Which type of bucket list excludes the Great Pyramids of Giza? Any Egypt trip must include these famous buildings since they attract millions of tourists annually. Fortunately, visiting the Giza Pyramids is rather easy, especially if it’s a day trip from Cairo, Egypt’s vibrant metropolis.
An Overview of the Great Pyramids
Built about 2560 BC, the Great Pyramid of Giza stood as the highest man-made edifice for almost 3,800 years. Only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still surviving today and the oldest of them all. The sheer magnitude and historical significance of these pyramids make them a must-see for travelers.
Quick Facts about the Great Pyramid of Giza
2560 BC is the date.
Height: 150 meters (500 feet)
Base Length: 500 feet, or 150 meters
Weight: 6 million tons
No. of Blocks: 2.3 million
Builders: 200,000 +
Best Day Tours to the Pyramids
If you’re short on time or prefer to travel in a group for safety or comfort, consider scheduling a day tour. Many firms provide planned visits to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx for as low as $45 USD. These tours often include hotel transfers and optional activities like camel rides.
Popular Tour Options
Private Tours: For a more personalized experience, consider a private guide.
Group Tours: Cost-effective and fantastic for meeting fellow travelers.
Luxury Tours: Some firms offer upmarket experiences with enhanced facilities.
How to Get to the Giza Pyramids
The Great Pyramids are located on the outskirts of Giza, just a short drive from Cairo. Here’s how to reach them:
Fly to Cairo International Airport (CAI): This airport is serviced by several international airlines. Use airfare comparison tools like Skyscanner to discover the best fares.
Transportation to Giza: From the airport, it’s roughly a 1-hour journey to Giza. You can take a taxi, however using Uber is suggested for its price and safety.
Cost: As of 2024, an Uber journey from Cairo to Giza is roughly 340 EGP (~$7 USD).
Important Tip
Avoid renting a car in Egypt unless you’re conversant with local driving rules. Traffic can be unpredictable, and it’s safer to hire a driver.
Visiting the Giza Pyramids: What to Expect
If you plan to stay in Giza, I recommend dropping off your stuff at a hotel close to the pyramids. Many hotels are within a 5-minute walk of the main entrance and offer magnificent rooftop views.
Ticket Information
Purchase Your Tickets: At the main ticket office, general admission is 540 EGP (~$11 USD), which includes access to the Sphinx and the pyramid complex.
Inside the Pyramids: If you want to visit the interiors, consider the additional costs:
Khafre/Menkaure Pyramid: 50 EGP
Khufu Pyramid: 300 EGP
Tip: The interiors can be hot and were mostly empty by grave thieves, so many people advocate reserving your money for other sights, such as the Egyptian Museum or the Luxor temples.
Navigating the Site
Once you receive your tickets, expect minor security checks. Be cautious about your valuables, as petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas.
Plan Your Route:
Start at the Sphinx: It’s near the entrance and makes for fantastic shots.
Pyramids: They are a 15-20 minute walk from the gate. Consider a camel ride to improve your experience!
!Beware of Scammers
Giza is infamous for pushy touts. Many will say you require a guide or offer costly services. Be strong and polite in dismissing offers.
Camel Rides at the Pyramids
Camel rides can add a fun touch to your visit. Here’s how to navigate this experience:
Negotiate Before Riding: Always agree on the fee before jumping on a camel. As of 2024, the government-fixed charge for a 1-hour camel ride is 500 EGP (~$10 USD).
Payment: Only pay after your ride. This helps assure you won’t be overcharged once you’re in the saddle.
Photography
Ask your guide to take pictures of you on the camel, but be prepared to tip for this service—around 50 EGP is generally sufficient.
The Great Sphinx of Giza
Don’t miss the Great Sphinx, a fabled beast with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh. This ancient sculpture is included in your entrance ticket.
Photo Opportunities
There’s a beautiful photo point near the entrance where you can photograph the Sphinx and the Pyramid of Khafre.
Exploring the Area
Take a minute to appreciate the enormous stone blocks at the gateway of the Sphinx—these historical treasures are a testament to ancient engineering.
Hotels Near the Egyptian Pyramids
Staying near the pyramids allows you to enjoy spectacular views and easy access to the attraction. Consider these suggestions:
Marvel Stone Hotel: Offers rooms for roughly $32 USD/night with a rooftop patio providing views of the pyramids.
Benefits of Staying in Giza
Relaxed Pace: Staying overnight allows you explore at your leisure.
Evening Activities: You can enjoy the Sound & Light Show or simply watch the sunset over the pyramids.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
Egypt has a primarily arid environment, which can be hot and dry year-round. Here are some ideas for the optimal visiting times:
Coolest Months: December to March tend to be the most pleasant, attracting the biggest crowds.
Spring and Fall: These seasons also offer suitable temperatures for tourism.
My Experience
I visited in September, and while it was hot, Giza’s temps felt tolerable compared to hotter locations like Qatar or the UAE.
Photography Tips
For the finest shots, travel about noon when the dust clears and the azure sky complements the backdrop of the pyramids.
Conclusion
Visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx is an incredible experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With sufficient forethought and knowledge of your surroundings, you may tour this historic site effortlessly and enjoy its wonders. Whether you pick a guided tour or travel on your own, the pyramids will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.
Share Your Thoughts!
Have you seen the pyramids, or are they on your travel bucket list? What are you most excited to see? Share your experiences or questions in the comments!
