Half-Day Saqqara Pyramids and Memphis Tour from Cairo
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4h
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About this experience
View the pyramids and sites of early ancient Egypt on this enthralling half-day tour from Cairo. With an expert guide, travel in an air-conditioned vehicle to Saqqara to see the magnificent Step Pyramid of Zoser, the world’s oldest stone pyramid. Continue to the site of Memphis, the ancient capital of Lower Egypt, to view what remains of this once colossal city. Admire its relics in the open-air museum, including a giant, fallen statue of Ramses II. These lesser known, but fascinating sites attract fewer tourists, making them wonderful to explore.
Available options
Private Saqqara Tour
Small Group Saqqara Tour
What's included
Tips on what else to see, do and eat during your stay
Explore the legendary pyramids of Saqqara
Visit to Memphis, the ancient capital of Lower Egypt and the Old Kingdom of Egypt
Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
Entrance fees to Saqqara and Memphis
Join a Local English-speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Located approximately 30 km south of modern-day Cairo, Saqqara is a vast, ancient burial ground in Egypt with the world's oldest standing step pyramid. It's the first stop on our private day tour from Cairo, and certainly is an impressive way to start the day. Designed by Imhotep for King Djoser (c.2667-2648 BC), the Step Pyramid is the oldest complete stone-hewn building complex known in history, and is surrounded by other small pyramids dating back to the 5th and 6th Dynasties.
Although Saqqara was eclipsed as the burial ground of royalty by Giza and the Valley of the Kings in Thebes (near Luxor), it remained an important complex for burials and cult ceremonies for more than 3,000 years.
2
Next up, we're off to Memphis, which functioned as the ancient capital of Lower Egypt and of the Old Kingdom of Egypt from its foundation until around 2200 BC. The modern towns of Dahshur and Saqqara lie within the administrative borders of historical Memphis. Wander around, explore, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of some really, really old cities. Careful not to stand in place for too long - you might mummify!
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children below the age of 6 are not permitted on this tour.
Please dress modestly, yet considering the heat. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and light fabrics like cotton are advisable.
Meeting point
Pharaohs Hotel, 12 Lotfy Hassouna, St, Dokki, Giza Governorate
Important notes
Dress Code
Please dress modestly yet considering the heat. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and light fabrics like cotton are advisable.
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About Giza
Giza, home to the iconic Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, is a city steeped in ancient history and modern intrigue. Just a short distance from Cairo, Giza offers a blend of ancient wonders and bustling urban life, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
Top Attractions
Great Pyramids of Giza
The iconic Great Pyramids, including the Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure, are the last standing wonders of the ancient world.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Great Sphinx of Giza
The enigmatic Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is a symbol of ancient Egypt and a must-see attraction.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Solar Boat Museum
This museum houses the reconstructed solar boat of Pharaoh Khufu, discovered near the Great Pyramid.
Historical
1 hour
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Saqqara
Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Dahshur
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Camel Market
The Camel Market is a unique and bustling market where you can see and buy camels, as well as experience traditional Egyptian commerce.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (Purchases extra)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Koshari
A hearty dish made with lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.
Dinner
Vegetarian
Ful Medames
A traditional breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Breakfast
Vegan
Grilled Kofta
Spiced minced meat (usually lamb or beef) shaped into sausages and grilled to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Molokhia
A green leafy vegetable soup, often served with chicken or rabbit and eaten with bread.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian (if made without meat)
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides over the pyramids
Quad biking in the desert
Spa treatments
Beach visits in Alexandria
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional Egyptian performances
Boat tours on the Nile
Visiting historical sites during the cooler months
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the ancient sites.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Giza is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Avoid accepting help from strangers, especially at tourist sites.
- • Use reputable tour companies and guides.
Getting there
By air
- Cairo International Airport • 25 km from Giza
By train
Giza Station
By bus
Giza Bus Station, Downtown Cairo Terminals
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Giza. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Pyramids Road
Downtown Giza
Haram
Day trips
Cairo
20 km • Half day to full day
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions, including the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Coptic Cairo.
Saqqara
20 km • Half day to full day
Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Dahshur
30 km • Half day to full day
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.
Festivals
Cairo International Film Festival • November (dates vary)
Eid al-Fitr • End of Ramadan (dates vary)
Coptic Christmas • January 7
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the ancient sites and their significance.
- Visit the pyramids early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense heat.
- Bargain politely but firmly when shopping at markets and souks.
- Carry small bills and coins for easier transactions, as change can be hard to come by.
- Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
