travel egypt pyramids

Visiting the Nile Delta

Luxor Guide

Valley of the Kings

Visiting Alexandria

Traditional Food to Try

What to Drink in Egypt

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

One Week in Egypt

Things to Do in Egypt

Must-See Ancient Sights

Guide to the Pyramids of Giza

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: The Complete Guide

Travelpix Ltd / Getty Images

The Great Pyramid of Giza

On the west bank of the River Nile lies Egypt’s most iconic ancient sight : the Pyramids of Giza. The site is made up of three separate pyramid complexes, including the Great Pyramid of Giza (also known as the Pyramid of Khufu), the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Great Sphinx of Giza stands sentinel over them all. All three pyramids were constructed by Fourth Dynasty pharaohs, making them over 4,500 years old. Together, they form part of the ancient Memphis necropolis and stand as a testament to the astonishing wealth, power and architectural prowess of the Ancient Egyptians. Find out how to visit the Pyramids with this guide.

Great Pyramid of Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza is both the largest and the oldest of the Giza pyramids. It was constructed as a tomb and monument for the pharaoh Khufu, and completed around 2560 B.C. Like the other pyramids, it is built out of vast blocks of granite and limestone that would have been quarried, transported and assembled by hand. In total, around 2.3 million blocks of stone were used to create the pyramid, which was originally encased in smooth white limestone. According to the Greek historian Herodotus, this architectural feat required a workforce of 100,000 men and took 20 years to complete.

In its heyday, the pyramid would have stood 481 feet (146.5 meters) tall. It was the world’s tallest man-made structure for more than 3,800 years. The entrance is located on the north face and leads via a series of corridors to the Queen’s and King’s chambers. The pyramid was opened and looted by the pharaohs of the Middle and New Kingdoms, who may have used its contents to furnish their own tombs at the Valley of the Kings near Luxor . In Hellenistic times, the Great Pyramid was named as one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Despite being the oldest of the ancient wonders, it is also the only one that still exists today. 

Pyramid of Khafre

The second-tallest of the Giza pyramids, the Pyramid of Khafre was built as the burial place of Khufu’s son and successor. The exact dates of its completion are not certain, although Khafre ruled from around 2558 to 2532 BC. Some of this pyramid’s original limestone casing remains around the apex, although the rest was removed at various times throughout its history – including during the Nineteenth Dynasty when Ramesses II looted the limestone for one of his temples at Heliopolis. This pyramid has two entrances which lead to a single burial chamber and a subsidiary chamber that may have been used for storage purposes. 

Pyramid of Menkaure

The Pyramid of Menkaure is the smallest and most recent of the three and was likely completed at the beginning of the 25th century B.C. Unlike the other two pyramids, only the upper portion was encased in limestone and parts of the granite exterior appear unfinished. It’s likely that construction was interrupted by Menkaure's death and never completed. The pyramid has a single entrance leading to a subterranean burial chamber. At the end of the 12th century, it was the first victim of Sultan Al-Aziz Uthman 's attempt to demolish the pyramids. Fortunately the task proved too difficult and was abandoned; however, damage to the pyramid’s north face remains as proof of the vandalism. 

Great Sphinx of Giza 

The Great Sphinx of Giza is a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a man. Egyptologists generally agree that its face was carved in Khafre’s likeness; which makes sense given the fact that it dates back to his reign. It is the oldest-known monumental sculpture in Egypt and is especially impressive when one considers that it was carved out of a single chunk of the plateau’s limestone bedrock. Layers of different density in the rock account for the accelerated erosion in the middle part of the sphinx’s body while theories abound as to the reason for its missing nose. It measures 240 feet (73 meters) in length and stands 66 feet (20 meters) high. 

Modern Explorations

The Giza pyramids have been the subject of exploration and research for almost as long as they have existed. In the early 1800s, French archaeologist Auguste Mariette began clearance work on the Giza site. The first modern archaeologists to explore inside the pyramids included Giovanni Belzoni, John Perring and Richard Vyse, and Karl Richard Lepsius. In 1880, British archaeologist Sir William Matthew Flinders Petrie traveled to Giza to make the first scientific survey of the pyramids. His drawings and measurements were so accurate that much of our understanding of how they were built is still based on his findings. 

Excavations continued throughout the 20th century and into the 21st. In 2010, Egyptian archaeologists discovered a worker’s burial ground that proved the pyramids were built by paid artisans rather than slaves. Most recently, in May 2019, a new cemetery and sarcophagi were uncovered that are believed to be over 4,500 years old. In 1979, the Pyramids of Giza were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the rest of the Memphis necropolis .

Things to See & Do 

Today, the three main pyramids and the sphinx are the main attractions; but there’s much more to see at Giza including a series of smaller, subsidiary pyramids, mastaba tombs, and temples. You can also view the ruins of the workers’ village, located to the southeast of the Khafre and Menkaure pyramids; and the Solar Boat Museum . The latter houses a boat that was found buried at the foot of the Great Pyramid and painstakingly reconstructed by experts over the course of 14 years. If you stay after dark, you can also watch as the pyramids are illuminated by the nightly Sound & Light Show . 

General tickets include a tour inside one of the three satellite pyramids of the Queen of Cheops. If you want to view inside the three main pyramids, it’s possible to do so with the purchase of an additional ticket. There isn’t too much to see inside as the mummies and their treasures have been removed (either by looters, or to the safety of the Egyptian Museum ). Old Kingdom pharaohs also didn't decorate their burial chambers with hieroglyphs as later rulers did. However, the experience of venturing deep inside such ancient structures is worth it for many visitors—although claustrophobics should opt out. Climbing the pyramids is illegal. 

How to Visit

Some people choose to join an organized tour . Benefits include a hotel pick-up, transfers from Cairo, included entry fees and an English-speaking Egyptologist guide; however, you’ll be traveling in a large group at the time when the pyramids are most crowded. Alternatively, it’s easy to explore the pyramids independently. Taxi or Uber rides from central Cairo take approximately an hour (depending on traffic) and are amazingly affordable. Public buses also travel from outside the Egyptian Museum to the pyramids. 

When you get there, you can choose to wander the complex on foot or hire a camel or horse. The latter is a popular option for those that want to venture into the desert to get a panoramic view of the pyramids; however, many of the animals are poorly treated or underfed. The best views are from the dunes behind the Pyramid of Menkaure, and include all three temples juxtaposed against the modern Cairo skyline in the distant background. Sturdy footwear, ample sun protection and plenty of water are all must-haves for your Giza adventure. 

If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting a little later in the day after the majority of the tour buses have been and gone (most arrive between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.).

Hours & Admission Fees

According to the official Egyptian tourism website , the site opens at 9 a.m. every day and closes at 5 p.m. Ticket prices are listed as 60 Egyptian pounds for general admission, 100 Egyptian pounds for entry into the Great Pyramid, 30 Egyptian pounds for entry into the Pyramid of Khafre and 25 Egyptian pounds for entry into the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Sound & Light Show costs US$15 and should be booked in advance. 

Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt: The Complete Guide

One Week in Egypt: The Ultimate Itinerary

48 Hours in Cairo: The Ultimate Itinerary

Cairo Guide: Planning Your Trip

How to Visit Saqqara, Egypt: The Complete Guide

Egypt's Top 10 Ancient Sites

10 Destinations to Top Your Africa Bucket List

Your Trip to Egypt: The Complete Guide

The 12 Best Day Trips From Cairo

The 18 Best Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt

The Valley of the Kings, Egypt: The Complete Guide

Meroë Pyramids, Sudan: The Complete Guide

25 Top Things to Do in Egypt

Temple of Horus at Edfu, Egypt: The Complete Guide

Top 10 Destinations in North Africa

Luxor and Ancient Thebes, Egypt: The Complete Guide

14 MUST-KNOW Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: The Ultimate Guide (2024)

These 14 top tips will answer all your questions about visiting the Pyramids of Giza so you’re well-prepared for the magical day when you see the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

If seeing the Pyramids of Giza isn’t on your bucket list then I don’t know what is. The Great Pyramid of Giza is an incredible example of human engineering and construction. Its sheer size and scale rivals any structure built within the last few hundred years. As one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, it is the only monument on the list that is still standing today.

I realised my own personal lifelong dream when I visited the Giza Plateau. I loved it so much that I went twice during the same trip! Here are my best tips to help you plan your visit to the Pyramid Complex of Giza.

Looking for something in particular? Use this table of contents below to jump around using the links.

Table of Contents

Map of egyptian pyramids of giza, why were the egyptian pyramids of giza built.

• When were the Egyptian Pyramids of Giza built?
• Who Built the Egyptian Pyramids of Giza?

Where are the Pyramids?

1. when is the best time to visit the pyramids of giza, 3. how long does it take to get to the pyramids of giza, 4. what are the opening times of the pyramids of giza, 5. how much time do you need to visit the pyramids of giza, 6. how much are tickets to the pyramids of giza.

• 7. Can you go Inside the Pyramids?
• 8. Taking Camel and horse rides
• 9. What should I wear when visiting the Pyramids?
• 10. What should I pack when visiting the Pyramids of Giza?pa

11. Can you buy food inside the Giza Pyramid Complex?

• 12. Sound and Light Show

13. Solar Boat Museum

• 14. Bonus tips for visiting the Pyramids of Giza

This map shows you all the locations mentioned in this guide. Click on the pins for more information.

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner. If the icon is hidden and you’re viewing this on your phone, go to landscape mode. Technology, eh?

Nearly 5,000 years ago, Giza became the royal burial ground for Memphis, which was then, the Capital of Egypt. Within 100 years, three successive generations of the ancient Egyptians built the three pyramid complexes to serve as tombs for their kings.

When were the Pyramids built?

The Pyramids of Giza were built during the 4th Dynasty of the Old Kingdom from around 2613-2498 BC. The oldest and largest of the Pyramids, the Great Pyramid, was built by the 4th-Dynasty king, Khufu (2589-2566 BC.)

Who built the Pyramids of Giza?

It wasn’t until 2010 that an archaeological team led by Dr. Zahi Hawass discovered several new tombs that belonged to the workers who built the pyramids of Khufu and Khafre.

Archaeologists now agree that the men who built the pyramids were, in fact, highly-skilled workmen, not slaves.

These tombs were built beside the king’s pyramid, which indicates that these people were not by any means slaves. If they were slaves, they would not have been able to build their tombs beside their king’s. Dr. Hawass

The Egyptian Pyramids are located within the Pyramids complex on the Giza plateau approximately 25km (15 miles) south-west of Downtown Cairo.

These pyramids include the Great Pyramid of Khufu (aka Cheops), Pyramid of Khafre (aka Chephren) and the Pyramid of Menkaure (aka Mycerinus) and the smallest of the three main Pyramids of Giza.

The pyramids were purposely built on the West Bank of the River Nile because the Ancient Egyptians believed that the East side of the Nile (East bank) was for the living, because the sunrises there, whilst the West Bank was for the dead (where the sun sets).

As you travel around Egypt, you will notice that all tombs are located on the West Bank of the Nile.

14 Top Tips for Visiting the Egyptian Pyramids of Giza

In general, the best time to visit Egypt is during the winter. More specifically, the best time to visit the Pyramids of Giza is after the morning rush of tourist buses. I recommend going to the Egyptian Museum first thing in the morning, this was you’ll miss the tour buses which arrive at the Pyramids between 9:30 am – 10:30 am. 

Another the benefit of waiting a bit longer is that it will give more time for the haze of pollution to clear up a bit. Yes, Cairo is very polluted, particularly in the mornings.

2. How do I get to the Pyramids?

The Mortuary Temple of Khafre

I visited the pyramids twice during my trip. The first time way during this excellent tour around Egypt, then I went again after the tour had ended . If you want to do on a day trip, then I recommend this Giza Pyramids and Sphinx: Half-Day Private Tour or this Pyramids of Giza, Sakkara & Memphis: Private Tour with Lunch tour

Giza Pyramid Complex is only about 18 kilometre from Downtown Cairo however, Cairo is a heavily trafficked city. Using the public transportation available in Cairo, there are three different modes of transport you can use to reach the Pyramids.

Taking a taxi to the pyramids is by far the easiest option as there is very little effort required on your part. From anywhere in central Cairo, you can flag down a taxi on any main street and ask to go to the ‘Haram’ (this is what the pyramids are locally known as).

The only downside to taking a taxi is that you might get stuck in traffic. On a good run, it will take thirty minutes to reach the entrance to the Giza complex. Worse case scenario it could take closer to an hour if not more. There are three different kinds of taxi services available in Cairo:

Black Taxi – Black taxis are the oldest of the three. Don’t be surprised if they don’t have a meter or air-conditioning. White Taxi – White taxis are the modern version of black taxis complete with a fare meter and air-conditioning. Yellow Taxi – Yellow taxis are the most expensive, professionally serviced and can be pre-booked over the phone.

Tips for taking a taxi:

• I always recommend taking a white taxi. Before you get in, make sure you agree on a price and don’t be afraid to bargain hard for a good rate. Expect to pay around 40 LE (Egyptian Pounds) from anywhere in Downtown Cairo.
• If you prefer, it is possible to pay extra and have the taxi wait for you until you’ve finished visiting the Giza Pyramids Complex to then take you back to the hotel. While the option is there, keep in mind that the complex is huge and you could easily spend all day there. Plus, you don’t necessarily need to do this as there are plenty of taxis servicing both sides of the complex from the main entrance and exit near the Sphinx. I did, however, choose to pay extra for a taxi to come inside the complex and drive me around. This came in handy when I wanted to go around to the panoramic lookout which is far away.

Uber is the best, most convenient and still a very cheap option. The best part is that you won’t have to worry about haggling for the best price. Expect to pay around 60LE to the pyramids from central Cairo.

An even cheaper (yes, it’s possible) way to get to the Giza Pyramids from Downtown Cairo is by taking the public bus. The buses are comfortable and some have air-conditioners. Tickets are only 2.50 LE.

If you’re visiting the Egyptian Museum in the morning (which I highly recommend), located on the main road behind the museum are buses 355 and 357 which will take you to the Giza Pyramids complex.

If you’re staying near the Tahrir Square area it’s good to know what these buses also pass through here.

Micro-Buses

Locals, aka Cairenes, take the microbus (pronounced ‘mee-kro-bas’) these small vans are usually crowded, uncomfortable and can only seat 12 passengers.

Since no destinations are signposted, it can be tricky to use them at first. They do, however, then to depart from normal bus stops.

Microbuses are useful for major routes such as reaching the entrance to the pyramids from the Giza metro station.

Micro-Buses will only stop if there is an available seat on board. The fare will vary depending on the distance you need to travel. This can be anywhere from LE2 to LE5 and is paid once you take your seat on board.

The Cairo Metro, like any metro, gets really crowded during peak hours (7 am to 9 am and 3 pm to 6 pm). Avoid these time by starting your day early and returning after the rush.

Plan your journey by using www.cairometro.gov.eg and clicking on ‘English’ in the top left corner.

Cairo’s Metro Network doesn’t cover the entire city, but for a visitor, it’s perfect as it includes all the major tourist attractions. It’s efficient and very cheap. All single trip fares are LE 2.00 no matter how far you travel. There are four metro stations in central Cairo: Attaba, Md. Naguib, Sadat and Naseer that will take you to the closest station to the Giza Pyramids complex. After a 15-20 minute journey, get off at El-Giza station. From here it’s another 10 km to the pyramid complex entrance.

Exit the station and head down to Al Haram, this is the main road leading to the pyramids. Cross to the other side and catch either bus 900 or 997 or a microbus to the pyramids. All buses will drop you one kilometre from the entrance.

Tips for taking the metro:

• Metro stations are clearly marked with a large red ‘M’ in a blue star.
• Keep your ticket until you complete your journey, you’ll need it to feed into the turnstile when exiting
• The metro opens around 6 am with trains running every 5 minutes until closing at 11.30pm.
• Ladies, there are two carriages located in the centre of each train reserved for women only (men will be kicked out). Look for the blue ‘Ladies’ signs on the platform so you know where to wait to get on the right carriage.
• Since the roads will be chaotic, the bus driver may forget to tell you when to get off, so it’s a good idea to ask a friendly passenger to alert you just in case.

Tips on getting to the Pyramids of Giza:

• Most Egyptians don’t understand the word “Pyramids”, so make sure you learn the Arabic word for them, especially if you’re taking a taxi there. Haram also means. The strict translation of the Arabic word ‘harim’ means (a prohibited place) and is from the verbal root ‘harama’ (prohibited), designated as ‘haram’ (a pyramid). ( Source )
• There are two entrances to the pyramids complex. One entrance is near the Great Pyramid of Giza, the other is near The Sphinx. You can enter via either, but if you catch a bus, you’ll arrive closer to the Great Pyramid of Giza entrance.

If you’re travelling by road, the journey can last anywhere between 30-90 minutes. Cairo is a heavily trafficked and congested city so be prepared for severe delays. The best time to leave is either side of rush hour.

If you’re travelling by train then bus/microbus, allow 45 minutes.

Going to Egypt? Get my free Arabic travel phrase guide.

The Giza plateau is open 8 am – 4 pm daily. The Giza Pyramids are open 8 am – 4 pm daily (5 pm in summer). The Solar Boat museum is open 9 am – 4 pm daily (5 pm in summer).

How much time do you have? Haha No, but seriously, time will fly once you’re inside the complex. I recommend allowing most of the day to explore the entire pyramids complex. I arrived just before 11 am and left right on closing time at 4om and I still didn’t want to leave.

My advice? Soak it up. Don’t rush your time here. Find a quiet spot and enjoy the view. Who knows when you’ll be back to see them again.

If you are taking a tripod inside, you’ll need to purchase a tripod ticket for 20 LE. This is standard practice all over Egypt.

7. Can You Go Inside the Pyramids?

While most people, including local guides, will try and talk you out of going inside The Great Pyramid of Giza, saying it’s not worth paying 300 LE (USD$16) for, I still recommend going inside. But it all depends on how interested you are in the pyramids.

For me, I had to go inside. After all, I travelled all that way, so why not, right? Located in the core of the pyramid is the King’s Chamber. While there’s nothing to see in the King’s Chamber per se, other than an empty sarcophagus, it’s the experience of walking through the 9 metre (30 ft) high Great Gallery and seeing the inner workings of such an incredible monument.

If you’re not already planning on going, I highly recommend going to the Egyptian Museum to see the mummies and beautifully decorated tombs. Don’t miss the Royal Mummy Room!

Tips for going inside The Great Pyramid of Giza:

• The Great Gallery inside the Great Pyramid of Giza is very narrow and you may feel claustrophobic. Reconsider going inside if you suffer from claustrophobia.
• Allow 30-40 minutes to complete your visit inside The Great Pyramid of Giza.
• Cameras, including phones, aren’t allowed inside. You can leave your items at the entrance with the guards. They will give you a ticket in exchange. Don’t lose it! You’ll need it to collect your belongings afterwards.
• It’s super humid inside the King’s Chamber, so take some tissues with you to mop up that forehead.

8. Camel and Horse Rides

If you do decide to take a camel ride, make sure you’re not hassled into paying more than the fair price. In order to crack down on scamming tourist, signs have now been put up showing set prices for camel rides which are 50 Egyptian Pounds for 30 minutes.

9. What should I wear when visiting the Pyramids of Giza?

Also in my Egypt travel tips guide , I explain how you can pretty much wear anything you like in tourist areas such as the pyramids. However, you might find it more comfortable to wear breathable material like linen so you don’t have to put sunscreen all over your body. These linen pants are a great option ( these are cute too ) or a maxi-dress if you prefer.

Definitely wear a hat. Your head will catch the sun and tender for a few days afterwards.

Perhaps the most important item will be your footwear. You’ll be walking a lot, mainly through sand and dirt, so wear comfortable and breathable closed-toe shoes.

10. What should I pack when visiting the Pyramids of Giza?

It’s can get really hot whilst visit the Pyramids complex. It’s dry, dusty and since it’s a dry heat, it won’t be as obvious how much fluid you’re losing through sweat. I highly recommend taking three litres of water per person and keeping some in a thermal bottle to keep it cool and drink later in the day.

Take sunscreen and apply it before you go out in the sun. Wear sunglasses, a hat and take an umbrella just in case you need some shade; because there is none!

If you still can’t get enough of the pyramids,  after you leave the Pyramids complex, head to the top floor of the Pizza Hut. Located just outside the pyramids complex directly in front of the Sphinx and watch the sunset over a pizza.

12. Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids

Go back in time and see the history of the Ancient Egyptians and the Pyramids in the daily Sound and Light show located near the Sphinx. Booking a ticket is essential , however, you can also watch the show for free if you stay at a nearby hotel with a rooftop terrace such as Pyramids View Inn Bed & Breakfast or Panorama Pyramids Inn .

The Sound and Light Show runs at 7 pm, 8 pm and 9 pm during the winter and 2.5 hours later during summer.

Don’t forget to see the boat! What boat I hear you ask? Oh, just the boat that was buried at the foot of the Great Pyramid of Giza.

It’s unclear if it was used to carry the body of Khufu from Memphis to his tomb, (markings suggest it had been sailed before) and was buried for the pharaohs own journey across the heavens or it was buried for the sun-god himself.

Either way, this impressive full-size ancient Egyptian boat took 14 years for experts to put its 1,200 pieces together.

14. Bonus tips for visiting the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt

• Climbing the Pyramids – Once upon a time you could climb the pyramids, however, this is no longer the case. But then again, it also depends on who’s working that day. A guard let me climb up just long enough to take the photo above, but that was it. It any case, it’s best to ask.
• Toilets – There are toilets near the Sphinx and at the entrance to the pyramids complex before going through security.
• Panoramic Viewpoint – There is a panoramic viewpoint you can go to but it’s a bit far to walk in the heat so you may want to get a lift there. Either take your taxi which you paid extra for (like I did) or take a horse or camel. This viewpoint is where all the tourist buses stop, so it gets busy. While it’s a nice spot, it’s not the best perspective of the pyramids. To get a more iconic shot as seen in this photo, you’ll need to walk out into the dunes for about 15 minutes. Hardly anyone does this so ita ’s nice opportunity to just take it all in without being interrupted.

View from the panoramic viewpoint

I hope this guide has answered all your questions and helped you feel more prepared for your trip to the Pyramids of Giza. If you still have any questions or concerns, please reach out and leave a comment below. I’d be happy to help where I can. If not, then I wish you a wonderful trip! Support this blog book your Egypt tour here. Shukran for reading! ;)

Got more time? Take a day trip from Cairo

• Alexandria Day Tour: See the city built by Alexander the Great
• Private Full-Day Tour of Historical Alexandria from Cairo
• Pyramids of Giza, Sakkara & Memphis: Private Tour with Lunch
• Pyramids, Museum & Bazaar Private Tour with Entrance & Lunch
• Cairo: Dinner Cruise on the Nile River with Entertainment
• Cairo: Egyptian Museum 4-Hour Private Tour with Transfer
• Cairo: 1 or 2-Hour Felucca Ride on the Nile with Transfers
• Old Cairo and Khan El Khalili Bazaar: Private Half-Day Tour
• Cairo: Best Kept Secrets Night Tour
• Plus loads more here …

Let me remind you again why Egypt is amazing and watch my Egypt vlog below.

Like it? Pin it for later

Sources Independent UK |  Eyewitness Egypt

Over to you!

Which of these tips did you find the most useful? Is there anything you would add? Tell me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

Like what you see? Subscribe using the form below to have all of my posts delivered directly to your email.

Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

How to Travel Cheap in 2024: 108 Best Travel Hacking Resources

Where to stay in venice // best hotels in venice in each neighbourhood [2024 edition].

Thanks for the information ? I’m going tomorrow morning, should be fun!

My pleasure! Have a wonderful trip :)

Do you need to wear sunglasses in Giza because of the dust swirling around (or worse dust storm)? Or is this not a problem?

I booked a half day tour with Viator to see the pyramids. Is this a good option or is it better to do this on your own by catching a taxi to Giza and buying a ticket at the entrance?

Yes, I would wear sunglasses for both the dust/sand but also since the sun is very bright. When I was there, I didn’t experience any storms or wind, so I dare say, you should be OK :)

Yesh, I think a tour is a great way to do it, especially if you’re unsure. The tour guide will give you lots of history and then you’ll have free time. If you feel like you want to spend more time there, I would go back another day with a taxi as you will know what to expect by then :)

Wonderful blog!! I wished i could have supported this blog by purchasing tours but after reading this, i realized i dont need i was inspired to do it how you did it. Thanks and more power

Thank you for your support, Marizon :)

really useful blog, thank you! I saw your IG, is impressive. Do you have some tips about explore Luxor?

Hi Nicola, thank you so much :) There’s so much to see in Luxor. I would be prepared to pay an extra fee to take your camera/tripod in to places like the Valley of the Kings. Dress appropriately, as per my general Egypt travel tips here . Avoid wandering off on your own and stay with at least one other person if you can, especially in Karnak Temple. Hope this helps :)

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

If you don't know where you are , how do you know where you're going?   Find out how well you know Italian grammar today!

• Destinations

15 Essential Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza (Ace Your Adventure!)

This site uses affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Step into the realm of antiquity and prepare for an extraordinary adventure as we unveil 15 Travel-Tested Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza .

These monumental structures have stood proudly for millennia, drawing travelers from around the world to witness their enigmatic allure.

In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the sands of time, revealing insider insights and invaluable advice to help you make the most of your visit to this iconic archaeological wonder. Our tips will ensure that your trip to the Pyramids of Giza is nothing short of extraordinary.

Join us as we uncover the secrets of these ancient giants and embark on a quest to create lasting memories amidst the sands of Egypt!

PRO TIP: You might also like: 10 Epic Things to See and Do at the Pyramids of Giza (Unlock Giza’s Gems!)

Learn More About Egypt: 

14 Egypt Travel Tips to Save You Time, Money, and Keep You Safe

Perfect 7-Day Egypt Itinerary for First Vist (Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Abu Simbel)

Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Luxor (7 Things You Can’t Miss)

7 Best Tombs to Visit in the Valley of the Kings

• 1. 15 Essential Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza (Ace Your Giza Agventure!)
• 1.1. Captivating Reasons to Explore the Great Pyramids of Giza
• 1.2. Discovering the Pyramids of Giza: Location and Travel Route to Get There
• 1.3. Essential Things to Know About the Pyramids of Giza Complex
• 1.4. Who Built the Pyramids
• 1.5. Why Were the Pyramids of Giza Built
• 1.6. How Were the Pyramids Built
• 1.7. What Are the Most Fascinating Facts About the Pyramids
• 1.8. What to See and Do at the Pyramids of Giza: 10 Epic Things You Can't Miss
• 1.9. Can You Climb on the Pyramids
• 1.10. What to Wear When Visiting the Pyramids of Giza
• 1.11. How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Pyramids
• 1.12. What Are the Opening Hours of the Pyramids of Giza
• 1.13. How Long Does it Take to Visit the Pyramids of Giza Complex
• 1.14. What Is the Best Time to Visit the Pyramids
• 1.15. Where to Stay When Visiting the Pyramids of Giza
• 2. Intrepid Scout's Most important Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

15 Essential Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza (Ace Your Giza Agventure!)

Captivating reasons to explore the great pyramids of giza.

• Ancient Wonder of the World: The Pyramids of Giza hold a special place in history as one of the last remaining wonders from the ancient world . Visiting them allows you to connect with the past and witness an achievement that has fascinated humanity for centuries.
• Architectural Marvels: These pyramids are architectural marvels, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Egyptians. Their precise construction techniques, alignment with the cardinal points, and massive scale continue to intrigue architects and historians.

Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza / Captivating Reasons to Explore the Great Pyramids of Giza

• Historical Significance: Beyond their awe-inspiring presence, the pyramids serve as tombs for pharaohs, offering a glimpse into the profound cultural and religious beliefs of ancient Egypt. Exploring their chambers and hieroglyphics provides a window into this ancient civilization.
• Sphinx Encounter: Adjacent to the pyramids stands the Great Sphinx of Giza , a colossal statue with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh. It guards the pyramids and adds an air of mystery and symbolism to the site.

• Astrological Alignment: The pyramids’ alignment with celestial bodies, particularly with the stars, has fascinated astronomers and scholars for centuries. You can learn about these celestial connections and the significance they held for the ancient Egyptians.
• Photo Opportunities: The pyramids offer an array of breathtaking photo opportunities. Whether capturing their majesty from a distance or exploring their intricate details up close, you will create lasting memories through photography.

Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza / Pyramids of Giza at Sunrise 

Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza / Pyramids of Giza at Sunrise

• Mysterious Legends: The pyramids are surrounded by intriguing legends and mysteries, from the search for hidden chambers to theories about their construction methods.
• Sunset and Sunrise Spectacle: Witnessing the pyramids during sunrise or sunset is a magical experience . The warm, golden light transforms these ancient structures into ethereal wonders, creating a truly memorable sight.

Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza / Pyramids of Giza at Sunset

• Timeless Symbolism: Reflect on the timeless symbolism of the pyramids, which represent human ambition, achievement, and the pursuit of immortality. These enduring structures continue to inspire and captivate people worldwide.
• Bucket List Destination: For many, a visit to the Pyramids of Giza is a lifelong dream. Checking it off your bucket list provides a sense of accomplishment and a deep connection with history.
• Global Heritage: Recognize the global significance of the pyramids as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They stand as a testament to human achievement and serve as a shared cultural heritage for people of all backgrounds.

Discovering the Pyramids of Giza: Location and Travel Route to Get There

The Great Pyramids of Giza sit on the Giza Plateau , which is located on the edges of the Western Desert. Specifically, they are positioned approximately 9 km (5 mi) west of the Nile River in the city of Giza and about 13 km (8 mi) southwest of Cairo.

The best way to get to the Pyramids of Giza is by having a driver and a guide . This option gives you total flexibility. You can decide how much time you need to see everything at the Pyramids of Giza. Plus, having a knowledgeable guide by your side is priceless!

You can ask your hotel for a  bus tour  that stops at all major attractions in Cairo. It is probably one of the least expensive options. But, it does not give you much flexibility.

Another option is to just  book a taxi and head to the Pyramids of Giza. You will always be able to hire a guide right at the entrance.

Image Source: Map data ©2020 ORION-ME

Essential Things to Know About the Pyramids of Giza Complex

The Great Pyramids of Giza are part of the Giza Pyramid Complex , which is also called the Giza Necropolis . The Giza Pyramid Complex consists of:

1. The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops

2. Pyramid of Khafre

3. Pyramid of Menkaure

4. Great Sphinx of Giza

5. Queens Pyramids

6. Solar Boat Museum

In addition, there are causeways, valley pyramids, several cemeteries, and the remains of a workers’ village

Map of the Pyramids of Giza Complex / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza / Image Source: Wikipedia

Who Built the Pyramids

The pyramids were constructed during the period of the Old Kingdom , also known as the “Age of the Pyramids” or the “Age of Pyramid Builders (c. 2686-2181 BC). Specifically, they were built during the reign of the Fourth Dynasty Pharaohs.

The Pharaohs: Khufu, Khafre , and Menkaure erected the Pyramids of Giza.

Interestingly, the pyramid building project was started with the Step Pyramid in Saqqara during the reign of the Third Dynasty Pharaohs. Specifically, the Step Pyramid was built for the burial of Pharoah Djoser.

In addition, King Sneferu , the founding pharaoh of the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt, was the first one who attempted to build smooth-sided pyramids at Dahshur.

A Quick Read: 

Were the Pyramids of Giza built by slaves?

The ancient Greeks believed the pyramids were built with a massive slave labor force.

However, Miroslav Verner , in his book The Pyramids: The Mystery, Culture, and Science of Egypt’s Great Monuments , argues that the pyramids were not only built by humans—instead of aliens or gods—but they were constructed by tradesmen and artisans whose skills were in high demand and who were paid wages and organized under a complex bureaucracy. Source: Open Culture

In addition, Egyptologists Mark Lehner and Zahi Hawass claim that 20,000-30,000 skilled laborers, including stone masons, engineers, architects, surveyors, builders, and other craftsmen, were conscripted to construct Khufu’s temple, while a more significant force of workers was summoned during the summer months when the Nile flooded the surrounding valley and integrated with the permanent labor force.

Who Built the Pyramids of Giza / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza 

Why Were the Pyramids of Giza Built

Pharaohs held a special position in Egyptian society. It was a status of a being that combined both human and divine characteristics . As a result, this godlike status was held even after death

First of all, the pharaoh’s body was mummified and then buried in elaborate tombs, like pyramids.

Mummification was a necessary process since the Egyptians believed that the mummified body served as a home of the three spirits : ka, ba, and akh.

Ka was essentially a person’s double. It was the life force and at death it was separated from the body. However, it was important that after the pharaoh’s death ka had a home as well as be properly nourished and cared for. It was important that the deceased body would resemble the living body as much as possible so that ka, which was free to roam around and then return, could recognize his body.

That is the reason why each tomb would contain absolutely anything that they might need and what would help them in their afterlife.

Interestingly, if the body was destroyed, or the name of the pharaoh was erased, like in the case of a sad story of Pharaoh Hatshepsut , then ka would be lost.

How Were the Pyramids Built

There are many theories on how the Pyramids of Giza were built.

• Some reports claim that the pyramids were built by either dragging , rolling , and then lifting the huge blocks into place.
• Some theories suggest that a system of ramps had to have been constructed for maneuvering the huge blocks.
• Finally, there are theories that suggest that wooden and bronze levers were used to intricately position the stones into their place. These are all speculations.

How Were the Pyramids of Giza Built / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza 

What Are the Most Fascinating Facts About the Pyramids

• I think that the most fascinating fact that I came across was made by Robert Bauval in his book Orion Correlation Theory: 

Bauval claimed that the three Pyramids of Giza are aligned exactly like the three stars of the Orion Belt: Alnilam (Epsilon Orionis), Alnitak (Zeta Orionis), and Mintaka (Delta Orionis). He reported that the layout of the pyramids and their relative sizes were a deliberate design plan.

It is a controversial theory and has been criticized by Ed Krupp of Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, and Anthony Fairall , an astronomy professor at the University of Cape Town, South Africa.

Fascinating theories about the Pyramids of Giza / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

• Another interesting observation that I came across was the fact that the Great Pyramid at Giza’s latitude , 29.9792458°N, perfectly matches up to the speed of light, which is 299,792,458 meters per second. It is a fascinating fact!

Some claim that the ancient Egyptians had some greater knowledge of the speed of light, space travel, and, potentially, advanced alien spaceships.

• The mystery that still puzzles the scientists is whether or not mortar was used to attach the stones to each other.

How is it possible that some of the blocks are so perfectly matched that not even human hair can be inserted between them? Why, despite the existence of millions of tons of stone, carved presumably with copper chisels, has not one copper chisel ever been found on the Giza Plateau?

• Another interesting theory that I read about suggested that the Pyramids of Giza were once covered in a white casing made of highly polished limestone blocks which reflected the sun’s rays.

The pyramid’s angled sides symbolized the rays of the sun and were designed to help the pharaoh’s soul ascend to heaven and join the sun god Ra. The theory goes on and claim that the casings slowly disappeared after becoming loosened by earthquakes and crumbling to rubble or being cut loose and taken to build other structures.

• Another fascinating discovery that you should be aware of is that although at first sight, the Great Pyramid of Giza appears to have four sides, in reality, it has eight sides .

Each of the four sides of the pyramids is evenly split from base to tip. The discovery goes back to 1940 when a pilot named Robert Marsland Groves while flying over it noticed the indentations.

These are all interesting speculations and it is fun to read about them. It just shows how little we know about the ancient Egyptians and how much more we still need to learn about them.

Fascinating facts about the Pyramids of Giza / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza / Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

What to See and Do at the Pyramids of Giza: 10 Epic Things You Can't Miss

How do you decide what to see and do at the Great Pyramids of Giza?

Make sure to read my post 10 Epic Things to See and Do at the Pyramids of Giza to find out all the details. This bucket list contains 10 of the best experiences you can have at the Giza Pyramid Complex. It will help you to get a sense of this incredible place and all the treasures it holds.

Following is a short list to get you started:

• See the Great Pyramid of Giza – The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or the Pyramid of Cheops, is the oldest and the largest of the three pyramids in the Giza Pyramid Complex.
• Go Inside the Great Pyramid of Giza – for an additional fee, on top of the entrance ticket to the Great Pyramid Complex, you can go inside either the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre, and/or the Pyramid of Menkaure.
• See the Pyramid of Khafre – the Pyramid of Khafre is the second tallest and second largest of the Pyramids of Giza. However, if you look at it, it appears to be taller than the Great Pyramid.
• See the Pyramid of Menkaure – The Pyramid of Menkaure is the smallest of the three main Pyramids of Giza. Did you know that at the end of the twelfth century al-Malek al-Aziz Othman ben Yusuf , Saladin ‘s son and heir, attempted to demolish the pyramids , starting with that of Menkaure? Despite their efforts, workmen were only able to damage the pyramid to the extent of leaving a large vertical gash at its northern face.
• Be Amazed by the Great Sphinx of Giza – I have to honestly say that when I saw the Great Sphinx of Giza, it literally took my breath away! Did you know that a sphinx is a mythical creature with the head of a human, a cat, or a sheep, with the body of a lion with the wings of an eagle?
• Go on a Camel Ride – hands down, go on a camel ride. It is part of the experience! Negotiate the prices before you get on the camel. I suggest that you ask to ride the camel to the Panoramic Spot and have your pictures taken there. Read all about it here.

What to See at the Pyramids of Giza / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza 

Can You Climb on the Pyramids

You cannot climb the pyramids. However, I saw tourists tipping the guards and climbing on the pyramids.

Please do not do it. Let’s make as little of an impact as possible and save the pyramids for future generations.

What to Wear When Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

• There is no set dress code or specific restrictions on what you can or cannot wear while visiting the Pyramids of Giza. The bottom line, is you can wear whatever you want. However, keep in mind that Egypt is a conservative country. So, with that being the case, cover up your body and be respectful . Skip tank tops or tube tops and short shorts.
• In addition, since you will be outside most of the time, I would suggest that you wear a hat and a sun shirt  to protect yourself.
• Needless to say, wear comfortable and sturdy shoes . You will be doing a lot of walking.
• Finally, keep in mind that you will be in an open area that gets very windy and it is very dusty! It is a good idea to bring a scarf and cover up your nose and mouth. Each year, around April and May, the Khamsin winds loaded with sand hit Egypt. The winds take a toll on the Great Pyramids of Giza, but especially weathered is the body of the Great Sphinx of Giza which is carved out of a softer layer of limestone.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit the Pyramids

• The entrance ticket to the Giza Plateau costs 200 EGP per adult and 100 EGP for a student (with a valid ID).
• The entrance ticket to go inside the Great Pyramid of Giza costs 400 EGP, the Pyramid of Khafre costs 100 EGP, and the Pyramid of Menkaure is also 100 EGP.
• The entrance ticket to the Solar Boat Museum costs 100 EGP.
• Consider buying the combo ticket , which includes the entrance to the Giza Plateau, the entrance to the Great Pyramid of Giza, and the entrance to the Solar Boat Museum. The combo ticket costs 600 EGP.
• Included in your ticket is a free visit to the middle pyramid of the three satellite pyramids of the Queen of Cheops.

How Much Does It Cost to Visit the Pyramids of Giza / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza 

What Are the Opening Hours of the Pyramids of Giza

The Giza Plateau Archaeological Site opens every day between 8 am and 5 pm from October to March, and from 7 am to 7 pm every day between April and September.

My recommendation is to get there as early as possible . The tour buses start arriving between 9:30 am and 10 am and needless to say, it gets very crowded. You will get lucky if you manage to take a picture without any tourists in them.

How Long Does it Take to Visit the Pyramids of Giza Complex

My recommendation is to reserve a minimum of 3-4 hours . It is a bare minimum.

First of all, it is a huge site. It takes time to walk from pyramid to pyramid. Next, if you decide to go inside the Great Pyramid of Giza, you will need at least an hour to do it.

Moreover, if you are going to visit the Solar Boat Museum, then you need at least an hour to see the boat. Finally, if you go on a camel ride, then add another hour. Plus, you need time to take a ton of pictures!

So, do not rush it. Take your time. Find a quiet spot and soak it all in! Who knows when you are going to be back?

How Long Does It Take to Visit the Pyramids of Giza / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza 

What Is the Best Time to Visit the Pyramids

Get to the Giza Pyramid Complex as early as possible . First of all, you will avoid the crowds that usually swarm the place by about 9:30 am.

Second, if you are visiting during the summer months , then getting to Giza early will save you from the scorching heat.

If you are visiting during the winter months then make sure to go in the afternoon. There is usually a pretty dense fog that has a tendency to linger on in the morning during winter months and obscures the views.

Where to Stay When Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

I stayed at Marriot Mena House in Giza and it was fabulous!

Unfortunately, at the time of my stay, all the rooms with views of the pyramids were going through renovation. I was hoping that each morning I would be waking up to the sight of the Great Pyramid of Giza, but no such luck. However, the minute I stepped out of my room, I was greeted with the most amazing views of the pyramids.

Where to Stay When Visiting the Pyramids of Giza / Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza 

The buffet breakfast, which I enjoyed every morning, offered endless possibilities and the food presentation was top-notch. By the way, after you have your breakfast, get your cup of coffee and go to the outdoor patio area and enjoy your coffee there while admiring the views.

I honestly have to say that the rooms are fair size, clean, and nicely decorated. Above all, the customer service is outstanding! They will absolutely go out of their way to make your stay perfect.

Intrepid Scout's Most important Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

• If you are visiting the Pyramids of Giza during the summer months, get to the Pyramid Complex as early as possible or late in the afternoon to escape the crowds. The tour buses arrive at about 9:30 a.m. and leave at about 3 p.m. If you are visiting during the winter months, make sure to schedule your tour in the afternoon. There is usually a dense fog or haze in the morning which obscures the view.
• Use entrance # 1 as marked on the map. Entrance # 2 is very narrow and always jam-packed with tourists and locals.
• Do not skip the Solar Boat Museum . The reconstructed boat is a sight to see!
• Go on a camel ride . It is part of the experience.
• Take the time and walk to the Panoramic Spot . You will be able to take amazing pictures.

Find out how to get to the Panoramic Spot at the Pyramids of Giza here .

Traveling in Egypt can be challenging , even for the most seasoned nomad. There’s so much to know about Egypt and consider before planning a trip, however, make sure to read 14 Egypt travel tips , to help you make the most of your time,  avoid possible challenges, and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable stay in Egypt.

You Might Also Like:

How to Visit and What to See at KHAN EL-KHALILI BAZAAR in Cairo

Perfect 7-Day Egypt Itinerary for First Visit (Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Abu Simbel)

What to See at the TEMPLE of HORUS at EDFU (5 Things You Can’t Miss)

What to See at the TEMPLE of KOM OMBO, Egypt (9 Things You Can’t Miss)

How to Visit Abu Simbel: Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Visit

How to Visit and What to See at the TEMPLE of PHILAE in Aswan

Best Day Trip from Cairo – Dahshur, Memphis, and Saqqara (Maps+Photos)

19 Must-See Things at Egyptian Museum in Cairo (+Practical Tips)

What to See at the Temple of Horus at Edfu

What to See in Memphis, Egypt – Guide to Visiting Memphis

Read All the Posts About Egypt in: 

Egypt Travel Guide

Did You Find This Useful?

Why not save tips for visiting the pyramids of giza to your pinterest board.

Now, It Is Your Turn, I Would Like to Hear Back from You!

Are you planning a visit to the Pyramids of Giza?

Please let me know! Drop me a quick comment right below!

Click on any of the images below to get inspired and to help you with the planning process for your trip to Egypt!

• alert('URL copied to clipboard.')).catch(err => console.error('Unable to copy to clipboard.', err))">

Share via Email

10 Epic Things to See and Do at the Pyramids of Giza (Unlock Giza's Gems!)

14 EGYPT TIPS for FIRST TIMERS (How to Save Time, Money, and Be Safe)

Perfect 7-Day Egypt Itinerary (Cairo, Memphis, Saqqara, Giza, Aswan, Luxor, Abu Simbel)

Amazing 19 Must-See Things at EGYPTIAN MUSEUM, Cairo (+BEST Practical Tips)

How to Visit and What to See in Saqqara, Egypt (Guide to Visiting Saqqara)

How to Visit and What to See in MEMPHIS, Egypt (Guide to Visiting Memphis)

@intrepid.scout

Leave an answer Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The company processes your data to facilitate the publication and management of comments. You can exercise your rights of access, rectification, deletion and objection, among others, according to our Privacy policy .

How To Visit The Pyramids Of Giza & Sphinx In Egypt

What kind of bucket list doesn’t include the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt? Believe it or not, the Giza pyramids are fairly easy to visit on a day trip from Cairo, the capital of Egypt.

Built in 2560 BC, the Great Pyramid of Giza was the tallest man-made object in the world for 3,800 years. It’s the oldest of the Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World, and the only one still standing today.

Visiting the Egypt pyramids is a pretty simple experience, and there’s not a whole lot to do there except gaze at the big piles of rock, but it’s still a profound and unique experience that every traveler should check off their list.

This travel guide will explain how you can visit the Egyptian pyramids on your own, with or without a tour, and with a very modest budget and minimal planning!

Quick Facts (Main Pyramid)

• Date: 2560 BC
• Height: 150 meters (500 ft)
• Base Length: 150 meters (500 ft)
• Weight: 6 million tons
• No. of Blocks: 2.3 million
• Builders: 200,000+

Best Day Tours To The Egypt Pyramids

First of all, if you’re on a tight schedule and want to skip the extra steps involved in arranging your own trip to the pyramids, or if you’d rather travel in a tour group for safety or convenience, there are options for doing that.

There are a number of companies that offer prearranged day tours to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx for as low as $45 USD, complete with hotel transfer, optional camel ride, and same day return to Cairo.

If you’d rather make your own arrangements and go without a group, that’s covered next.

How To Get To The Giza Pyramids

The Great Pyramids are located on the outskirts of Giza , a suburb of Cairo, Egypt.

The nearest airport is the Cairo International Airport (CAI), which is served by a bunch of international airlines. You can shop for flights to Cairo at Skyscanner.

From the Cairo airport, it’s a 1 hour drive to Giza. The arrivals zone has plenty of taxis you can take, but I used Uber and I would highly recommend this because it’s much cheaper and probably safer too.

Do not rent a car in Egypt unless you are familiar with driving in the Middle East! Traffic in Arab countries is dangerous and chaotic, and you’ll be much better off going with a driver who’s familiar with how the traffic works here.

Besides, the drivers in Egypt are pretty affordable — as of 2024, the price for an Uber ride from Cairo to Giza is around 340 EGP (~$7 USD).

Giza Pyramids: What To Expect

If you’re staying at least one night in Giza, which I’d recommend, then you can drop off your luggage first at your hotel and then easily walk to the entrance of the pyramids and sphinx.

There are a bunch of hotels in Giza that are within a 5 minute walk to the main entrance for the pyramids, and they usually have great rooftop views to boot. More on that later.

If you’re ready to visit the pyramids, then just head up to the main ticket office and buy your tickets. The scammers and touts will already be trying to chat you up at this point, but you should ignore them.

As of 2024, the general ticket price is 540 EGP (~$11 USD) and that gives you admission to the sphinx and the whole area surrounding the pyramids.

Camel Rides At The Egypt Pyramids

If you do go on a horse or camel ride, which I think is a great idea, then be sure to negotiate your price and terms BEFORE hopping on.

It’s common for the touts to try to come up with ridiculous prices after you’re already in the saddle and feeling obliged.

Do not pay before your ride either, handle the payment after your ride — no matter what they say!

As of 2024, the government of Egypt has a fixed price for the camel rides of 500 EGP (~$10 USD) for 1 hour. There’s a sign near the entrance that says so, and you can always point to it if you’re having a hard time getting a fair price from the touts.

The Great Sphinx of Giza

Don’t forget to stop at the Great Sphinx too.

This mythical creature, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is the oldest surviving sculpture in Egypt.

It’s also included in the same 120 EGP ticket you bought at the entrance for the pyramids, so just show your ticket at the doorway to the sphinx and you can walk up to it.

Hotels Near The Egyptian Pyramids

There are a bunch of neat hotels in Giza that are within a 5 minute walk to the main entrance for the pyramids, and they usually have awesome rooftop views of the whole area.

I would highly recommend staying at least one night in Giza, because it allows you to go at a relaxed pace and make the most of your time there.

It also makes it easy to do the Sound & Light Show, or just sit back and watch the sunset at Giza.

I stayed at Marvel Stone Hotel

I stayed at Marvel Stone Hotel for $32 USD/night, and it had a great rooftop terrace with views of the pyramids and sphinx, complete with easy chairs and even a pool table.

This was actually one of the highlights of my trip to Giza, because I was able to sit back and admire the pyramids and the camels running around in the distance — without being harassed by sellers and touts.

In the evening I watched the sunset over the Pyramid of Khafre and took some photos from the rooftop.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Giza Pyramids?

Egypt has an arid climate, so it’s hot and dry year round.

The coolest months are from December to March, and this is probably the most popular time to visit the pyramids, but honestly any month in the spring or fall would also be fine.

I visited Egypt in September, and the heat was bad at times (mostly in Luxor), but I didn’t think it was too much of a problem in Giza. Northern Egypt is not nearly as hot as nearby Middle Eastern countries like Qatar or the United Arab Emirates.

You can take photos of the pyramids in the morning, but the dust will obscure the colors a bit. The best time of day for taking photos at the pyramids is around noon, when the dust clears up and the blue sky can be seen in the background.

• Egypt Travel Guide - Tips, Info & Photos
• Best Things To Do In Egypt

You may also like

How to visit tanjung puting national park in indonesia, coron vs el nido: which is better all differences explained, banggai islands travel guide & itinerary for sulawesi, paisu pok lake in banggai: bluest lake in indonesia, samet nangshe viewpoint: best sunrise spot in thailand, 13 best traditional shrines & temples to visit in japan.

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Egypt again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

Thanks! Indeed.

I love the article

Fantastic guide! Planning my trip to the Pyramids of Giza, and your tips on day tours, getting there, and the camel rides are super helpful. Excited to tick this off my bucket list, thanks for the insights!

Nice! Have a great trip.

One of the best articles I have read. I hope to continue following

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Write For Passport & Plates

• Netherlands
• United Arab Emirates
• Puerto Rico
• United States
• Foodie Travel
• Travel Tips

Africa , Destination Guides , Egypt

Best tips for visiting the pyramids of giza, egypt in 2024 (from a local): everything to know before you go.

Disclosure :  This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support. 

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza is pretty much on everyone’s bucket list. I’m sure you remember being 8 years old and excitedly learning all about pharaohs and mummies and thinking how cool it would be actually see them for yourself one day.

There are a lot of misconceptions about Egypt . Back in the day, it was a matter of people thinking that Egyptians use hieroglyphics to communicate and dance like they do in that 80s music video. The sad news is that nobody uses hieroglyphics anymore but the not-so-sad-news is that Egyptians are much better dancers than The Bangles. Nowadays, people are afraid to visit Egypt thanks to the media , but I can assure you it’s totally safe. But let’s get back to the Pyramids before I go on a tangent.

If you’ve found yourself on this page, it’s probably because your childhood dreams are coming true and you’re planning a visit to the Pyramids! Woohoo!

So here’s the thing. The Pyramids of Giza and The Sphinx are seriously amazing. The first time you get a glimpse of them in real life, you’ll be awed by how spectacular they are.

The actual visit to the Pyramids is a tad bit stressful. Egyptian tourism isn’t at its heyday at the moment so everyone working there is as desperate for your business as my mom is for me to get married (read: very).

So be warned: visiting the Egyptian Pyramids without a guide means you’ll be asked, over and over again, to buy souvenirs, ride camels and horses, and who knows what else. Having been three times now (once on a tour with fellow travelers and twice with locals), I can say that it’s the one place in Egypt I recommend “splurging” on a tour .

If you want to be an ultra-cool backpacker and travel all around Egypt by yourself, by all means, read my first-timer travel tips and go for it. But if you can spend a little to book a tour to the Pyramids, it will make the experience that much more enjoyable. Check out the tours below.

• Private Half-Day Trip to Giza Pyramids with Camel-Riding
• Full-day tour to Giza Pyramids Memphis and Sakkara

If you still want to visit the Pyramids of Giza on your own, I’m going to arm you with all the knowledge you need so you can thoroughly enjoy your visit to one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. Behold, everything you need to know before visiting the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.

Table of Contents

Where are the Pyramids of Giza located?

The Pyramids of Giza are located in the Giza province, which is on the west side of the Nile River. It’s around 30 minutes from Downtown Cairo when there’s no traffic . If there is traffic, which is likely because it’s Cairo, it can take an hour or more to get there. Luckily the Pyramids are iconic so your chances of getting lost are pretty slim.

Where to stay in Egypt to See the Pyramids

I highly recommend staying at a hotel near the Pyramids for one night so you can get the true Pyramids experience. It’s magical to be able to see the sun rise and set over the Pyramids and it means you won’t have to wake up quite as early as you would if you were staying in Cairo . There are tons of  hotels in the area , so I’ve helped you narrow down your options with my recommendations below.

Marriott Mena House

This is the only 5-star hotel with views of the Pyramids. It’s about half a mile away from the Giza complex itself, and worth the splurge, so you enjoy the facilities before and after your visit to the Pyramids. Check out reviews on TripAdvisor and book on Booking.com  

Panorama Pyramids Inn

This hotel  is only a 10-minute walk from the main entrance to The Pyramids and has seriously spectacular views. You can watch the evening  Sound and Light Show from the comfort of the hotel (fo’ free, heyyy). Plus they have a restaurant on-site and excellent customer service. Check out reviews on TripAdvisor and book on Booking.com  

If the Panorama Pyramids Inn is fully booked and you’re looking for options at a similar price point with good views and service, check out Great Pyramid Inn , Pyramids View Inn , Royal Pyramids Inn , or Hayat Pyramids View Hotel .

How to get to the Giza Pyramids from Cairo

If you decide not to spend the night in Giza, there are several ways to get to the Pyramids from Cairo. You know what they say: all roads lead to Rome The Pyramids. I recommend Uber , although you can also take a taxi or the bus. Here are the pros, cons, and tips for each option.

• The bus: You can take bus 355 or 357 from the bus stop near the Egyptian Museum in Downtown Cairo. While this will cost you the equivalent of about 15 cents, I don’t recommend this method because the bus system is a tad confusing. Also, you’ll still have to walk quite a ways to get to the entrance of the Pyramids.
• Uber: I recommend Uber because the drivers will take you to the main entrance of the Pyramids (where you buy your tickets) and you don’t have to negotiate prices beforehand. Plus, you can get picked up wherever you want.
• Taxi: Pretty much the same as Uber except you’ll have to negotiate your fare to ensure you don’t get ripped off. I personally don’t take cabs in Egypt because Uber is so hassle-free. There’s really no reason to take a cab unless you don’t have data and are incredibly confident in your negotiating skills.

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza without a guide

I know I said this in the introduction but I’m just going to say it again for good measure. I don’t recommend visiting the Pyramids without a guide because the hassle from vendors can be overwhelming. Let me just clarify that it’s totally safe to visit the Pyramids on your own (even as a solo female, but the harassment is just extra in that case), it’s just a tad annoying.

If you’re a seasoned traveler or have already spent some time in Cairo, then a visit to the Pyramids on your own won’t be that big of a deal. But if it’s your first time in Egypt or you find vendors to be overwhelming, book a tour .

I speak Arabic and even when I went with my local Egyptian friend, we were more than a little tired of vendors by the time we left. That is all.

How to Tour the Pyramids (once you’re inside)

• Pyramids: Once you’re inside the complex, I recommend following the path just to the left of the ticket office. Explore the Pyramids from closest to furthest: the Pyramid of Khufu, Khafre, then Menkaure.
• Panorama: Once you’ve seen the Pyramids (including going inside, if you purchased tickets to enter), make your way to the Panorama viewpoint. It’s not visible on the map but if you continue following the orange road past the Builders’ Quarters, you can head up to the Panorama. It’s a bit of a trek through the sand dunes, so if you decide you want to ride a horse or camel, this would be a good place to do so.
• Sphinx: From the panorama, make your way to the Sphinx via the Temple of the Sphinx. That’s where you can take your iconic and cheesy Sphinx photo!

If you’re interested in fully exploring the complex, there’s a lot to see including the Boat Museum, the Pyramids of Queens, the Cemetery, and more!

Giza Pyramids Opening Hours

The Pyramids are open daily from 8 am to 5 pm between October and March, and 7 am to 7 pm between April and September.

The Best Time to Visit the Pyramids

First of all, if you haven’t booked your Egypt travel yet, I highly recommend visiting anytime besides the summer (and also booking a guided tour to the whole country , if I’m being honest). Summer in Cairo is really hot (it is a desert, after all!) and that doesn’t make being outside that much fun.

No matter which season you choose to visit, come to the Pyramids as soon as they open . Most tour groups don’t start showing up until around 10 am, so you can enjoy some peace and quiet (and photos without people in them #priorities) by arriving early. Plus, you’ll beat the heat. Even brown people like me get sunburned in Egypt.

Lastly, Fridays and Saturdays are holidays in Egypt, and that’s when the Pyramids are typically filled with schoolchildren. The school kids are strangely fascinated with foreigners and will swarm you for selfies if you look foreign. I’ve never been so thankful for my ethnic ambiguity. If you want to know what it feels like to be a superstar, then go on a Friday or Saturday. Otherwise, avoid those days like the plague.

Pyramids of Giza Entrance Fee

It depends on what you want to see. If you just want to see the Pyramids and Sphinx from outside without entering any pyramids, it costs 120 EGP for adults and 60 EGP for students. The prices for the other parts are listed below:

• The Pyramids and Sphinx (complex) – adults: 240 EGP, students: 120 EGP
• The Great Pyramid (Khufu) – adults: 440 EGP, students: 220 EGP
• Khafre Pyramid – adults: 100 EGP, students: 50 EGP
• Menkaure Pyramid – adults: 100 EGP, students: 50 EGP

I’ve personally paid to go inside the Great Pyramid before and while it was cool to do once, I wouldn’t do it again, namely because it was excavated a long time ago and all the findings are in The Egyptian Museum . It’s hot and cramped inside, so don’t enter in the summer or if you’re particularly claustrophobic. Be sure to wear sturdy, non-slip shoes as well.

Is it safe to visit the Pyramids in 2024?

I’ve spent a total of five months in Egypt over the last couple of years and most recently went in November 2023. I’m a solo female traveler and I never once felt unsafe in Egypt. I will eventually write a blog post about this because everyone asks but trust me, you’ll be fine.

The Pyramids are safe to visit. There’s a security checkpoint upon entering, complete with metal detectors and bag checks. There are also police officers inside the complex to make sure nothing sketchy happens. The only thing you have to do is be wary of vendors trying to sell you things, but they’re harmless.

Can you go inside the Pyramids of Giza?

Yes, for an extra fee. Refer to the prices section for costs. Note that no cameras are allowed inside, so the guard will hold your camera for you (and expect a tip).

What’s inside the Pyramids?

Not much. Each pyramid has an empty room or rooms with a stone tomb inside. All the mummies and treasures have been excavated and can be seen at The National Museum of Ancient Civilizations .

Can you climb the Pyramids?

You can’t climb the Pyramids, no. It’s illegal and although there may be officers or vendors that encourage you to do so and look the other way, don’t. The Pyramids are thousands and thousands of years old. If every tourist climbed them or took a piece home with them, what will be left? Let’s be responsible travelers and respect the places we visit.

Where’s the Sphinx located?

There are two main entrances to the Pyramids: one is near the Great Pyramid and likely where you’ll be dropped off and the other is near The Sphinx. Once you pay for your ticket, you can enter and walk left to follow the main road. You’ll pass the Pyramid of Khufu and the Eastern Cemetery to arrive at The Sphinx. If you walk from the main area, you’ll be able to get photos of The Sphinx from all angles – its left and right side, as well as head-on. Alternatively, you can head there after the panorama viewpoint, in which case you’ll arrive at the entrance via The Temple of the Sphinx.

Where to take the best pictures of The Pyramids of Giza

It’s hard to take a bad photo at The Pyramids because they’re so epic (and visible from everywhere!). That being said, there are a few key places you can stand to ensure you get an awesome shot. Refer to the map for visual details.

At the Pyramids

• Once you walk into the complex, you’ll immediately see the Great Pyramid of Khufu. Head around to the corner near the boat pits and snap a photo from there. You can also get a solid shot from the corner between the ticket office and the Western Cemetery.
• Take a camel/horse or walk to the panorama viewpoint (where the very first photo in this post was taken). This is the best place to get an epic “desert with the three Pyramids” shot. Try to beat the tour buses here because it gets crowded (and stays crowded) real quick.
• I experimented a lot but ultimately just wanted a few solid photos with me in them. But if you’re super intense and want a detailed step-by-step guide on where to get great shots, check out this post .

At the Sphinx

• If you walk down the modern road from the Pyramid of Khufu, you’ll arrive on the right side of the Sphinx. It’s less crowded on that side, so it’s easier to snap a shot.
• Continue down the road, where you will turn right and see the Sphinx entrance gate. From there, you can take a shot of the Sphinx with the Pyramids in the background.
• Next, you’ll have to continue and circle all the way around to get a photo of the Sphinx from the left side. Be sure to have your ticket handy because you’ll need it to re-enter via the Temple of the Sphinx. This is where most people get their shots of the Sphinx.

Riding a Camel or Horse at the Pyramids

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sally • Foodie Travel Blogger (@passportandplates)

I do not recommend riding a camel or horse at The Pyramids. Animals, especially those used for tourism, are not well taken care of. Please do not support animal tourism in Egypt.

What should you wear when visiting the Pyramids?

Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country and people dress conservatively. I recommend doing the same because I think it’s important to mirror cultural norms.

That being said, everyone at the Pyramids is used to tourists so, in theory, you can wear what you’d like. But to avoid unwanted attention, I suggest covered legs and a t-shirt for both men and women . I’ve included a few options below.

• Comfortable walking sandals : These are my favorite sandals for travel for both their comfort and breathability.
• A hat : It’s hot, hot, hot. Keep sunburns away with a hat.
• A long dress or these awesome travel pants paired with a lightweight top : Dress conservatively and keep cool.
• Sunglasses: No explanation necessary.

Check out my Egypt packing list for everything I recommend for a trip to Egypt!

Other recommendations for all trips abroad: travel insurance , an eSIM , and  these travel items .

What to Bring on a Visit to the Pyramids of Giza

There’s only one restaurant inside the Pyramids, and it’s overpriced and not that great. I recommend bringing plenty of water and some snacks to keep you from getting too hungry. This is my favorite daypack for travel (and it includes a water bladder so you can avoid single-use plastic) but this inexpensive alternative works as well. I’ve used both!

Definitely bring sunscreen along and reapply as needed. You’ll need a camera, of course, and you can bring a tripod inside with you for an extra 20 EGP.

Other Advice on Visiting the Pyramids

• Make sure the driver takes you all the way to the main ticket entrance.
• Get there as early as possible to avoid crowds.
• Don’t let the vendors working there get to you. They’re just doing their job, so either ignore them or joke around with them as I did. Getting angry won’t make the experience fun. Of all the places tourists visit in Egypt, The Pyramids are the only place in Egypt where the hassle is particularly annoying.
• Be wary of people working inside: many want you to buy their souvenirs or to be your guide (for a fee). Be firm and don’t give anyone your ticket, camera, etc. even if they say they’re with the government or the police.
• Fridays and Saturdays are days off in Egypt, so avoid visiting then when possible.
• If you’re foreign-looking (read: blonde), teens and young kids may ask to take selfies with you. Feel free to say no, as this can turn into a swarm pretty quickly.
• If you’re a student, be sure to bring your student ID for a discount on ticket prices.
• Tipping for anything and everything is customary in Egypt. That means tipping the person helping you with your camel/horse if you’re riding one, as well as anyone who takes your photo.
• Knowing a few key Arabic phrases is helpful while traveling in Egypt. I recommend this book to help you.
• If you’re hungry after your excursion and are looking for a good restaurant nearby, check out Pyramids Restaurant outside the gates near The Sphinx. Alternatively, there are some fast food options like KFC or Pizza Hut available. For the best food to eat in Cairo, check out my Egyptian Food Guide .
• For more fun things to do in Cairo, check out this post !

Other things that might surprise you at The Pyramids

• The Pyramids are right in the heart of Giza, close to hotels, shops, and restaurants. They’re not in the middle of a deserted desert like the photos look.
• There’s a lot of construction going on en route to The Pyramids since the new Egyptian Museum is partially open (but set to open fully sometime this year or next).
• You can actually get a pretty decent shot of the Sphinx and Pyramids from the KFC or Pizza Hut across the street.

There you go. The ultimate guide on everything you need to know before visiting the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. I know this may seem a bit overwhelming, but don’t let anything I’ve written deter you from going. I mean, it’s the Pyramids, you guys! 100000% worth going. If anything, you’re now prepared and armed with the knowledge you need to have a fun experience. And if any of the things I wrote about the vendors worries you, just book a tour. They’re really affordable, especially considering how much you shelled out to get to Egypt in the first place.

More Egypt Resources

• 30+ Awesome Things to Do in Cairo, Egypt: The Ultimate Cairo Travel Guide
• What to Pack for Egypt: The Ultimate Egypt Packing List
• 2 Days in Luxor Itinerary: The Best Things to Do, See, and Eat in Luxor
• 2 Days in Aswan Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Aswan, Egypt
• Egypt Travel Guide
• Pharaohs and Feluccas: Exploring Egypt with Intrepid Travel
• Camping in the White Desert, Egypt: A First Timer’s Guide
• Traditional Egyptian Food Guide: 20 Must Eat Foods in Cairo, Egypt
• Egypt Travel Tips for the First Time Visitor: Expectations vs Reality
• Bellies En-Route Downtown Cairo Food Tour: The Best Thing to Do in Cairo for Foodies
• Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt: Everything to Know Before You Go
• Where to Stay in Cairo, Egypt: The Best Hotels in Cairo for Every Budget

Tell me: have you ever visited the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt? What was your experience like? Share in the comments below!

Like this post? Pin it and save it for later!

11 thoughts on “ Best Tips for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt in 2024 (From a Local!): Everything to Know Before You Go ”

I don’t think I’ll ever be satisfied till I see the pyramids myself. Absolute bucket list gold. Thanks for the info 🙂

Yes, they’re an absolute must do! I hope you get a chance to visit sometime soon.

Wow, your photos really drew me in! I’d love to visit Egypt, it’s been on my list for a long time now! As a photographer I love the tips about getting to the best/less crowded viewpoints!

These are really great tips for visiting the pyramids! I’d totally stay at Panorama Pyramids Inn because it’s only a 10 minute walk and I’m not a morning person.

That’s good to know it’s safe to visit the pyramids of Giza. I’ve yet to been to Egypt, but would really love to see these landmarks for myself one day!

I’ve always wanted to visit the pyramids and really love your detailed experience. I usually avoid tours and like exploring on my own, but since you are an expert here I will go with your suggestion to get one. I don’t think I would enjoy constantly being bothered so I appreciate the tip! 🙂

Nice guide! Can totally understand the misconceptions you mention. Mena house looks like a lovely place to stay. I will keep this place in mind when visiting the pyramids. Also good to know that you as a solo traveller never felt unsafe in Egypt =)

Me and my friends went to Egypt before one month, we enjoyed a lot over there. Our first ever Egypt trip was so memorable and a special one.

That’s awesome to hear! Glad you enjoyed your trip.

This was a very thorough and well written article, super helpful, thank you so much!

thank you! I’m glad you found it helpful. Happy travels!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt – 21 Tips for Visiting the Pyramids (2024)!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: February 15, 2024

Categories CAIRO , EGYPT

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

One of the ancient mysteries that’s captured the hearts of people all over the world and is on many people’s bucket lists is visiting the Pyramids of Giza.

How old are the Pyramids, really? How did the Pyramids get there? Why are the Pyramids there?

All of these questions are asked even before you’ve set foot in Egypt and probably came from flicking through the pages of your classroom textbooks.

The fact that we can stand and witness the remaining legacy of an ancient civilisation blows my mind. There is such beauty in the art of time travel, getting lost in the wonder, allowing it to take your breath away and….suddenly, you wake up and realise you are in modern-day Giza!

Giza is like beautiful chaos. A trade-off between the most fantastic views of the Pyramids and the hustle and bustle of the mass tourism industry here.

Like it or not, you’ll be hassled. For taxis, camel rides, tours, souvenirs, you name it – it’s here and people want you to buy.

Having been to Giza around five or so times on my travels in Egypt, I became hardened to it, know my way around a little bit, and have some tricks up my sleeve for you.

Here’s a guide on how to survive a visit to the Pyramids of Giza and top tips to keep in mind.

Things to plan and prepare before you visit Egypt

• You will need a Visa for Egypt. These can be bought on the border at Immigration for $25USD or beforehand online for the same price. I’ve created a detailed guide of how to get an Egyptian Visa (including a Multiple entry Visa) for UK citizens here. But it applies for most countries. 
• Don’t forget travel insurance for Egypt, it’s quite easy to get ill here! I always choose World Nomad’s as they have great policies at a competitive price.
• Egypt is a predominantly Islamic country which means it’s conservative and you will need to be mindful of how you dress, even men. I’ve created a detailed packing list for women here.
• Egypt uses the Egyptian Pound as currency and I found it easier to get some out at the ATM. Cards are accepted in most hotels but I’d use cash for shopping and attractions.

How far are the pyramids from Cairo airport?

It’s good to know that the Pyramid complex in Giza is located around an hour away from Cairo International airport. This is without traffic! At rush hour times in the afternoon or early mornings, you could be waiting two hours in a taxi.

The best and cheapest way to get around Egypt is with Uber. A taxi from the airport to Giza can be as little as 150EGP (£6) this way. Grab a local SIM at the Vodafone kiosk at arrivals before you leave. Here’s my guide on how to use it.

I found that even the airport staff were trying to rip me off with a ‘limousine’ car and charging around 500EGP (£30GBP) for it!

If you negotiate with the taxis it should cost you a maximum of around £250EGP (£10GBP). But you’ll need to fight for it ;)

Also FYI: Immigration and luggage collection seemed to take an AGE at Cairo airport. It took 30 minutes for the first bags to hit the belt. You need to then scan your bags on the way out and there’s always a long queue. Keep this in mind if you’re on a tight schedule.

How to reach Giza

If you’re heading to Giza from Cairo city, I would always use Uber as a cheap taxi service to get around. Not only do you know the price upfront, but they also don’t rip you off either. But, always make sure they start the journey and you see it happen.

Normal taxis in Cairo are a gamble and a headache. Some will put the meter on, some will refuse, some it’s like pulling teeth to get a reasonable price!

Also, once they’ve got you in, they’ll offer to take you all these places, to buy stuff, or to be your guide. For me, it got very frustrating. Uber took away that hassle.

Giza is a big city, so always state you’re heading to the Pyramid Necropolis and you want to be dropped off at the entrance.

A lot of taxi drivers may pull a fast one to say they’ll be fined to go there, but it’s simply not true. They just need to pass security and show their license on the way in.

On that note the security in place here can look quite intimidating, there are lots of soldiers and police with guns. But, I took quite a lot of comfort in that.

I’ve written a whole guide on how to use Uber in Egypt here which includes tips on safety and scams to look out for.

Some basic information for visiting the pyramids

What’s the cost of entry for the pyramids.

• You will pay £160EGP (£7) for entry to the pyramid complex.
• Then it’s £360EGP (£15.60) for entry inside the Great Pyramid
• £100EGP (£4) for entries inside the 2nd and 3rd Pyramid
• The Solar Boat Museum is also £100EGP (£4).

What are the Pyramids opening times?

• October – March it opens at 8am with last entry at 4pm.
• April – September it’s 7am with last entry at 6pm.

What’s the best time to visit the Pyramids?

The best time to visit by season would always be winter as it’s not as hot! The best time in the day would be when it first opens early in the morning.

Giza is FULL of tour buses and groups who head to the viewpoint first. So, if you’re travelling solo, by entering at 8 am you’ll beat the mass crowds that turn up around 9 am.

Photography at the Pyramids

Camera tickets are included in your ticket price. But, you will need to pay £20EGP for the use of a tripod which is £1GBP.

Can I go inside the Pyramids?

Yes, but it’s just an empty stone room. Also, the corridors down are steep and narrow and it’s super hot inside. Not recommended if you’re claustrophobic!

Can I climb a Pyramid?

Technically, you’re not supposed to. But, as my guide was with me he bribed the guard and let me do it! It’s only like 10 (BIG) steps. I’ll explain more below.

Pyramids of Giza facts

How old are the pyramids and when were the pyramids built.

Now, this is the million-dollar question that scientists have fought about for years! No one really knows how old the Pyramids are. Many Pharaohs used to scratch off their predecessor’s cartouche (name) after they took over. So, there are infinite possibilities.

The most common theory is that they were built 4,500 years ago in 2500BC in the Old Kingdom of ancient Egypt.

Whereas if you ask people and followers of the Pyramid code they’ll tell you it’s over 10,000 years old built by a different civilisation.

It will always be a bitter-sweet mystery that I’m sure will be questioned for centuries to come.

How long did it take to build the Pyramids?

The latest theory is it took two decades to complete the Great Pyramid, the last and only surviving ancient wonder, with an army of around 100,000 paid labourers.

This was under the reign of Pharaoh Khufu (or Cheops as the Greeks called him). The Great Pyramid is also named Cheops.

The second and third Pyramids of Giza are called, Chephren and Mycerinus. These were built by Pharoah Khafre (who also built the Sphinx) and Pharaoh Menkaure.

There are actually 9 Pyramids in total. The other six are smaller ones. Giza is the most famous, but across Egypt, they’ve discovered over 138 Pyramids!

Who were the Pyramids built for?

It may surprise you to know that the Pyramids are actually tombs! So, it’s like walking in someone’s graveyard (talk about dark tourists). 

They were also built on the West Bank of the Nile due to the sun setting there each evening, symbolising the realm of the dead.

Pharaohs believed that after death they were heading to the afterlife and so needed an elaborate tomb with all their treasures buried inside with them.

So, the Pharaoh’s Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure ordered them to be built for themselves.

How tall are the Pyramids and how much do the Pyramids weigh?

This will blow your mind! Well, it did mine anyway…

The Great Pyramid of Giza is 139 metres high and each block weighs approximately 2.5 tonnes . There are 2.3 million blocks that make up the Great Pyramid of Giza. Making the total weight 6.5 million tonnes! 

This is why people still cannot figure out even today how people managed to bring them here and stack them on top off each other to make this incredible masterpiece.

What to wear at the Pyramids

Egypt is hot throughout the year and in the summer months from April – October it’s scorching! But, as it’s a conservative country, you’ll still need to cover up.

Wear light clothing that is breathable. Cotton trousers/capris and a t-shirt, a maxi dress, jumpsuit, or a maxi skirt and top combo would be ideal.

Pack your hat, sunglasses, and a light scarf to protect you from heat and potential sandstorms (these happen more than you think). I totally regretted not bringing mine! Wear comfortable shoes as the surfaces at the Pyramid complex can be uneven.

I did see a lot of women wearing revealing clothing like shorts and short dresses but I personally didn’t feel comfortable doing so. I was a woman travelling alone and I didn’t want to attract unwanted attention!

For more outfit ideas, you can check out my ultimate women’s packing list for Egypt here.

Top tips to survive visiting the Pyramids of Giza

1. choose a pyramid view hotel in giza, don’t stay in cairo.

Getting from Cairo to Giza can take a while due to the traffic congestion in the city. So, to save time, I would suggest staying in a hotel in Giza itself.

Waking up each morning with a view of the Pyramids from your window, rooftop or private balcony really can’t be beaten.

There are so many choices for all budgets. I’ll go through some of the best hotels near the Pyramids here;

Panorama Pyramids Inn

This is an excellent choice and is within walking distance of the Pyramid ticket counter. It has amazing clean rooms with hot water.

They offer a complimentary pick up from the airport if you’re staying a couple of days, a FREE breakfast each morning which could feed an army, complimentary drinks.

There was even a FREE Dinner with an excellent view of the light and sound show, and an amazing view of the Pyramids from some of the rooms.

They also provide tours of the Pyramids, Cairo, and beyond. The thing that really sets this place apart is the wonderful staff, they treated me like a queen!

To check dates and rates for the Panorama Pyramids Inn see here.

Pyramid Village Inn

A brand new, quiet hotel in Giza is the Pyramid Village Inn. It’s tucked away in a little side street but still has suites that overlook the Pyramids.

Again, these guys offer a free really tasty home-cooked breakfast and delicious Egyptian coffee!

I was actually the first guest in this hotel and when I had a chest infection and had to hide out here for a few days they were so kind and got me some medicine.

It really touched my heart as I was alone here in Egypt. I became really good friends with the owners and staff in the end, they felt like family!

For dates and rates available for the Pyramid Village Inn, see here.

Marriott Mena Hotel in Cairo 

If you’re looking for an oasis of 5* luxury, I would choose the Marriott Mena House in Cairo . The Mena House isn’t just a hotel, it’s a historic gem.

You’ll be following in the footsteps of royalty and famous celebrities like Agatha Christie and Charlie Chaplin.

Waking up to the Pyramids from your own private balcony just can’t be beaten. You can read my review here.

2. Hire a guide for your tour of the pyramids

You don’t have to do this, but hiring a guide takes a lot of the hassle out of your visit. I saw so many tourists getting angry and upset over being bothered and it’s just not worth it and could ruin your trip!

You will be constantly asked to buy things at the Pyramid complex. So, having a local guide that can speak both English and Arabic is really handy. Mostly to get people to leave you alone, but also to learn about the Pyramids.

I arranged a fully inclusive tour which included entry tickets, drinks, and a camel ride through Panorama Pyramids Inn for $40. The tour lasts around 2-3 hours. I found it was worth its weight in gold as I had a great time with little bother.

My guide Mahmoud was extremely knowledgeable of the area as he had grown up there. He knew everyone, paid off security guards so I could climb a Pyramid, and looked after my stuff while we were on the tour.

Also, unfortunately for him, he was my photographer and we took hundreds of photos. Oops!

3. Go to the Pyramids for opening time to beat the crowds and heat

I kid you not, there are hundreds of tour buses that park up in Giza for tours of the Pyramids. Also, you may find huge school trips that swarm the place with children.

My biggest tip is to get to the Pyramids for opening time, in winter this is around 8 am, to get in first. At this time it was cooler and completely empty and I was the only one there! It’s so much nicer to experience it this way.

By 9 am, this is when the tour buses and groups will come flooding in. It gets horribly crowded.

4. You can climb the pyramids, but tip the guard

Technically speaking, you’re not really allowed to climb the Pyramids nowadays. There’s no special permit to climb a Pyramid.

It’s well known the Egyptian government takes a dim view of all these Youtubers who keep climbing to the top and have been issuing lifetime bans.

But, it is possible to climb a few steps by paying a small baksheesh (tip) to the guard. He’ll essentially look the other way and I’m pretty sure he makes a killing from this.

I think in the end, I climbed up ten steps or so. I say steps, these are HUGE mammoth blocks that are hot, dusty, and uneven! So, be careful when climbing.

It was a pretty cool view from where I stood and a huge bucket list tick off for me! Also, included in my tour price.

5. You don’t need to do a camel or horse tour, but it’s wise

There are so many ways to see the Pyramids, you can go by camel, horse, horse, and carriage or just walk. But, keep in mind that the complex is massive and it’s hot. So, you may not be able to see as much by walking.

Personally, I decided to take a camel tour as I wanted to see it that way. His name was Charlie Brown lol! I love camels. I hate getting up and down on them, but once I’m up it’s pretty fun!

Shamelessly, I also wanted to take him for some photos. But, you could just hire one for a couple of Egyptian Pounds while you’re here.

Tip: Be mindful of how long you hire your camel for and agree on a price beforehand. When I was here on my last day in Egypt, it was so misty you couldn’t even see the Pyramids! So, we waited for the mist to clear. When I got back, I was told I owed an extra 200EGP because I’d stayed too long with the camel. Of course, no one told me before we waited. Super annoying.

6. You can go inside the pyramids, but tickets cost extra

You can go inside the Pyramids, yes. But, it’s not as impressive as the tombs at Valley of the Kings. There are no colourful paintings or hieroglyphics inside. It’s just a steep stony corridor down that leads to a blank room.

I’m claustrophobic and I tried my best to go down but I took a couple of steps in and I started to hyperventilate and freak out! It’s so dark, narrow, and hot in there.

You’ll pay £360EGP to go inside the Great Pyramid, £100EGP each for the 2nd and 3rd.

The guards were so friendly and asked if I was okay. To my surprise, they were actually boiling a kettle IN THE PYRAMID!

That’s right, there was a plug socket inside it. I guess it’s from the light and sound show. Anyway, they offered me a stupidly sweet cup of tea and I just had to laugh. It’s not every day you get to drink a cup of tea that was made inside a Pyramid!

7. Security will ask for money from your guide, it’s normal

The strangest thing was how the security here demand tips from your guide. For example, when you go up to the famous viewpoint in the Sahara, the police would turn up on their camels and demand a tip.

This happened quite a few times around the Pyramid complex. It kept making me feel like we were in trouble or something but apparently, it’s normal. My guide says the guards here make an easy profit!

8. Don’t forget to take in the view from afar

On that note, don’t forget to take in the viewpoint. There is one that all the coaches go to which is called the Panorama view with loads of souvenir stands, drink stalls, and tourists.

Then, there’s a view of the desert itself which is much nicer. It captures everything in one picture (all 9 Pyramids) and is much quieter. Make sure you tell your guide to take you there!

9. You can’t enter the Sphinx but you can see it from outside

Unless you’re on a stupidly expensive private tour of the Pyramids and you get a special permit, you won’t be able to step inside or go near the Sphinx. You’ll have to join everyone else outside.

For photos, the best view is the one just in front of the light and sound show seating area. You can capture the Great Sphinx with a pyramid in the background.

But the view isn’t bad from the viewing platform too and you can get cheesy tourist photos like this! You can tell my guide had done this before. It’s pretty much perfect!

10. You’ll be hassled, A LOT

I was hassled constantly in Giza! When I wasn’t with my guide it was like a constant onslaught of comments, bribes, selling, and grief;

• “Hey, Cleopatra!”
• “Where are you from?”
• “Walk like Egyptian”
• “Hello, you want taxi?”
• “You’re very beautiful”
• “Come look at my shop, looking is free”
• “You want camel ride?”

Of course, this is nothing compared to my time in India but it still grates on you after a while. My biggest tip is to ignore it or learn some of the language. Learning some Arabic can go a long way.

I also didn’t get bothered as much as some blonde women did, I have black hair and wear dark makeup around my eyes so lots of people mistook me for Egyptian.

It’s good to note that I didn’t at any point feel unsafe in Giza or in Egypt at all. Catcalling aside, I never felt under threat once.

11. Once the Pyramids shuts at 4 pm, go for a sunset tour in the Sahara

The Pyramids open at around 8 am and shut at around 5 pm which is a little bit of a bummer because it means that you can’t go there for sunrise or sunset. The soft lighting would be so lovely to capture in the complex itself. Sigh.

But, there is a solution. You can visit the Pyramids on a sunrise or sunset tour in the Sahara desert. This tour will be around 2 hours and will take you by camel, horse, quad bike, or horse and cart to the dunes.

When the sun goes down, it creates such a beautiful hue in the sky! It will always be etched in my memory.

Then, we ended the evening with tea at a traditional Bedouin camp. There are many, even private ones for big hotels, but I chose the one perched highest on the hill. The view was spectacular and they played some modern Egyptian music. Such a cool evening.

A typical tour will cost you around $30-40USD.

12. Don’t miss the pyramid light and sound show in the evenings

If you’ve ever watched the James Bond movie The Spy Who Loved Me starring Roger Moore in 1977, you’ll instantly recognise the light and sound show at Giza. Some scenes were shot there and it hasn’t changed one bit!

The Pyramids and the Sphinx come alive with colourful lighting, music, and powerful narration (he has such a booming voice) which tells the story of the Pyramids and their significance through the ages.

It takes place each evening unless there’s a special event going on or the minimum number of 10 people hasn’t been reached. It plays twice, once in English, then in another language which is different each evening. Sometimes it’s German, French, Spanish etc.

Tickets cost £250EGP but I never ended up going inside. I always watched the show for FREE from the rooftops of my hotel or from Pizza Hut. Plus, I got to eat or have a drink while watching.

You don’t hear as much, but it’s gorgeous to see them all lit up against the night sky. I must have seen it around twenty times by the end of my travels! If you’re in Giza, you can’t get away from it.

Check out the Giza light and sound show timings and language days here.

13. A surprisingly good view can be found at the world-famous Pizza Hut in Giza

Love it or hate it, there really is a Pizza Hut that is close to the Pyramids. So, you can either groan and complain about commercialism taking over or use it to your advantage!

This Pizza Hut has an epic view of the Pyramid complex at sunset from their rooftop and you’ll always see a lot of photographers queuing up here to grab a photo.

It’s actually both a Pizza Hut and a KFC combined so you can pick your fancy and eat on the rooftop for dinner. This is a great idea if you’re not staying in Giza but wanted to watch the light and sound show for free.

This was actually on my list of weird bucket list items. So, I was happy to tick it off. Bon Appetit!

14. Tips are usually expected for everyone

If there’s one word you need to get used to hearing in Egypt, it’s ‘Baksheesh’. It means tip and it will be expected everywhere, for everything.

Want a photo taken? Baksheesh. Need toilet paper? Baksheesh. Want directions? Baksheesh. You get the idea.

Tipping is a massive part of Egyptian culture and a tip often reflects what you thought of the service. It can’t be avoided and so I would make sure you keep change on you.

Bigger tips should be reserved for tour guides, cruise ship staff, hotel staff, and private drivers.

Small change should be kept for short taxi/uber rides, toilet attendants, porters etc. Restaurant tips are the standard 10% here.

At the end of the day, give what you feel! But as tourism in Egypt has significantly dropped since 2010, this is now a big part of their livelihood.

15. There aren’t many toilets at the pyramid complex

Nothing sounds more glamorous than having to go for a pee in the rubbish pile behind a camel at the Pyramids, while your guide tells people to go away, right? You guessed it, that happened to me!

There are hardly any toilets at the Pyramid complex at all. So annoying when I had to drink 2 litres of water there just to not feel dehydrated.

There’s some near the entrance and then, after that, there’s nothing. So, make sure you go to the toilet first before you start your tour. Or, you’ll be busting.

16. Be careful buying souvenirs here

There are lots of people selling souvenirs in Giza, but be careful you’re buying a genuine product. For example, Alabaster stone is very famous in Egypt and they sell stunning souvenirs with it.

But, if you’re not careful you could be buying stone sourced from China! Always check the weight, Alabaster should be heavy.

Same with Papyrus scrolls, many are actually banana leaf and not a genuine products. So, go to a reputable dealer or artist, not the market. They will hand paint and stamp their work.

Papyrus is difficult to tear but obviously, you can’t do that in the shop! If it looks machine-printed, it’s probably banana leaf.

18carat gold is famous here. But, you need to be careful. I got seriously scammed for my necklace and the police got involved. Prices, especially in Giza, skyrocket. 18carat gold is around $30USD dollars a gram.

My big tips are;

• Always check the weighing scales before buying
• Make sure if you’re buying a cartouche the name will also be in 18carat gold
• Go to a reputable dealer and make sure you receive a certificate of authenticity. Get a receipt with the full price and the WEIGHT on it.
• Go shopping of your own accord. Tour guides will get a huge commission and the price will go up.

If you’re heading to Luxor/Aswan, I would wait until you get here to buy gold. There are far less scams.

Click here for my top tips buying gold in Egypt!

17. Bring cash, there’s an ATM outside the Pizza Hut

Although many places take cards like restaurants, hotels, and Uber (through the app), cash is still very much king.

Tickets for attractions, souvenirs, and of course tips will require cash and plenty of it. There are some safe ATMs in Giza. One is in front of the Pizza Hut/KFC opposite the Pyramid ticket counter.

The maximum withdrawal amount is usually around 2,000 Egyptian Pounds. I never came across one ATM that didn’t come with a withdrawal fee. Just saying.

18. It will be hot, make sure to cover up!

Egypt is a desert country and Giza is slap bang in the Sahara! This means that there is little shade from the sun beating down on you.

Make sure you wear lots of suncream, wear a hat, bring sunglasses and a scarf with you. Wear breathable light clothing and comfortable shoes that won’t rub in the heat. Keep hydrated and seek shade when you see it.

It’s really important to protect yourself from the heat to prevent sunstroke and dehydration.

19. Photos are better in the morning

As we spoke of earlier, the Pyramids were built on the West bank as the sun sets here symbolising the realm of the dead. That means the sun will rise in the East opposite. The natural light from the sun in the morning lights up these Pyramids beautifully.

By noon, the lighting is so harsh in the sky, and in the afternoon the sun is behind the pyramids making them appear dark to the camera.

If you want colourful photos with nice lighting, go in the morning for the best results.

20. If there’s a famous person in town, it could close entirely

Just know that if a celebrity of famous figure comes to town, the whole area could be on lockdown.

The Pyramids complex will close to the public for the visiting entourage. No one is allowed to take photos from the rooftops (I got shouted at), taxis couldn’t enter, security and army are everywhere and it seemed all the locals were there trying to sneak a peek. There was even an undercover cop on the rooftop of my hotel!

If there is a big celebrity, royalty, or a politician in town, it may close entirely. Not for the whole day but plan in advance so you’re not disappointed.

21. Watch your stuff!

Pickpocketing and scams are common in Egypt and it’s no different at the Pyramids. A lot of people wonder about here; children, locals, tourists and so it’s important to watch your things.

I felt lucky that I had a guide with me to watch my stuff as I climbed the pyramids or went to take photos. Nothing was touched.

For assurance, I would make sure you keep your bag in sight at all times, have a bag with a zip, or put a lock on it for safekeeping. Better to be safe than sorry.

Ready to survive visiting the Pyramids?

Ticking a world wonder off your list will be an incredible feeling. Seeing the Pyramids with your own eyes is so much different from seeing them in the pages of a book.

It’s like walking in a different era and a historical playground. If you’re well prepared on what to expect when you’re here, you will be just fine.

Don’t forget to visit Cairo city as well. There are so many interesting places to explore beyond the Pyramids!

If you have more time and aren’t tired of Pyramids, it’s also worth checking out a day trip to Dashur, Saqqara, and Memphis. These are far less touristy.

Have fun travelling back in time to ancient Egypt!

I’ve written a complete list of the best places you don’t want to miss in Cairo here.

Read more of my Egypt articles

My perfect 2 week Egypt Itinerary

My top travel tips for Egypt

The perfect Egypt packing list

The most Instagrammable places in Egypt

My guide to the Valley of the Kings

Things to do in Luxor

The ultimate 4-day Nile Cruise

Things to do in Aswan

Top places to visit in Luxor at night

The perfect guide for Abu Simbel

Why you NEED to visit Alexandria

Top tips for riding a hot air balloon in Luxor

Why you must visit Naguib Mahfouz Cafe in Cairo

Like it? Pin it!

Friday 15th of December 2023

Really helpful blogs on Egypt thanks, and beautiful pictures!

Sophie Pearce

Saturday 16th of December 2023

Thanks so much Nicola, so happy they helped you :) Have the best time, Sophie x

Mohamed Mostafa

Sunday 13th of August 2023

Thank you for visiting our lovely country I hope you enjoyed your visit and for you to visit again but there is a small thing that is slightly bugging me the pyramids were built by workers who were paid not slaves at all

Friday 18th of August 2023

Hi Mohamed, thanks for your feedback. I'll be sure to update my post. Sophie x

Hi Sophie, your Egypt posts have been incredibly useful! I'm planning a long trip and I find myself coming back to your blog to see what you have to say about each destination.

I was wondering how much you'd tip a person who does a quick favor to you, like taking a picture? I'm an anxious person so I'm trying to prepare myself for every possible social interaction. I have to say you do a great job at making readers feel like they're there with you so you've already helped me a lot!

Hi Jean, thanks for reading and your feedback! Tipping is a huge part of Egyptian culture and you should have some small notes set asides for toilets and assistance with bags. Usually, it would be like 10/20/50 EGP for small things like that. If it's taking photos, I didn't usually tip as I took a lot myself or asked my guide to take some for me and I already paid them for their service and tipped them after as part of that. But, if you feel like tipping, small notes would be best to have to hand. Hope this helps and enjoy Egypt, it's the best! Sophie x

Saturday 11th of March 2023

Getting ready to go to Egypt after graduation, me and my sister :) I'm from Jordan (we got Petra woohoo) but I would still be considered a foreigner there, your Guide on Uber use is reassuring! I can safely meet my friends and let my sister catch up with her old friends on her own.

And these Tip are amazing! thank you so much <3

Friday 7th of April 2023

Hi Osh, no worries and have an amazing time in Egypt!! Sophie x

Friday 3rd of March 2023

Great blog! Amazing tips - loved the Sahara one, the best :)

I read somewhere that you no longer can see the pyramids light and sound show from the pizza hut. Do you have any idea about that?

Hi Vaidy, it's hard not to see the light show from the Pizza Hut. It happens every evening and the pyramids overlook the complex so I don't know how they would stop you doing that :) It's worth going at any time during the day for the views too! Sophie x

A blog about travel, history and photography

All you need to know for visiting the Pyramids of Giza

Last Updated on July 28, 2023 by

The Pyramids of Giza. A bucket list destination for thousands of people. A timeless place that stimulated the fantasies of archaeologists, historians, engineers and conspiracy theorists for centuries. One of the places I dreamed to visit for my entire life. Seeing the Pyramids of Giza for the first time was a great emotional moment and I think everyone wishing to visit this place deserves to have a great experience. For this reason, in this post I’ve outlined 16 best tips for visiting Pyramids of Giza. This includes, my personal experience, photos of the best viewpoints in Giza and exclusive insight.

Table of Contents

Essential things to know BEFORE visiting Egypt.

Visa and egyptian currency.

You will need a tourist VISA to enter the country. This costs $25 USD per person and it’s doable on line at Visa2Egypt or in person at your arrival. BE AWARE that if you decide to do it in person YOU MUST carry USD dollars in cash with you. In fact, the VISA office don’t accept any other type of currency or card payments.

At your arrival, don’t look for an immigration office but for a BANK OFFICE. This is located immediately at the right side BEFORE the line for the passports checks. Here you can buy the visa! If you do it online (as we did) be aware of fake visa websites! Trust only Visa2Egypt. Here, you’ll have to upload a copy of your passport and a photo of you in passport size (max 5MB). I received my visa in about 48 h but it may take up to one week. With your e-visa, you can go straight to the passports checks. The immigration officer will collect your paper and put a stamp on your passport. He will keep your e-visa, so every time someone ask you for the visa, he/she means the stamp in your passport.

Egypt currency is the Egyptian Pound. BEWARE that if you are travelling from the UK or Italy there is no way you can obtain Egyptian pounds before your trip. You have to withdraw the Egyptian currency at the local ATMs (there are various inside and outside the airport).

Religion and Restrictions in Egypt

Egypt is a Muslim country. Despite it is more liberal than other Muslim countries, it is advisable to bring conservative clothes. You should wear these in all the Muslim Areas (e.g. Islamic Cairo) and in the cities of Cairo and Alexandria.

Smoking (tobacco) is allowed everywhere. Many restaurants have a “non smoking area” and you can ask to seat there if you can’t bear a cloud of smoke all around.

Be cautious in street photography/videography, especially in Cairo. It’s forbidden to photograph governmental/military buildings. This applies also to historical locations/buildings used for governmental/military scope. Be careful as you can risk the prison for this!

Bringing/buying drugs in Egypt is strictly forbidden and punishable with prison. Moreover, the use of some medicines is forbidden/restricted. You should check what is or not allowed with your GP. If you are taking some specific medications bring your doctor prescriptions written in English. Keep all your medicines (also the general ones as ibuprofen) in their original package. Moreover, separate them from other products for possible inspections.

Entry Tickets and discounts in Egypt

Unfortunately you can’t buy online tickets for attractions in Egypt (e.g. the Pyramids/Luxor). If you find them online, it’s a scam!! Tickets are sold exclusively at the ticket counters outside the attractions. Moreover, to distinguish them from fake ones, the legit ones have a hologram proving their authenticity.

If you are a student you have the right of entry fee discount up to 50%. However, you have to present an ISIC card for this. Nevertheless, if you are older than 30 (in some locations 25) years old, your ISIC card is not valid! I know this is quite unfair. In fact, most PhD students (like me when I visited Egypt) are older than 25. Apparently, this is also against the ISIC rules (I did a complain about it). However, you can’t do much against this. You can try to “fight” with the guy at the ticket counter and hope for the better. My ISIC card was accepted in most sites. Nevertheless, it was categorically refused in Luxor (everywhere except the Luxor Temple) and at the Egyptian Museum.

Uber in Egypt

Uber in Egypt is safe and reliable. We used it in Cairo, Alexandria and Hurghada. However, if you see on the app that your driver accept your ride but will make you waiting more than 5 mins to reach you; cancel your booking and try again! We noticed this little scam in Cairo. Drivers super far away from us blocked our ride and took ages to reach us when another driver was nearer.

They do this because after 5 mins waiting, you are legally forced to pay 10LE if you cancel. Ergo, they get paid anyway even if they don’t come! This happened to us 5/6 times but most of the rides were completely fine. We reported this to Uber. It looks like they took the information very seriously. We received an email confirming they were taking actions against these scams. I am not sure if this is still happening.

Tipping in Egypt

Tipping in Egypt is a large part of the Egyptian culture. In fact, you are expected to tip for everything. Want to go to the toilet and need paper? Tip. Someone opened your car door? Tip. A guy inside the Karnak temple is pointing something invisible speaking to you in Egyptian? Tip. Would you like a cup of free tea? Tip. Tipping doesn’t meant that you have to run out of money in a second.

Tipping can be done responsibly and kindly so don’t let them rip you off. Some of the Egyptian guides and people we talked about it found asking directly for a tip “rude”. Nevertheless, most people are not of the same opinion and won’t be afraid of asking you money or complain the tip received is not enough.

It is up to you judging who deserve a tip or not. Before tipping, we asked to some Egyptian friends some guidance and they told us that most of the tips are around 5-20 LE. I tipped 50-100 LE only people who helped/guided us half/whole day (on the top of the price paid for the service).

It is safe to visit Egypt?

Something that concerns a good 95% of people who have Egypt in their minds for an imminent or future travel plan, is if it is safe to travel in Egypt in 2022? According to our experience, Egypt was very safe . We never felt in danger or seen anything suspicious. Every attraction (including the Pyramids in Giza) is well equipped with security scans and check points and we felt safe all the time.

Planning a longer trip to Egypt? Read my Complete guide to Egypt for more information.

Pyramids of Giza Map

Th Giza Pyramid Complex is famous with the name Giza Necropolis . This includes The Great Pyramid of Giza (or Pyramid of Khufu), The Pyramid of Khafre, The Pyramid of Menkaure and the Great Sphinx. Moreover, some other small Pyramids dedicated to the Queens, two cemeteries and a Solar Boat Museum are also part of the complex. Unfortunately, any physical map of the Giza Necropolis is available on site. To have an overview of the area, is better to download an online map. The best one I found is this posted above from Wikicommon.

Information about Giza Pyramids

When were the Pyramids of Giza built?

The Pyramids of Giza date back to c.2580 -2560 BC. In fact, Egyptologists believe they were constructed over a 20-year period during the reign of King Khufu (2589 – 2566 BCE).

Why were the Pyramids built?

I need to point out that the Pyramids of Giza are not the only pyramids in Egypt, neither the first to appear in the Egyptian territory. Indeed, it is arguable that the Pyramids in Giza were the latest and final attempt to build a majestic burial site. In 2008 it was discovered that there were over 138 pyramids all over Egypt . However, the earliest ones are those still standing in the necropolis of Saqqara and Dashur. To reply the question why were the Pyramids built, the most accredited studies argue that the pyramids’ main purpose was merely religious.

Ancient Egyptians were one of the first populations believing in the afterlife. They thought that when a king died, his spirit (kalled “Ka”) stayed with his body. For this reason, the body and its spirit needed to be protected from the outside world. The protection of the corpse and its spirit came through mummification and a burial site that included everything the king would need in the afterlife. Here come the Pyramids. A magnificent burial site protecting the King (and his family) during the afterlife.

Why the pyramids have a triangular shape?

There are many theories about why the pyramids have a triangular shape. A scholarly-accepted theory says that pyramids were modelled on a sacred, pointed stone called the  benben. This used to be located in the Temple of Ra at Helipolis . The benben symbolises the rays of the sun and it was usually placed at the top of pyramids and obelisks. Another lovely (and quite romantic) theory I’ve heard from a guide in Egypt, is that the pyramids actually represent the dune of the desert.

Who built the Pyramids of Giza?

Though for a long time it was believed that the pyramids were built by slaves, recent evidence demonstrates that the people who built the pyramids were actually paid labourers, probably native from Egypt. The oldest known pyramid is the one located in Saqqara an built on 2630 B.C. This is famous as “Step Pyramid” because it’s more a traditional mastaba than a triangular-shaped tomb. The first pyramid having a triangular shape appeared in Dashur around 2613-2589 B.C. and it’s famous as “Red Pyramid” from the colour of its bricks. After many attempts, new techniques and an (estimated) force of around 20,000 workmen shaped the Great Pyramid of Khufu. This appeared as the masterpiece of the Egyptians’ burial sites.

How the pyramids were built?

For years, scholars from around the world have wondered about the exact technology used by Egyptian for the construction of the Giza Pyramids more than 4,500 years ago. A technology that, as argued by many, was so “advanced” to appear as alien. However, sometimes you don’t need aliens to be smart. And Egyptians were smart. Despite the mystery of the Pyramids construction is still partially unsolved, the most acquainted theories argue that:

• Egyptians used some kind of superstructures to move the blocks up to their position. Nevertheless, this technique has some written historical evidence but no actual confirmation or practicability in reality.
• Egyptians used ramps to raise the blocks. This is the most favourable theory especially after the recent finding of a 4,500 years-old ramp dating back to reign of Pharaoh Khufu. You can read the article here .

This sheds a new light on the technique used by Egyptians for the construction and development of the Giza Plateau. However, there are pieces still missing from the puzzle. It’s especially true that we still don’t know how Egyptian cut their hard stones (e.g. granite) and how they lifted blocks at the side of the pyramids.

Entrance fees for the Giza Plateau

All the prices below are in Egyptian Pound and updated to February 2022.

Best tips for visiting Pyramids of Giza

How do i get to the pyramids of giza.

Reaching the Pyramids from Cairo

The Pyramids of Giza are located in what is known as the Giza Plateau . This is a vast desert area located at about 25 km from Cairo. It usually takes from 40 to 90 minutes (according to the traffic) to reach the Giza Plateau from Cairo. An Uber/Careem ride will cost you between EGP 80-140 . For this reason, if you want to visit early or avoid starting your day stuck in the crazy Cairo traffic, I would recommend to book an hotel in Giza.

Reaching the Giza plateau from the Airport

If you have just a short layover in Egypt and want to visit the last surviving of the ancient 7 wonders of the world, I would recommend to pre-book an organised tour. Egypt take some time to get used to. If you are in hurry, you won’t have the opportunity to acclimatise to the Egyptian atmosphere. There are several companies that organise layover tours of the Pyramids. A good company that we used for going to Abu Simbel and visit Saqqara / Dashur is Emo Tours . The guides we met were very knowledgeable and they have a special section for layover tour of Cairo and Giza.

Where to stay in Giza

In my opinion staying one or two days in Giza will give you a best opportunity to visit the necropolis without the stress of coming from Cairo. Most hotels in Giza are located at a walking distance from the Pyramids and, in case you don’t want a guide and undertake an independent visit of the Giza Necropolis, it’s very easy to pop directly into the tickets booth.

In Giza, there are a few luxury hotels and a great number of small but convenient medium range hotels and guest-houses. If you opt for a luxury vacation, the best place to stay near Giza is surely the Marriott Mena House, Cairo . This is a 5-star hotel featuring one of the best views of the Pyramids from the balconies of its rooms. As expected, it’s expensive and from what I’ve heard, the service is not the best you can find.

Budget stays in Giza

If you are travelling on a budget but you don’t want to renounce to a room with a view, there are a great number of low-cost stays in Giza. I feel to recommend the place where we stayed during our days in Giza. This is called Pyramids Guest House . This guest house is located in a little backstreet of Giza, super close to the main entrance of the Giza Necropolis and the Giza shopping area. Although is not visible from the main street, there are plenty of signs directing you to the right place.

The price of the accommodation is really a steal from what you get in return! In fact, we paid about £72 for a three-night stay and this included an amazing breakfast with Pyramids view every morning and free transportation from the airport to the guest house!! This is something you might want to consider when arriving in Egypt. Indeed, not many places offer this service for free. Our driver picked up us at 2 AM at the airport and drove us safely at the hotel without even asking a tip (that we gave him anyway because it was one of the sweetest men we met in Egypt!).

Bonus point! This place is so close to the Pyramids that you can watch the entire Sound & Light show without actually going there!

Tickets and opening hours of the Giza Necropolis

The Giza Necropolis is open every day from 8 am to 5 pm during wintertime (October to March) and from 7 am to 6 pm during summertime ( April to September).

Tickets are (for prices updated to Dec. 2019 see above) are sold exclusively at the ticket counter at the main entrance of the Pyramids (in front of Pizza Hut). Any site selling tickets for the Pyramids online (at least until now) it’s likely to be a scam. Some tour agencies have the option to buy tickets for the Pyramids and other attractions in advance. However, this means that you pay in advance the price of your ticket but this will be bough by your guide for you at the entrance of the attraction.

When is the best time for visiting the pyramids of Giza?

Are you wondering if it’s better to visit the Pyramids at morning or in afternoon? Well, welcome to the club. Before visiting the site by myself, I’ve searched the reply to this question everywhere but the answers provided by other travellers were pretty vague. For your information, I visited the site at both times. Ergo, I can now reply to this question now. You’re welcome!

Visiting the Pyramids at early morning

Visiting the Pyramids at early morning can have both advantages and disadvantages. Indeed, despite during the early opening time the site is less crowded, you may discover that the view of the Pyramids is not so clear. This largely depends on the winds blowing from the Sahara and the pollution around Cairo that cause haziness in the area of Giza. If you are lucky (like I was), you may have a perfectly clear morning with a majestic view of the Pyramids (the photo above was taken at 7.30 in the morning). But if you catch a hazy morning, you might have to wait a couple of hours before the sky clears and finally see the Pyramids.

Visiting the Pyramids in the afternoon

Like for the morning visit, also the afternoon has its pro and cons. If you visit in the afternoon, you have to keep in mind that temperature might be quite warm and the light might hit strong on the Pyramids, creating a game of light and shadow on the side of the tombs. The good aspect is that if you wait until the closure, the site become less crowded and on a clear day you will enjoy a beautiful golden light (see picture above! This was shot around 5.30/ 6 PM).

We started our visit just after 1 PM and we noticed that great part of the tourists didn’t go much farther than the Sphinx (this was indeed the most crowded part). The area of the Pyramids was mostly empty and it felt like we had it all for ourselves! I honestly loved our afternoon visit! I loved all the pictures that we took with the golden light behind the Sphinx! If I have to return I would probably go in the afternoon again!

So, now you know what to expect from both type of visits!

Can you go inside the Pyramids?

Yes! One can actually go inside most of the Pyramids that are open to the public. Going inside a pyramid is certainly something you want to check off from your bucket list and I (mostly) enjoyed the experience, but before you decide to venture inside one of the most ancient funerary chambers in the world, you need to consider a couple of things. If you suffer from claustrophobia or have any clinical condition that may affect you while on a closed space. Please don’t go. This might be harmful to you and once inside it might be difficult to receive help.

Remember that the pyramids were built to bury people. Ergo they are not thought for living humans. It’s very warm inside, it’s suffocating for some parts and air is pumped from outside. Spaces can be very tight in the descending tunnel(s). Some people might be finding difficult to pass, crunch or walk on four feet. Your guide (if you have one) can’t enter with you.

According to my experience, despite I loved the Indiana Jones part of actually getting inside a tomb, I had the constant feeling I was doing something wrong. As a historian and respectful custodian of the past, I did not feel much comfortable in breaking into the pharaoh’s chosen afterlife home. I know that the actual Pharaohs sarcophagi are no longer inside the pyramids but I had anyway the feeling that I shouldn’t be there. Am I crazy, am I?

How much does it costs to get inside a Pyramid?

The access to the Giza Necropolis does not include a trip inside the Pyramids. The access to the tombs has a special tickets that costs between 100-400 LE. The only necropolis that include a pyramid access is Dashur. In the necropolis of Saqqara you can enter for free in the smallest of the pyramids.

Can you go inside the Sphinx?

In theory yes. Practically not really. With “inside the Sphinx” of course is it understood the area close to the famous Dream Stele of Thutmose IV. However, the entire area surrounding the Sphinx is fenced and closed with a gate. Until some years ago, you were allowed to get a close up of the Sphinx but this is no longer possible. In fact, the closer you can get to the Great Sphinx is about 5-7 meters from the main observation point.

As far as I know, there are some private (and likely super expensive) tours of the Great Sphinx area but it looks like they are reserved to eminent visitors and almost impossible to book online or everywhere else. If you are lucky enough to get on one of those tours, well, congratulations! This is probably the opportunity of a lifetime! If you are among the other common mortals, the best you can do is getting a good zoom lens!

Can I climb the Pyramids?

Not really. Climbing the Pyramids (any of them) is currently forbidden by the Egyptian Authorities. You risk a fee or detention if caught up in the act of climbing a pyramid. However, despite this is well known, pyramid guardians, camel owners and sometimes even local police will insist you that if you pay them they will let you climb. I want you to discourage you not only from giving them any money but also from climbing the pyramids.

They are more than 3,500 years old, they are tombs! What it looks like a fun photo to take, it’s actually a damage you are causing to one of the world’s most important landmarks. Ergo do something else!

Can you ride a camel at the Pyramids?

Yes you can but be careful! There are many people who will try to scam you for camel rides AND not all the camels you will see are treated fairly . Doing a camel ride around the Pyramids is one of the nicest experience you can have in Giza and, if done correctly, it can be one of the highlights of your trip. Moreover, certain viewpoints can be visited only if you take a camel ride. Ergo, if you decide to go, open your eyes and spot the owners who really care about their camels or those who works for the riding camels scheme of Giza. To know what I am talking about read below!

Is camel riding ethical at the Pyramids?

As a lover of the animal world, I’m usually strongly against any type of animal ride. For this reasons, I was very sceptical to undertake a camel ride in any place in Egypt. It’s true that camels were used by Egyptians as a primary means of transport into the desert from centuries and still do their job when it comes to patrol the desert areas of surrounding Giza and travel small distances. Nevertheless, most camels in Giza are now used with the mere scope of entertaining tourists and not all of them are treated fairly.

What is a camel fair treatment?

With a “fair treatment” I mean that the camel should not work the entire day under the sun, be well hydrated, eat well and rest for a couple of hours after each ride. A fair ride should last maximum 30 minutes and the camel should rest for at least one hour after the ride. As you can imagine most camel owners doesn’t respect that. But not all the people are the same, there are owners who actually care about their camels and treat them more than well!

Giza Camel Riding Scheme

I wasn’t aware of this (not sure if official) scheme, until I listened to a podcast on Egypt some months before my trip. This guy was talking about an official way to ride a camel without the fear of getting scammed and/or being unethical. Following his suggestion, I searched for some “blue signs” not far from the Sphinx and I found a space where three/four camel were parked. Differently from not ruled rides, here you can’t bargain (much). There is a fixed price of 600 LE per person for a 30 minutes ride. However, because in the end in Egypt you can bargain anyway I’ve agreed a price of 500 LE. It’s much more expensive than a not ruled ride (that can last up to two hours) but you can spot the difference just by looking at the camels and how healthy they look compared to their neighbours.

I have to say that I am still unsure about my experience. We did not complete the ride till the last viewing point and I preferred to take just some pictures around with the camel. The strong feeling I was doing something wrong remained despite I am sure the camels were doing great.

Pyramids tour or independent visit?

If you want to make the most of your day trip to Giza without the hassle, it’s probably better to undertake an organised tour of the Pyramids. This is particularly suggested if you know nothing about the necropolis, don’t want to deal with (sometimes very) persistent vendors or/and feel insecure in going around alone.

On the other hand, if you want to have more freedom for taking pictures, no time limits when exploring and go at your own pace an independent tour of the Pyramids is the best option. We chose the second option and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised that we did not get annoyed so much by vendors. I was really expecting the worse after reading a couple of blogs, but apart from some camel guys and a couple of scammers near the Great Pyramid it was a fantastic and quiet visit!

What should I wear when visiting the Pyramids?

You will be surprised to discover that in Giza the clothing etiquette is very relaxed compared to Cairo. Being such a touristic place, the strict rules you need to observe in Islamic sites in Cairo are mostly lifted. You can practically wear whatever you want but I would invite you to observe always a minimum of clothing etiquette. Remember always that you are in a predominantly Islamic country.

Giza tend to be very hot during the day with temperatures rising up to 35-40 degrees in summer. However, it is surprisingly fresh at early morning and during spring time it is actually cold! In fact, I discovered that in mid April (when we visited) morning temperatures were around 15-18 degrees accompanied by a light but fresh wind that forced me to cover up with a jacket!

10 things to pack for the Pyramids

• Hat . As you can imagine walking under the sun in Egypt is unthinkable without a hat! This will help you to cool down a little and protect your head from the excessive heat.
• Breathable cotton/linen clothes . You will sweat a lot! Especially if you visit during the afternoon hours. So it’s better to wear breathable cotton or linen clothes. These can be maxi dresses, long skirts, blouses, capri pants, coulottes etc. I would avoid wearing denim jeans at the Pyramids. They are not very breathable and will stitch with your legs!
• Under dress shorts (for ladies!) . If your intention is that of riding a camel, is better to wear some shorts under your dress! I did it and they were life saving! In fact, camel rugs can be a little itchy against your skin and you don’t want to have an irritation on your legs for the rest of your holiday!
• Scarf . This can have multiple uses. In the morning (during the spring, autumn and winter months) you can use it to cover up your shoulders from the cold wind. However, it is also a protection from the sand that might go in your eyes/mouth/head.
• Solid walking shoes . Conversely to what many people think, the terrain around the Pyramids it’s very rocky. There are big and small stones coming from the excavations and tombs nearby that might hurt your feet if you don’t pay attention. It is better to wear some nice trainers or walking shoes to avoid burning your feet with the warm sand or get an injury from the rock.
• Bottle of water . Once you get inside the Pyramids Complex there are no places where you can buy water. The better think is to bring water with you from outside. If you stay a whole day I would suggest about 2-3 L of water. The sun and heat will hit strongly and you will soon become dehydrated. Don’t risk to ruin your day!
• Small change of Egyptian pounds . It is a good thing having a small change of Egyptian pounds with you to tip people. This might happen if you want to have a picture with a camel/ask someone to take a picture of you. People in Egypt expect to receive a tip if they provide you with a service.
• Cross-body bag . It’s good to have a small cross-body bag with you to keep safe all your belongings. It’s better than having a backpack that will turn your back into a boiling hell.
• Refreshing tissues/small towels . To fight the effects of the heat is better to have with you some refreshing tissues and small towels to keep you fresh.
• Non-melting snacks . If you stay around most of the day in the Giza Necropolis you might get hungry! There are no shops/bars inside the Pyramids area, so it’s better to have a small snack with you. Of course, don’t bring chocolate snacks!

12. Best places to eat near the Pyramids of Giza

There is a great number of restaurants near the Pyramids but NOT INSIDE THE NECROPOLIS area (remember this when going!). However, with Egyptian food, you can never go wrong! Almost every place we tried in Egypt served the most delicious and tasty dishes. If you want to dine in a fancy restaurant, the best option is the 139 Restaurant at the Marriot Mena House Hotel. However, one of the best restaurants with a view you can find nearby the Pyramids is Pizza Hut ! In fact, this Pizza Hut is located exactly in the front of the Sphinx and you can see it in all its glory. In the same building there is also a KFC , if you want to grab a snack on the go. They have also a sitting room on the second floor where you can enjoy the same view of Pizza Hut.

Solar boat museum. Is it worthy?

While searching info on the Pyramids, you probably have found also the Solar Boat Museum. Wandering what it is? Read below!

What is a solar boat?

The solar boat museum was built in 1985 to host one of the most incredible discoveries of the last century. Indeed, during an excavation at the foot of the Great Pyramid, an intact full-size vessel dating back to 2500 BC was discovered. It is almost certain that the vessel was built for Khufu (King Cheops) and buried with him in its afterlife home.

The name “solar boat” comes from the fact the vessel was likely understood as a solar barge. This means that it wasn’t really used to navigate but it was designed to be a ritual vessel aiming to carry the resurrected king with the sun god Ra across the heavens. In this regard, archaeologists are still uncertain about this hypothesis because the vessel shows signs of being used in water. Meaning that the boat might have had additional uses, possibly linked to funerary rituals as well.

It is worth to visit the Solar Boat museum?

Yes. You have just to imagine that this boat is likely to be the oldest and best preserved vessel of Antiquity! It is almost certain you won’t see anything similar elsewhere in the world.

How much it cost visiting the Solar Boat Museum?

The ticket to enter the Solar Boat museum is not included in the general price you pay to enter the Giza Necropolis. In fact, this is sold as a separate ticket and costs 100 LE.

Solar Boat Museum Opening Times

You can visit the Khufu ship at the Solar Boat museum every day from 9 am to 16 pm.

Visiting the Sound & Light show at the Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids Sound and Light Show it’s a one-hour show that narrates the history of ancient Egypt and its kings in the most epic way. A cinematic Ben-Hur style narrative voice will entertain you with spectacular images projected on the Sphinx and Pyramids and a colourful light show. It is worthy? Not sure.

We’ve watched the show from the terrace of our hotel and honestly it did impress me so much. It’s nice, a bit old school but in my opinion it doesn’t worth the $19 you will pay. I think we did the best decision to watch it from the terrace because it was free, the view was amazing and we could hear all the story perfectly. However, if you love the genre this is certainly a thing you would love to do, so here some info for your visit!

How much it cost the Pyramids Sound and Light Show

The tickets to the Pyramids Sound and Light Show are sold by a private company. These are the only attraction tickets you can buy online. If you buy the ticket at the counter before the show, this will cost you LE 300. If you buy it from the website the price will be in american dollars and you will pay 19 USD. They recently introduced also a “VIP ticket” for 22,58 USD. Here you can buy also tickets for other light shows (e.g. Karnar or Abu Simbel Light Shows).

You can buy your tickets directly at soundanlight.show .

What time is the Pyramids Sound and Light Show?

The show is everyday from 19.00 pm to 20.00 pm in English language and from 20.00 pm to 21.00 pm in French language . However, check the website for updates because the show is often cancelled without any notice in case of private events and (unlikely) bad weather. In fact, during our stay it was cancelled one night on two and the weather was good. So, make your considerations.

Scams to avoid at the Pyramids of Giza

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza independently will give you a lot of freedom but (unfortunately) won’t save you from possible scammers around the area. However, when you are on your own, there are several ways you can be targeted by scammers and below you’ll find the most common scams that happened to us while in Giza. To note that with “scams” I don’t mean those people who approach you to sell you something, but the ones who want to rip you off.

The “your guide is downstairs” scam.

I am not sure if this happened to someone else or it was a coincidence that day. However, I have the suspect it was a well-planned scam. One of the days while we were in Giza, we planned a tour of Saqqara and Dashur with a guide. While we were doing breakfast one of the hotel’s managers came to us with a phone saying that our guide was downstairs waiting for us.

I was immediately suspicious because our appointment was more than one hour late but in Egypt, who never knows. So I picked up the phone and, in effect, the guy at the telephone knew my name and that I was on a tour for “the pyramids”. However, a red flag was lighting in my mind. The guy did not specify what “pyramids” we should see continued to be vague. So, I pointed out that our appointment was not at that (very early) time. In the meantime, Alessio was texting our real guide that confirmed us our appointment and the fact he wasn’t arrived yet. Ergo, who was the guy downstairs???

Because the hotel was organising tours as well (but we went with Emo Tours), I have the suspect that they tried to confuse us with this type of scam, making us go with the wrong guide and discover this when it was too late. I am not 100% sure of this. However, the fact the guy knew my name and called at the hotel instead of my phone didn’t sound as a coincidence.

How to resolve this scam situation

The first thing you must do is getting in contact with your tour operator/guide. In fact, if your tour is organised with an external company, this usually communicates with your mobile directly not with your hotel (unless you ask). Most guides will have a Whatsapp chat you can use to have instant replies, so don’t be afraid to communicate in this way! The second things you can do, is ask as many details as possible about your visit.

The guy at the phone didn’t know we were actually going to Saqqara. He continued to repeat he was our guide for the pyramids. Third thing. Never reveal too many details of your plans to anyone, even to the guy at the hotel reception when he ask. Fourth and last thing, don’t even think to go with anyone unless you are 100% sure he/she is your tour guide. Especially if you are travelling as a solo woman.

The “can you change my money” scam

This happened to us all across Egypt but while around Giza it happened two-three times. It usually starts when a guy (90% of the times a camel owner/vendor) approaches you and ask you where are you from. Well, if for example you say Italy, he will comes out with some Euro in his hands and ask you if you use them in your country. If you say yes, he will ask you if you can give him some LE in exchange of the Euro (or whatever currency) he has.

Of course the change he will propose will be totally on his favour. The better thing to do is replying that you still need the Egyptian Pounds to go around the country and you can’t exchange them in that moment.

The “go climb the Pyramid, I’ll watch that nobody is coming”.

When you are around the foot of the Great Pyramid you will probably be approached by guys who will encourage you to climb it. The most typical phrase is “go go, climb the Pyramid! I’ll watch that nobody is coming”. Let’s start with the premise that climbing the Pyramids (any of them) is forbidden. These guys know it very well. For this reason, in exchange of this favour, they will ask you money to watch that nobody (aka the Police) is on your way and to close an eye on your law infringement. Of course, we did not accept any of these offers but, unfortunately, many tourists were not of our same opinion. The worst thing, was that among these scammers of the law there were also some of the Pyramids’ guardians!

Do’s and Don’ts at the Pyramids of Giza

There are a lot of Do and Don’ts concerning the Pyramids but I will restrict the list to 5 for each category to summarise the article and be easy to remember when you are there! I will start with the don’ts!

Don’t do this at the Pyramids

• Climbing the Pyramids . If you don’t want to do this for preserving this amazing historical landmark at least do it for your self. In fact, if you are caught up while climbing a pyramid you might end up in jail.
• Tip someone helping you infringing the law (e.g. climbing the Pyramids). It’s wrong, it encourages wrong behaviour, harassment towards tourists and the perpetual dissemination of the myth tourist= ATM
• Take with you objects/stones from the Pyramids. Do I really need to explain why this is wrong?
• Undertake a camel/horse rides with came owners that are mistreating their animals.
• Being rude towards people working at the Pyramids or approaching you for selling somethings. Not all the vendors are scammers. Most of them are just trying to gain money for their families. It’s unnecessary to be rude. Indeed, just say a firm no if you are not interested and carry on!

Definitely do’s at the Pyramids

• Take your time . You are living a once in a life experience. Probably something you had on your bucket list since ages. Don’t rush in order to do more things. Your visit deserves all your attention.
• Focus on the positive sides of your visit and ignore all the things that Egypt has to improve. This will help you a lot to enjoy your visit.
• Take pictures!! You are finally touching the Pyramids, this has to be remembered forever!
• Try to learn something new. You don’t have to know everything about the Pyramids but try to learn something that passionate you and that you can share with someone else!
• Explore!! It’s true, you can’t climb the Pyramids but this does’t mean you can sneak around and explore the area as a real adventurer! Who never knows what you can find!

Planning a visit to Cairo? Read my DIY walking tour of Islamic Cairo!

Best view-points and Instagrammable locations at the Pyramids of Giza

To be honest, from whatever corner you will photograph the Pyramids, they will be always stunning. However, if you want some specific points that will help you to get a perfect insta shot, you need to know where to go! So I’ve listed below 4 most instagrammable spots in Giza!

• The 6 Pyramids wide-view point (less tourists here!). From this point you can have an impressive wide-view of 6 on 9 of the Giza Pyramids. Unfortunately, it’s forbidden (for reasons of safety) to reach this point by walking towards this area. In fact, you have to go with a camel and a guide with you.
• The 9 Pyramids view point (super touristy) . This is the most famous of the Giza viewpoints and you can reach it also with a taxi/coach. We decided to skip it because it was massively crowded and I preferred see the Pyramids from a less known point of view.
• The frontal view of the Sphinx and Great Pyramid. This point is one of my favourite photo spot! It’s a bit tricky to get. First because you need a wide-angle lens to capture both the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid. Second, because it’s now closed to the public. There are some external gates surrounding the frontal area of the Sphinx and you need to ask the permission of one of the guardians to enter (at least to enter in the afternoon). Be prepared to tip someone!
• The classic Sphinx kissing point. This is one of the most classical shot you can get. I honestly did not take it but if you search this point it’s just at the side-corridor overlooking the Sphinx. All you have to do is find the right angle with your camera.

Best tips for visiting the Pyramids – Infographic

In order to remember the most important things for your Giza Pyramids tour I’ve created a short infographic that you can save, print and take with you before or during your trip!

Plan your trip to Egypt

Liked this blog? Save it for later!!!

Share this:

The ultimate guide to Reykjavik. Top things to do

How to plan a perfect 3-day escape to Chania with Jet2 Holidays

A fantastic 3 days kids-friendly itinerary to Amsterdam

Staying in a 16th-century alchemist residence in Prague.

15 comments.

Wow I think this is the most thorough and informative post I’ve ever read about Giza! I love the historical information you included about the Pyramids, I definitely learned some things. I don’t know why but the Pizza Hut being right near the pyramid ticket sales really surprised me. It just doesn’t fit with how I imagine the pyramids.

Great information about where to stay, your view you had while eating breakfast every morning is unreal. I think I would have to pinch myself to make sure I wasn’t dreaming!

It’s kind of scary that you got a call at your hotel to meet a tour guide that wasn’t yours, great tips on avoiding scams. Luckily you were able to catch on that something fishy was going on.

Thanks so much Brianna! That Pizza Hut really doesn’t fit when you look it from the outside in the street. However, once you are inside the complex, everything is so huge that you completely forget that you are just at a step away from the city! That call was very creepy! I think the most important thing to do in these cases is staying calm and don’t be impulsive. I remember that in the exact moment when the call arrived, I thought for a minute that it might be my guide but then thinking carefully I was very doubtful. So, better think twice! However, apart from this creepy episode the hotel was very good!I would definitely stay again!

Great post, so much useful information! I love that you touched on the fair treatment of Camels. I am the same way-I avoid them when I know the animals are being overworked. Thanks for sharing the tips on avoiding scams. Great tips for taking photos of the pyramids as well. I can only imagine what it must be like to wake up every morning to that view! It is on the bucket list!

I always thought this place was a tourist trap. Glad to see that it kind of isn’t…..:P

What a brilliantly detailed and comprehensive post! You’ve got some great shots there as well, the pyramids really are beautiful.

Such a detailed article! This place has now been added to my bucket list. Thanks 🙂

I loved how informative and thorough you were in this post! Egypt has long been on my bucket list and *fingers crossed* I’ll get to go next year!

As a fellow historian, I thoroughly enjoyed this comprehensive review. That being said I was disappointed you BARGAINED 100 LE simply for the hell of it and tipped so pathetically low, compared to tips in lesser destinations in Western areas. No, it isn’t the West, but why penny pinch when you have an opportunity to deal with vendors directly? It is not an expensive price they are asking for camel rides or day-tours, nor a bargain to play this role with people who are severely lacking money in a extremely stratified country. How can you reconcile social justice while offering a fraction of minimum wage for 1 hour as an entire day tip?? Do you do that in all countries you visit? Do you ever think how stingy it reflects on the you both as an individual as well as the country you represent abroad? Same with Pizza Hut / KFC. Why would anyone wish for that experience, even for “the view”? It’s a Western experience for local people with money to afford it. Not a safe haven for Westerners to feel comfortable with photo ops. But hey, if you’re into that, cool.

You don’t have to post this publicly, but I hope you consider donating to a local charity inlieu, since your tipping was so low to the point of nearly pointless. You are not a local and I personally feel is inappropriate for someone of wealth to tip like a local when you are a foreigner from an affluent place, even if you are on a budget. Which, by the amount of countries you visit, doesn’t seem to be an issue.

Dear Ethical Traveller, thanks for your comment. I’m not sure you ever visited countries like Egypt before stating your assumptions but I can assure you that I did not penny pinched any tips given to Egyptian working people. As a historian specialised in Middle East travels, I have many friends from Cairo and Egypt who works on similar fields and I’ve asked them all the suggestions possible before tipping people in the wrong way or in a way that could be offensive for them. 100 LE for one hour camel ride (especially when the camel guy try to scam you in every way possible) is more than appropriate. Tipping rates depend also on what service you receive, I stated some general prices. It’s up to you to decide what it’s appropriate to your situation. Most of the time I found that guides and vendors tried to scam me or the service wasn’t appropriate to the price paid, so I’ve acted accordingly. And if you think you can bargain for a fair price without being scammed at least once in Egypt, please tell me (and other interested tourists) your secret because I think this would be game changing for all the hundreds of visitors who get (sometimes heavily) scammed during their visits. Tipping 15/20% of the price you pay for something (depending also on the service received) is generally fair in any country you visit not only in Egypt and I don’t think this is stinging for me as individual or the country I am from (which I don’t see as I could be an official representative in a private holiday). Concerning Pizza Hut/KFC, even if you don’t like that experience in a foreign country, this doesn’t mean that other people couldn’t be interested in it. I never said it’s my favourite thing to do, and sure I would opt for a more local option if I have the chance, but some people are more adventurous than others, some have families with kids and want a “safe heaven” out of the Giza chaos (especially if they are afraid of wandering alone in a foreign place), and some other simply don’t like Egyptian food (they do exist, yes). I don’t think there’s nothing wrong to get there for food or for a nice view of the Sphinx along with a drink as long as you are respectful of the people who work there. I honestly find more concerning your way of judging they way people travel according to your standard ethical stereotypes without knowing the background of a story. You know nothing of me and you read of my travels only the things I want you to read. If I want to donate to a charity or a local family, I don’t need to state this publicly on my blog. I would love to invite to consider better your assumptions before giving blank judgements on people’s habits. Especially when you know nothing about them or their social-economic situation. Everyone should travel as comfortable as it could in the respect of a local culture and if you think that getting a meal from KFC is the real problem with Egypt and tourism nowadays, you should pose yourself different kind of questions.

Thanks alot for useful information

Your’re welcome!

Hi Laura! I really enjoy reading all your posts on traveling throughout Egypt! Just a quick question: have you visited the tomb of Queen Meresankh III (Eastern Cemetery) of Giza, and if so, would you recommend? (I noticed that you posted the tour prices for this tomb in the table of Entrance Fees in your blog.) Thank you!

Hi Cecilia. Unfortunately, I didn’t visit this tomb. I posted the price for the readers info. If you want to visit, I do recommend to check and see if it’s open. We discovered that tombs are not always open to tourist. This is particularly true in the Valley of the Kings. Indeed, each tomb has a schedule so it’s not always open to the public. In the case of the Valley of the Kings you will find the schedule at the entrance. There is a board showing the tombs that are open. For the one in Giza I am not really sure but I hope to find out in a future visit!

thank you very much for amazing review, and super-detailed description of all necessary things about Giza, this will help me much for my soon trip to Cairo, and visiting Giza pyramids, read your Cairo self-guide walking tour too, as plan visit Al-Azhar, and most of Cairo’s attractions.

Frankly speaking, i’m little bit afraid about visiting that country, city, as always had opinion there not so safe, even i’m Muslim, but i’m Muslim from Europe, with much difference in culture, tradition, mentality than North Africa, Middle East countries, hope everything will pass ok 🙂 .

Will use tourist agency for guided tours you used, as see you have same life-style like me and respect similar values like me, and prefere safe way, than risking 🙂 …

If you can, tell me, is safe use their taxi companies, instead uber, as i prefere use taxi, as companies, and not invidiuals at uber, as know at uber sometimes work guy with very bad and criminal past? Or maybe using their public transport? Thanks!

Hi BR! Thanks for reading my blog and happy you are using my guide for your trip to Cairo! I found people in Egypt (and other countries in North Africa) very respectful of other people’s beliefs and cultures. I am not Muslim but I never felt unwelcome or judged for my beliefs or from where I was coming from. Egyptians are very open and welcome to other cultures. I loved to visit the mosques in Cairo, they are all so beautiful and I am glad they are open to people that are not Muslim because it’s a great opportunity to get close to a different culture and learn from it. Al-Azhar Mosque in particular it was one of my favourites as its architecture is truly stunning. Generally speaking, I think the country is safe to visit regardless if you are a Muslim or not. However, there is “tourists harassment” in certain areas like the Pyramids or Luxor. With this, I don’t mean they harass you for your religion or physical aspect but they are very pushy in trying to selling you tours, souvenirs, getting to a restaurant etc. Because most of them don’t stop even after saying “La Shukran” this can be considered harassing and annoying to deal with. I hope this doesn’t happen to you, but you should be prepared for this type of approach. All the guides we had were very respectful and professionals and we strictly talked about what we were seeing (no political or religious topics). The bedouins we travelled with into the Western Desert were much more open and friendly and we talked a lot about their religion, our differences and our cultures. It was a fantastic talk and we learnt a lot from them. Concerning Uber, all the taxi drivers we met were ok. Not sure about the public transport as we didn’t use it. If you want a general taxi, is better to call this through your hotel and agree a price first. I think you can visit safely most places and as long as there is mutual respect everything should be fine. Of course, bad people are everywhere and things can happen in Egypt as in Europe but unfortunately we can’t foreseen this. Let me know if you have any other questions! Have a nice day 🙂

Tell me what you think, leave a reply below! Cancel reply

• [email protected]
• +201001067445
• layover tours
• Egypt tours
• Terms & Condition
• Payment & Cancelation Policy
• USD USD EUR

• Cairo Attractions

The Pyramids of Giza

• Shoroq Samir

The first a remarkable place may come up to your mind when you hear about Giza or  Cairo city  is the pyramids of Giza those enormous man-made structures were built thousands of years ago to the pharaohs of the kingdom to protect their bodies from vanishing. Ancient Egyptians were seeking immortality so between 2630 and 1640 B.C. they started building these massive tombs in the shape of pyramids to save their deceased corps.

Pyramids Of Giza

were mainly constructed for architectural and religious considerations. ancient Egyptians believed that they should save and protect their body for their eternal lives after death in the spiritual world and they buried their treasures with them, besides the idea of challenging time they saw their king as the son of the god (Osiris) and the representative of him on earth. The three pyramids of Giza belonged to Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, if you intend to  travel to Egypt  make sure to read about them individually. 

Khufu pyramid

The great pyramid of Egypt belonged to king Khufu from the fourth Egyptian dynasty and also known as Cheops (in Greek ). contains about 6.25 million tons of stone, 2,300,00 blocks each one weight around 50 tones. you have to go through along passage with 8.74 height to get to the kings' chamber which completely made of southern Aswan granite, keep in mind to check the queen chamber as well. Seven large pits in the shape of the boat were designed for Khufu to transport him in the afterlife and to sail through infinity as assumed, five of them located in the eastern side of the pyramid and the other two on the southern side, also one boat was removed to special museum. 

Khafre pyramid

Khafre desired to build his magnificent monument at Abo rawash, but instead, he returned to Giza and chose to be next to his father's, it is the second-largest pyramid almost (136.4) height. Pyramid of Khafre was based on an outcrop of pink granite but the upper sections of it are made of limestones weights about 2 tones for each. the pyramid has two entrances, the lower entrance leads to a passageway ends with a portcullis, after the portcullis you will find a short passenger to a chamber designed as store room may perform the same rule as the queen chamber in Khufu pyramid. while having your amazing tour in the ground-level entrance you will be more amazed at the upper side discovering the burial chamber. 

Pyramid Of Menkaure

Menkaure is the son of Khafre and the fifth king of the fourth dynasty, his pyramid is the smallest of the major pyramids of Giza. the structures interior design almost similar to his father's and grandfather's, its height about 62 meters recently and built from the limestone and granite brought from  Aswan city . the entrance is from the north side leads to a passageway ends with a hall covered by stones, then you will find the burial chamber where a wooden coffin with the name of Menkaure found the mummy of the king kept in the British museum now. the pyramids of Giza still an outstanding feature through ages referring to the greatness of the old Egyptian constructions, even though they were build in very hard conditions without any of the recently used technology they still a prominent influence of the world. The scientists found this pyramid uncompleted as said king Menkaure died before it's done but his son after him finished the process.

 Pyramids are the main visit in Egypt so all our  Egypt tours  and Egypt and Jordan Tours include pyramids visit, check them to book a tour

RECENT POST

Khan El Khalili the oldest market in Egypt

Mohamed Ali mosque

The hanging church

Dahshur Pyramids | the bent Pyramid and the red Pyramid

Travel to Egypt is powered by Fayed travel which was founded in 1954. It is considered to be one of the first travel agencies in Egypt and a leading company in the field of tourism. Fayed has more than 66 years experience in operating epic Egypt tours

• Cairo, Egypt
• [email protected]

Affiliations

Egypt day tours

• Cairo day tours
• Luxor day tours
• Sharm El Sheikh Day tours
• Aswan Day Tours
• Hurghada Day Tours
• Alexandria Day Tours
• Giza Day Tours
• Greater Cairo

Egypt Travel Packages

• Egypt Classic Tours
• Budget Egypt Packages
• Egypt Nile cruise
• Luxury Egypt Tours

Discover Egypt

• Aswan Attractions
• Luxor Attractions
• Alexandria Attractions
• Red Sea Cities

Subscribe Newsletter

Subscribe to receive our interesting updates

Travel To Egypt © 2024. All rights reserved. Powered by Fayed Travel & Designed by SeoEra

Pyramids of Giza: Attractions

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

You'll have seen a thousand photographs of the Pyramids of Giza by the time you finally get here, but nothing beats getting up close and personal with these ancient monuments.

Egypt's most famed and feted structures, these ancient tombs of kings guarded by the serene Sphinx have wowed spectators for centuries.

Today, the Pyramids of Giza continue to work their magic on all who visit. No trip to Egypt is complete without time spent here at one of the world's most famous tourist attractions .

Towering incongruously over the edge of Cairo's suburban sprawl, these mighty monuments are a tribute to the power and ambition of Egypt's Pharaonic rulers.

See also: Where to Stay near the Pyramids of Giza

1. Great Pyramid (Pyramid of Cheops or Pyramid of Khufu)

2. eastern cemetery, 3. western cemetery, 4. pyramid of chephren (pyramid of khafre), 5. pyramid of mycerinus (pyramid of menkaure), 7. camel & horse rides at the pyramids, 8. pyramids sound & light show, 9. the grand egyptian museum (gem), history of the pyramids of giza: the only surviving wonder of the ancient world, where to stay near the pyramids of giza, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to the pyramids of giza, getting to the pyramids of giza.

Giza's Great Pyramid (also called the Pyramid of Cheops) is not only this ancient site's most famous monument but one of the most well-known monuments in the world .

It was built by the Pharaoh Khufu (commonly called by its Greek transliteration of Cheops) and was known to the ancient Egyptians as Ekhet Khufu ("Horizon of Khufu"). According to Herodotus, 100,000 men worked on its construction for three months every year.

This mammoth structure's cubic content is staggering. Excluding the rock foundation and the interior chambers, the Great Pyramid is 2.3 million cubic meters. The base measurement is 227.5 meters, and the vertical height is 137.2 meters.

The non-claustrophobic can venture into the pyramid's bowels, although there isn't much to see once inside the dank, narrow corridors.

The entrance is by a passage that was cut by tomb robbers some 15 meters below the original entrance. This narrow tunnel leads into the Grand Gallery, a long passage that is a marvel of skillful masonry.

Beyond this is the tomb chamber containing the open, empty, granite sarcophagus, which once would have contained Khufu's mummy.

Excavations on the south and east sides of the Great Pyramid in 1954 brought to light five long cavities for boats, with a 4,500-year-old cedar wood solar barque broken into more than a thousand pieces as a votive offering.

Up until 2021, the painstakingly restored boat was exhibited in a small one-room museum just beside the Great Pyramid, but has now been moved to form part of the collection inside the new (as yet unopened) Grand Egyptian Museum.

On the eastern side of the Pyramid of Cheops are three smaller pyramids, made as tombs for queens and a daughter of the Pharaoh , and a large cemetery for other relatives.

On the south side is a row of large mastabas (tombs) belonging to high dignitaries.

Two mastabas are open for visitors in the eastern cemetery.

The Mastaba of Meresankh III (wife of Pharaoh Khafre) has intricate and colorful reliefs on the interior walls depicting scenes from daily life.

The Mastaba of Seshemnufer IV has an ornate columned entranceway, though is plainer inside.

To the west of the Pyramid of Cheops is the extensive royal cemetery for members of the Royal House and high state officials, established during the fourth Dynasty and used until the sixth.

Here, you'll find the small, columned entry of the Tomb of Senegemib-Inti, which contains some interesting wall carvings.

The Pyramid of Chephren (Pyramid of Khafre) sits 160 meters to the southwest from the Great Pyramid.

Built by Khufu's son Khafre, it at first appears to be larger than his father's earlier pyramid as it stands on a higher piece of land.

A considerable section of the original limestone casing has managed to be preserved on the apex of the pyramid, and the layout of the mortuary temple on the east side can be clearly distinguished.

The pyramid has a height of 135.5 meters and a base measurement of 210.5 meters.

The smallest of the three main Giza pyramids is the Pyramid of Mycerinus (Pyramid of Menkaure), made of unusually large limestone blocks.

It has a vertical height of 62 meters and a base measurement of 108 meters.

On the south side of the pyramid are three smaller pyramids, left unfinished, for relatives of the Pharaoh.

The best panoramic pyramid views of the entire site are from the rocky escarpment four kilometers south of the Pyramid of Mycerinus.

Perhaps the most celebrated monument in Egypt after the Great Pyramid itself, the enigmatic Sphinx is a simple but finely built granite structure shaped like a recumbent lion that sits immediately east of the pyramids.

Hewn from the natural rock, it has the head of a pharaoh (commonly thought to be Chephren) and wears the royal head-cloth and cobra.

Weathering and deliberate mutilation have wrought much damage over the course of the centuries, but in spite of this, the Sphinx still conveys a powerful impression of majesty and artistic achievement.

The total length of the figure is 73.5 meters, and its height is 20 meters.

Despite what some tour guides still insist on telling visitors, Napoleon is not responsible for the missing nose on the Sphinx's face.

According to Arab historians, the nose is thought to have been destroyed at some stage in the Islamic Empires era.

One 14th-century story tells of a pious Muslim, being so upset that locals still made offerings to the Sphinx in the hope that this practice would control the annual Nile flood and hence bring a good harvest, that he hammered off the Sphinx's nose.

If you want to horse ride at the pyramids, it is well worth heading to the village stables (by the Sphinx car park), where the guides are recommended and the horses are kept in good condition.

The best time to go for a horse ride in the pyramid area is sunset , when you can head out into the surrounding desert for views of the monuments as the sun sinks.

Although it's something of a cliché, a camel ride in front of the pyramids is one of those tick-the-list Egyptian things to do. If you're going to get on a camel once during your trip, it should be here.

Unfortunately, many of the camels are not kept in good condition, so it's of the utmost importance that you choose your operator carefully and make sure the camel is healthy and well-fed.

The overly-aggressive camel-touts who hang out on the roadside just before the main entrance ticket office are best avoided.

Prepare to bargain. There's an "official" price of EGP 50 per 30 minutes, but no one keeps to it, and you are expected to cheerfully haggle instead.

The Sound and Light Show at the Giza Pyramids allows you to see these ancient monuments lit up under the night sky with a narrative soundtrack provided by the Sphinx.

This Pyramids Sound and Light Show tour includes tickets to the show, as well as pickup and drop-off from your Cairo hotel.

Currently nearing completion, The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), when opened, will be the largest museum in the world devoted to one civilization .

The museum is situated on the Giza Plateau, about 2.5 kilometers northwest of the main entrance into the pyramids complex, and when opened, will take the place of the Egyptian Museum (in Downtown Cairo) as the city's main Egyptology museum.

In the museum, the full cache of Tutankhamun's funerary treasure will be on permanent display for the first time since his tomb was discovered in 1922, as well as many other pharaonic artifacts and riches that have never been displayed before due to lack of space.

Opening is pegged for November 2022. Once open, expect tour itinerary offerings to change to reflect this; with the museum just a hop away from the pyramids, most tours will bundle the two together.

Independent travelers with an interest in Egypt's rich history will most likely want to devote an entire day to Giza's tourist attractions once the museum is open.

There is also talk of connecting the museum and pyramids complex by a pedestrian walkway so that visitors who want to walk between the two don't have to use the busy main road.

Built by the rulers of Egypt's Fourth Dynasty (c. 2600-2500) the Pyramids of Giza rank among the oldest surviving man-made structures in the world.

During the Greek and Roman eras, they were marveled at as the first of the Seven Wonders of the World, and they still exert a powerful fascination, both as an extraordinary technical achievement and as a demonstration of the power of the pharaohs, who could marshal tens of thousands of subjects to construct these colossal monuments.

The question of the relationship between the size of a pyramid and the ruler for whom it was built is still unsettled.

It seems probable, however, that the size depended on the pharaoh's personal inclination, power, and economic resources.

It has not been possible to prove an alternative theory that the size of a pyramid might have been increased in stages during the course of a lengthy reign.

Features common to all the pyramids are their situation on the edge of the desert to the west of the Nile and their structure, which was built up from huge blocks of the local limestone and enclosed in a casing, originally polished, of fine-grained white limestone or granite.

Concealed within the great bulk of the pyramid (in the later period) or underground beneath its base (in the earlier period) were the relatively small tomb chamber, a chamber for the cult of the dead pharaoh, and other chambers for the grave goods.

Also common to all pyramids were the entrance on the north side and the mortuary temple on the east side, with a causeway (originally open, later frequently covered) leading up to it from a valley temple on the edge of the Nile Depression.

Luxury Hotels:

• Just steps away from the main entrance to the Pyramids, the historic Marriott Mena House, Cairo has hosted royalty and celebrities amid its 40-acre grounds. There's an outdoor pool amid sprawling lush gardens, and the interior spaces are scattered with antiques.
• The Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence is on the Nile's west bank. There are five restaurants and lounges, a pool, and holistic spa, and the large rooms are elegantly attired.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Sitting just under two kilometers from the main entrance to the Pyramids, the Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo is a five-star resort with mid-range rates. Spacious rooms all have balconies (some with Pyramid views), there is a choice of dining options on-site, and the grounds contain two outdoor swimming pools.

Budget Hotels:

• In the Giza area, with views of the Pyramids from some rooms, Pyramids View Inn has a rooftop with panoramic vistas, a complimentary breakfast, and friendly staff.

Anyone with a decent fitness level can easily walk between the pyramids and the Sphinx (as long as it's not too hot), but if you want to go up to the panoramic viewpoint, you'll need transport within the site. The easiest way to do this is to arrange an organized tour of the area, which means you'll have an air-conditioned vehicle at your disposal. A good tour guide can also help you understand the baffling, long history on display here and help you cope with the many camel and souvenir touts, which can make all the difference to enjoying your visit in the desert heat.

• Full-Day Tour : History lovers will appreciate the Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Memphis and Saqqara Private Tour , which includes a full day of exploring all the ancient sites in Giza, and beyond to even older Saqqara and Memphis, with an Egyptologist guide. If you want to pack all your pharaonic sightseeing in Cairo into one day, this is an excellent choice, with transport provided from your hotel door.
• Half-Day Tour: If you want to take your sightseeing at a more mellow pace, the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx Private Tour is a half-day trip of the attractions of the Giza Plateau with an Egyptologist guide. It includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel.
• Camel or Horse Riding Tour: For views of the Pyramids and desert beyond, this Sunset Camel or Horse Riding Tour is a great option. It includes pickup and drop-off from your Cairo hotel and your choice of either riding a camel or horse in the desert plains surrounding the Pyramids as the sun sets.

Admission and Visiting

• Timing Your Visit: To escape the crowds and the worst of the desert heat, the earlier you can get here, the better. If you want to enter the interior of the Great Pyramid, also be aware that limited numbers of Great Pyramid entry tickets are sold on a first-come-first-served basis twice a day, at 8am and again at 1pm.
• Tickets: If you miss out on Great Pyramid interior tickets don't fret. Tickets for the interior of the Pyramid of Chephren are sold throughout the day with no limit on numbers.
• By Private Taxi: The easiest, and most popular, way of getting here for independent travelers is by hiring a taxi for a half-day trip in Cairo. The taxi can then shuttle you around the site (if you wish) and return you back to the central city afterwards. If you hire a taxi one way, you can find a return taxi by the Sphinx entrance to take you back into town.
• By Local Transport: You can get to the pyramids using a combination of the Cairo Metro and minibus. Take the metro to Giza and then take a minibus (right outside the Giza metro station exit) or taxi to the pyramids.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Around the Pyramids: Be sure to schedule plenty of time into your Egypt itinerary to see some of the countries cities and other wonderful sites. Check out our articles on things to in Cairo , exploring Saqqara , and visiting the attractions of Alexandria .

Heading up the Nile: See our articles on Luxor and Aswan if you want to delve into more pharaonic sights. These beautiful cities on the Nile are fun places to visit and are packed with incredible sites, including Abu Simbel , easily visited from Aswan .

More on Egypt

Corinthian Travel Blog

The india & middle east tailor-made specialists.

Everything You Need to Know When Visiting the Pyramids of Egypt

The Pyramids of Egypt are amongst the top-visited tourist attractions in the world, with a whopping 3 million visitors every single year. Perhaps for some, the popularity of the Pyramids strips away some of the fairy-tale. And perhaps for some, the endless documentaries and fictional films are enough to quench any curiosity. But no matter how the rest of the planet views this World Wonder, nothing ever changes the feeling. That feeling you get when the Pyramids of Giza are right in front of your eyes and you’re about to embark on a special adventure into Egypt’s secretive past. For us and many of our clients, the magic of the Pyramids will never subside. Because if you take away all the glamour, all the media attention, all the tourism, these magnificent structures are still mind-bogglingly magnificent in every single way. To this day, we’re still not entirely sure how these mystifying monuments were erected so perfectly. And as one of the original and first wonders of the world, these pyramids are not only a symbol of Egypt but they’re also a symbol of world civilisation and the incredible capacity of the human race.

If you’re visiting the Pyramids for the first time, it’s important to be prepared. And as many visitors will tell you; it’s better to have too much time to explore than too little and feel rushed during your first Egyptian Pyramids experience. So read on for our comprehensive guide and travel tips for your upcoming visit to Giza.

Where are the Pyramids?

The Pyramids are located in Giza, the third largest city in Egypt. Set on the west bank of the River Nile, you’ll be just over 10 miles away from Cairo. So you’ll be conveniently located if you are staying in a hotel in the city of Cairo and you’re looking for a day trip tour that is easily accessible. Cairo and Giza are in the Northern region of Egypt, just a few hours away from Port Said and Alexandria so you will be ideally placed for international travel to the Greek Islands if you want to combine your destinations.

A Brief History

As of 2008, sources cite that there are up to 138 pyramid structures in the whole of Egypt, but the most famous pyramid structures are still the Pyramids of Giza, with the most well-known and popular of this group being the Great Pyramid. Of the Seven Wonders of the World, these monuments are the oldest and they date back all the way to 2560 BC, under the second ruler of the Fourth Dynasty, Pharaoh Khufu in the very beginnings. One theory suggests that thousands and thousands of people were enslaved by Pharaoh Khufu in order to complete the construction of the Great Pyramid. Although years later, there was evidence to show that some or even all of these workers were actually local Egyptians who lived in the villages nearby, working under Khufu’s supervision. So the true mystery of who and how still kind of remains.

Pharaoh Khafre, the successor and son of Khufu was there to later oversee the build of Pyramid of Khafre and also the famous Sphinx monument. Pharaoh Menkaure who was the sixth ruler within this dynasty started the construction of his own pyramid but when he passed, his heir Shepseskaf took over construction and it was eventually completed by 2490 BC.

Historians tell us that in total, the Giza Pyramids took around 80 years to build with an estimated number of 30,000 people working on them. But even before construction began, there were many minds and many important people involved in the design and development of the pyramids, which is why they are such incredible, magical monuments today. Astronauts and priests were called in to determine the correct position of the pyramids and then architects came in to guide the shape of the pyramid structures using rope. Copper tools were used to sculpt the rock pieces and it is believed that the huge rocks were hauled up using ramps.

To this day, some of the workers’ names are still seen carved into the stones of the pyramids. Records show that the workers who built these structures not only considered themselves proud servants of the kings of the Fourth Dynasty, but they also had a sense of humour during their working days too; with some carvings translating as “Friends of Khufu” and “Drunkards of Menkaure”.

These pyramids are now housing places for tombs of the pharaohs who commissioned them, which gives us a lot of indication about their connection to the afterlife. Yet we still aren’t entirely sure how they were built, exactly who built them, and for what exact reason. But historians and archaeologists continues with their theories and the mystery certainly adds a sense of romance to the Egyptian Pyramids story.

How to Get There

If you are staying in Downtown Cairo or another tourist-safe area of Cairo, there are three easy ways to get to Giza.

• Firstly, you can take a private taxi (which is probably the most convenient if you don’t mind spending the money) and taxis can be easily hailed from most main streets in the city. There are Black Taxis (usually without meter and without air conditioning), Yellow Taxis (professionally run taxis which are extremely modern but can be pricier) and White Taxis (with air conditioning and meters). Cairo’s roads are extremely busy so the journey can be anywhere between 30 minutes and 90 minutes depending on traffic.
• You can also get the bus from Downtown Cairo; take bus 355 or 357 from the bus stop near the Egyptian Museum and the fare will be less than 3.00 Egyptian Pounds (LE). Just be sure to check the size of the bus you are getting on as micro-buses also leave from the same bus stop and they can be extremely crowded and uncomfortable for a long journey.
• If you’re travelling on a budget, you can use the Cairo Metro. Not the most comfortable way of travelling but a one-way fare is one Egyptian Pound (LE) flat fee, whatever your destination. Bear in mind that when you arrive at Giza Metro Station, you will still need to get a taxi to the Pyramid complex.

How Long to Go For

You can’t really spend too much time at the Pyramids of Giza. After all, this UNESCO site belongs to the original Seven World Wonders. And if you ask many visitors who have been before, they will tell you that your experience is completely different in the day and at night. Plus there are options when you get there such as camel rides – and seeing the pyramids on foot and by camel are also unique in their own ways. So as a general guide, at least a whole day if you have the time. That way, it gives you the flexibility to see the pyramids in sunlight as well as capturing great photo moments at sunset.

If you’re staying in Cairo or nearby, it may even be a good idea to keep a few days of your itinerary quite loose so you have the flexibility to revisit.

What to See

There’s a general admission ticket to get into the complex and once you’re inside, you will have great views of all the key monuments. But to get closer or to enjoy a tour, there are individual ticket prices for each attraction.

* The Great Pyramid

* Pyramid of Khafree

* Pyramid of Menkaure

* Great Sphinx

Where to Stay

Most people like to stay in Downtown Cairo when visiting the Pyramids and this is around 30 minutes away from the complex (although traffic can dramatically increase travel time). Whilst Giza is technically a separate governorate and was once a city of its own, Cairo’s expansion in recent years has joined the two areas together so getting to and from the complex is extremely easy and there are many transport options. Another popular area that tourists find comfortable and safe is Zamalek, an affluent residential area in Cairo with a number of luxury hotels and boutique hotels.

You can also stay in Giza if you would like to be close to the complex. There are a few decent hotels to choose from in this area and staying here is ideal if you plan to spend a few days checking out the Pyramid site.

Best Time to Go

Most travellers like to visit during the winter season, typically from late November to February, because the climate is warm yet mild so travelling at this time is much more comfortable. From May to October, the summer can be unbearable for some and many of Egypt’s most affluent will retreat to their summer homes by the coast during this period. Other than the spike in tourism during Easter, the rest of March, April and early May can be great times to visit for slightly smaller crowds and balmy springtime weather.

What to Wear

The most important thing to consider is suitable footwear. The site is quite large and you will spend much of your day walking on foot. Egypt is predominantly a Muslim country and the dress code is quite conservative so when it comes to clothing, it’s important to be respectful of this.

For men, it’s not acceptable to wear shorts so trousers and a t-shirt is a standard option, although there are some resorts which are more relaxed about this. For ladies, it’s important to be modest and keep legs covered. Low cut tops, tight clothing or see-through clothing should generally be avoided.

When spending time in the heat in such an open area such as the Giza Pyramid site, other essential items to bring include:

* UV 400 sunglasses

* A hat / cap to shade your face from direct sunlight

* A light jacket for early morning / evenings

* Comfortable footwear

* Sun cream

* A backpack / rucksack for food and water

Tickets & Tours

The site opens every day between 8 am and 5 am from October to March, and 7 am to 7 pm every day between April and September. There is also a Pyramid Sound and Light Show, which is available after opening hours (tickets for this show need to be booked in advance and are subject to seasonal availability). General site entrance tickets are 50 LE with additional tickets for the pyramids themselves. Khufu’s Pyramid costs another 100 LE and Khafree’s Pyramid costs 20 LE.

Best Places to Eat and Drink

There are many places near and around the site to grab a bite to eat but some travellers also like to bring a packed lunch to save money. The Mena House Hotel has a lovely restaurant and just outside the Sphinx entrance, there are also a number of cafes and eateries offering great views and low budget menu prices.

Insider Tips

When it comes to travelling to Giza, there are a number of scams you need to be aware of. When travelling from Cairo to the Pyramid complex, you may have to bargain with your taxi driver. Some will refuse to turn their meters on because they want to bump up the price as much as possible. If you want to avoid this problem, you can also catch a bus or take the Metro to Giza.

Another scam you may come across is taxi drivers and camel owners / horse owners working in conjunction with one another to help boost each other’s business for the day. For instance, a taxi driver may tell you that the only way to the main entrance is by horse and carriage and he will take a cut of the horse owner’s fare. At the entrance, you will also find camel owners and other unofficial guides trying to tell you that it is illegal to tour the Pyramids without a guide (this is of course not true), or you may even come across people telling you that they need your business because they can’t feed their families. You will come across every kind of scam tactic; from trickery to sob stories.

Other top tips for visiting the Pyramids of Giza include:

* Take a luxury tour with a trusted operator to save both time and money, and enjoy the convenience of having all the logistics taken care of.

* Remember the tipping culture in Egypt is often expected. Beware not to let people do too much for you if you have no intention of tipping. Otherwise, you could find yourself being shouted at with the words “baksheesh, baksheesh!” (meaning “tip, tip!”) after accepting a hand towel in the bathroom or after accepting help with a particular service.

* Dress appropriately and modestly to be respectful of the culture. Although some enclosed tourist resorts are more relaxed, generally shorts or anything showing your legs (or low cut tops for women) are frowned upon.

4 thoughts on “ Everything You Need to Know When Visiting the Pyramids of Egypt ”

• Pingback: The best countries to combine with Jordan - Corinthian Travel Blog

Very nice content about the Great pyramids of Giza.

Can we wear traditional costumes to Egypt ofcourse fully covered cleopatra or traditional outfit. Is der any special permissions required ?

Sorry , but “men can’t wear shorts” who told you that , thats so funny

I’m an Egyptian and its totally fine to wear shorts wherever you are going

Comments are closed.

Giza Pyramids Tours – An Unforgettable Egyptian Experience

Giza Pyramids Tours bring you face to face with the most famous and most popular tourist attractions in Egypt . It presents you with an ideal opportunity to visit and explore some of the most treasured ancient attractions in the world, and the last remaining one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. As one would expect, a visit to these amazing pyramids is included in almost all of our Egypt tour packages and Nile cruise holidays .

Design Your Custom Tour

Day Trips to Giza Pyramids

Giza and Saqqara Day Tour

1-Day Saqqara and Dahshur Pyramids Tour

Giza Pyramids and Egyptian Museum Tour

Camel Ride at the Pyramids of Giza

Cairo Stopover Transit Tour: Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum & Khan El Khalili

Pyramid Day Tour Including Lunch at Cafelluca

Quad Bike at Giza Pyramids

Giza Pyramids Half Day Tour from Cairo

Pyramids Sound and Light Show

Tour the pyramids of giza.

The Pyramids of Giza   consist of the most amazing and world-renowned features in all of Egypt. The sites you will see in Giza are so revered that that they are downright iconic of Egyptian culture. Giza is not actually a city, but instead, it’s the western district of Cairo. Giza has also become increasingly popular as a commercial area, especially along Pyramids Road.

What to See?

Aerial view of the Giza Plateau in Cairo.

What can you expect to see in Giza and on all the best tours of Cairo , Egypt?   First and foremost, you have the Ancient Pyramids of Giza. Any guided Egypt tours that are worth a penny will tour the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It might surprise you to discover that the Egyptian Pyramids, while still intact internally and externally, are surrounded by urban development. While visitors may come expecting to find the Pyramids in an isolated desert, what they will actually see is this natural attraction standing adjacent to businesses like McDonalds and Pizza Hut.

What can you expect when you actually visit the Ancient Pyramids? Expect the insides of the Pyramids to be hot, humid and perhaps even a bit scary, especially if you have claustrophobia. Once you’re inside though, you will be delighted by the miraculous achievement of these millennium-old creations – all the more impressive considering they were built by human hands, and contrary to what some people believe, they were not built using slave labor.

Pyramids to look for by name include Khufu (at nearly five hundred feet high), Khafre and Menkaure. In short, any and all travel to Egypt should include a visit to the pyramids.

The Great Sphinx

The Great Sphinx, Giza Plateau.

Besides the Pyramids, another iconic feature of Giza Pyramids tours is the Sphinx and the Temple of the Sphinx. This human headed lion was originally built in honor of the sun god Re-Horakhty. Is your curiosity piqued by the Sphinx’s missing nose? No, the ancient Egyptians didn’t have a sense of humor. What is believed to be the cause of the missing nose is that bored soldiers once used the Sphinx as target practice. The culprits have been suggested to be anyone from World War I British troops, to Napoleon’s army, to even Turks of the old era.

Please Note!

Camels in front of the big 3 pyramids.

Can you climb the Pyramids?   No, though at one time it was allowed. Fortunately climbing these amazing structures is no longer allowed, though some claim that guards in less frequented areas can be bribed to allow some climbing activity.

Last but not least, expect to be offered a camel ride on these Giza Pyramids tours. We generally do NOT recommend a camel ride at the Giza Pyramids if visiting the area without a guide (which is also not recommended). If you should choose to go for a ride expect to haggle and expect to be cheated, both before and after the ride. Nevertheless, you have to sample Giza in order to say you have truly seen the grandeur of Ancient Egypt! In other words: Giza Pyramids tours are an absolute must when visiting Cairo .

Discover the Magic of Giza Pyramids Tours

Cruise the Nile, explore the Pyramids and dive the Red Sea. Contact us today to find out more about our Egypt tour packages and our Nile River cruises , or to book your dream vacation right now. Our Egypt tour packages are private and fully customizable . You can have your Giza Pyramids tour your way when you travel to this ancient land with Egypt Tours Plus.

Design Your Custom Egypt Tour

Explore Egypt your way by selecting only the attractions you want to visit

8-Day Pyramids and Nile Cruise Holidays [Group Tour]

12-Day Cairo, Nile Cruise And Red Sea Stay

10-Day Luxury Nile Cruise and Cairo Tours

10-Day Round Trip Nile Cruise and Cairo Package

8-Day Cairo to Abu Simbel Tour w/ Nile Cruise

8-Day Egypt Holiday Tour – Cairo and Nile Cruise [By Train]

FAQ: Visiting the Giza Pyramids

Can I Visit the Pyramids in Egypt?

Tourist are welcome to visit all of Egypt’s famous pyramids, including the legendary Giza Pyramids near Cairo, the Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid at Dashur, and the famous Step Pyramid at Saqqara.

Are the Pyramids in Egypt Safe to Visit?

Being Egypt’s most visited attractions, the Giza Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaura are perfectly safe to visit. Egypt’s other pyramids at Dashur and Saqqara are also safe to visit.

How Much To Visit Pyramids In Egypt?

As of the time of writing, a ticket for the site where the Giza Pyramids are located cost EGP 200. To go inside the Great Pyramid cost an additional EGP 400, and EGP 100 for each of the other two.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Egypt Pyramids?

The best time to visit the pyramids is from mid-October to February when the weather is neither too warm nor too cool. Try to visit before 09h00 if you want to avoid large crowds of tourists.

Egypt Travel Information

Full Safety Guide: Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt?

What are the Must Visit Places in Egypt?

Egypt Travel Tips: This You Need to Know

How to Plan a Trip to Egypt – Start Here!

Best Time to Visit Egypt: Weather & Tourism Insights

What to Pack for Egypt (Simple Packing List)

Last Updated on March 25, 2024

You might also like

We Don't Just Sell Amazing Tours, We Make Dreams Come True!

Private tours since 1955.

Award-Winning Service

Create your dream trip.

• (+20) 100 405 1515
• Local Time : 07:59 PM

• Top 15 Giza Pyramids Tours & Vactions 2024/2025 for Americans
• Egypt Sighseeing Tours & Holidays for American Travelers

Best Giza Pyramids Trips Revealing Ancient Egypt's Marvels

Awards & recognitions.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through time with our charming Giza Pyramids tours for American Travelers 2024/2025 , where the magic of ancient wonders comes to life. These mesmerizing journeys will take our American clients through the captivating and timeless highlights of the Giza complex promising a comfortable and unforgettable excursion. Since its establishment in 1987, Egypt Tours Portal has been dedicated to crafting the ultimate tour experience for our American guests, providing unbeatable prices along with top-notch service. Through our Giza pyramids trips , you can expect exceptional service, cozy accommodations, convenient transportation, breathtaking attractions, budget-friendly prices, enjoyable activities, and much more.

With our majestic day tours to Giza pyramids complex, a treasure trove of ancient wonders awaits eager explorers. Marvel at the sheer size and precision of the three colossal Giza pyramids , built as eternal resting places for the pharaohs of old. As you venture deeper into the complex, you'll discover the enigmatic Sphinx , an imposing guardian with its lion's body and human face, exuding an aura of mystery and power. The adjacent Valley Temple provides a glimpse into the ancient rituals and ceremonies that once took place here. Wander through the sprawling archaeological site, and you'll uncover smaller pyramids, mastabas, and ancient tombs, each with its own intriguing story to tell. Let our Pyramids Egypt tours be your gateway to an unforgettable experience filled with magical moments and cherished memories that will stay with you forever.  Book now and make your dream pyramids tour a reality!

Top-Selected Pyramids Tours with Prices

Day Tour in Cairo and the Pyramids

Cairo and Giza Day Tour for Ameican Travelers Day tour in Cairo and the Pyramids is ...

Tour Location: Cairo/Giza...

Day Trip to Pyramids from Cairo

Day Trip to Pyramids from Cairo for American Travelers Day trip to the Pyramids from...

Tour Location: Giza...

Saqqara & Memphis Tour from Cairo

Saqqara & Memphis Tour from Cairo For American Travelers Saqqara & Memphis t...

Tour Location: Memphis and Sakkara...

Half Day Pyramids Tour in Cairo

Majestic Half-Day Pyramids Tour in Cairo for American Travelers Half-Day Pyramids To...

Day Trip from Hurghada to Pyramids By Plane

Private Day Trip from Hurghada to Pyramids By Plane for American Travelers Day trip ...

Private Day Trip from El Gouna to Pyramids by Plane

Breathtaking Day Trip from El Gouna to Pyramids by Plane for American Travelers Day ...

Makadi Bay Day Tour to Pyramids by Plane

Pyramids Day Trip by Plane from Makadi Bay for American Travelers Makadi Bay day tou...

Full Day Tour to Pyramids from Port Ghalib

Private Day Tour to Pyramids from Port Ghalib for American Travelers Full day tour t...

Camel Ride in Giza Pyramids

Enjoy A Camel Ride in Giza Pyramids for American Travelers Camel Ride in Giza Pyrami...

Tour Location: Giza Pyramids...

Sound & Light Show at Giza

Enjoy Sound & Light Show At Giza for American Travelers Sound & Light Show a...

The Grand Egyptian Museum & Giza Pyramids Tour from Cairo

Tour to the Grand Egyptian Museum & Giza Pyramids from Cairo for American Travele...

Tour Location: Giza - Cairo...

Quad Biking At Giza Pyramids From Cairo

Experience Quad Biking At Giza Pyramids From Cairo for American Travelers Quad Bikin...

Pyramids Tour from Soma Bay

Enjoy Pyramids Tour from Soma Bay for American Travelers Pyramids tour from Soma Bay...

Pyramids Tour from Cairo Airport

One Day Pyramids Tour from Cairo Airport for American Travelers Pyramids tour from C...

Tour Location: Giza, Cairo...

Memphis, Saqqara & Dahshur Tour from Cairo Airport

One Day Memphis Sakkara and Dahshur Tour from Cairo Airport for American Travelers M...

Looking For Giza Pyramids on A Vacation?

Start planning your vacation now and get ready for an incredible adventure tailored to your desires!!

Learn More About Egypt

View All Articles ➞

Egypt Travel Tips 2024

Will you travel to Egypt? Here are the best Egypt travel tips for 2024 which will give you important hi...

19 March, 2018

Best Time to Visit Egypt 2024/2025

The best time to visit Egypt 2024/2025, know more about the best destination to spend a terr...

16 October, 2018

Egypt Travel Visa

Learn all there is about securing a travel visa for Egypt, the costs involved, and how to apply. Check th...

03 January, 2019

Everything About the Weather in Egypt 2024/2025

Planning to check the weather in Egypt for 2024? Our article thoroughly outlines the monthly weather co...

12 December, 2019

How to Plan A Trip to Egypt

Need to know how to plan a trip to Egypt? Here is important information you should know before traveling ...

06 June, 2020

Best Activities In Egypt

Activities to do in Egypt cover everything you wish for and more. Explore our curated collection of top c...

09 July, 2020

Our Clients Feedback

Eoffers valuable insights straight from the source, capturing the voices and experiences of those who matter most – our cherished clients

Tour Name: 5 Days Tour of Group Witnessing Egypt’s Jewels

Experience Date: 14 July, 2024

My fiancé and I booked a private 5 day tour of Egypt with ETP starting in Cairo followed Read More by Aswan, Abu Simbel and Luxor. We just got home and continue to talk about how amazing the trip was. The communication with ETP was excellent. Very fast responses and they are very accommodating. Our tour was nonstop which was okay by us as we wanted to see all the sights in 4 days. Read Less

Tour Name: Experience Egypt Cultural Sightseeing in 10 Days

This was the trip of a lifetime that I was able to have with my eldest son - an absolutely Read More amazing experience. To be able to actually see the places and artifacts that I had read about and studied was truly phenomenal. Our hotels were great, the travel to and from sites was completely taken care of, we never felt unsafe or left to our own devices, and the itinerary was just right. But what made the experience so fab was our two guides - Mahmoud Nour in Luxor/Aswan/Abu Simbel and "Max" in Cairo/Memphis/Saqqara. They taught us history and context as it related to each site we visited and they indulged my myriad questions. They were both so incredibly knowledgeable and my questions were never ignored or unanswered. In addition, they shared their culture with us and treated us to some awesome dining experiences. We were reminded that Egypt is more than just ancient ruins. I would recommend without reservation this tour experience. And "hats off" to Mahmoud and Max!!! I left feeling like I had made some great new friends. And I can't wait to try some home-made kushari. Read Less

L Joe Smith

Tour Name: Experience Egypt in 9 Days

Egypt Tours Portal is an excellent company to use to arrange your visit to Egypt. They wor Read More k with phenomenal guides (we had Mahmoud Nour in Upper Egypt and Mohsen aka Max in Lower Egypt...I would recommend asking for these guides by name, as they were truly superb), make all the necessary arrangements in terms of drivers, covid testing, hotels, and in-country flights, and can tailor your tour to whatever it is you most want to see. The entire experience was smooth from start to finish. Both Mahmoud and Max spoke excellent English, were extremely knowledgeable, and went out of their way to ensure our experience was everything we hoped it would be. This was the second time I have used ETP, and I will continue to recommend them to anyone who expresses any interest in exploring Egypt. We especially liked that our tour group was limited to only our party, which meant we got one-on-one attention at all the sites, and allowed us to get answers to all our questions. And for those of you who are worried about safety or health in Egypt, in our experience it was extremely safe, and we never had any issues related to COVID-19. Cannot recommend Egypt Tours Portal enough. Choose them, you won't regret it. Read Less

Tour Name: 5 Days Cairo, Luxor & Abu Simbel Tour

It was an absolutely amazing trip where we saw some of the most historical and beautiful s Read More ights in Egypt. Our tour guide Mohamed Elshemei was extremely knowledgeable and accommodating to our needs Read Less

Tour Name: 5 Days Nile River Cruise Luxor to Aswan

Highly recommend this tour company!!! Our guides, Moses, Mahmoud, Magred and Mohamed were Read More exceptional, their knowledge of the history is more that accurate, they are also very patient!! For the price and all the attractions, the Nile cruise and the included meals.....well worth it!!! It is a very busy tour, but well worth it!!! Read Less

This review is a late, but I had to provide some feedback. My brother and I went on vacati Read More on in October 2022 and booked with Egypt Tours Portal. With on-line scams on-going, I was a little wary at first. BUT, the experience was amazing. Personal guides and drivers, lodging, food was amazing and perfect. The guides were very knowledgeable, but more importantly PASSIONATE about their job and culture. They went out of their way to take care of us. If you happen to get Zeze or Marianne, you have gotten the best. Read Less

Timmy Lovett

Frequently asked questions, how much does it cost to tour the pyramids.

The cost of Giza Pyramids tours is priced between $60 and a maximum of $410  depending on several factors, such as the specific pyramid complex you wish to visit, the pickup point and domestic flight, the type of ticket you purchase, and whether you opt for guided tours or explore on your own.

Please note that these prices may have changed since my last update, so it's essential to verify the current ticket costs before planning your visit.

Which pyramid is best to visit?

The Pyramid of Khufu, also known as the Great Pyramid of Giza, is the best pyramid to visit in Egypt. It is the largest pyramid ever built, standing at around 147 meters tall. The pyramid's construction is a remarkable feat of engineering, with its sides aligning almost perfectly with the cardinal points of the compass. Inside, it contains various chambers, including the King's Chamber and the Queen's Chamber. Historians believe it was built as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. The Great Pyramid of Giza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to be a symbol of Egypt's rich cultural history and architectural brilliance. Its enigmatic charm and grandeur make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient civilizations.

What is the best time to visit the pyramids?

The best time to visit the pyramids in Egypt is during the cooler months, which are typically from late autumn to early spring. This period spans from November to February. During these months, the weather is more pleasant, with milder temperatures, making it more comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the pyramid complexes.

Can tourists go inside the pyramids?

Yes, tourists can go inside some of the pyramids in Egypt, including the Great Pyramid of Giza, and others in the surrounding pyramid complexes. However, the availability of access to the pyramid interiors may vary, and there are specific guidelines and restrictions in place to preserve these ancient structures and ensure visitor safety. Please note that soome pyramids or chambers may be closed for restoration or safety reasons. Additionally, entry may involve navigating narrow passages and steep inclines, so visitors should be prepared for physical challenges.

What Are the Finest Destinations to Visit in Egypt?

The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt .

What Are Egypt's Visa Requirements?

If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa .

What Is the Top Traditional Egyptian Food?

Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.

What is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.

What to Pack for Your Egypt Tour?

You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.

Why Book With "Egypt Tours Portal"?

We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.

Is it Safe to Travel to Egypt?

You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt .

What to Wear While in Egypt?

Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.

What are the Best Activities to Do in Egypt?

The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.

What are Egypt Festival and Public Holidays?

There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt .

What are Special Advice for Foreign Women in Egypt?

Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.

What are the Official Languages of Egypt?

Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.

What is the Transportation in Egypt?

The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.

What is the Weather is Like?

The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.

What are the Reasons That Make You Visit Egypt?

It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.

Our Partners

• Privacy Policy
• How It Works
• Loyalty Program

Egypt Tours specializes in providing the most pleasing Egypt tours & vacations, Egypt Nile River cruises, Egypt day tours & excursions, Egypt shore excursions, at the most affordable prices, and excellent services for the past 35 years.

Popular Tour Categories

• Egypt Travel Packages
• Egypt Shore Excursions
• Group Tours to Egypt
• Egypt Family Holiday Packages
• Egypt Nile Cruises Packages
• Egypt Calendar Holidays
• Egypt Vacation Packages
• Egypt Transfers
• Payment & Cancellation Policy
• Reviews & About Us
• Terms and Conditions
• Egypt Travel Guide
• Why Choose Egypt Tours Portal
• Send Your Feedback
• Subscribe to Our Newsletter
• Contribute With Us

Official Pages

• Global Code of Ethics for Tourism
• Responsible Travel
• Travel Alerts & Safety Guidelines
• Travel Insurance
• Become Our Partner
• PCR Testing For Egypt Visitors
• Brand Ambassador Program

© Copyright Egypt Tours Portal 2024.

Egypt Trips & Tour Packages

Awesome ancient wonders, endless golden sands and atmospheric local souqs make Egypt the ultimate travel destination.

You’ve got to see it to believe it in Egypt – the chaos of Cairo (seriously, this city never stops); the bustling bazaars; the imposing glory of the Pyramids of Giza, and the world’s most famous lion with a human head (the iconic Sphinx).Only in Egypt can you sail into the sunset on a felucca cruise along the Nile, marvel at the world's most spectacular temple complexes, wander through Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, and then float facing towards the sky in the glittering expanse of the Red Sea. Take a moment as time stands still in Egypt.

Our Egypt trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Egypt tour reviews

Filter by rating

Egypt Adventure

Essential Egypt

Articles of Egypt

I didn’t grow up travelling but now I’m visiting all the landmarks that inspired me

The 7 best places to go on a hot air balloon ride  

Egypt or Jordan? Which country should you travel to?

What it’s like to visit Egypt as a transgender traveller

For this solo female traveller, her first trip abroad in over 20 years was worth the wait 

Egypt vs Morocco: where to next?

What to expect on an Intrepid Premium trip

10 awesome places to go for your 21st birthday

Egypt at a glance

Capital city.

Cairo (population 9.4 million)

107.5 million

Egyptian pound (EGP)

(GMT+02:00) Cairo

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin)

Learn more about Egypt

Best time to visit egypt.

Egypt is blessed with lots of sunshine and very little rain. Generally, the hottest months are June to August, and the coolest month is January. Rainfall is negligible, except on the coast, with rain usually occurring during the winter months (December to March).

During the summer months (from June to August), daily temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) - perfect for snorkeling and soaking up the sun on the beaches of Sinai, but can prove challenging for some in the crowded streets and souqs of Cairo.

Choose to escape the crowds by traveling from March to May or September to November when the weather is milder, and there's the opportunity to experience Egypt during Ramadan and the celebrations of Eid (which marks the breaking of the fast). If you are planning to travel during Ramadan, it's important to consider that many restaurants and shops will either be closed or operating at reduced hours.

Read more about the best time to visit Egypt

Culture and customs

Life in Egypt has been in a state of flux since the 2011 revolution. Many of the issues that motivated so many to take to the streets in protest continue to be points of contention, but Egyptians remain hopeful, relying on religion, family and humor to get them through, like they have for thousands of years. A strong sense of community binds people across the country. Families and communities support each other and there is a prevailing sense that everyone is in it together. For all these reasons, most express great pride in being Egyptian, despite their nation’s recent turmoil.

As a largely Muslim country (about 90% of the population is Muslim while most of the remaining 10% identify as Coptic Christian), Islam permeates daily activities. Life revolves around the five daily prayers and everything is closed on Friday, the Muslim holy day. A wide array of cultural norms, including how people dress and interact with the opposite sex, are influenced by religion. Women are largely defined by their role as a mother and matron of the house, whereas men are expected to be the provider.

Many Egyptians consider their country the gateway between the West and the rest of the Arab world, and take pride in their ability to mix tradition with modern influences. This mixing is most apparent in major cities, such as Cairo and Alexandria, where American fast-food chains can be found next to traditional cafes, secular attitudes are more common, and pop music rings through city streets.

Food and drink

With fragrant spices, fresh fruit and vegetables, and delicious sweets on offer, culinary adventures in Egypt are guaranteed. On many Intrepid trips you'll be given the opportunity to dine with a local family – this offers a great chance to see how meals are prepared and learn more about the ingredients.

Things to try in Egypt

1. Hamam mahshi

A north African delicacy, hamam – roasted pigeon stuffed with cracked wheat and rice – can be found on the menu of most traditional Egyptian restaurants. You may need a few to fill up though, as they don’t contain a lot of meat. And be careful of all the tiny bones.

2. Ta'ameya (falafel)

Crunchy on the outside, and moist on the inside, these deep-fried balls of spiced fava beans are a Middle Eastern vegetarian staple. Usually served in a pita with salad, pickles, and sesame-based tahina - buy it at a street stall for a quick, cheap meal.

Shops specializing in this popular ‘poor man’s dish’ can be found throughout Cairo. A hearty mix of rice, macaroni and lentils, chickpeas, and fried onions, koshary is topped with a tomato-vinegar sauce.

4. Ful medames

Don't leave Egypt without trying the classic dish of ful medames, which can be traced back to pharaonic times. Consisting of slow-cooked fava beans, served with olive oil, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice - add some spice by seasoning with chili paste and eat with bread.

5. Pastries

Delicious, sweet pastries are found in restaurants, markets, and cafes in Egypt. Never was there a better time to live by the adage ‘Life is short, eat dessert first’.

Egypt is a mostly Muslim country, and any consumption of alcohol here is relatively low-key. There are many fantastic alternatives. Juice stands are common on main streets offering freshly squeezed banana, guava, or mango juice. Karkadai is a chilled, crimson drink brewed from hibiscus leaves (served hot in the winter). And tea (or shai) is the beverage of choice for most Egyptians, which is sipped throughout the day and with meals.

Read more about what to eat in Egypt

Read more about what to drink in Egypt

Geography and environment

Located in the northeast corner of Africa, Egypt shares its borders with Israel and the Palestinian Territories, Libya, and Sudan, as well as the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east. The two seas are connected by the man-made Suez Canal.

The remote triangle-shaped peninsula is largely characterized by limestone and desert, but also has a vibrant coral reef along the Red Sea coastline. Hot, dry desert covers most of the country’s terrain, with the Western Desert occupying much of the west, and the Arabian (or Eastern) Desert stretching the length of the eastern coast. These two regions are dissected by the Nile River, which runs the length of the country, emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. The Nile Valley, a narrow fertile band extending from the river, is the country’s only fertile land and where 98% of the population lives.

History and government

Recent history.

Napoleon Bonaparte, the infamous pint-sized French leader, invaded Egypt in 1798, seeking to set up a French colony. However, not long after, the French were repelled, and Egypt became a part of the Ottoman Empire once again.

From 1882, the British Army occupied Egypt to protect the Suez Canal. Muhammad Ali officially ruled from the early 1800s, and his family and successors continued to rule for decades (alongside and during British occupation) until overthrown by a military coup in 1952.

During World War II, Egypt became a crucial element in Britain's defense. The Italian Army tried to advance into Egypt in 1940 but was stopped by the British Army at Mersa Matruh. Egypt continued to serve as a vital base for British troops during World War II and despite the disruption, Egypt's shopkeepers and retail trade benefitted from the thousands of Allied troops staying in Egypt.

In 1953, Egypt was officially declared a republic, and a year later, Colonel Nasser was declared Prime Minister, then President. In 1979, after decades of confrontation with neighboring Israel, the historic Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty was signed. This agreement made Egypt the first Arab country to officially recognize Israel as a country - a significant step in the peace process. More recently, in February 2011, large-scale protests and mass demonstrations resulted in the removal of President Mubarak after decades of autocratic rule.

Early history

Ancient Egypt has been the focus of much fascination, investigation, speculation, and intrigue. It's hard to escape the education system without having studied Ancient Egypt in some way. Drawn in by the mighty pyramids, mysterious hieroglyphics, distinct burial rituals and animal-headed gods - scholars, students, historians, and travelers are all amazed by this civilization which has endured cycles of dynastic rule, invasion, and natural disasters.

Through key archaeological finds, historians have been able to unravel some of the mysteries of this great land. What is known is that the daily life of the average Egyptian usually involved working in agriculture with the waters of the Nile providing fertile ground for planting crops. Egyptians usually lived in modest homes with children and domestic pets. Professions were usually inherited - so if your father was a farmer, then so were you.

While most Egyptians led simple lives, dynasties of Pharaohs led lavish lifestyles, with the most well-known being Ramses II, Hatshepsut, Akhenaten, Tutankhamun, and Cleopatra. Huge monuments, imposing pyramids, golden artifacts, and detailed paintings all hold details about pharaonic rule and succession, as well as commonly held beliefs about religion and the afterlife.

Spanning centuries and full of drama worthy of a soap opera, the epic history of Ancient Egypt is complex and we suggest you read about it before visiting.

Top places to visit in Egypt

1. nile river.

Sail down the mighty Nile River on a traditional Egyptian felucca.

Trip: Egypt Experience

Trip: Explore Egypt & Jordan

Dive into the warm, glittering waters of the Red Sea on a snorkeling adventure in Hurghada.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Express

Trip: Explore Egypt

Trip: Egypt Family Holiday

3. Alexandria

Discover the historic wonders of Alexandria, an ancient port city that locals call the Bride of the Mediterranean Sea.

Trip: Jordan & Egypt Uncovered

Experience the bustling energy of Cairo and shop for souvenirs at Cairo's Khan al-Khalili bazaar.

Trip: Egypt Adventure

5. Mt Sinai

Hike to the summit of Mt Sinai, which many believe is where Moses received the ten commandments.

Trip: Discover Egypt & Jordan

Explore the impressive chapels, pylons and obelisks of Karnak Temple.

Trip: Egypt, Jordan, Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

7. Abu Simbel

These massive monuments dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari are seriously impressive.

8. Valley of the Kings

King Tut’s treasures may be long gone, but his hieroglyphic-covered tomb remains an incredible sight to see.

Trip: Essential Egypt

Trip: Epic Egypt, Jordan & Isreal & the Palestinian Territories

Trip: Real Egypt & Jordan

Top 10 ancient wonders of Egypt

1. grand designs.

The original grand design - monumental and magnificent - the Pyramids of Giza are an impressive achievement in ancient engineering. Towering above the desert sands and standing proudly for centuries, the first glimpse of these stunning structures will render visitors breathless.

2. Stony enigma

Be captivated by the mysterious aura of the Great Sphinx of Giza. This monolithic mythical beast possesses a lion’s body and a human head - and has sat quietly in the desert sands for eons. Gaze at the Sphinx and try to work out the riddle of its existence.

3. Mighty Nile River

No trip to Egypt is complete without visiting the Nile River - the life force of Egypt that has flowed for centuries. A provider of irrigation, an essential travel route, home to hippos and crocodiles, and now a source of leisure for locals and travelers alike, the Nile is an aquatic link to Egypt’s ancient heritage.

4. Terrific temples

Discover an enormous open-air museum like no other. The awe-inspiring Temples of Karnak are filled with stately statues, immense columns, and gigantic gateways. Explore this intriguing site and be left in no doubt about the brilliance of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

5. Holy mountain

Embark on a trek to the top of Mt Sinai and witness an incredible golden sunrise to remember. A place of worship for many faiths, a pilgrimage to Mt Sinai reveals stunning scenery, an ancient monastery and historic chapels. An iconic highlight of Egypt for believers and non-believers alike, Mt Sinai is not to be missed.

6. Double happiness

Located in the Nile Valley, the unique Temple of Kom Ombo is a ‘double temple’ and a rare archaeological find. Dedicated to two gods, a visit here is a true highlight of an Egyptian escapade. Marvel at the well-preserved wall reliefs, try to decipher the hieroglyphics and honour the craftsmen who created this wonder.

7. Museum magic

Step into a dazzling world of antiquity at the Egyptian Museum. Be amazed by the glittering treasures recovered from King Tutankhamun’s tomb – with jewelry, furniture, chariots and that famous gold funerary mask, this pharaoh was certainly prepared for the afterlife.

8. Roman ruins

The Roman ruins of Kom el-Dikka in Alexandria may not be the biggest, but they are certainly among the best-preserved in Egypt, if not the world. Soak up the atmosphere of the Roman amphitheater and imagine it in all its glory - packed with 800 spectators ready for action.

9. Colossal characters

Near the modern city of Luxor stand the imposing Colossi of Memnon. These massive stone statues of Amenhotep III, while badly damaged, still maintain an unmistakable air of authority. Stand below them and be dwarfed by the scale of these tremendous figures.

10. The ancient heart of Cairo

Wander the cobbled streets of Islamic Cairo and uncover the ancient heart of this chaotic city. Admire mosques, palaces and houses, and peruse the goods on offer at one of the world’s oldest bazaars. Dating back to medieval times, the Khan al-Khalili bazaar is where people have traded goods for centuries.

Souqs – or open-air bazaars – are both the best place to shop in Egypt and attractions in their own right. The biggest and most famous souq is the 500-year-old Khan El Khalili Bazaar in Cairo. Within the maze of narrow streets and laneways lie stalls selling jewelry, glass, copper, spices and artisan goods, along with more standard tourist fare. Quality can vary greatly so spend some time shopping around.

Like many markets around the world, bargaining is the norm, but Egyptians take it to another level. Expect to be offered tea (it can take that long) and for elaborate theatrics from the seller. While bazaars in Cairo tend to sell everything, visit Aswan’s bazaar for spices, incense, and basketwork, and Luxor for cheaply priced alabaster figurines and vases. It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.

Things to buy in Egypt

You’ll often see spices piled high in bazaars. In addition to making a great photo for Instagram, they’re often a good buy as long as you keep a couple of things in mind. Always buy whole spices rather than ground to ensure freshness and skip the ‘saffron’ – it’s actually safflower and tastes like dust.

2. Glassware

Hand-blown Muski glass, recognizable by its air bubbles, comes in brilliant shades of blue and green and purple and has been made in Egypt since medieval times. Be careful with this purchase though as it’s extremely fragile.

3. Cartouche

A kind of nameplate written in hieroglyphics. Most gold or silver shops sell these and many can customize them by engraving your name.

Festivals and events

Eid al-Fitr

After fasting for an entire month, Muslims celebrate the end of Ramadan with Eid al-Fitr, or ‘Feast of Breaking the Fast’. For three days, starting on the first day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar, people celebrate with feasts, family, and festivals. Look for vendors selling kahk cookies (nut-filled cookies covered in powdered sugar) while taking in the festivities, a tasty treat synonymous with Eid for many locals.

Eid al-Adha

Arguably the most important holiday in Egypt, the ‘Feast of Sacrifice’ is not one for vegetarians and vegans. About 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, sheep, and goats are slaughtered (often in the middle of the street) for a mighty feast.

Sham el-Nessim

Each year on March 21st, Egyptians celebrate the coming of spring by spending the day outdoors. Join the locals for this ancient holiday by packing a picnic and heading to a park or public garden.

Abu Simbel Sun Festival

As if the two temples dedicated to Ramses II and Queen Nefertari weren’t impressive enough, they were constructed in such a way that twice a year, the sun’s rays reach its innermost chambers and illuminate three stone gods that reside within, while leaving Ptah (god of the underworld) in the dark. And those days just happen to be Ramses’s birthday (October 21) and coronation (February 21). Coincidence? We think not.

Read more about festivals in Egypt

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Coptic Christmas

Coptic Easter

Sinai Liberation Day

National Day

Coptic New Year

Islamic New Year

Armed Forces Day

Birth of Prophet Mohammed

Many of Egypt's public holidays are religious holidays celebrated according to the Islamic lunar cycle. Please note that the dates may vary.

Further reading

Egypt travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do you need a visa to travel to Egypt?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Egypt?

Tipping is customary for pretty much all services in Egypt. A tip of 10–15% is customary at cafes and restaurants and loose change is acceptable for food purchases from street vendors and markets. It’s also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers USD$2.50-3 per day.

What is the internet access like in Egypt?

Internet access is growing in Egypt, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots becoming increasingly common in large cities, especially Cairo, though access may be limited in smaller towns and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone in Egypt?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in Egypt’s urban areas, but may not be available in remote and desert areas. Ensure global roaming is activated with your service provider before leaving home.

What are the toilets like in Egypt?

Squat toilets are most common in Egypt, although Western-style flushable toilets can be found in larger hotels and some tourist areas.

Can I drink the water in Egypt?

Drinking tap water isn’t recommended in Egypt. Remember to avoid drinks with ice and to peel fruit before eating it. Help the environment and try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water. Ask your leader or hotel where to find filtered water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Egypt?

Credit cards are usually accepted by modern hotels, large retailers, and tourist sites but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors in remote areas. Always carry enough cash for smaller purchases in case credit cards are not an option.

What is ATM access like in Egypt?

ATMs are commonly found in larger cities, like Cairo and Alexandria, near shopping centers, tourist areas, and 5-star hotels, but are far less common in small towns and rural areas. Make sure you have enough cash before leaving urban areas.

Is Egypt a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Discretion is advised for LGBTQI travelers in Egypt. Though homosexuality is not officially outlawed, gay men have been prosecuted using debauchery and public morals laws and given long prison sentences. Be aware that signals are ambiguous in Egypt as men commonly hold hands, link arms and greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. As long as you use common sense, travel in Egypt should not be a problem.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex  or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

What to wear in Egypt

Summer temperatures can get very high, so light fabrics like linen, cotton and athletic gear made to take the heat are best. If you’re traveling outside of winter, don’t underestimate the cool change that can come in the evenings, especially if you’re spending the night in the desert or on a Nile cruise. Avoid packing anything in white – desert dust will quickly turn those light-colored clothes a not-so-delightful shade of brown.

How will I travel around Egypt?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Where will I stay in Egypt?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Egypt you may find yourself staying in a:

Felucca Glide down the Nile on a traditional Egyptian felucca; sleep on deck under the stars as the sun slides away for the day - a must-do experience while in Egypt.

Homestay Be welcomed into the home of a local family and experience the cuisine, culture and customs of Egypt firsthand during your stay. A truly authentic travel experience like no other.

Desert camp Travel deep into the White Desert to camp under the stars amid surreal scenery. This is a rare chance to experience the remote wonder and isolation of the Egyptian desert.

With calming Red Sea views and fresh sea breezes, this rustic breach abode is all about life’s simple pleasures.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Egypt support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Egypt directly support our foundation partner, Animal Care in Egypt . 

Animal Care in Egypt  

Animal Care in Egypt (ACE) cares for sick or injured working animals, like horses and donkeys, in Upper Egypt. Donations from our trips help ACE provide free veterinary care and fund education programs that empower local people with the knowledge and skills to best look after their animals. 

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Find anything you save across the site in your account

The Great Pyramid of Giza: Everything You Need to Know About the Ancient Wonder

It’s no wonder that our fascination with the pyramids of Giza has endured for millennia. The Great Pyramid of Giza—built for the Pharaoh Khufu and finished around 2560 BCE—is the only marvel of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still intact. And the rest of the pyramid complex is nothing short of brilliant too. Perched on the outskirts of Cairo , the Giza site is a necropolis of royal tombs. It contains three towering pyramids (the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure); three smaller pyramids (for queens and sisters); and an enormous statue of a sphinx , for good measure.

You’d think that a few thousand years on Earth would have revealed all of the pyramids’ mysteries, but it seems that they still have plenty of secrets to share. In 2023, a hidden corridor was discovered in the Great Pyramid , and in 2024, a mysterious structure was found adjacent to it . While we’re still learning more about this ancient monument, here’s what we do know about the Great Pyramid of Giza.

When was the Great Pyramid of Giza built?

The Great Pyramid of Giza dates to Egypt’s Old Kingdom, more than 4,000 years ago. “The Great Pyramid was built by King Khufu, son of King Sneferu and Queen Hetepheres I, and the Fourth Dynasty’s second pharaoh,” says Rami Girgis, expert Egyptologist and Abercrombie & Kent’s director of private jet and special interest travel. “He ruled Egypt between 2585 BC and 2560 BC, and during that time, he led the construction of the Great Pyramid.” It’s estimated that it took around 20 years to build the Great Pyramid.

Why was the Great Pyramid of Giza built?

You’re probably well aware that Egyptian pyramids are tombs, and the Great Pyramid is no exception. Khufu—also known by his Greek name, Cheops—commissioned this funerary structure as his final resting place, but the pyramid was also a civic project that secured Khufu’s legacy. “It was intended to be a national project to display the wealth and power of the pharaohs, not as simple as a tomb, but a building that endures for ages.”

We’d have to say the pyramid accomplished that mission—perhaps too well. The pyramid itself outlasted just about every statue of King Khufu himself. “The only statue we have of King Khufu—the builder of the Great Pyramid, the tallest structure in the world for thousands of years—is a short three-inch-tall piece,” says Girgis.

The pyramids from the Giza Plateau

Who built the Great Pyramid of Giza?

While Khufu is considered the builder of the Great Pyramid, there were thousands of others who physically built the structure. But there’s a big misconception here—the pyramids were not built by enslaved people. They were built by skilled hired workers. “Archeologists discovered a village near the Giza complex where the workers resided. Inscriptions and food remains in their homes confirmed that they were very well fed for their labor,” says Elissa Day, a PhD candidate in Egyptology at Harvard University. “Workers had working shifts, lunch breaks, and hierarchies. Furthermore, the pharaoh was deified, and working for him was considered a great honor in ancient Egypt.”

What did the Great Pyramid of Giza originally look like?

Today, the Giza pyramids wear the tawny tones of their surrounding Libyan Desert, but back in their heyday, they sparkled. Originally, they were encased in white limestone. “The limestone casing would have been smooth and polished, and overall, a lot more dazzling—especially in the light,” says Day. The workers would’ve essentially sanded down the surface of each stone, leaving no discernible marks. “At Giza, you can see some remains of an outer casing on top of the pyramid of Khafre and at the bottom of the Great Pyramid,” says Day.

Those dazzling façades have long been stripped—some sources report that those blocks of stone were repurposed and used to build mosques. You can see the Smithsonian’s rendering of what the pyramids looked like in their glory years.

How was the Great Pyramid of Giza built?

The construction of the pyramids is still a mystery, but archaeologists have unearthed quite a few clues. Both excavations at other archaeological sites and written records provide insight into the construction methods and tools likely used to build the Great Pyramid.

“Most of the core limestone blocks for Khufu’s pyramid came from the central field quarry at Giza, whilst the exterior casing stones were quarried at Tura, which is east of Giza,” Day adds. “We know this because of the Wadi al-Jarf papyri , which were discovered in 2013 and are probably the oldest inscribed papyri found to date. They contain records written by an inspector called Merer, and there is a portion that documents the transportation of the limestone from Tura to Giza by boat.”

The pyramids were built from stone blocks.

They were first floated down the Nile River, then down specially built waterways to the pyramid site. Finally, they were transported down a causeway to the actual construction site. (Today, the Nile is about seven miles away from the Great Pyramid, but the river was likely closer to the site during construction.)

At the pyramid site, the blocks were likely hauled up mud-brick ramps on sledges. “We found remnants of a mud-brick ramp behind the large pylon at the entrance to the Temple Karnak in Luxor to further prove this method,” says Girgis. But as for the exacting precision of the structure, we have no idea how the builders did it without modern tools!

How big is the Great Pyramid of Giza?

While the middle pyramid looks bigger, the Great Pyramid (located at the back) is actually larger. Its placement on lower ground causes an illusion.

“The pyramid was originally 481 feet high, but due to erosion, it lost 31 feet and today stands at 449.5 feet,” says Girgis. (To put that in context, the Statue of Liberty tops out at 305 feet.) For nearly 4,000 years, it was the tallest building in the world—and it’s hefty too. The pyramid was built with an estimated 2.3 million stone blocks, which weigh 2.5 to 15 tons each.

And here’s a bit of a fun fact for those who haven’t been to Giza: In most photos, the middle pyramid (built by Khufu’s son, Khafre) seems to be the tallest, but it’s an illusion. The Great Pyramid is the back pyramid, and it only looks shorter because it’s built on lower ground. In case you were wondering, the third pyramid of the main three was built by Khafre’s son, Menkaure, and it’s less than half the height of the Great Pyramid.

Why is the Great Pyramid of Giza important?

An up-close view of the details of the Great Pyramid

For starters, it’s an architectural marvel. The fact that such a massive structure could be built 4,000 years ago—and last to the present day—is extraordinary. It’s incredible to think that hundreds of generations of humans have gazed upon the Great Pyramid.

Day thinks the human element of the Great Pyramid and the Giza necropolis at large is also intriguing. “The Giza complex itself is made up of the pyramids, yes, but also temples, cemeteries, and even a settlement for the workers who built the structures,” she says. “It’s a wonderful snapshot of power and ambition, as well as daily life. It wasn’t just builders working there, but craftsmen, administrators, and even bakers. The pyramid itself is a testament to human ambition and innovation, but we often forget about the people who were fueling and facilitating the actual building process.”

How do you visit the Great Pyramid of Giza?

The Giza Plateau, where you’ll find six pyramids plus the Great Sphinx, is gated. You can buy tickets at the entrance. And while you don’t need a guide to enter the site, Girgis suggests hiring a certified Egyptologist to provide you with crucial context about the pyramids during your visit—there’s not much in the way of signage or placards.

It’s possible to enter the Great Pyramid too. You’ll need a special ticket, which you can buy at the entrance gate. “Only 300 people are allowed inside the Great Pyramid each day, so I highly recommend visiting the site in the early morning hours to maximize your chances of getting a ticket. This will also help in beating the midday heat,” says Girgis. He also advises that anyone who is claustrophobic should not enter, as the passageway leading to the king’s chamber is very cramped.

What is inside the Great Pyramid of Giza?

Truthfully, not much. “Unfortunately, the pyramid was plundered, and therefore no objects were discovered inside,” says Girgis. “Only a series of corridors and an empty chamber can be seen today. Inside the king’s burial chamber, there is an empty sarcophagus made from granite that presumably housed the body of King Khufu.”

Day points out that the interior is not as highly decorated as you might expect. “Contrary to many later pyramids, there are no hieroglyphs inside the burial chamber—or anywhere else,” she says. “Another interesting fact is that there’s no mummy inside the Great Pyramid either. Perhaps there was in antiquity, but Khufu’s mummy is yet to be found.”

More Great Stories From AD

The Story Behind the Many Ghost Towns of Abandoned Mansions Across China

Inside Sofía Vergara’s Personal LA Paradise

Inside Emily Blunt and John Krasinski’s Homes Through the Years

Take an Exclusive First Look at Shea McGee’s Remodel of Her Own Home

Notorious Mobsters at Home: 13 Photos of Domestic Mob Life

Shop Amy Astley’s Picks of the Season

Modular Homes: Everything You Need to Know About Going Prefab

Shop Best of Living—Must-Have Picks for the Living Room

Beautiful Pantry Inspiration We’re Bookmarking From AD PRO Directory Designers

Not a subscriber? Join AD for print and digital access now.

Browse the  AD PRO Directory to find an  AD -approved design expert for your next project.

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

A camel driver waits for tourists near the Pyramids at Giza.

Pyramids at Giza

Tourism is Egypt’s second largest source of revenue, bringing in $13 billion in 2010. The Great Pyramid at Giza, after all, is one of the seven ancient wonders of the world.

To visit the Pyramids is to be struck dumb by their monumentality, their celebration of the fundamental human need to create. It's even more affecting in the midst of a revolution, when there are no tourists at all. A week after Hosni Mubarak’s departure and a day after the biggest celebration in Tahrir Square, a handful of Egyptians scrambled up the blocks of Khufu’s Great Pyramid, but there was not a foreigner to be seen.

I have visited them before, but this time they felt different. Each stone block is waist-high and worthy of awe. I noticed them, not the other people around me. They were mine for reflection and contemplation. All I could think of is how hard it must have been to make them, how much will it took when there were no cranes or earthmovers or power tools, and what that says about us as human beings—that we can no more not build or mark our place or strive for glory than we can not breathe or eat or love.

In the empty quiet I had a chance to talk to the horsemen and camel drivers who usually hustle rides to tourists.

“We have no work, nothing,” said Ali Abd el Hamid, astride his camel.

• Nat Geo Expeditions

He and his colleagues ply their trade seven days a week, year in and year out, a profession inherited from their fathers and grandfathers. They were barely hanging on now.

“I had three camels but sold two to feed my family,” says Hussein, who wouldn’t give his last name. “But before, the Egyptian citizen had no value, and hopefully that will change.”

Fuel their curiosity with your gift

Related topics, you may also like.

The Pyramids at Giza were built to endure an eternity—but how?

How to spend a day in Cairo, the eclectic Egyptian capital

How cosmic rays helped find a tunnel in Egypt's Great Pyramid

Where to see the world’s most enchanting sound and light shows

What it’s like to scuba dive under pyramids

• Environment
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• Photography
• Gory Details
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Love Exploring

Egypt's most mysterious pyramids and tombs – and what was found inside them

Posted: 10 January 2024 | Last updated: 10 January 2024

Life and death in ancient Egypt

We all know what Egypt’s pyramids look like on the outside, but what do they look like on the inside? Narrow passageways, spacious chambers and steep galleries make up the bulk of the interior layouts. Relics from the pyramids are on display in museums around the world – and in Giza's Grand Egyptian Museum, opening late-spring 2024 – while the surrounding tombs contained untold wonders too.

Click through this gallery to discover the stories behind Egypt's greatest funerary monuments, and learn about the mysterious treasures recovered from its ancient royal tombs...

Khufu Pyramid, Giza

The Great Pyramids of Giza complex consists of three pyramids, each named after the king they contained: Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure. The Khufu Pyramid is the largest of the three, standing at a height of 482 feet (147m). It was constructed between 2550 and 2490 BC, using a whopping 2.3 million stone blocks. Khufu ruled between 2589 and 2566 BC and was the second pharaoh of the 4th dynasty. 

In 1954, a dismantled wooden ship was discovered buried next to the pyramid – a common inclusion as ancient Egyptians believed these vessels would transport their kings to the afterlife. As the pharaoh was believed to be the earthly representation of Ra, the sun god, they were called solar boats. Until 2021, Khufu's ship was housed in its very own Solar Boat Museum, not far from where it was first discovered, but it has now been moved to the new Grand Egyptian Museum, set to open to the public in late-spring 2024.

Love this? Follow our Facebook page to learn about more ancient discoveries

Another aspect of the Khufu Pyramid overlooked during early explorations was a network of subterranean passages, commonly referred to as 'the pit'. In the 18th century, the rubble blocking the descending passageway was cleared away, and a Greek or Roman character was subsequently discovered on one of the tunnel ceilings. It might not look like the most striking discovery, but it seemingly confirmed the Greek historian Herodotus’s accounts that the pyramid's interior was accessible during the ancient Roman period.

For such a grand pyramid very few artefacts were discovered; just three items, in fact. Commonly referred to as 'the Dixon Relics', named after Waynman Dixon who found them in 1872, the items consist of a granite sphere, a forked copper instrument and a wooden slat. The forked instrument may once have included a bone or wooden handle and was likely used to manipulate rope, while the granite sphere worked as a pounder.

The wooden slat, meanwhile, went missing for more than a century, and was only rediscovered in 2020 when a curatorial assistant at the University of Aberdeen stumbled across the item hidden in a cigar tin. Interestingly, the slat was carbon dated to 500 years before the supposed construction of the pyramid, posing new questions about when it was actually built. 

In March 2023, a 4,500-year-old chamber was discovered in the Khufu Pyramid. Located using high-tech equipment, the corridor – which measures 30 feet (9m) long and over six feet (1.8m) wide – is found close to the northern side of the ancient pyramid’s main entrance. The room cannot be accessed from outside – this photo was taken by feeding a tiny camera through cracks in the masonry – and archaeologists are still trying to figure out its purpose.

Meidum Pyramid, Meidum

Located roughly 62 miles (99km) from Cairo, the Meidum Pyramid was built during the reign of King Sneferu, the first pharaoh of the 4th dynasty (2613 to 2589 BC). The Meidum Pyramid was Egypt’s first straight-sided pyramid – affectionately said by some to resemble a sandcastle – and it's often described as a ‘false pyramid’. Numerous construction issues meant it was never completed, so its appearance is noticeably different to other Egyptian pyramids. 

Learn more about the Bent Pyramid and other Ancient Egyptian mysteries

Entering the Meidum Pyramid takes visitors along a steep passageway, 56 feet (17m) in length, leading down to what would’ve been the burial chamber. Here, the sarcophagus (a large stone-built coffin usually displayed on ground level) would have held the mummified pharaoh. Except there’s nothing there. The burial chamber was never completed, there are no human remains and there’s no valley temple (a place where the royal mummy was received), which was a standard inclusion in royal ancient Egyptian burials. 

The Meidum Geese painting was discovered in a tomb beside the Meidum Pyramid, and is now on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The wall painting features six geese: two pairs facing away from each other at the centre, and one goose at each end picking at the grass. Natural pigments included white from limestone, red from hematite and green from malachite, and would have been mixed with egg white emulsifier.

Although a faster paint-and-plaster approach was applied in this part of the painting, you can still admire the exceptional level of detail. It was discovered on the north wall in the tomb chapel of Itet, daughter-in-law of King Sneferu and wife to his son, Nefermaat. It would have been part of a larger scene in the tomb. While the original wall painting is on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, there’s also a replica on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Bent Pyramid, Dahshur

Dahshur is an ancient plateau located some 20 miles (32km) south of Cairo. Here you’ll find the Bent Pyramid, the second pyramid built by King Sneferu, who added to his straight-sided pyramid at Meidum with another unusual edifice. A number of construction issues gave the pyramid its odd shape, with the lower half rising at an angle of 54 degrees to 154 feet (47m), before suddenly switching to a 43 degree angle. Following a lengthy closure for structural works, the Bent Pyramid's interior finally reopened to the public in 2019.

Discover new secrets of the world's ancient wonders

One of the more recent discoveries at the Bent Pyramid was made in 2021 by Anyextee, an author and tour leader. He revealed in a YouTube video  that there was some graffiti dating to the pyramid’s rediscovery by the western entrance. It was left by Egyptologist John Shae Perring, who started his exploration of the pyramid in September 1839. Anyextee also managed to document a "real-life Indiana Jones trap": a stone gate that would have been lowered across the passageway to block the entrance. 

In 2019, a number of mummies were located in and around the Bent Pyramid. Most of the mummies were in excellent condition, having been preserved inside stone, clay and wooden sarcophagi. The finds also included a number of funerary masks, all of which dated to the Late Period (664-332 BC) – much later than Sneferu’s 25th century BC reign. The Late Period is widely considered one of the last eras of true Egyptian rule before the Persians invaded around 525 BC.

Alongside the 2019 reopening, visitors can also now visit a smaller, adjoining pyramid. It’s believed that this is where Queen Hetepheres I – the wife of Sneferu, mother of Khufu – was buried. It’s the first time this pyramid has been open to the public since it was first excavated in 1956. Excavations at the site are still ongoing, but a visit to the Bent Pyramid is a great way to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the pyramids were laid out, and how they differed from one another.

These are the world's most beautiful caves and caverns

Khafre Pyramid, Giza

Khafre Pyramid is the second largest pyramid in the Pyramids of Giza complex. King Khafre (2558-2532 BC) built this pyramid next to his father Khufu's, and it's situated 33 feet (10m) higher on the plateau than the Khufu Pyramid, making it look deceptively larger than its taller neighbour. Built roughly between 2520 and 2494 BC, the top of the pyramid maintains its outer casing of limestone while the rest has worn away, leaving it looking a little like a snow-capped mountain. It’s widely believed that the Great Sphinx in front of the pyramid was built for Khafre too.

A number of life-sized and bigger-than-life-sized statues discovered at Khafre Pyramid are now on display at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. One of the most well-known is the Khafre Enthroned. This funerary statue was discovered beneath the floor of the valley temple, and was supposed to provide a place of rest for Khafre’s ka (soul). Carved out of a single block of stone, the throne on which Khafre is seated features lion paws, hieroglyphics, a royal cobra and the Egyptian god Horus. The pharaoh is also wearing a lined headdress – all these motifs symbolise his mighty power.

Unfortunately the Khafre Pyramid was robbed repeatedly by tomb raiders over the years, dating back to Pharaoh Ramesses II himself, who is said to have lifted sections of the pyramid's limestone casing for his own temple. In the absence of artefacts (although a few were recovered), historians have analysed the different materials used for the pyramid. Granite cladding was used in the upper descending passageway and there are gabled limestone beams supporting the burial chamber. 

Djoser Pyramid, Saqqara

Possibly Egypt’s strangest-looking pyramid, the Djoser Pyramid is located in Saqqara in the ancient capital of Memphis. Djoser (2650-2575 BC) was the first pharaoh to use stone in a pyramid’s construction – before this, royal tombs were simple rectangular monuments made from clay bricks called mastabas. The bizarre, tiered structure is the work of the architect Imhotep, who ‘stacked’ the mastabas to create this step pyramid – 204 feet (62m) high and the first of its kind.

Djoser’s sarcophagus was laid deep inside the burial chamber, along with 40,000 stone vessels, bowls and urns of various sizes. They were all inscribed with the names of pharaohs from the 1st and 2nd dynasties, which is curious because Djoser was one of the first kings of the 3rd dynasty. While it’s still not completely understood why they were found here, some believe that the earlier pharaohs' own tombs were robbed, and in order to protect their souls Djoser collected their urns and sealed them inside his own tomb.

See the amazing worldwide wonders we've only just discovered

A series of beautiful blue and green tiles were uncovered in the pyramid's galleries and burial chamber. These once lined the walls to imitate the decorative sheets of reeds that would originally have hung in the king’s royal palace, while the blue and green colours symbolised rebirth. The ceramic tiles were created in the faience glazing style, and restored sections are on display at the Imhotep Museum in Saqqara and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Prior to much-needed restoration work in 2006, the Djoser Pyramid was on the verge of collapse. The work included reassembling and restoring the granite sarcophagus, adding paved floors to the cemetery, installing a lighting system and adding a ladder to access the cemetery and well. The walls and ceilings were also strengthened, and more faience tiles were installed. The Djoser Pyramid finally reopened to the public in 2020, allowing visitors to again experience one of Egypt's most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Red Pyramid, Dahshur

Like the Bent Pyramid, the Red Pyramid is located on the ancient plateau of Dahshur, roughly 25 miles (40km) south of Cairo. Although the pyramid was once covered with white limestone the casing was later removed, exposing the rust-coloured stone beneath and giving it the nickname we use today. Built for the pharaoh Sneferu, exactly how long it took to build is still disputed, but construction is likely to have taken place between 2575 and 2551 BC.

Sometimes known as the North Pyramid due to its position half a mile north of the Bent Pyramid, the Red Pyramid is the third largest in Egypt after the pyramids of Khufu and Khafre in Giza. It’s still celebrated as the first ‘true’ pyramid, due to its sloping sides and lack of steps. Visitors today can explore its fascinating 4,000-year history by stepping inside and viewing the magnificent burial chamber.

The Red Pyramid's passageways and chambers are unique among Egyptian pyramids. All three of the main chambers feature corbelled (bracketed) ceilings, supporting the roughly two million tonnes of stone above. Unlike other pyramids that have collapsed or needed restoration work, such as the Bent and Djoser pyramids, to this day the Red Pyramid hasn’t suffered any structural issues – not even a crack.

Discover the hidden hieroglyphics recently revealed in Tutankhamun's tomb

Even more unusual is the location of the second chamber, which is found directly beneath the apex (or centre point) of the pyramid. No other pyramid uses this design. While the final chamber has been made accessible to modern visitors through the addition of a staircase, excavations haven’t located any further passageways inside the pyramid.

Menkaure Pyramid, Giza

The Menkaure Pyramid is the last and smallest of the three Great Pyramids of Giza, standing at just 213 feet (65m) tall. Completed in the 26th century BC, it was built for King Menkaure, and sits on the same plateau as the pyramids of his father (Khafre) and grandfather (Khufu).

Many statues from inside the tomb depict Menkaure accompanied by gods and other figures. One greywacke stone statue recovered from the pyramid depicts Menkaure and his wife standing side by side. It's a classic example of Old Kingdom royal tomb sculpture, with both the king's arms down by his sides and with one leg stepped forward.

Userkaf Pyramid, Saqqara

The Userkaf Pyramid doesn't quite have the same wow factor as some of its fellows on this list, but it does have an interesting history. King Userkaf (2494-2487 BC) was the first pharaoh of the 5th dynasty, and chose to build his pyramid at Saqqara, where the local limestone is much thinner than it is at other tomb locations like Giza. This, along with weak structuring, later led the pyramid to collapse, earning itself the unfortunate moniker ‘Heap of Stone’. Visitors today can see that it more resembles a conical hill than an impressive royal pyramid.

Discover the amazing places to explore ancient civilisations 

While much of the Userkaf Pyramid remains unexcavated, a number of funerary stone reliefs were recovered from the king’s funerary temple. These would have been placed along the courtyard walls, and included hunting, fishing and nature scenes which were common depictions in 5th dynasty royal temples. One limestone relief depicts birds in a papyrus thicket, two intricately carved birds in a marsh along the Nile and the names of Upper and Lower Egyptian estates connected to the cult of Userkaf. The reliefs would have been colourfully painted.

In 2018, archaeologists discovered a number of tombs on the edge of the Userkaf Pyramid complex containing not only sarcophagi but also mummified cats. Animals were mummified as religious offerings, and the ancient Egyptians believed cats held special positions in the afterlife. In total three tombs contained mummified cats, with one featuring a large bronze statue of a cat dedicated to a goddess. They also found mummified scarab beetles – highly unusual for such tombs – which were believed to symbolise the sun god, Ra.

Unas Pyramid, Saqqara

King Unas (2465-2325 BC) ruled during the 5th dynasty, and his pyramid at Saqqara was once 141 feet (43m) tall, but it fell into decay after his death and later Egyptian kings removed and reused most of the stones. The pyramid has long been in a sorry state, but you can still see an inscription left by Prince Khaemwaset, the son of Ramesses II and High Priest of Ptah in Memphis, who restored the monument in the 13th century BC.

Funerary masks (or death masks) were placed over the faces of mummies. They resembled the deceased, so they could help the soul (ka) find its body in the afterlife. Pictured here is an artefact thought to be Prince Khaemwaset's funerary mask, which was found in the Serapeum of Saqqara, a burial place near Memphis. 

The Unas Pyramid was the first of its kind to feature 'pyramid texts', a modern-day name given to spells (or 'utterances') which adorned tomb walls and helped the spirit navigate its journey to the underworld. These were instructional texts and no two were the same, although one seemingly essential spell that was frequently included discussed the sun god Ra.

These incredible archaeological hoaxes fooled the world

Inside King Unas's burial chamber was the sarcophagus. The chamber's ceiling was beautifully patterned with gold stars against a night-blue sky. While the contents were robbed long before excavations could begin, the mummified remains of a left arm, hand and skull were found amongst the debris. Could these belong to the former pharaoh? 

Also found at the Saqqara site was this thin gold band measuring 90cm, placed among the mummy bandages of Prince Ptah-Shepses. Dating back to 2323-2150 BC, red carnelian (gemstone) and volcanic glass beads form angular, geometric patterns, while hieroglyphics are inscribed on the buckle.

Teti Pyramid, Saqqara

The Teti Pyramid was once 172 feet (52.5m) tall and housed the deceased King Teti, the first pharaoh of the 6th dynasty (roughly 2345-2323 BC, although sources vary). Located in Saqqara, the pyramid was constructed with a core of stone blocks encased in limestone. Inside were typical painted reliefs depicting offerings to the gods, plus star-patterned ceilings and three niches which may have held statues of the king. Today the site looks more like a lopsided mound, but it hasn't completely collapsed and you can still take a tour inside.

While many of the pyramid's external blocks have been looted over the years, interesting artefacts have been recovered, and a large cemetery was found in front of the pyramid housing the remains of Teti's officials. Pictured here is a comb believed to be from the tomb of Teti himself. The intricate item is made of wood and is only 11cm long. It's on display at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Teti's burial chamber was located beneath the pyramid, along with his well-preserved basalt sarcophagus. Like the Unas Pyramid, the Teti Pyramid's walls were also adorned with pyramid texts. These funerary texts first appeared in the 5th dynasty of the Old Kingdom (2465-2323 BC), and were succeeded by so-called 'coffin texts' during the Middle Kingdom (inscriptions found inside sarcophagi that tended to focus on the underworld). Both went on to influence the New Kingdom's Book of the Dead.

These are where your favourite stars are laid to rest

In 2022, archaeologists digging at the Saqqara site discovered hundreds of coffins and well-preserved mummies dating to the New Kingdom (approximately 1550-1070 BC) in a series of interconnected tunnels at the Teti Pyramid. Some of the artefacts may even belong to Tutankhamun's closest generals and advisors. Statues of the god Ptah-Sokar, shabtis, a metal axe and pieces of an ancient Egyptian game were also found, with a selection due to go on display at the Grand Egyptian Museum when it opens in late-spring 2024.

Pyramid of Neith, Saqqara

At the same excavations, archaeologists also uncovered the pyramid of a previously unknown Egyptian queen named Neith. Pictured here is the excavated site, with the Teti and Djoser pyramids visible in the background. Neith was likely named after the Egyptian goddess of creation, wisdom, weaving and war, as well as being worshipped as a funerary goddess.

The Book of the Dead

The Book of the Dead is an umbrella term for a series of ancient Egyptian texts. Specific chants (or 'utterances') were typically copied onto papyrus scrolls and placed in tombs, like the fragment from the tomb of Theban scribe Ani in Luxor pictured here, which dates back to 1250 BC and is on display at the British Museum. This scene depicts the Hall of Judgement, with Ani muttering Spell 30B as his heart is weighed on the scales of justice, determining whether he'd make it to paradise or not. Spells from the Book of the Dead also adorned mummy bandages and even Tutankhamun's golden death mask.

In early 2023, archaeologists at Saqqara made a remarkable discovery: a 52-foot (16m) papyrus scroll containing spells from the Book of the Dead. It was the first complete papyrus discovery in a full century, and will undoubtedly enhance modern understandings of ancient Egyptian belief in magic. Currently, the lengthy papyrus is being restored at the Egyptian Museum Laboratory in Cairo, and it's hoped the epic document will eventually go on display at the all-new Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza.

Valley of the Queens, Luxor

This colourful painting of Queen Nefertari was found in her tomb in the Valley of the Queens in Luxor (ancient Thebes). The royal lady was buried in a small rock-cut temple and is depicted here playing a popular ancient Egyptian game called 'senet'. The game had symbolic meaning; senet meant 'passing', and it was seen as a parallel for the journey into the afterlife.

Valley of the Kings, Luxor

Tutankhamun's tomb is one of the most famous in the Valley of the Kings, even though it wasn't discovered until 1922. His legendary funerary mask was made from 22lbs (10kg) of solid gold, as well as lapis lazuli, quartz, glass and obsidian. His body was wrapped in resin-soaked bandages and was accompanied by items that would help him into the afterlife. Some have speculated that the tomb he was found in seems second-hand – could it have been intended for his stepmother, Queen Nefertiti?

Ornate jewellery was commonly stored inside Egyptian pyramids, either as divine offerings or to accompany the deceased into the afterlife. This spectacular scarab bracelet is just one of the items found inside Tutankhamun's tomb. Formed from gold and lapis lazuli, the intricate trinket is a gorgeous example of ancient craftsmanship. Regardless of gender or status, the Egyptians loved jewellery, and over the centuries endless precious charms and ornaments have been discovered.

Discover the possible locations of legendary Atlantis

Sandals and toe stalls (golden toe coverings) were discovered on many Egyptian mummies, including Tutankhamun. Pictured here is a replica of a pair recovered from King Tut's tomb, where some 80 pairs were found in total. These funerary items served symbolic purposes; on each sole are figures and arches representing Egypt’s nine traditional enemies, which the pharaoh symbolically trod on.

Royal necropolis of Tanis, Nile Delta

In 1939, French Egyptologist Pierre Montet discovered the royal necropolis of Tanis. The underground site was almost completely untouched, which was hugely significant as not a single fully intact royal tomb had been found in Egypt until Montet's find. Kings and princes from the 21st and 22nd dynasties were buried in the necropolis complete with stone sarcophagi, silver coffins and copious amounts of gold and silver. Dubbed the Tanis Treasures, Montet's discovery was just as remarkable as Howard Carter's Tutankhamun find.

This striking silver coffin is arguably the most famous of the Tanis Treasures. The priceless coffin contained the mummy of Shoshenq II, a 22nd-dynasty pharaoh unknown until Montet's discovery. Unusually, the coffin uses a falcon instead of the king's head, and the miniatures surrounding his coffin contained his organs – a stark contrast to the canopic jars more commonly used.

Discover the secrets of Stonehenge

Also found inside Shoshenq II's tomb was this breastplate-like collar. While the colours have faded slightly, you can still get a sense of just how opulent it must have been. The jewellery piece is shaped like a falcon and depicts the goddess Nekhbet, who often appeared in vulture form and hovered above kings holding the shen (circle, or sun disc) to represent eternity.

This beaded necklace was found in king Psusennes I's tomb. The two rows of beads are made from lapis lazuli with two golden beads in the middle, and date back to roughly 1069-945 BC. Unusually, there's an Assyrian inscription on one of the beads, and historians are still unsure as to why this foreign item was found in an Egyptian king's tomb.

Wendjebauendjed was an army general, high dignitary and high priest during King Psusennes I's reign (circa 1044-994 BC). While Wendjebauendjed wasn't of royal descent, his tomb was uncovered inside the royal necropolis, suggesting that he was a figure of great importance. His funerary mask is detailed with a slight smile and the inlaid eyes are made of glass, but you'll spot that the ears aren't symmetrical – the left protrudes further than the right.

Discovered inside the tomb of king Amenemope (a 21st-dynasty pharaoh) was this detailed pectoral brooch. At the centre is a lapis lazuli scarab touching the golden sun disc, representing rebirth. The scarab is flanked by the goddesses Isis and Nephthys, who protected the wearer, while along the bottom runs a cartouche, an inscription of the king's name. 

Discover these little-known Roman ruins from around the world

Tomb of Meru, Luxor

In February 2023, Egypt opened one of its most ancient monuments to the public for the first time. The 4,000-year-old Tomb of Meru, situated on the Nile's western bank in Luxor, was built for a high-ranking official in the court of King Mentuhotep II (who died in 2004 BC). The tomb, located on the North Asasif necropolis, is close to the mortuary temple of Mentuhotep II. Inside the rock-hewn tomb is a collection of elaborate murals and a stone sarcophagus, which Egyptology enthusiasts are now able to enjoy.

Meru's Tomb was recently restored by a joint team of archaeologists from the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities and the University of Warsaw, Poland. It's not the first time the tomb has been touched: in 1996, some of the wall paintings were restored by an Italian team. The wall paintings are especially significant, because the technique of painting directly onto lime plaster is unusual.

As you might imagine, Luxor is filled with other ancient Egyptian treasures and tombs. Like the Tomb of Meru, the Madinet Habu necropolis (pictured) dates to the 11th dynasty. In later generations, it became a fortified town, religious shrine and even an administrative centre for a nearby women's village. Other sights worth seeing near Luxor include the Mortuary Temple of female pharaoh Hatshepsut, the temple at Karnak and the Valley of the Kings.

Now discover the astonishing story of the pyramids of Giza

More for You

Melania Trump breaks silence over Donald’s assassination attempt with plea for Americans to come ‘together as one’

If you always use these 6 phrases, you're mentally stronger than most

The Latest 2025 Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Forecast Has Some Great News for Retirees

Here's What Happens When You Eat Cashews Every Day

Clint Eastwood Fans Name Obvious But Perfect Casting Choice for A Fistful of Dollars Remake

Bystander captures Tesla Cybertruck's unbelievable new feature on camera: 'Good to see a work truck getting put to work'

This Is What Harms Married People's Happiness The Most, Therapists Say

Trump is 'absolutely' lucky to be alive: PA Senate candidate Dave McCormick

How to tell if your smart TV has a camera (and what to do if it does)

If you have this much money in your 401(k), you're doing better than most—here's how to save even more

Should You Eat a Split Tomato? Here's What the Experts Say

Six easy ways to lose an inch from your waist – in a week

6 Hybrid Vehicles To Stay Away From Buying

“It was a lot to learn”: Jonathan Frakes is Thankful He Didn’t Meet LeVar Burton, Brent Spiner’s Fate in Star Trek: The Next Generation

Delta CEO flags a trend that is draining the company’s pockets

How big is the average Social Security check of a middle-class retiree?

NFL's Roger Goodell: Moving Super Bowl has long been discussed

Daniel Kahneman Wanted You to Realize How Wrong You Are

Louisiana Church Leaders Rebuke State’s Ten Commandments Law

Foods that are bad for your heart

• International
• Food and Drink
• Places of Interest
• Sustainable
• What's new
• Celebrating People
• Hall of Frame
• Responsible Tourism
• MP on my Mind
• MP Wellness

Sands Of Time: A Solo Girl's Adventure Through Egypt

For many years, I associated Egypt with the Great Pyramid of Giza. But as I read more about the country, I got drawn to the saltwater lakes of Siwa, viewing Luxor from a hot-air balloon, and diving with dugongs along the Red Sea coast. And so, my solo trip to Egypt revolved around these experiences. I began with Siwa.

Tucked away in the western end of Egypt, along the border with Libya, Siwa's main draw is its crystal-clear, emerald-green saltwater lakes, where the high salinity (almost 95 per cent) makes it impossible for one to sink.

Siwa came as a promised land, offering a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with myself

Siwa came as a promised land, offering a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with myself. I stayed at Talist Siwa, a completely off-the-grid property built over a decade by architect Nabila Aziz and her family. Talist is a self-sustaining home with a private natural pool. It's surrounded by the Dakrour mountain range and has incredible views of the Siwa Lake.

Hosts Ihab and Lydia took me to a hot water spring and offered me a hydrotherapy session. They also invited me to a community iftar meal, where I tasted bazin (a bread-like Libyan dish prepared using barley flour) and kishk (a traditional yoghurt-based Lebanese soup).

From Siwa, I made my way to Luxor. Home to over 100 tombs and one-third of the world's ancient monuments, Luxor is a portal to a bygone era. I chanced upon Bab Al Samawy, meaning "doorway to heaven," a boutique stay located right next to the take-off ground for the hot-air balloon.

On my first morning in Luxor, I was up at the crack of dawn, ready to drift up and away to witness the golden light bathing the sandstone settlements of Luxor's West Bank and its four valleys—the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, Valley of the Nobles, and Valley of the Artisans. Among them, the UNESCO-recognised Valley of the Kings is best known for its rock-cut tombs of Pharaohs—including Tutankhamun and Ramses II—depicting vibrant hieroglyphs and Greek and Coptic graffiti. Equally fascinating is the Temple of Hatshepsut, the second female ruler and the longest-ruling woman in the country's history.

I dedicated my second day to the East Bank, primarily the Karnak Temple. Built over centuries, it is one of the world's largest open-air museums and the second-largest temple system. The sheer scale of the temple complex, comprising massive gateways or pylons and a hypostyle hall, is awe-inspiring. I spent hours watching the sun filter through and illuminate the vibrant hieroglyphs documenting centuries of history.

Next on my bucket list was the gateway to Nubia—the seat of one of the earliest civilisations of ancient Egypt, dating to 2500 BCE. To experience the Nubian culture up close, I skipped downtown Aswan for a stay at the locally-run Heissa Artie Nubian Guest House on Philae Island, located near the First Cataract on the Nile.

Staying on the island allowed me to take several rides on the felucca, a traditional wooden sailing boat with a single sail. In between those rides I found time to walk around the bustling Sharia el Souk, take in the spectacular views of the Nile, explore the Philae Temple, and watch Agatha Christie's "Death on the Nile" come to life at the Old Cataract Hotel where it was written.

For the final leg of my journey, I left behind mainland Egypt for another adventure in the small town of Dahab, located on the Sinai Peninsula.

While most travellers head to Giza and call it a day, Cairo's food and art scene is worth exploring

A harbour along the Gulf of Aqaba, the coast of Dahab is where you get the unique opportunity to spot highly endangered dugongs and the most beautiful coral reefs. Dahab is considered a diver's dream. I hopped onto a boat that took me to El Bells, a crack in the reef table with a nearly 30m vertical drop. From the reef, I drift-dived to the Blue Hole, a coral-fringed submarine sinkhole known to be one of the world's most tricky diving sites.

After that breathtaking rush of adrenaline, I cooled off by roaming the town's quaint lanes, shopping for intricate beadwork by Bedouin women, and watching the sunset over the Red Sea. A travelogue on Egypt is incomplete without a mention of its pulsating, cosmopolitan capital city, Cairo.

While most travellers head to Giza and call it a day, Cairo's food and art scene is worth exploring. Zamalek, a small island within the metropolis is home to over 40 public and private art galleries featuring modern and contemporary Egyptian art.

Try the local delicacies like taameya and karkade at Zooba, ful medames at Tabali, koshary at Abou Tarek, molokhiya at Fasahet Somaya, and basbousa at Simond's.

The city hides truly unique experiences in plain sight.

Know Before You Go

Visa: Egypt offers a single-entry e-visa costing INR 2,700 . Additionally, they require a letter of authorisation from a local travel agency.

Currency: Egyptian Pound

Exchange rate: INR 1 = EGP 0.57

Getting There: You can fly directly to Cairo from Delhi and Mumbai. A round-trip costs approximately INR 40,000 .

Getting Around Egypt: Travel by train to explore the Nile Valley. Take a dahabiya cruise between Esna and Aswan. Book early with Nile Dahabiya or Nour El Nil. Taxi or hotel-hired drivers can take you on day trips. Uber is also available.

Food: A meal at a mid-range restaurant with a beverage, a starter, and a main course costs INR 700 per person. Street foods are as cheap INR 20 .

Accommodation: Egypt offers accommodations for all budgets and great value for money for hotels on the higher end. A decent double room usually costs around INR 4,000 .

Pro Tip: Download Google Translate on your phone as most people speak Arabic. Cover your shoulders and knees, especially outside major cities and beach towns. Don't hesitate to ask questions to the locals—they are happy to help.

Related Stories

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

AI-generated image circulates in false posts about Egyptian pyramid construction

• Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. More content below

An AI-generated image of people holding up huge stone blocks has circulated in multiple Facebook posts globally that falsely claimed it shows the Egyptian pyramids being constructed in 2549 BC. Experts told AFP that the Giza pyramids -- built thousands of years before photography was invented – were likely built by dragging blocks on sleds.

"Photo of pyramids' workers in Egypt. The photo was taken during constructions in 2549 BC. It proves that the pyramids were not built by alien (sic)," read the caption alongside the image  shared on Facebook on June 21.

The Giza pyramids were built between 2589 and 2504 BC, according to the Ancient Egypt Research Associates ( archived link ).

Successful experiments in photography only began 202 years ago in 1822, when French inventor Nicephore Niepce succeeded in copying oiled engravings onto lithographic stone, glass and zinc ( archived link ).

In 1826, Niepce produced the first successful photograph of nature using a camera obscura fitted with a pewter plate.

The image also circulated with a similar claim elsewhere on Facebook here , here , here , here , here and here .

Some Facebook users appeared to believe the image was taken in 2549 BC, thousands of years before photography was invented.

"Crazy how strong they were," commented one user.

"People in the past were really strong," said another user.

The image also circulated with a similar false claim in  English , French , Japanese , simplified Chinese , Malaysian and Thai .

Edited image

Reverse image searches using Google and Yandex found that a clearer version of the image was previously  published by a Facebook page called Institute of Alternative History and Archaeology on November 23, 2023 alongside two other images ( archived link ).

The page made it clear in the caption that the post was intended as a joke.

The post's caption read: "Official photos taken during the construction of the Great Pyramids in Egypt, 2600 BC. (a little humor)".

Another Facebook page published the image on November 27, 2023, saying it was "purely fictional for entertainment purposes" ( archived link ).

The page later said on March 25 that the image was AI-generated ( archived link ).

Below is a screenshot comparison between the image shared in the false Facebook post (left) and the same image posted by the Institute of Alternative History and Archaeology page (right):

Signs of AI

The image contained signs of being generated using AI technology, including odd feet and body shapes.

Below is a screenshot of the image shared by the Institute of Alternative History and Archaeology page where AFP has highlighted various inconsistencies:

AFP ran the image through the Hive AI Detector tool which said it was "100% AI-generated" as shown below ( archived link) :

Historical inaccuracy

Experts who analysed the image told AFP that it does not correctly depict how Egyptians transported blocks to build the pyramids.

"It is far more likely that the blocks were dragged on sleds—certainly images from ancient Egypt that show the moving of large objects employ that method," said Salima Ikram , an archaeologist and professor of Egyptology at the American University in Cairo, Egypt.

"The image might be from a film or might even be AI-generated," Ikram added.

"That is not the way the ancient Egyptians transported blocks," said Mark Lehner , the head and president of the Ancient Research Associates.

Indian fact-check organisation Factly previously debunked this claim ( archived link ).

AFP has debunked other misinformation involving AI-generated images  here , here , here and here .

July 12, 2024 Updated lines that mention "photo" to "image"

Recommended Stories

Former nfl wide receiver jacoby jones, a standout with the texans and ravens, dies at age 40.

Jones, known for the Mile High Miracle and his two touchdowns for the Ravens in Super Bowl XLVII, died in his Houston-area home days after his 40th birthday.

'Long enough for 67-year-old legs': These Hanes terry shorts are down to $12

Just the right length for staying cool while keeping things covered — at just the right price.

'No sweat': Bali's beloved cooling bra is a mere $20 — that's nearly 60% off

'No pinching, chafing, or poking': Enjoy rising temps in this moisture-wicking wonder with 24,000+ fans.

2024 MLB Home Run Derby: How to watch the All-Star week event

MLB All-Star Week is in full swing, and it's time for the 2024 Home Run Derby.

Best glasses for night driving in 2024

Getting a pair of glasses for night driving can be very helpful. They block out light and reduce glare from oncoming headlights and bright streetlights.

The lavish Ambani wedding: Photos of Priyanka Chopra, Nick Jonas, John Cena and more celebrating the marriage of Indian billionaire's heir, Anant Ambani

The star-studded wedding included celebrity guests as well as world leaders.

'I walk with confidence and less pain': These best-selling trekking poles are down to $28

Ideal for balance and traction, these well-crafted poles help you keep your pace while strolling or climbing, on all sorts of terrain and in any weather.

UEFA Euro 2024 Final: How to watch Spain vs. England today

The UEFA Euro 2024 soccer — or football — tournament comes to a close this weekend with the final match between England and Spain.

How to protect your startup from email scams

Despite years of claims that the “death of email” is fast approaching, the decades-old communication method continues to thrive in business. An email containing a link that looks legitimate but is actually malicious remains one of the most dangerous yet successful tricks in a cybercriminal’s handbook and has led to some of the largest hacks in recent years, including the 2022 breach of communications giant Twilio and last year’s hack of social media platform Reddit. Take business email compromise (or BEC), for example, a type of email-borne attack that targets organizations large and small with the aim of stealing money, critical information, or both.

Banish bugs with this top-rated zapper — it's down to $28 with Yahoo's exclusive code

This device uses UV light to attract the bugs, a fan sucks them in and a sticky glue board traps them for good.

Warren Buffett is turning 94 next month. Should Berkshire investors start to worry?

I’m a Berkshire investor and I don’t plan to go anywhere when Buffett is no longer part of the show. Should you?

Whistleblowers accuse OpenAI of ‘illegally restrictive’ NDAs

Whistleblowers have accused OpenAI of placing illegal restrictions on how employees can communicate with government regulators, according to a letter obtained by The Washington Post. Lawyers representing anonymous whistleblowers sent the letter to Securities and Exchange Commission Chair Gary Gensler. The letter refers to a separate, formal complaint asking the SEC to investigate OpenAI’s severance, non-disparagement, and non-disclosure agreements.

How to watch the Copa America 2024 third-place match: Canada vs. Uruguay date, time and channel

Before the Copa America comes to a close with Argentina vs. Colombia, there's a third-place match between Canada and Uruguay.

Nearly 10,000 fans swear by this $9 phone mount — and it's over 75% off at Amazon

Stick this versatile phone mount to your dash or clip it to your vents to keep your smartphone in place.

Amazon is worried about upstarts like Temu and Shein. Here's how it's confronting them.

A dominant Amazon faces e-commerce pressure and is looking to smash its upstart competitors.

This 'really flattering' lacy top that's great for layering is a steal at $19

The all-season blouse looks great on its own or layered when the a/c is pumping.

Ditch the salon and snag this permanent hair-removal tool for nearly 50% off

More than 7,000 five-star fans say it has your back — and your lip, chin, armpits and any other place you want to banish hair.

The North Face, Patagonia, Peak Design and REI weekender bag review: The ultimate guide to packing for a short trip

Here's our guide to the best bags and gear for a weekend trip, complete with our top picks and runners-up in each category.

This popular neck massager 'loosens up those tight spots' and it's just $17

With two balls and a flexible handle, you can relieve tension without having to flip a switch.

How to clean cloth car seats

Regularly vacuuming and using a cleaner on your car seats will help keep your cloth interior fresh and clean.