Pyramids of Giza
What bucket list would be complete without a visit to the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt? Surprisingly, these iconic structures are quite accessible for a day trip from Cairo, the bustling capital of Egypt.
Constructed around 2560 BC, the Great Pyramid of Giza held the title of the tallest man-made structure in the world for an impressive 3,800 years. As the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, it remains the sole survivor of this ancient list.
A trip to the Giza pyramids is straightforward, with the primary activity being marvelling at these monumental stone structures. Despite the simplicity of the visit, it’s an awe-inspiring experience that every traveller should add to their itinerary.
This guide will outline how you can explore the Egyptian pyramids independently, whether you choose to join a tour or go solo, all while keeping costs low and planning to a minimum.
Key Details (Great Pyramid)
- Construction Date: 2560 BC
- Height: 150 meters (500 feet)
- Base Dimensions: 150 meters on each side (500 feet)
- Weight: Approximately 6 million tons
- Number of Stones: Around 2.3 million
- Labour Force: Over 200,000 workers
Getting to the Giza Pyramids
The Great Pyramids are on the outskirts of Giza, a suburb of Cairo, Egypt.
The closest airport is Cairo International Airport (CAI), which is well-connected with many international flights. You can compare flight options to Cairo using platforms like Skyscanner.
From the Cairo airport, the drive to Giza takes about an hour. While taxis are readily available at the arrivals area, I recommend using Uber as a more cost-effective and likely safer option.
Avoid renting a car in Egypt unless you’re accustomed to driving in the Middle East. Traffic conditions in Arab countries can be quite challenging, so it’s advisable to use a local driver who is familiar with the area.
Transportation in Egypt is quite affordable—by 2024, an Uber ride from Cairo to Giza typically costs around 340 EGP (approximately USD 7).
What to Expect When Visiting the Giza Pyramids
If you’re planning to stay overnight in Giza—something I recommend—you can first drop off your luggage at your hotel and then easily walk to the pyramids and the Sphinx.
There are many hotels in Giza within a short 5-minute walk from the main entrance to the pyramids. Many of these hotels also offer excellent rooftop views, which are worth checking out.
When you’re ready to explore the pyramids, head to the main ticket office to purchase your tickets. Be prepared to encounter scammers and touts trying to engage you; it’s best to ignore them.
As of 2024, a general admission ticket costs 540 EGP (approximately USD 11). This ticket provides access to the Sphinx and the entire pyramid complex.
If you want to explore the interior of the pyramids, rather than just viewing them from the outside (as I did), you’ll need to purchase an additional ticket.
The cost is 50 EGP to enter the pyramids of Khafre or Menkaure, and 300 EGP for the pyramid of Khufu.
The extra expense for entry isn’t necessarily worth it. The interior can be oppressively hot, and the chambers were long ago stripped of their treasures by grave robbers.
Instead of spending on these interior tickets, consider using that money for a visit to the Egyptian Museum or exploring attractions in Luxor, where you can see well-preserved tombs and valuable artefacts.
Once you’ve arrived at the pyramids and secured your tickets, the security checks at the entrance are quick and efficient.
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However, monitor your belongings. I once had cash stolen from my wallet while it was going through an X-ray machine in Egypt.
You’ll need to decide whether to visit the Sphinx or the pyramids first. The Sphinx is near the entrance, while the pyramids are about a 15-20-minute walk away. I suggest taking a camel ride to the pyramids first and then making your way back to the Sphinx on your return.
Be cautious of scams! Giza is known for its aggressive touts and scammers, much like other popular tourist spots in Egypt.
Prepare to be approached by pushy individuals claiming you can’t explore the pyramids without a guide (which is false), that you urgently need their services (which is also false), or that their camel rides are the best available (which might be true).
I once agreed to a camel ride, but the operator tried to substitute it with a horse, claiming it was just as good. Stick to your agreement and clarify that you won’t pay unless you receive what was promised.
Camel Rides at the Pyramids
If you decide to take a camel or horse ride, which I highly recommend, agree on the price and terms before you mount the animal.
It’s not uncommon for sellers to propose inflated prices once you’re already on the camel or horse, hoping you’ll feel obligated to pay more.
Always handle the payment after your ride is complete, regardless of any pressure to pay upfront.
As of 2024, the official rate set by the Egyptian government is 500 EGP (approximately USD 10) for a one-hour camel ride. There is a sign near the entrance displaying this price, which you can use as a reference if you encounter difficulties negotiating a fair rate with the touts.
The Great Sphinx of Giza
Visit the Great Sphinx while you’re there.
This iconic monument, featuring a lion’s body and a pharaoh’s head, is the oldest surviving statue in Egypt. It’s included with the 120 EGP ticket you purchased for the pyramids, so just show your ticket at the Sphinx’s entrance to gain access.
There’s a fantastic photo opportunity just outside the gate where you can capture a great shot of both the Sphinx and the Pyramid of Khafre.
When I visited, I couldn’t get a complete profile shot of the Sphinx because of scaffolding, likely to prepare for a visit by U.S. First Lady Melania Trump scheduled for the following week.
Also, take a moment to admire the enormous stone blocks at the entryway—they’re impressively massive!
Hotels Near the Egyptian Pyramids
Giza offers several excellent hotels within a 5-minute walk of the main entrance to the pyramids, many of which boast stunning rooftop views of the area.
I highly recommend spending at least one night in Giza to fully enjoy your visit at a leisurely pace. Staying overnight allows you to take in the Sound & Light Show or simply relax and watch the sunset over the pyramids.
During my stay, I chose the Marvel Stone Hotel, priced at USD 32 per night. It featured a fantastic rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the pyramids and the Sphinx, complete with comfortable seating and even a pool table.
One highlight of my trip was relaxing on the terrace, taking in the sights of the pyramids and distant camels without the interruptions of aggressive vendors.
In the evening, I enjoyed the sunset over the Pyramid of Khafre and captured some memorable photos from the rooftop.
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Giza Pyramids?
Egypt’s climate is arid, meaning it remains hot and dry throughout the year.
The most comfortable months to visit are from December to March, which is also the peak tourist season for the pyramids. However, spring and fall are also pleasant times to visit.
I travelled to Egypt in September, and while the heat was intense in places like Luxor, it was manageable in Giza. The northern region of Egypt is not as sweltering as some neighbouring Middle Eastern countries, such as Qatar or the UAE.
For photography, the best time to capture the pyramids is around noon. Although morning light can be good, dust may obscure colours. By midday, the dust often settles, providing a clearer view, with a vibrant blue sky as a backdrop.
