the coast. Beach walks and coastal photography are comfortable on warmer days; rain is rare but possible in sporadic showers.
As Sallūm at Night
Hiking in As Sallūm
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy hike along the shore with views of the Mediterranean; suitable for most travelers.
Short morning hike to nearby dunes for dramatic light and landscape photography.
Longer overland excursion into the Western Desert toward Siwa Oasis; typically a multi-day trip for those seeking substantial hiking and desert scenery.
Airports
How to reach As Sallūm by plane.
Primary regional airport serving the area; connects to Cairo and other major hubs; best option for entering the region by air.
Major northern hub; longer drive to Sallūm but an alternative gateway with more international connections.
Egypt’s largest international airport; provides the widest range of international flights; a long drive to Sallūm but feasible as a starting point.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Arabic-speaking residents with livelihoods tied to fishing and small-scale trade.
People who commute between coastal towns and areas near the Libyan frontier; communities are tight-knit and traditional in many respects.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Egypt, played in towns and schools and followed passionately by locals.
A traditional activity tied to the coast; popular for both livelihoods and recreation.
Occasional informal games along the shore, especially during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting As Sallūm.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include lentil soup, falafel, hummus, fresh salads, and vegetable stews. When ordering, look for olive oil and baladi bread; many places can adapt dishes to be vegetarian.