Visiting the Pyramids In Egypt

The Pyramids and the Great Sphinx in Egypt, have endless seductive appeal, making them a dream trip for many travelers. Not only because they are beautiful and amazing feats of engineering, built almost 5,000 years ago, but also because there are so many mysteries surrounding them. Mysteries we don’t fully know the answers to, drawing us to them over and over again.

Yet Egypt sometimes gets bad reviews, which can make travel to Egypt a concern for some people. Travelers definitely get a lot of attention from locals trying to make a living, but I consider this to be a part of the culture, not something to deter me from visiting. I’ve visited twice, and yes, I’ve been frustrated at times, but I’ve also met very generous and kind people. In the end, I’m very glad I went, and I would go again.

My advice is to definitely go ahead and visit, but be prepared for, and learn to deflect some of the attention. The best way to do this is to walk like you always know what you are doing, firmly saying no, and simply walking away.

In total, I’ve spent over five weeks in Egypt, seeing the sights in Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and Alexandria, as well as scuba diving in Sharm el-Sheikh. It was beyond amazing to see everything, experience some of the best diving in the world, as well as to learn about the culture and meet the locals.

This post covers the visiting the Pyramids and related sites from the Old Kingdom, known as ‘The Age of the Pyramids’, including an overview, tips, from my experience, and how to get there.

Visiting The First Pyramids

When visiting the pyramids, it’s best to start with the oldest ones first. The not as famous ones. So many people skip these, but I think it’s important to understand the more famous pyramids, the Pyramids of Giza. The first pyramids were the precursors to the famous Pyramids of Giza, where the pharaohs and architects learned important lessons. These sites are also less visited, and less crowded, making them even better.

Stepped Pyramid: About 2,670 – 2,650 BC

Built for Pharaoh Djoser of Dynasty III, the Stepped Pyramid is considered the first pyramid built by the Egyptians.

It’s located in Saqqara, the royal necropolis of ancient Egypt, about 20 miles (32 km) south of Cairo. It’s near Memphis, the capital of Old Egypt.

There is also a temple here and several tombs for high officials and family members of pharaohs. The Imhotep Museum is also here, dedicated to Imhotep, the pyramid’s designer/architect.

Bent Pyramid & Red Pyramid

In Dahshur, just south of Saqqara, there are two more important pyramids, both built by King Snefru, the 1st King of Dynasty IV.

The Bent Pyramid: About 2,600 BC

The Bent Pyramid was built after the Stepped Pyramid. This was the first known attempt to build a smooth-sided pyramid. Unfortunately, due to an unstable base and too severe of an angle, the design failed. Finished at a less severe angle, the pyramid has a ‘bent’ appearance.

Red Pyramid: About 2,590 BC

Sneferu’s next attempt was a success, the first smooth-sided pyramid. This is called the ‘Red Pyramid’, due to the red hue of its sandstone. It was actually once gleaming white, covered in smoothly-polished, white limestone.

There are several pyramids you can enter at this site. To get inside, you climb steps about half way up the pyramid, enter an opening, then descend over 100’ down an angled, box-like shaft. It’s cramped, so you need to be open to that.

I think it’s important to go inside one, if you can, and the Red Pyramid is a great one since it does not get as many visitors as the ones at the Giza Plateau. Entry is included in the price to visit, so there is no extra cost to go inside.

What I found fascinating inside the Red Pyramid is how meticulous the cuts and craft skills is. I didn’t expect this, as the exterior is rougher due to erosion and the fact that the smooth white ‘casing stones’ were pillaged. This is when you realize just how amazing the pyramids are. At least it was for me.

When I was here, there was a couple inside the Red Pyramid using divining rods to find energy sources. It was very interesting to talk to them. We were down there so long, the guard finally called down to make sure we were ok!

Visiting The Pyramids of Giza

The pyramids above were all stepping stones to the most well-known pyramids in Egypt, the Pyramids of Giza. They’re on the Giza Plateau, about 9 miles (15 km) southwest of Cairo. Close enough that you can see the sprawling city behind them.

There are three large pyramids, built for pharaohs Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, who each ruled in Dynasty IV. These were the son, grandson, and great-grandson of Sneferu (who built the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid). There are also three small pyramids.

The Great Pyramid of Giza: About 2,580 – 2,560 BC

The Great Pyramid of Giza, or Pyramid of Khufu, is the only wonder of the ancient world still standing. It is the largest, oldest, and northern-most pyramid in Giza.

Also once encased in polished white limestone, it stood at 481’ tall (146 m). Today, due to the pillaging of these ‘casing stones’ and erosion, it’s 455’ (138 m).

It was built by King Khufu, the son of Sneferu (above). This smooth-sided pyramid was taller than his father’s. And in addition to the highly polished limestone covering it, Khufu’s pyramid also had a ‘capstone’ of gold at the top.

The Solar Barque Museum once stood near Khufu’s pyramid. It contained the barque, or boat, many believe was intended for his afterlife. This wooden ship was moved to the Grand Egyptian Museum when it opened.

The three smaller pyramids you see on the plateau are also part of Khufu’s legacy, built for queens, and a daughter.

Pyramid of Khafre: About 2,570 BC

Khafre’s pyramid appears taller than his father’s (Khufu), but was just built on higher ground. This is the middle pyramid and is 448’ tall (136 m).

Pyramid of Menkaure: About 2,510 BC

The smallest pyramid, at 213’ (70 m), was built for Pharaoh Menkaure, Khufu’s grandson.

The Great Sphinx: Date Unknown

The Sphinx is equally fascinating. It’s one of the world’s biggest monuments, yet no one really knows who built it, when, or why, giving it powerful enigmatic appeal.

Some think the Sphinx’s face looks like Khafre and was built along with his pyramid. Others think it was built earlier, by his father Khufu, while some think it predates them both.

Carved into the limestone bedrock, they’ve also found remnants of color on it, so some think that it was once covered in very bright colors. One can only imagine how stunning it was.

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Other Things To Do Near The Pyramids

Although visiting the pyramids is the main attraction here, there are a few other things to do in the area.

Camel or Horseback Ride: Rather than renting camels or horsesfrom hawkers near the entrance, or street vendors, rent from reputable stables with good reviews. Alternatively, book a tour through places like Viator. This way you can be more confident that the animals are treated humanely. If you’re still not sure, ask the staff at your hotel.

If you prefer a tour, some top rated riding tours are:

• Top Rated Giza Pyramids, Sphinx,Camel Ride, Lunch & Inside Pyramids
• Cairo Pyramids, Great Sphinx, Private Tour With Camel Ride

Go Inside A Pyramid: the most popular pyramid to enter is the Great Pyramid of Giza. There’s not much inside, but it is amazing to see the craftsmanship from the inside. Note that entering requires walking up a small shaft in a crouched position to get to the chamber. If you do not like small spaces, or get claustrophobic, this may not be the right choice for you. On my visit, tourism was so low, I was the only one inside the pyramid for a while (after the person before me took the photo below). That was pretty amazing! On standard tours, it can be crowded.

Evening Light & Sound Show: This show at the pyramids gets mixed reviews, with the sound portion being a little overly dramatic. If you have the time, I suggest watching it, but limit your expectations. There is a fee, and it’s best to book in advance. If you are staying in Giza, close to the pyramids, you may actually be able to watch the show from your hotel for free. Many have rooftops with views of the pyramids. You will not be able to hear the sound clearly, but I found that better. If you are traveling with kids, however, would pay for the standard show.

Cemeteries & Masatabas: take some time to explore the grounds near the pyramids. There are several cemeteries and mastabas where royal family members, high officials, and celebrated builders were buried.

Top Museums

Grand Egyptian Museum

The Grand Egyptian Museum opened in November 2025. It’s one of the largest archeological museums in the world. This is a must visit. Highlights include King Tut’s treasures, including the famous gold mask and royal chariots, as well as thousands of other artifacts. It is a 10-minute drive from the Giza Plateau. I recommend getting your ticket in advance. To get tickets and for more details, visit www.gem.eg.

How to Get To The Pyramids

The Pyramids at Saqqara & Dahshur

The Pyramids at Saqqara and Dahshur are about 20 miles (32 km) south of Cairo and best reached by tour or taxi. See this list on Viator for a comprehensive list of tours at Saqqara.

If you take a taxi, try to use Uber to get the price in advance. If you take a standard taxi, negotiate the price before getting in. You can ask at your hotel or ask locals about the expected cost if you are not sure. Also, make sure to have enough small bills to pay without requiring change, as some drivers will claim they have no change.

The Pyramids of Giza

As these pyramids are closer to Cairo, they’re easier to access. Even better if you choose to stay at the hotels/hostels in Giza. I stayed in Giza on my second trip and was able to walk to these pyramids.

If you want to take a tour, there are many tours to choose from. Select one that matches your goals and has positive reviews. Alternatively, book something through your accommodation. On my first trip, I stayed in Cairo and did the latter, sharing a taxi set up by my accommodation for the day. I shared with someone else from my accomodation. It was a fabulous day and nice to only be a group of two!

Expectations While Visiting the Pyramids

Manage your expectations. The pyramids are amazing, but if you’ve watched a lot of movies or documentaries on the them, you may be shocked to see them sitting right next to the chaotic city of Cairo.

The meticulous engineering and logistics, which aren’t apparent by looking at their aged and mostly pillaged facades, is mind boggling. Until you do the math, you don’t really realize it.

For example, the Great Pyramid of Giza (Khufu) is made of about 2.3 million stones, each weighing a ton or more. And although they’re not sure exactly how long it took to build, most say 20 years. Doing the math, this means positioning and aligning over 13 blocks per hour, every hour, of every day for 20 years! All with almost impeccable precision. It almost seems inhuman, yet, they built them with the simple tools they had 4,500+ years ago!

Also, be prepared to get a lot of attention. Especially if you are not in a group. Always walk like you know exactly what you are doing. Even if you have no idea. Avoid eye contact and learn how to say no thank you in Arabic. It’s “la shukron”. The “la” part is the part means no. You can repeat that. Say it firmly and continue walking. Some people can be really persistent, but the firmer you are, the faster they get the message.

If you’ve been on a trip to the pyramids and have a comment, or are planning to visit and have a question, drop a note below.

Want To See More Of Egypt?

For more information on Egypt, see my Egypt Travel Guide. Or see my posts on Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, and Alexandria.

Note: Egypt has a history of terrorism, so always check government warnings in your country before planning a visit. If you’re a US citizen, sign up for the STEP program to be alerted if issues arise. If you’re not a US citizen, your country see if your country offers something similar.

Safe Travels!

Julie