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Pyramids Of Giza Tours

About pyramids of giza tours.

Embark on a journey through time with our Giza Pyramids tour, a one-of-a-kind experience that will take you back to ancient Egypt. Our expert guides will take you on a tour of the Great Pyramid of Giza , the largest and oldest of the three pyramids, and provide fascinating insights into its construction and significance. You'll also visit the Sphinx , an iconic monument that has been guarding the pyramids for over 4,500 years.

During the Giza Pyramids tour, you'll be able to marvel at the incredible craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians and learn about their customs and beliefs. You'll be transported back to a time when pharaohs ruled the land, and gods and goddesses were worshipped in temples.

Our Pyramids of Giza tours offer a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to explore one of the world's most famous landmarks. Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the pyramids and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Egypt. Book your Pyramids of Giza tours now and take a journey through time.

Embark on a captivating journey through time with our Giza Pyramids Tour, an unforgettable experience that transports you to ancient Egypt. Our expert guides will lead you on a guided tour of the Great Pyramid of Giza, the largest and oldest of the three pyramids, offering captivating insights into its construction and significance. Discover the remarkable craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians and gain insight into their customs and beliefs as you explore this iconic landmark. On your Great Pyramids of Giza tour you'll also visit the legendary Sphinx, standing guard for over 4,500 years. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Egypt.

Pyramids of Giza Package options

Our Pyramids of Giza package options offer a range of choices to suit your preferences and interests. Whether you want to explore the pyramids at your own pace with a self-guided tour, or prefer the expertise of a knowledgeable guide to delve deeper into the history and significance of these ancient wonders, we have the perfect package for you.

The Giza Pyramids Tour From Cairo is an experience every history seeker should indulge in. The Pyramids of Giza are one of the most frequented areas in Egypt, receiving millions of visitors every year. Erected between 2600 and 2500 BC, the Pyramids were built by Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, ancient pharaohs of Egypt, to serve as their eternal resting places. It also functioned as a storage site for provisions and offerings they would require in the afterlife, an emblem of their wealth and power. The site is accompanied by the Great Sphinx and a variety of other ancient monuments, providing visitors with a sense of wonder.

When embarking on a Giza Pyramids Tour From Cairo, travelers can anticipate a 6 to 8-hour excursion. They will be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle from their hotel, and the tour guide will provide expert commentary on the different sites visited. Depending on the tickets purchased, the itinerary may also include the Cairo Citadel, Saqqara and Memphis, the Egyptian Museum, or Khan el-Khalili bazaar. At the end of the trip, the air-conditioned vehicle will transport visitors back to their hotels.

Embark on an unforgettable Giza Pyramids Half Day Tour From Cairo with a licensed Egyptologist guide who will take you to the Pyramids of Giza, the largest surviving monuments in the ancient world, and the Sphinx. Begin your exciting journey as your guide picks you up in a comfortable air-conditioned car from your Cairo/Giza hotel. As you head towards the pyramids, listen to the fascinating commentary of the Egyptologist, who will share interesting facts and stories about the pyramids, myths, and more. You can marvel at the stunning views of the three pyramid complexes and the Sphinx, a true visual delight. Get up close to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the largest of the three pyramids of Giza, popular among history enthusiasts and avid travelers alike. Take a stroll around the pyramid and capture the panoramic views of Cheops, Chephren, and Menkaure, the three essential pyramids in the Giza complex.

Embark on a half-day private tour to Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx , starting from your hotel in Cairo, and enjoy a hassle-free and informative excursion. No need for transportation arrangements as the tour provides a professional guide who will lead the way. Marvel at the sights and sounds of Giza as you walk toward the world-renowned Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus, constructed over four and a half thousand years ago. Immerse yourself in history and absorb the cultural relevance of these ancient monuments.

Take a Full-Day Giza Pyramids and Egyptian Museum and Bazaar Tour , with our knowledgeable tour guide who will pick you up from your hotel. Admire the architectural beauty and historical significance of the Great Pyramids of Giza, the oldest and largest of the pyramids complexes in Egypt. Visit the Great Sphinx, a limestone statue of a mythical creature that stands in Giza's plateau region.

Next, visit the Egyptian Museum housing an impressive collection of 120,000 ancient Egyptian artifacts. It is one of the largest museums in the region, with a representative amount displayed for visitors. Finally, stroll through the bustling Khan el-Khalili bazaar, known for its trade and historic significance in the Mamluk era. The bazaar district is now one of Cairo's main attractions and offers an exceptional shopping experience. At the end of the tour, our expert guide will return you safely to your hotel. Don't miss this chance to delve into Egypt's rich cultural heritage.

If you're eager to explore some of the most impressive ancient wonders of the world, embark on our Full-Day Tour to Giza Pyramids, Memphis, and Sakkara . Our passionate Egyptologist guide will pick you up from your accommodation and provide you with full explanations throughout the tour, making this an immersive cultural experience.

Our adventure begins with a thrilling visit to the Pyramids of Giza, including the Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus, and the Great Sphinx. Delight in a photo stop while exploring the Valley Temple of the Pyramids before we head to the incredible Step Pyramid of Zoser in Sakkara, which was Egypt's oldest pyramid built for King Djoser in the third dynasty.

Lastly, we'll journey to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt where you'll be in awe of the Great Statue of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx of Memphis. This is a comprehensive tour and perfect for those who want to see everything in one go. After experiencing ancient Egypt's best treasures, we will safely transport you back to your accommodation with memories that will last a lifetime.

Experience the wonders of ancient Egypt with a Giza Pyramids Tour with Quad Bike Safari & Camel Ride . Your adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in Cairo or Giza in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Once you arrive at the Pyramids of Giza, your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour of the complex, pointing out significant features and providing insight into the fascinating history of these enchanting structures.

Next, ramp up the excitement with a 1-hour Quad Bike Safari, traversing the expansive desert terrain surrounding the Pyramids in thrilling fashion. Continue the adventure with a Camel Ride through the stunning desert landscape, where you'll behold breathtaking sights of the pyramids as you leisurely stroll through the sandy terrain.

The Giza Pyramids Tour with Quad Bike Safari & Camel Ride offers a unique, exhilarating way to explore one of the world's most iconic landmarks. After your unforgettable journey, your guide will ensure you are safely transported back to your hotel, where you can look back on your unforgettable experience, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Embark on an exciting Giza Pyramid Complex and National Museum Guided Tour with knowledgeable experts from Sun Pyramids Tours. After a pickup from your hotel, the representative will take you to the Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus to discover these ancient and mesmerizing structures, followed by a visit to the Great Sphinx and the Valley Temple belonging to the Pyramid of Chephren.

The tour includes a lunch break at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization, located in Old Cairo. With a collection of 50,000 artifacts, the museum showcases ancient Egyptian heritage and culture from pharaonic times to modernity. Our knowledgeable guides will provide fascinating insights into the many phases of Egyptian civilization, as well as the stories behind the historic relics. Finally, after your guided tour of the National Museum, your representative will escort you safely back to your hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your journey through the illustrious history of Egypt.

A Private Day Tour to Giza Pyramids Sphinx Memphis Saqqara & Dahshur Pyramids is a must-do for anyone visiting Egypt. This tour provides a rare opportunity to discover the fascinating history, architecture, and culture of ancient Egypt. Your expert guide will take you through the various pyramids, each with its own unique story and mysteries waiting to be uncovered. From the Red Pyramid to the Step Pyramid of Zoser, you'll learn about the evolution of pyramid building and how these structures came to be.

The tour also includes a visit to the Great Sphinx and the Valley Temple, both of which have played a significant role in ancient Egyptian culture and history. The royal necropolis in Dahshur holds many famous pyramids, including the Red and Bent Pyramids of King Snefru, and your guide will share the stories and secrets behind them. With a hearty lunch at a local restaurant, this tour offers the perfect balance between education and entertainment. As the tour draws to a close, you'll be amazed at the complexity and ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians, and gain a newfound appreciation for their incredible achievements.

Looking for an adventure that will take you back in time? Join a Pyramids, Sakkara & Memphis Private Tour with Lunch ! This full-day tour from Cairo takes you to some of the most magnificent ancient sites in Egypt alongside a knowledgeable guide. Starting early in the morning, your guide will take you to the Great Pyramids - Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinos. Marvel at the architecture and history of these legendary structures, and get up close and personal with the Sphinx, the great guardian with the body of a lion and the head of King Chephren. Take memorable photos of this iconic statue before heading to Sakkara, a 27-kilometer journey away from Cairo.

At Sakkara, explore the Step Pyramid which was built for King Zoser and is considered a vital part of the pyramid evolution process. Afterward, make your way to Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, and learn about the fascinating history of this city. End your tour on a delicious note with lunch at a local restaurant. Don't miss out on this opportunity to discover some of the world's most treasured landmarks and delve into the mysteries of ancient Egypt with Pyramids, Sakkara & Memphis Private Tour with Lunch.

Your Ancient Egyptian adventure begins with pickup from your hotel or selected location, and heads towards the Great Pyramids of Giza. Along the way, listen to your expert guide share lively commentary about the sights and landmarks you pass by. Upon arrival at the pyramids, feel immersed in the atmosphere of this unique historical location that is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. 

Admire the Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mycerinus, then head towards the Great Sphinx as well as the Valley Temple, where you can find the mummified form of the King before his burial. Enjoy plenty of time to stop for photo opportunities as you learn about the incredible stories hidden within the pyramid walls. After your tour of the pyramids, hop on board a traditional style Felucca boat for a sail along the River Nile. From the boat, marvel at the array of sights along the river and learn more about Ancient Egypt throughout the ride. The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel or preferred location.

Book Now: Pyramids and Sphinx Tour with River Nile Felucca Ride

A Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Valley Temple Guided Tour is an experience of a lifetime. Located on the outskirts of Cairo, Egypt, the Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Valley Temple are considered some of the most magnificent ancient wonders of the world. The tour typically begins with a visit to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the largest and oldest pyramid at Giza, followed by the smaller pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure. Visitors can marvel at the impressive architecture of these structures and learn about their fascinating history from an expert tour guide.

The tour then takes you to the Sphinx, a massive limestone statue with the head of a human and body of a lion. The guide will explain the significance of the Sphinx in ancient Egyptian mythology and its role in guarding the pyramids. Finally, visitors will explore the Valley Temple, a mysterious mortuary temple located near the Sphinx, where they can see fascinating artifacts and learn about the ancient Egyptian burial rituals.Overall, a Giza Pyramids, Sphinx and Valley Temple Guided Tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the grandeur and mystique of ancient Egypt while gaining insight into its rich history and culture.

Which attractions will you visit on your Pyramids of Giza Half Day Private Tour?

A Half-Day Private tour to Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx will take you to some of the most iconic sites of ancient Egypt. The tour includes a visit to the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Valley Temple, and the Great Sphinx. You can have a chance to walk inside one of the pyramids (additional cost) and discover the ancient burial customs and mummification practices. You'll also have ample opportunities to take photos and create lasting memories of the pyramids and Cairo skyline. An expert Egyptologist guide will accompany you throughout the tour to impart historical and cultural significance of each site.

What should I wear on the Pyramids of Giza Tour?

On a Pyramids of Giza Tour, it's recommended to wear comfortable, lightweight, and breathable clothing, as the site can be hot in temperature. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

What is the best time to visit the Pyramids of Giza?

The ideal time to visit the Pyramids of Giza is during winter, between November and February, when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. Early mornings or late evenings during any season are also perfect, as visitor traffic tends to be low, and light is ideal for photography.

What can I expect to see during the Giza Pyramids Tour with Quad Bike Safari & Camel Ride?

During the Giza Pyramids Tour with Quad Bike Safari & Camel Ride, you can expect to discover the enchanting Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx guided by an Egyptologist. Additionally, you'll enjoy a 1-hour Quad Biking Adventure across the desert and a relaxing Camel Ride, offering panoramic views of the magnificent Pyramids. During your tour, you will learn about the rich history, mythology, and construction techniques that make them enduring symbols of ancient Egypt. The excursion is a personalized small-group half-day ATV and camel ride by the Great Pyramids of Giza, allowing you to mingle with other travelers and enjoy a highly intimate experience.

Is photography permitted during the Pyramids of Giza Tour?

Yes, photography is permitted during the Pyramids of Giza tour, but visitors should note that there may be restrictions in some areas. Visitors should ask the guide for permission before taking photos of people, and respect the local customs and traditions. It is advisable to carry extra rechargeable batteries, an additional memory card to capture the beautiful surroundings.

How long does the Pyramids, Sakkara & Memphis Private Tour last?

The Pyramids, Sakkara & Memphis Private Tour lasts for 8 hours, commencing with hotel pickup and drop-off. You can expect a more personalized experience as the tour is private, and you have a guide/driver for just your party.

What can I expect from the Great Pyramid of Giza Tour?

The Great Pyramid of Giza Tour, accompanied by a guided tour of the Giza Pyramids, offers a captivating journey through ancient Egypt. Led by our expert guides, the tour centers around the majestic Great Pyramid, the largest and oldest among them. You'll gain fascinating insights into its construction and historical significance, marveling at the remarkable craftsmanship of the ancient Egyptians. Additionally, the tour includes a visit to the iconic Sphinx, a legendary guardian of the pyramids for over 4,500 years. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Egypt on this engaging and informative guided tour of the Giza Pyramids.

How long does the Pyramids of Giza Tour usually last?

The Pyramids of Giza Tour typically lasts for about 3 to 4 hours. During this immersive experience, our expert guides will take you on a captivating journey through the ancient wonders of Egypt. You'll explore the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza, visit the legendary Sphinx, and learn about the fascinating history and culture of the ancient Egyptians. The tour allows ample time to marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of the pyramids and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of one of the world's most famous landmarks.

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Pyramids of Giza Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 260 most popular pyramids of giza trips. compare tour itineraries from 51 tour companies. 481 reviews. 4.9/5 avg rating., popular pyramids of giza tours.

Egypt: See & Experience the Ancient Sites in 9 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

• Hot Air Balloon Ride over Ancient Luxor
• Nile Tour with Delicious Food & Open Buffets Provided on a 5-Star Deluxe Cruise Ship
• Lots of Archaeological Sites, such as the World Famous Pyramids
• Evening Sound & Light Show in Giza
• Sightseeing Tour of Capital City Cairo

Pyramids, Temples and the Nile: the Ultimate Egypt Experience | March 10, 2022

• Gaze in awe at the Great Pyramid and Sphinx of Giza
• Discover the overlooked architectural wonders of Cairo's historic centre
• Explore the ancient Luxor Temple illuminated by candlelight
• Enjoy a cocktail party on a traditional felucca at sunset
• Cruise down the Nile on a luxury ship

Luxury Tour of Egypt | Best Private Tour of Egypt

• Enjoy visiting the solar boat in front of the Pyramid of Cheops
• Explore Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the old market
• Start your tours in Luxor with the East Bank of the Nile to visit Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple
• Visit the legendary temple of Queen Hatshepsut

Pyramids, Mummies and Temples

• PrivateEgypt Tourin 8 days from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan including Abu Simbel.
• Egypt travel packagesto visit the most famous attractions of Giza, Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel.
• Stay full board on adeluxe Nile cruiseand enjoy the sites of its banks.
• Learn about the rich history and culture of Egypt from your Egyptologist guide.
• Explore the treasures of the pyramids, tombs in the museum and step back in time to live with the ancient people inside the temples.

Egypt, A Family Adventure

• 8 nights hotel accommodation
• Comprehensive sightseeing with an Egyptologist guide
• Daily breakfast and many meals
• Special experiences for children
• Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the Grand Egyptian Museum

13 Days Cairo Hurghada with Nile cruise

• Meet and greet service by our representatives upon your airport arrival
• Assistance with guest relations during your stay
• All transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle
• Private sightseeing tours in Cairo (listed on itinerary)
• Entrance fees to all sites mentioned on the itinerary

Vacations to Egypt with Nile River and Red Sea

• Visit Giza's Great Pyramid and the Sphinx
• Set sail from Aswan to Luxor on a Nile Cruise
• Explore the Temples of Karnak and Luxor
• Relax in Sharm El Sheikh, a Red Sea paradise

Cairo - Aswan - Luxor 8 days 7 Nights with Nile Cruise

• 8 days Egypt package of Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, including a Nile cruise. Get excited with our unique Egypt travel packages, where you will enjoy and explore the great pyramids of Giza as well as the wonderful treasures in the Egyptian museum.
• Next, you will visit the top attraction sites of Luxor and Aswan on a Nile River cruise ship from Karnak temple, Hatshepsut temple, Valley of Kings, Valley of Queens, and Abu Simbel temple.
• Ultimately, you will have a comprehensive idea of Egypt's Islamic and Christian history through a visit to the famous mosque and church in Cairo.

All Pyramids of Giza , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Pyramids of Giza

Small Group Pyramids of Giza Tours

9 Days classic Memnon Nile cruise

• All meals mentioned on the itinerary
• 2-night accommodation in Cairo

Jordan & Egypt Express

• Lay back and take an effortless float in the super salty waters of the Dead Sea after visiting Moses’ Promised Land at Mt Nebo. Everywhere you visit in Jordan has a story to tell.
• Spend a whole day uncovering the majesty and mystery of Petra. Follow your local leader down the narrow path of the Siq for your first unforgettable glimpse of the hand-carved Treasury.
• Jump in a jeep and experience the extraordinary desert scenery of Wadi Rum with your small group – a rugged lunar-like landscape of huge sandstone mountains and sandy plains.
• Join Bedouin locals at a desert camp in Wadi Rum for a night of traditional hospitality, good food and starry skies. You’ll learn about the Bedouin way of life and fall asleep to the eerie silence of the desert.
• Explore the incredible underwater world that lies just offshore at the Red Sea by snorkel and get into the laidback vibe of Dahab, full of seaside cafes and sheesha.

Best of Egypt, Jordan and Israel

• Cruise down the nile on a felucca
• Explore ancient temples and monuments
• Gaze at the pyramids and mysterious sphinx
• Relax in the dead sea
• Camp overnight in the desert

Egypt Luxury Tour Package 8 Days, 7 Nights

• Experience Egypt luxury tours with Your Egypt Tours.
• Visit the most famous sites in Cairo and Giza, such as the Great Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum.
• Spend an unforgettable Egypt tour onboard, experiencing countless ancient treasures along the Nile.
• Fly to Luxor to see the Valley of the Kings, Valley of the Queens, the Temple of Hatshepsut, Colossi of Memnon, Karnak, and Luxor temples in Luxor.
• Enjoy the main attractions in Aswan during your Egypt travel package.

Egypt & Jordan Adventure

• Discover ancient civilizations and architectural wonders
• Relax at the red sea
• Journey down the nile on a felucca
• Bargain in bazaars
• Camp in a bedouin tent in the desert

Premium Egypt & Jordan

• A day at the incredible Pyramids of Giza is only the beginning. Discover the Valley of the Kings, Petra and Wadi Rum, and experience the unique sensation of floating in the Dead Sea.
• With two Feature Stays, experience the best of each country with three unforgettable evenings on a Nile riverboat and a night in isolated elegance at a luxury camp in Wadi Rum.
• Lift the lid on Middle Eastern cuisine during Exclusive Experiences, including a meal in the home of a local family in Cairo, a visit to the city’s oldest coffeeshop, and dinner at a Bedouin camp cooked in a traditional zarb.
• Cruise down the Nile on a traditional felucca boat during a fantastic Exclusive Experience. Enjoy drinks on board and watch daily life play out around you as the sun goes down.
• Gain an unmatched understanding of the region while travelling with experienced local leaders and spending time with the locals. Discover the Nubian way of life with a family on the Nile and immerse yourself in Bedouin culture during an exciting evening at their camp.

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Top Pyramids of Giza Attractions & Experiences

Top Pyramids of Giza Experiences

• Riding a camel between the massive pyramids.
• Exploring the Solar Boat (also called Khufu’s ship), an ancient Egyptian ship buried for the pharaoh Khufu in his afterlife.
• Actually entering a tomb inside of one of the pyramids.
• Getting an incredible view of the city of Giza as it juts up against the endless expanse of desert.

Pyramids of Giza Tours & Travel Guide

Pyramids of Giza Attractions & Landmarks Guide

The Giza Pyramids , built thousands of years ago to serve as tombs for Egyptian pharaohs, have long been a source of mystery and awe. The only remaining survivors of the fabled Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, they now stand at the fringes of modern Cairo. The Pyramids at Giza remain an engineering and architectural marvel, and are one of the most popular sites for those traveling to Egypt .

How much does it cost to enter the Pyramids of Giza?

Without a tour, it costs 80 Egyptian Pounds (LE) or $9 USD to visit the Pyramids of Giza complex. To actually enter the Great Pyramid, it costs 100 LE or $11.20 USD, and it’s another 50 LE ($5.60 USD) to enter the Mesankh III tomb.  However, if you are traveling on a guided tour, these ticket prices are likely to be included into the cost of your tour.

Overall, this is a pretty good deal for visiting one the only Ancient Wonder of the World that still exists. If you are wondering what part of the visit to exclude, we recommend skipping entry

What to Know Before Visiting the Pyramids

One good thing to know about a visit to the Pyramids is that although the most popular photos of them usually picture them as if they are alone in the Sahara desert, they are actually quite  accessible. The Pyramids can be reached from Cairo by a bus or an Uber, and are right by the Egyptian museum.

Another thing to know is that the Pyramids themselves, while they cannot be climbed, can be entered. There are also plenty of opportunities to ride a camel between them. This will minimize the walking distance between the sights and even around them, which are significant (you will probably be struck with the feeling that you didn’t realize how big the pyramids were once you get there, most people are!). Besides, a camel ride is on most people’s bucket lists, so you can cross it off while also seeing the Pyramids.

On the other hand, a recent decrease in tourism has also had its negative impacts on this wonder. Hawkers and vendors selling souvenirs to camel riders have become more aggressive than ever, and the number of reports from tourists with stories of yelling matches and pickpocketing has increased. The camel touts, in particular, are known to be relentless, and can be found all throughout the area.

The good news is that most of this can be avoided by hiring a tour guide before arriving at the Pyramids (and a tour guide is almost guaranteed in your multi day tour of Egypt). Your guide will fend off most of the hawkers, and will not allow them to jump into your transportation to and from the Pyramids. Taxi drivers, on other hand, sometimes make deals with the vendors and allow them to jump into their vehicle ahead of time to start pitching to you!

Why visit the Pyramids of Giza now?

Lower prices, less crowds, supporting the tourist economy when its needs it most. For better or for worse, the site is also changing rapidly. During the political crisis, some companies took advantage of the government’s distraction to violate codes and start constructing buildings illegally close to the Pyramids.

Some tourists report the site falling into neglect, with litter accumulating all around the grounds. A restoration of the site and its management has long been talked about, and will likely happen soon.

Another reason to visit it because we are always learning more about the pyramids, and they will always provide a fascinating history tour . Archaeologists are still discovering new chambers inside the pyramids and tombs around them using new technology, and these findings are constantly being reinterpreted. As a result, your tour to the pyramids will always be changing and up to date with this new information!

Pyramids of Giza Reviews & Ratings

I loved everything about my trip.

I loved everything about my trip to Egypt! I appreciated the small group number, as I wouldn’t have learned as much or felt like a priority if there was a huge group...

I knew it would be the best trip of my life.

Traveling is never easy for me, as it is unnerving and unsettling. However, from the moment I looked into the Egypt tour with CharlieTheTraveler, I knew it would be ...

It was obvious the company spent a lot of time and thought planning the trip

I found the trip by CharlieTheTraveler to Egypt very organized. It was obvious the company spent a lot of time and thought planning the trip. This made it easy for m...

Everything was planned for me

I have never had such a laid back trip until I booked the Egypt tour through CharlieTheTraveler. Practically everything was planned for me and our tour guide made th...

The history and modern culture of Egypt was emphasized

The history and modern culture of Egypt was emphasized in every activity on this trip. CharlieTheTraveler organized a balanced trip that gave me a well-rounded exper...

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How to Visit the Pyramids of Giza: A Practical Guide

Planning to visit the Pyramids of Giza? These stunning ancient structures loom large in Egypt’s cultural and physical landscape – here’s what you need to know before you go. 

Egypt: the home of ancient civilisations and magnificent monuments. Littered with myths, legends, and logic-defying historical sites; near portals that pull you back in time. 

Few places embody this quite like the Pyramids of Giza. Sitting across the Nile from Cairo proper, they are one of Egypt’s most famous attractions — receiving 14.7 million visitors each year. 

Seeing them was one of the many highlights from my recent Egypt trip – and I know they will be for you too. 

Discover the best ways to see the pyramids, opening hours, practical tips, prices and a dollop of history… Explore the Pyramids of Giza with this practical guide. 

Why Visit the Pyramids of Giza? 

Are these pyramids really worth the trip? In short: yes. 

Why would you pass up the opportunity to visit one of Egypt’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – a trio of landmarks left behind by one of the world’s oldest civilisations. Not to mention the fact that The Great Pyramid of Giza, built for the Pharaoh Khufu, is the last standing ancient wonder of the world.

Best Way to Visit the Pyramids of Giza: On a Tour or Independently?

So now that you’ve decided to visit the pyramids, the next question is how? What is the best way to visit the Pyramids of Giza?

You really have two options here: visiting the pyramids on a tour or independently. 

Independently it is cheaper of course, and you will have as much time as you please at the pyramids. 

That said, there’s nothing like learning about the history of the pyramids in-situ and a guide will help you to explore the site to its fullest. 

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza On a Tour 

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza on a booked tour would be the most convenient option. You can book either a guided tour with other tourists or opt for a private guided tour. 

Organised tours mean you have a tour guide to share insights and information with you, and you may meet other travellers while you’re at it. It is also the safest option and requires the least amount of planning. Here are a few excellent tours for you to consider:

Half-Day Private Tour

A half-day private tour lets you experience the Giza pyramids and Sphinx at your own pace. The trip starts with a pick-up from your Cairo accommodation, and your guide will take you to your first destination: the Great Pyramid of Giza. 

From this point, the guide will lead you through the Giza plateau. Here, you’ll learn about the history of the many structures and get a glimpse of the Sphinx. To top it off, you can enjoy a short camel ride around the pyramids. 

This tour includes hotel pick-ups and drop-offs, an area ticket to the Giza pyramids, an English-speaking guide, a water bottle, and all taxes and service fees. The tour price starts at £28 per person. Don’t forget to bring your ID or passport for identification. 

Book Your Half Day Private Tour Now

A Full-Day Guided Tour

This full-day guided tour is highly rated and popular. 

A private guide and Egyptologist will guide you through the Giza plateau, where you’ll get stunning views of the pyramids. Then you’ll continue to the Great Sphinx and the Valley Temple. After seeing the pyramids of Giza, the tour guide will show you to a local restaurant, where you’ll taste Egyptian cuisine. 

After lunch, the tour continues into Cairo, where you’ll visit museums and other popular attractions. The lunch, entrance fees, hotel pick-ups, and drop-offs are all included in the tour price of about £81.00 per person.

Book Your Full Day Tour Now 

How to Visit the Pyramids of Giza Independently

While visiting the pyramids alone requires more effort, it’s doable and can be just as enjoyable. If you’re wondering if it is safe to visit the pyramids of Giza?  

The answer is generally yes – although as a tourist, it’s always best to remain alert, especially when travelling via public transport.

Getting to the Pyramids of Giza

You can get to the pyramids from Central Cairo within minutes in two ways: via public transport or taxi. 

The recommended way to travel via public transport will only take 15 minutes. First, you’ll take the Line Two Cairo Metro at the Martyrs station, which costs around 5 EGP. After about four minutes of travelling and six stops, you’ll get off at Cairo University. 

Once here, you can book a taxi which will take you straight to the pyramids of Giza. The taxi trip will only cost 20-40 EGP and will take about 10 minutes to complete. Alternatively, you can get a taxi for the whole journey. 

Tickets to the Pyramids of Giza

After you’ve arrived at the pyramids, you can purchase a general admissions entrance ticket on-site. 

This ticket allows you to explore most of the outside areas of The Pyramids of Giza complex. It costs 200 EGP for adults and 100 EGP for students. 

Note that they issue the last tickets an hour before closing, so arriving early is always better. 

I recommend an independent visit for those who don’t have a tight schedule or limited time as many factors can impact your trip, for example, taking the wrong turn or a delayed train. 

Should You Go Inside the Pyramids? 

Yes!  If you think the pyramids are incredible from the outside, wait until you get inside! Going into the structures is an incredible experience. All three of the great pyramids offer entry at an additional fee.

The general pyramids of Giza entry tickets allow you to explore outside the three pyramids and the Sphinx. However, you can purchase an on-site ticket to enter different pyramids. 

The extra ticket for the Great Pyramid is 400 EGP, while entrance to the 2nd or 3rd pyramid is 100 EGP. 

I opted to go inside the Great Pyramid and would definitely recommend you do the same. There’s not a tonne to see once you’re inside but being able to scramble through a tunnel to see the antechamber and burial room is worth the extra cost. 

The History of the Pyramids of Giza 

The Great Pyramid of Giza dates back to around 2551 BC and was constructed under the rule of Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops in Greek). While other pharaohs had built pyramids, this was the first that had been built on such a large scale. 

The grand tombs would contain the mummified pharaohs and their valuable belongings and relics to accompany them in the afterlife. 

According to Greek Historian Herodotus, it took about 100,000 men and 20 years to construct the Great Pyramid of Giza, though as Herodotus wrote his “histories” significantly later there are questions about the validity of his claims. 

The reality is that no-one is quite sure how they built the pyramids, but we can be sure that it took a large workforce several years to complete the process. 

Chephren and Mycerinus are the other two of the three Pyramids of Giza, and these were built under the reign of Pharaoh Khafre and Pharaoh Menkaure. Khafre also built the Sphinx. 

These impressive man-made structures consist of 5.5 million tonnes of limestone, 8,000 tonnes of granite, and 500,000 tonnes of mortar. 

They’d have looked very different initially – with a smooth and polished limestone exterior and a gold cap covering the structure’s highest point, they were designed to gleam in the desert sun. Today, the pyramids, long shrouded by smog and sand, have a blackened surface caused by pollution.  

What You Need to Know Before Visiting the Pyramids: Practical Tips 

Now that you know how to visit the pyramids, there are a few things to remember before you hop on a plane. Here are some practical tips to get you to the pyramids without a sweat. 

When’s the Best Time to Visit the Pyramids of Giza?

There are a few factors that play a part in how many tourists visit the pyramids of Giza each day. The most affordable time of the year with the least tourists is during the summer. Egyptian summers are insanely hot and regularly exceed 40°C, which can be uncomfortable if you’re exploring for hours. 

If you think the lower prices and fewer crowds are worth the desert sun, it’s best to go this time of the year. I suggest you arrive at the site around 8 am as it is still relatively cool and calm at this time. 

As tempting as it may sound to save some money, I recommend a trip during winter. The country’s winter months are relatively mild, with temperatures that can fall below 10 °C at night. These conditions are much more manageable and comfortable for a tour that takes up hours of your day. 

What to Wear to the Pyramids?

Egypt has a hot and dry climate dominated by a desert landscape. Most people find these sweltering conditions quite bothersome, but if you pack smartly, you can be cool and comfy on your Egypt trip. 

When visiting the Giza complex, you can expect to do a lot of walking. So I recommend you bring comfy shoes that are fit for exploring. 

If you’re travelling to the pyramids, it’s best to wear light and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Many tourists choose to remain covered from the shoulders to below the knees. But this is not a rule for visitors, and you will see people in shorts and sundresses. 

However, Egypt is very conservative and wearing something that shows much of your skin could offend the locals. And the sun is quite harsh, so protection is vital.

Egypt’s mild winter can result in chilly evenings. It’s best to wear something light throughout the day, like a pullover, and then swap it out for a warmer coat in the evening. 

Here are some must-have items: 

• a long-sleeved t-shirt
• long baggy skirts or pants
• a hat, a light fleece top
• and a jacket for colder months 

For women: it’s advisable to wear clothing that will keep your knees, cleavage and shoulders covered. Make sure to have a scarf handy to conceal your hair if you enter a religious temple. 

Opening Hours

The opening hours for the pyramids of Giza are as follows:

• Summer (April – September): 8 am – 5 pm
• Winter (October – March): 8 am – 4 pm

I recommend spending at least 3 hours at the site. This will ensure you have enough time to cover all three pyramids and the solar boat museum and still have time to capture some captivating photos for your socials.  

Pyramids of Giza: Map 

How to Visit the Pyramids of Giza: Read Next

• A Step-by-Step Egypt Travel Itinerary
• Incredible Things to do in Cairo
• What to Wear in Egypt
• 20+ Things You Need to Know Before Travelling to Egypt

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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• Giza Plateau
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Book Pyramids of Giza Day Tours

Guided Tour of the Egyptian Museum, Pyramids & the Bazaar

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Your tour guide will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby to bring you on an exciting full day tour of the Pyramids, Sphynxes and Egyptian Museum.
• Dig into a delicious Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy return transfers.
• Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Pyramids and marvel at the magnificent sights of Cheops, Chephren, and Mycinerus.
• Stop for a photo-op at the magnificent Great Sphynx and visit the Egyptian Museum.
• Immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of a vibrant market at the timeless Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, situated in Cairo's old city.
• Transportation by modern air-conditioned vehicle
• Egyptologist tour guide
• Lunch at a local restaurant
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar visit
• Bottle of water per person
• Mummy room visit
• Entry to the Pyramids of Giza
• Entry to the Great Sphinx
• Drinks during lunch
• Personal expenses
• Gratuities (optional)
• Hotel pick-up
• Great Pyramid of Cheops, Chephren, and Mycinerus

Egyptian Museum

Khan el-khalili bazaar.

• Hotel drop-off
• Tip: Find souvenirs like miniature models of iconic Great Pyramids and Sphinxes from the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar to remember your trip to Egypt.
• This tour takes place in English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Arabic.

Half-Day Guided Tour of the Giza Pyramids & Sphinx with Transfers

• On this half-day tour explore the architectural wonders of Cairo with an expert Egyptologist guide and hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Start off at the Pyramids of Giza, the only one of the old Seven Wonders of the World that is still standing.
• Soak up the panoramic views of Giza, along with the Pyramids Cheops, Chephren, and Menkaure.
• Take a picture with the Sphinx, an easy-recognizable, iconic relic of ancient Egpyt that has a missing beard and nose.
• Enjoy a private tour of the Pyramids of Giza, and the Sphinx by selecting the available ticket option.
• Half-day guided tour of the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx
• Expert Egyptologist tour guide
• Visit to the Great Pyramids
• Visit to the Sphinx
• Round-trip hotel transfers on an air-conditioned vehicle
• Private tour (optional)
• Entry to the Pyramids of Giza (optional)
• Entry to the Great Sphinx (optional)
• Fees for pick-up/drop-off outside city center
• Pickup from Cairo Metropolitan Area
• Transfer (15 minutes)
• Visit Giza Pyramids, Guided tour, Photo stop
• Transfer (30 minutes)
• Visit Sphinx, Guided tour, Photo stop
• Arrive back at Cairo Metropolitan Area
• Tip: Wear comfortable clothes, shoes, a hat, and sunglasses.
• This tour takes place in English, Spanish, French, German,⁠ Italian, and Arabic.
• Pick-ups from Al Nasr City, Cairo International Airport, Heliopolis, Mirage city, Rehab City, Madinaty, New Cairo, New Capital hotels, 6th of October City are available at an additional charge of $10 per head.

Pyramids, Bazaar and Citadel Tour with Photographer

• Don't miss out on this iconic guided tour through Cairo that shows you must-visit landmarks, enjoy quintessential experiences, and stumble through age-old bazaars
• Pick up intriguing facts about Cairo's sublime history from your expert tour guide, who will navigate your tour
• A professional photographer will also accompany you, capturing real candids, top-notch portraits, and family pictures- whatever you need!
• You'll explore the majestic Pyramids of Giza, enjoy a short camel ride through the Sahara Desert and visit the Sphinx of Giza
• After a scrumptious lunch (at your own expense), you'll continue to the Citadel of Cairo, and explore this UNESCO stone structure while visiting the ancient edifices of the city
• Finally, visit the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar, filled to the brim with ancient culture, and shop for souvenirs- well-crafted jewelry, handicrafts, and decorations
• Convenient round-trip hotel transfers on an air-conditioned vehicle make sure you don't have to arrange for transportation
• Round-trip hotel transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Camel ride in the Sahara Desert
• Photographer
• Bottled mineral water
• Entrance fees to the Pyramids and Sphinx areas
• Entrance fee to the Great Pyramid
• Al Azhar park entrance fees

Guided Day Tour of Cairo & Giza from Hurghada with Flight Tickets

• On this full-day trip to Cairo and Giza from Hurghada, you'll visit the fascinating Great Pyramids of Giza and immerse yourself in the culture of Cairo.
• This well-planned experience includes comfortable round-trip flight tickets to Cairo and round-trip hotel transfers via an AC vehicle.
• Throughout your tour, you’ll be accompanied by a multilingual Egyptologist guide. Enjoy a delicious lunch later.
• Visit the Great Pyramid, one of the incredible Seven Wonders of the World, and the mysterious Sphinx, an enduring symbol of fear for ancient pharaohs.
• Explore ancient Egyptian artifacts at the Egyptian Museum, including King Tutankhamun's famous treasures.
• Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Old Cairo as you will get free time to explore at your own pace here.
• Full-day trip to Cairo & Giza
• Round-trip hotel transfers from Hurghada airport
• Transfers via AC vehicle
• Round-trip flight tickets from Hurghada to Cairo
• Entrance fees to the Giza Pyramids
• Entrance to Egypt Museum
• Free time in Old Cairo
• Multilingual Egyptologist tour guide
• Lunch in a restaurant
• Transfers from Makadi, Sahl Hashesh, Soma Bay, El Gouna and Safaga ($15 per person)
• Drinks at the restaurant
• Boat cruise
• Pick-up from Hurghada–Hurghada International Airport–Cairo International Airport–Pyramids of Giza–Egyptian Museum of Antiquities–Egyptian lunch–Old Cairo (free time)–Cairo International Airport–Hurghada International Airport–Drop-off at hotel in Hurghada
• Tip: Carry cash in hand for shopping at the Khan Al-Khalili bazaar. Know that bargaining is a common practice.
• This tour is available in Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Russian, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Polish.
• Bring along your passport as an ID proof to board your flight to Cairo.

Full-Day Tour of Cairo & Giza with Round-Trip Transfers from Hurghada

• Explore the wonders of Cairo and Giza on this well-planned day tour of the Great Pyramids and more from Hurghada with round-trip AC transfers.
• Visit ancient landmarks like the Great Sphinx and Pyramids, and learn about their construction and history from an expert multilingual Egyptologist guide.
• Enjoy a BBQ lunch at a local restaurant before visiting one of the oldest archaeological museums in the Middle East, the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities.
• Enjoy your time at the museum which houses important pieces of ancient Egyptian history including a collection of Pharaonic antiquities.
• Choose to tour with a shared group or go for a more personalized experience with the private option. Both trips include time for some shopping.
• Full-day trip to Cairo and Giza
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off from Hurghada
• Multilingual Egyptologist guide
• Transfer guide in the AC vehicle
• Entry to attractions
• Private day tour (optional)
• Pick-up and drop-off from Makadi Bay, Soma Bay, Sahl Hasheesh, Safaga, and El Gouna
• Nile cruise
• Tip: Ask your guide about experiencing a Nile cruise or camel ride (at an extra cost), if time permits.
• This trip is conducted in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Portuguese.

Guided Tour of the Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum & Bazaar

• Discover Egypt with a guided tour of the Great Pyramids, the Egyptian Museum, and the Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, and enjoy hassle-free hotel transfers.
• Marvel at the only remaining Ancient 7 Wonder of the World, the pyramids of Cheops, Khafre, and Mykerinos, against the brilliant blue sky.
• Catch sight of the Sphinx, the half-lion guardian adorned with the head of King Chephren, and visit Valley Temple, where ancient priests had mummified him.
• Witness an exhibit of King Tutankhamun's treasures at the largest museum in Africa, the Egyptian Museum, which houses over 250,000 artifacts.
• Choose between an English and German-speaking guide, and shop at the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, which sells antiquities set in brass and copper, perfumes, and more!
• 8-hour guided tour of Giza
• Round-trip hotel transfers
• English or German-speaking guide (based on option selected)
• Entry to pyramids, sphinx & Egyptian Museum
• Bottled water
• Taxes & services
• Tip: Keep an eye out for the exhibits of the world's first historical document, Narmer Palette, depicting unified Egypt and the museum's most prized possession, the Mask of Tutankhamun.
• Facilities: Wheelchair Accessibility, Pram/Stroller Accessibility.

Combo (Save 20%): River Nile Dinner Cruise + Guided Tour of the Giza Pyramids & Sphinx with Transfers

• Make the most of this economical combo: a River Nile dinner cruise with live entertainment and a tour of the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx, including transfers.
• Sail down the Nile on a 2-hour cruise, taking in breathtaking views of Cairo's illuminated skyline and the river's scenic vistas while listening to your guide.
• Relish a lavish buffet dinner onboard with live entertainment encompassing traditional Egyptian music, belly dance, and folklore performances.
• Step back in time on a half-day guided tour of the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the majestic Pyramids of Giza, and the enigmatic Sphinx.
• Capture memorable photographs and gain some fascinating insights into the ancient Egyptians and their relics from your expert Egyptologist.

River Nile Dinner Cruise with Live Entertainment and Transfers

• 2-hr Nile River cruise
• Round-trip hotel transfers from Cairo/Giza via air-conditioned cars
• Onboard live guide fluent in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Portuguese
• Open buffet dinner
• Expert Egyptologist tour guide fluent in English, Spanish, French, German,⁠ Italian, and Arabic
• Fees for pick-up/drop-off outside the city center
• Tip: Try to arrive a bit early to get the best seats near the stage for the live performances.
• A valid photo ID is mandatory.
• The cruise is wheelchair and stroller/pram-accessible.
• Smoking is allowed on board the ship.
• Tip: Ask your guide about the myths and legends surrounding the pyramids; they're fascinating.
• Make sure to carry with you your passport, sunglasses, and a camera.
• This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Luggage and large bags are not permitted.
• Pets are not allowed.

Top things to do in Cairo

Pyramids of Giza day tours | Visit the Pyramids, the Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, and bazaars

The Pyramids of Giza are one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Giza complex consists of the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, the Pyramid of Menkaure, the Great Sphinx, the Queen’s Pyramids, Valley Temples, and other cemeteries. When visiting the Giza Necropolis, you can go on a camel safari, or a quad biking tour, and explore the nearby Khan el-Khalili bazaar, the Egyptian Museum, and more. Depending on your itinerary, you can choose between a full-day or half-day guided tour.

Why go on a Pyramids of Giza day tour?

• Variety of options: One of the best benefits of booking Pyramids of Giza day tours is that they offer many choices. You can either go for a half-day tour, a full-day tour, a tour with transfer options, or a tour with a photographer, depending on your itinerary and needs. 
• Professional guided tours: Most Pyramids of Giza day tours include a multilingual Egyptologist tour guide who acquaints you with the history and cultural significance of the Pyramids. 
• Includes transfers: Visitors on wheelchairs and elderly travelers can benefit immensely from booking Pyramids of Giza day tours. You can choose day tours that include hotel pick-ups and drop-offs in air-conditioned vehicles. If you are traveling from Hurghada, you can choose tours that include flight tickets. 
• Includes complimentary add-ons: Pyramids of Giza day tours often include necessary add-ons like lunch options, bottled water, transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, and more to ensure a hassle-free travel experience. 

Which Pyramids of Giza day tour to choose?

If you are short on time

Go for: Half-day tours Budget: Starting from $34 Sights covered: Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, and surrounding areas in the Sahara desert Duration: around 6 hours

• With half-day tours, you can visit the most significant sights like the Pyramids and the Sphinx, and enjoy hotel pick-up and drop-off facilities.
• The half-day Pyramids of Giza tour is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Arabic. 
• Depending on the ticket you choose, a photographer will also accompany you to capture top-notch portraits and family photographs. 

Recommended tours:

• Half-day tour of the Pyramids and the Sphinx
• Pyramids, Bazaar, and Citadel tour with photographer

If you want to explore in-depth

Go for: Guided tours with a professional Egyptologist guide Budget: Starting from $51 Sights covered: Great Pyramids, the Sphinx, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and surrounding areas Duration: 8 hours

• Enjoy a guided tour of the Pyramids, the Sphinx, and the local bazaars with an English or German-speaking guide.
• With these tickets, you can get lunch at a local Egyptian restaurant, enjoy return transfers, and also stop for a photography session at the Great Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum. 
• Guided tour of the Egyptian Museum, Pyramids, and the Bazaar
• Guided tour of the Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum, and Bazaar

If you are traveling from Hurghada

Go for: Guided tours with transfers and flight tickets Budget: Starting from $82 Sights covered: Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum, Old Cairo, and areas around Cairo and Giza Duration: 16 hours

• With these tickets, you can avail of round-trip flight tickets and hotel transfers from Hurghada in an air-conditioned vehicle. 
• The guided day tour is available in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Polish. 
• A multilingual Egyptologist guide will also accompany you on these day tours.
• Guided day tour of Cairo and Giza from Hurghada with flight tickets
• Full-day tour of Cairo and Giza with round-trip transfers from Hurghada

If you want to explore beyond

• With these tickets, you can explore all the major attractions in and around Cairo and also enjoy flight transfers from Hurghada and a barbeque lunch at a local restaurant. 
• The full-day Giza tour is available in English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Portuguese. 

Discounted tickets

If you book Pyramids of Giza day tours online, you can avail yourself of reduced prices and combo deals. Please carry valid identification proof with you on your visit. 

Flexible cancellation policy

You can also cancel and re-schedule your Pyramids of Giza day tours. If you book your day tours online, you can cancel or re-schedule them up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund on your purchase. Make sure to check your ticket details before confirming your payment to ensure this facility. 

What to expect from a Pyramids of Giza day tour?

While on a Pyramids of Giza tour, here’s what to expect. The duration of your tour will be around 6 to 8 hours, but you can expect timings to vary a little bit. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. Depending on your tickets, you will visit the Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum, Khan el-Khalili bazaar, and more. You will also be dropped off at your hotel. Throughout your day trip, an expert Egyptologist tour guide, will accompany you along the way and tell you about the history of the different sites you’ll visit.

Pyramids of Giza day tour highlights

The Pyramids of Giza complex is packed with ancient monuments from ancient Egypt, and the day tours will also take you to the top sights in Cairo. While there’s a lot of ground to cover, here are the top highlights of your tour.

The Great Pyramid of Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza was built as a tomb for the Egyptian pharaoh Khufu and dates back to 2600 BC. You can go inside the pyramid and explore the many subterranean chambers.

The Pyramid of Khafre is slightly smaller than the Great Pyramid. It was built for the pharaoh Khafre in 2570 BC. Unfortunately, its treasures were plundered in ancient and medieval times.

The Pyramid of Menkaure is the smallest of the Giza Pyramids. It was completed around 2510 BC. Its north face was damaged when a medieval Sultan attempted to demolish it.

The Great Sphinx is a colossal sandstone statue of a mythical creature with the head of a man, and the body of a lion. It sits in front of the Pyramid of Khafre and is famous for having a broken nose.

The Egyptian Museum in Cairo, also called the Cairo Museum, is home to a vast collection of pieces of ancient Egyptian history. It also hosts special events and exhibitions all year long.

Giza Solar Boat Museum

Near the Great Pyramid of Khufu Solar Boat Museum. It houses a reconstruction of the pharaoh’s solar barque , the ship buried with the king to use on his journey across the heavens.

The Khan el-Khalili bazaar is perhaps the most famous bazaar in Cairo. Here you can buy spices, souvenirs, antiques, local food, and jewelry, or just enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

Cairo Citadel

The Cairo Citadel is a grand castle built by Salah Al-Din in the 12th century. It is located in Cairo’s historic Islamic center and is famous for its stunning city views.

Plan your Pyramids of Giza day tour

• April to September: 7 AM to 6 PM
• October to March: 8 AM to 4 PM

Duration of visit: around 6 to 16 hours, depending on your itinerary Best time to visit: The best months to visit the Pyramids of Giza are around October to March. Although you may observe a surge in prices, the winter months are the best time to explore the interiors of the Pyramids, go on a camel safari, or engage in other activities in the desert. Since the sun is pretty strong even during these months, try to reach early in the morning, and avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays.

There are 2 entrances to the Giza Pyramids complex.

• Great Pyramid of Khufu entrance: This entrance is situated towards the north side of the Great Pyramid, near the Marriot Mena House Hotel. While this entrance may have a slightly higher wait time, around 40 to 50 minutes, you can easily access the Panoramic Point from this entrance. 
• The Great Sphinx entrance: This entrance is located on the north side of the Pyramids, near the Great Sphinx. It has a slightly shorter wait time, around 30 to 40 minutes, however, it is an uphill walk to the Panoramic Point from this entrance. 

We recommend visitors in wheelchairs and elderly tourists to use the Great Pyramid of Khufu entrance. If you are short on time, you may use the Great Sphinx entrance.

• Accessibility: While visitors in wheelchairs cannot explore the interiors of the Pyramids of Giza, they can stroll up to the entrance of the Great Sphinx. There is a ramp leading up to the Sphinx. Please note that the surrounding areas are sandy and uneven, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users. We recommend you go on a camel safari tour to explore the Pyramids and catch amazing views of the Sahara desert. 
• Photography: You can click pictures of the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx, and surrounding areas. Please be mindful of other visitors if you are carrying professional camera equipment like tripods. 
• Shops: There are plenty of small shops outside the Giza Pyramids. Make sure to carry cash as most of these vendors do not accept card payments.

• Take the metro: The most budget-friendly way to reach the Giza Pyramids is to get a metro from line 1 of the Cairo metro station. You can get a taxi or tour bus from the Giza station to the Pyramids of Giza entrances.  
• Arrive early: To avoid the tour bus rush, it is best to reach the Pyramids of Giza early in the morning around 9 AM. 
• Carry cash: Most small shop vendors outside the Giza Necropolis do not accept credit card payments. Please carry cash to shop for souvenirs outside. 
• Attend the Light and Sound show: There is a Light and Sound show organized during sunset hours at the Pyramids of Giza. It offers amazing views of the Pyramids, the Sphinx, and surrounding areas. 
• Wear light clothing: The desert sun is scorching hot even during the winter months, so it is best to wear light, breathable fabrics when visiting the Giza complex.

Frequently asked questions about Pyramids of Giza day tours

We recommend you purchase Pyramids of Giza day tour tickets online to save time and money. Online ticket bookings ensure that you do not have to wait in long lines on the day of your visit.

Booking your Pyramids of Giza day tour tickets online ensures that you have a hassle-free experience on the day of your visit. You can avoid long lines and stay worry-free, knowing that you will get guaranteed access to the Pyramids.

Depending on the kind of Pyramids of Giza day tours you purchase, you will get access to the Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, the nearby local bazaars, and more. If you are traveling from Hurghada, you can avail of day tours that include round-trip flight transfers and hotel pick-ups. You can also enjoy lunch options at local restaurants, and get a professional Egyptologist guide, and a photographer with your day tour.

Depending on the number of attractions you want to cover, you can choose your Pyramids of Giza day tours. A half-day tour of the Pyramids and the Sphinx lasts for around 6 hours. If you also visit the bazaars and nearby areas, it may take around 8 hours. If you plan to come from Hurghada, it will take around 16 hours.

Yes, you can enjoy lunches at local Egyptian restaurants with your Pyramids of Giza day tour tickets . You can also enjoy barbeque lunch options in a few tours.

Yes, depending on the kind of Pyramids of Giza day tours you purchase, you can avail of round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle. You can also enjoy hotel pick-ups and drop-offs on your visit.

Yes, most of the Pyramids of Giza guided day tours are available in multiple languages- Spanish, English, French, German, Italian, Russian, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Polish.

Yes, if your plans change, you can reschedule or cancel your Pyramids of Giza day tours 24 hours before the experience begins to get a refund on your purchase.

We recommend you wear light, breathable clothing on the day of your Pyramids of Giza tour. The desert sun is quite harsh even during the winter months, so it is best to protect your skin and wear sunscreen during your visit.

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How to reach the Pyramids of Giza?

Plan your visit to the Pyramids of Giza

• 14 min read

Visiting The Pyramids of Giza: A Local’s Guide To Everything You Need To Know

Updated: Aug 23, 2023

So you’re planning to visit the Pyramids of Giza? Lucky you! Whether it’s your first time or 10th time, the Pyramids will literally leave you awestruck *every* time. We local Cairenes drive past them on a daily basis and we still stare at them as if we hadn’t grown up with these ancient giants in our backyard. You’d think we’d get used to it after a decade or two or three, but nope!

For most people, seeing the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx is just a far-off dream. But if you get the chance to actually do it, then you want to do it right and make the most of it, so this is why we put together this jam-packed guide of everything you need to know to enjoy the hell out of your Pyramids trip. Because like most things in Egypt, things can get a tad confusing if you’re not a local, so we’re going to sort you out.

But first, a smidgen of history

It’s not hyperbole or exaggeration to say that the Pyramids of Giza have been on travelers’ bucket lists for thousands of years -- we’re talking about LITERAL thousands of years! More than 2,000 years to be exact, although the Great Pyramid itself is over 4,500 years old. But around 2,000 years ago was when the Greeks through their conquests introduced the world to amazing feats of architecture in ancient Egyptian, Babylonian and Persian civilizations. This was when the first written references to the ‘7 Wonders of the World’ was born (which to be fair, are very Greek-centric but understandable considering the time).

The original ‘7 Wonders of the World’ (now called the ‘7 Ancient Wonders of the World’) weren’t formalized as a list until the Renaissance era over 500 years ago, but you get the idea of how long people have been hearing about and wanting to visit the Pyramids.

And yep, even though the Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest entry on the list, it’s the only one still standing! That’s some ancient Egyptian engineering for you (and also a mystery).

The history of the Pyramids themselves… but like, super briefly

Because we don’t want this guide to be roughly a million words long, and because there are so many detailed academic sources online about the history of the Pyramids of Giza, we’ll keep ours short and cute and focus on the information that *isn’t* so readily available online - like what to expect when you visit and local tips and tricks.

But in a nutshell, the Pyramids of Giza were built as tombs for three different Egyptian pharaohs, Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, in the 4th Dynasty of Ancient Egypt’s Old Kingdom, between 2600 and 2500 BC (so more than 4,500 years ago!). Khufu’s is the Great Pyramid, the oldest and the largest. They, alongside the Great Sphinx and smaller subsidiary pyramids, are all on the same plateau in Giza, now part of modern-day Cairo.

How exactly these pyramids were built still have modern historians, engineers and architects scratching their heads to this day, although theories are abundant (including being built by aliens, but the less we say about that, the better).

One theory was that it was slaves who built the Pyramids, but the discovery of the Workers’ Village and tombs on the same plateau as the Pyramids provided evidence that it was actually around 10,000 paid and skilled laborers working in three-month shifts (over 30 years for a single pyramid!) who built them. The exact ‘how’ they built them though still remains a mystery.

You may also like: 8 Best Ancient Egyptian Tomb Sites in Modern Day Egypt

So where are the Pyramids exactly?

This sometimes throws people for a loop, because they’re called the Pyramids of Giza but are actually in Cairo. Giza back in the day used to be a small city of its own on the west side of the Nile while Cairo was on the east, but Cairo has grown so immensely over the past century that the city of Giza was swallowed into what’s now called ‘Greater Cairo’. The Pyramids are about a 45 minute drive from Downtown Cairo with traffic, which is pretty standard for most places in Cairo.

What also a lot of people don’t expect is just how close to the city the Pyramids really are. In pictures they seem to be off in a remote desert somewhere, but nope they’re right there smack next to modern buildings and Pizza Huts, no joke. The neighborhood around the Pyramids is called Haram and it’s not the nicest, but the Grand Egyptian Museum (you can find out all about it at Grand Egyptian Museum: A Local's Guide To Everything You Need To Know ) is opening there soon and lots of renovation and development is underway, so hopefully things in that area will take a turn for the nicer in the coming months and years.

You may also like: The Best (and Worst!) Cairo Neighborhoods to Stay In

How to get to there

Assuming you’re not going by an arranged tour bus, then the only way to get there is by car, whether a cab, Uber, hired car, etc.

Don’t even bother with any articles that say take the metro or take a microbus, just no and no. These people don’t know what they’re talking about. The metro doesn’t go anywhere near the Pyramids so you’d need to take a cab in any case, and like we said, the area isn’t the nicest so don’t go stressing yourself out before you even get there! And microbuses for tourists who don’t speak Arabic is just a terrible idea, so save yourself the hassle and hop in a car that will take you from your starting location straight to the entrance door of the Pyramids.

Local tip: the first ‘entrance’ is a security checkpoint in front of the Mena House Marriott Hotel, where they’ll briefly do a security check on the car. Don’t make the mistake of getting out here because you’ll still need to trek up a hill to the plateau to the ticket booth and main entrance, and touts will start hassling you to ride a camel or a horse or a donkey or them themselves up the hill and then try to rip you off. Make sure to get out where the ticket booth is on the top of the hill.

Local tip #2 : to get around the Pyramids once you buy a ticket and enter, you can either walk around yourself if you don’t mind long stretches of sand and sun, or you can pay for a car ticket and have the car (or cab or Uber) enter the plateau and drive you between sites. This is recommended for those who don’t want to exert themselves too much, get too hot/burned, or waste too much time walking. Each main sight (the 3 Pyramids, the Sphinx and the panoramic viewpoint) have easy parking spots for a car and driver to wait for you to explore and take pictures.

Different car options:

Private car (someone you know or a hired car & driver or transportation provided by your hotel/airbnb)

Uber or Careem (you can ask the driver who took you there to stay with you inside the Pyramid complex for an extra fee)

London Cab (you can either book a ride to/from the Pyramids or book the cab and personal driver from 2 hours to 8 hours, all from their website).

A white cab (just make sure its meter is working, and you can ask the driver to stay with you in the complex)

You may also like: Different Modes of Transportation for Getting Around Cairo, Egypt

Pyramids of Giza Opening Hours

Opening hours: 7 am - 5 pm (ticket office closes at 4 pm)

* Ramadan hours differ and usually close before 3 pm.

Local tip: if you want to go inside the Great Pyramid (Khufu), please note that it’s closed daily from noon to 1 pm.

Local tip #2 : while technically you can can explore the inside of all three of the Pyramids, sometimes they’re closed for one reason or another and you won’t find out until you get there (for example, last time we were there, the Pyramid of Menkaure was closed - the smallest of the three). The good news is that the real awe-inspiring views are from the outside, and that’s never randomly closed!

Local tip #3 : if you want to avoid the tour buses, they usually start showing up around 10 am, so aim for early morning or later in the afternoon. Also avoid weekends (Friday & Saturday) and public holidays if you want the complex to be as crowd-free as possible.

Ticket Prices for General Entrance, Khufu Pyramid, Khafre Pyramid & Menkaure Pyramid

General entrance (mandatory): 240 EGP for non-Egyptians (this includes outside access to all the Pyramids, the Sphinx, the funerary temples, the cemeteries, the Queens’ pyramids and the panoramic viewpoint). 120 EGP for students.

General entrance for Egyptians: 60 EGP. Students: 30 EGP.

Ticket to go inside The Great Pyramid (Khufu): 440 EGP (student: 220 EGP)

Ticket to go inside Khafre Pyramid: 100 EGP (student: 50 EGP)

Ticket to go inside Menkaure Pyramid: 100 EGP (student: 50 EGP)

Ticket for Meresankh III Tomb: 50 EGP (student: 25 EGP)

To use a tripod or camera stand: 20 EGP

Car entrance ticket: 10 EGP

Local tip: you have to decide which pyramids you want to go inside of from the beginning when you purchase your general entrance ticket, because there’s no place to buy tickets from once you enter the Pyramid Complex and you can’t return to the ticket booth.

Local tip #2 : make sure to hold on to your general entrance ticket once you enter the plateau because they’ll check it again when you go to see the Sphinx.

Local tip #3 : at the main ticket booth is where you’ll also buy the ticket for your car to enter the plateau (10 EGP).

What will I be able to see in the Giza Pyramid Complex?

With your general entrance ticket, you’ll be able to drive/walk around and see the following in the complex:

Pyramid of Khufu (The Great Pyramid) (internal access via separate ticket)

Pyramid of Khafre (internal access via separate ticket)

Pyramid of Menkaure (internal access via separate ticket)

The Great Sphinx

Pyramids of the Queens and other subsidiary pyramids

Tomb of Meresankh III (internal access via separate ticket)

Valley Temple of Khafre en route to the Sphinx

Panoramic viewpoint (a designated spot complete with parking where you have the iconic view of all 3 Pyramids lined up)

The cemeteries although there’s not much to see

There also used to be the solar boat museum, where there was the ancient boat believed to belong to Khufu, but that has recently been moved to the Grand Egyptian Museum

Do I need a tour guide for the Pyramids?

We’re asked a lot if a tour guide is needed to visit the Pyramids, and the honest answer is: it depends. On what? On what kind of experience you want to have, so let us go into more detail:

First of all, we’re against large organized tour groups. For the reason that there’s very little flexibility, you’re horded around in a small crowd and thus it’s less personalized, with less time to see things at your own pace, ask questions and take those embarrassingly cheesy pictures you know you want.

So if you’re going to go down the tour guide route, we suggest hiring one for just you and your travel companions so that you really benefit from their expertise and they also give you room to absorb everything at your own pace.

Pros of having a tour guide with you:

There’s no explanation or plaques with the history of what you’re looking at once you’re inside the Giza Plateau, so a tour guide helps provide information and context and really bring the experience to life

You can ask follow-up questions about anything that catches your fancy

They help keep the touts and vendors at bay

They know the quickest, most streamlined route throughout the Giza Pyramid Complex

You can ask them for tips or advice for other Egypt-related things that you plan to see on your trip

They can take pictures for you so you don’t have to bother other visitors or be forced to ask touts

Cons of having a tour guide:

The extra cost

The extra hassle of contacting, arranging and meeting up with them

Some of the guides aren’t necessarily the best and will just give you a bare minimum tour because you don’t know better

They sometimes (not all of them!) have deals with different shops and restaurants and will try to sell you the idea of buying something/eating there because they later get a cut

Tips for getting a tour guide:

Ideally research online and choose someone who has multiple good reviews from travelers similar to yourself, then you can contact them directly

There will usually be a few random ‘guides’ milling about at the entrance to the Pyramids complex, so if you decide last-minute you MUST have a guide, you can go with one of them but make sure you negotiate a fee you feel comfortable with and look out for the points mentioned below. But for the most part we recommend going with a pre-chosen and researched guide you found online with good reviews.

Agree on their personal fee beforehand and ask if there will be any extra fees needed (besides your own tickets) - sometimes they ‘surprise’ you with ‘added services’ like a car and driver, which isn’t always a bad thing but just make sure you know about it first. Also if you would like a car & driver, just ask the guide in advance and they can easily sort it out for you.

If you ended up with a last-minute guide you met in front of the ticket entrance, politely decline if they offer camel, carriage or horse rides (unless you want them) - they’re usually in cahoots with the camel & horse people and get a cut.

If during or at the end of the tour, they offer to take you to any shops or restaurants, just politely decline (unless you want to). They’ll make these shops/restaurants/cafes seem very appealing but they’re usually tourist traps where you feel pressured into buying/ordering something because everyone is being so friendly and helpful. That’s how they get you, because they’re so nice that you feel bad not buying anything, lol. So save yourself the trouble and just politely decline from the beginning and part ways with the guide at the exit of the Pyramids Complex.

Is it worth it to go inside the Pyramids?

Similar to the tour guide question, this is something that differs from person to person so there’s no definitive answer we can give. But here’s all the info you need to make an educated choice:

There’s actually not much to see inside the Pyramids. All those gorgeous tomb pictures you see with the art and hieroglyphics are mainly in the New Kingdom tombs of the Valley of the Kings and Queens in Luxor .

Inside the Pyramids, you’ll climb up extremely narrow passageways until you reach the burial chamber, which is empty except for a granite sarcophagus in the Pyramid of Khufu and Khafre.

The real appeal of going inside the Pyramid(s) is just that - you’re inside the Pyramids! It’s definitely about the experience, and not about what you’ll actually see.

There’s no need to go inside all three; if you’ve been in one pyramid, you’ve kind of been in all.

Local tip: if you’re claustrophobic, or have back and/or knee issues, then we would recommend not going inside. The passageways are both very narrow and not high enough to stand up straight - so you’ll be climbing/descending while hunched over, with people climbing down while you’re climbing up, etc. Plus it gets hot!

Local tip #2 : if you plan on going inside, wear comfortable shoes and nothing too short! We know you want to look cute for your pictures, but like we said above, you’ll be bent and hunched over with people in front and in back of you, so you don’t want to worry about having to pull your skirt/dress down the whole time.

Local tip #3 : if you want to go inside a pyramid but are hesitant about the passageways, stick to the Pyramid of Khafre (the 2nd biggest one). The climb is easier than Khufu’s.

Local tip #4 : you’re not allowed to bring cameras inside, but you can take pictures with your phone with no flash.

Seeing the Great Sphinx

Make sure you hold on to your entrance ticket once you enter the Giza Plateau, because you'll need it again when you go to see the Sphinx (you leave the compound and then re-enter).

You'll access the Sphinx through the Valley Temple of Khafre, which leads to the causeway of the Khafre Pyramid, with the Sphinx on your righthand side. Unfortunately you can't access the Sphinx from its front, only from its side (ironically enough, one of the best full-on front view of the Sphinx is from the Pizza Hut rooftop, outside the compound and across the street).

Although the exact history of the Sphinx is uncertain, many Egyptologists believe it to be built by Khafre over 4,500 years ago, with the body of a lion and the head of the pharaoh. For centuries it was buried under the sand, with only its head visible.

Riding Camels and Horses at the Pyramids

We’re going to be honest with you – we’re against riding camels, horses and horse-drawn carriages at the Pyramids. This is purely due to our love for animals and our stance that they shouldn’t be exploited for tourism. The treatment of some of these animals is circumspect, and we can’t in good conscience give tips or advice on the best ways to ride these animals.

We understand that getting that camel picture at the Pyramids is practically a bucket list picture - and if you need to do it, then you do you. But we urge you to think twice :D

Dealing with vendors and touts at the Pyramids

A common complaint that both visitors and even locals have when they visit the Pyramids (or any tourist hotspot really), is the constant hassling from vendors and touts to buy whatever it is they’re peddling - souvenirs, camel rides, ‘100% original handcrafts’ (they’re usually not), and so on and so forth. It can get really annoying, honestly.

They’ll also try to finagle money out of you by any creative means possible: offer to take your picture and then ask for money, offer to take you to see the ‘secret panoramic view’ and ask for money after (it’s not a secret and you don’t need to pay anyone to see it), tell you they’ll let you climb the Pyramids (this is not allowed by the way, so please don’t pay someone to let you do this), etc.

Local tips for dealing with touts:

Be polite but firm in your decline of whatever it is they’re trying to sell you. You’ll find yourself playing a constant record of ‘no, thank you’ but unfortunately that’s a small price to pay to see the last remaining Ancient Wonder of the World.

They all speak English, so you don’t necessarily have to tell them “la shokran” (no, thank you in Arabic)

Don’t accept any offers for them to take your picture, ask another tourist to do it

Don’t accept any free ‘gifts’ even if they try to wrap a bracelet around your wrist or a scarf around your neck, claiming it’s ‘free’

Don’t accept any offers for them to take you to ‘secret or special’ viewpoints

Don’t accept any offers to climb the Pyramids

Don’t accept any offers to take a picture with their camel ‘for free’

…all this will cost you money. Just keep saying no thank you and keep it moving.

Where to eat and drink at the Pyramids

So technically there’s not really any place to eat or drink in the Pyramid Complex once you enter past the gates except for 9 Pyramids Lounge or Khufu's Restaurant , but usually that needs a reservation in advance unless you’re very lucky.

9 Pyramids Lounge is a casual breakfast and lunch spot, serving up standard Egyptian and international fare. Alcohol is not served there. They take walk-ins if there's availability, but it's safer to reserve (reservations details are here on their FB page ).

Khufu's is a more fine dining experience, with set menus of elevated Egyptian classics, and alcohol is served there. You can reserve through their website .

Important note: both these restaurants have insanely awesome pyramid views, but close by 5 pm, due to the Giza Pyramid Complex closing by sunset.

Besides the restaurants, dotted around the plateau you’ll find vendors selling overpriced drinks and snacks, so bring your own, especially if you’re going to be drinking a lot of water.

Speaking of drinking a lot of water, because there are limited restaurants and bathrooms inside the plateau, the last surefire place for you to go to the bathroom is at the entrance where the ticket booths are, so make sure you empty your bladder before you enter - or else you might find yourself having to pee in the middle of the desert (with a one-of-a-kind view though, to be fair!). There are a few bathrooms scattered around, but can be a hassle to find.

Keep in mind though that there are a lot of places where you can eat or have a drink with spectacular Pyramid views that aren’t in the actual complex.

For example, right outside the complex is the Marriott Mena House Hotel, which not only is a historical Egyptian hotel but one of our personal local favorites. It’s literally RIGHT next to the complex (where the security gates are), and our favorite place to relax with a beer and some food right next to the Pyramids.

If you’re looking for something quicker/cheaper, ironically enough there’s a Pizza Hut and KFC with stunning Sphinx and Pyramid views right outside the complex. Ah, globalization.

Leaving the Pyramids

If you don’t have a car with you, then leaving the Pyramids Complex is as easy as ordering an Uber. Once you leave the complex gates, people will continuously offer you “Taxi? Taxi?” but an Uber is always easier just because you don’t have to worry about negotiating the fare or explaining to the driver where exactly you’re going.

Some parting local tips:

Bring water with you so that you don’t have to buy overpriced bottles inside

Even in the winter, the sun is extremely strong, so make sure you have sunscreen or some kind of hat if you’re sensitive to the sun

Wear comfortable shoes!

But most of all, just take your time and let it all soak in… we promise you, you will never see something similar anywhere else in the world!

You might also like:

Dahshur Pyramids - A Local's Guide to Visiting the Bent Pyramid, Red Pyramid & Black Pyramid of Egypt

Saqqara, Egypt - A Local's Guide to Visiting the Step Pyramid of Djoser & the Saqqara Tombs

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7 of the best Maya ruins to visit in Mexico

Remnants of ancient civilisations still stand across Central America — and well-preserved temples and jungle-cloaked pyramids are open to visitors across southern Mexico.

Before the Spanish colonised Central America in the 16th century, the ancient Maya were one of the most sophisticated civilisations in the Western Hemisphere. They developed a complex calendar system through their knowledge of astrology and mathematics, used intricate hieroglyphics to record their history and built large, lavishly decorated cities, complete with pyramids, temples, and plazas.

At its height, the ancient Maya civilisation comprised 40 cities across Central America, spanning southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador and Nicaragua. In the southern Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo and Chiapas, many of these settlements — the largest housed up to 50,000 people — still stand today, offering visitors a unique insight into the social, cultural and religious lives of the ancient Maya.

From carefully reconstructed sites like Chichen Itza to the wild, jungle-clad pyramids and ceremonial temples of Calakmul, these are the ancient Maya ruins not to miss in southern Mexico.

1. Chichen Itza

Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the beautifully preserved Chichen Itza in Yucatán is Mexico’s most famous Maya ruin. Despite the crowds, few are disappointed with El Castillo — a carefully restored pyramid that rises up 80ft and has 365 steps — or the city’s tlachtli , the largest Maya ball court in the Americas.

Occupied until the 16th century, Tulum was one of the last cities inhabited by the Maya and the only one built by the coast. The pyramids here aren’t as large as other Maya ruins in Mexico, but the setting, on 40ft-high cliffs above turquoise Caribbean waters south of Cancun, more than makes up for it.

Home to the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, Cobá was once one of the most important Maya cities in Yucatán. Located around 30 miles west of Tulum ruins, the city was built in around 600 CE and it eventually grew to 50,000 inhabitants. Though much of Cobá has yet to be excavated, travellers can climb the 138ft-high Nohoch Mul — a pyramid that offers sweeping views over the Yucatán jungle. Cobá is also known for its sophisticated sacbe,   or ‘white road’2,   network —   limestone pathways that connect the city to neighbouring settlements.

4. Palenque

Deep in the jungles of northeastern Chiapas state in southern Mexico lies Palenque , a Late Classic Maya city known for its detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions and sculpted reliefs. These highly sophisticated designs have helped archaeologists understand more of the ancient Maya's history, mythology and calendar systems.

5. Calakmul

Cloaked by the second-largest expanse of tropical forests in the Americas, in Campeche’s Calakmul Biosphere Reserve near the border with Guatemala, Calakmul is one of Mexico’s wildest Maya ruins. It has the largest and tallest pyramid in Yucatán and more than 6,000 structures, many of them covered by jungle. The site is particularly beautiful at sunrise, when the surrounding jungle comes alive with birdsong, howler monkeys and, if you’re lucky, the roar of a jaguar.

6. Ek Balam

Around 25 miles north of the Yucatán city of Valladolid is Ek Balam , which means ‘black jaguar’ or ‘jaguar star’ in the Yucatec Maya language. The city reached its height in the eight century, when more than 20,000 people lived here. Its largest pyramid is 160 metres long and 105ft high, and contains the tomb of Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, the king of Ek Balam between 770 CE and around 797 CE. Archaeologists found the ruler buried with more than 7,000 pieces of jade, bone, ceramic, shell and precious metal, and the outside walls decorated with stone jaguars, winged creatures and human skulls.

A one-hour drive from the Yucatán capital of Merida is this seventh-century Maya city, once large enough to house 25,000 inhabitants. The Uxmal ruins are part of the Ruta Puuc, a 25-mile road network that connects Uxmal with the archaeological sites of Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, Oxkintok, Grutas de Calcehtok and Grutas de Loltún.

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