Private Tour: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx & Saqqara Step Pyramid Day Trip
Spend a private day with a guide across the Giza Plateau and Saqqara. See the Great Pyramids, the iconic Sphinx, and Egypt’s oldest major stone monument—the Step Pyramid—while avoiding crowds and navigating logistics with local expertise.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start at first light
Morning visits beat the heat and offer softer light for photography and clearer views of the plateau.
Hydration and sun protection
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water, sunscreen, and a brimmed hat—shade is limited across the sites.
Wear sturdy footwear
Expect uneven limestone and packed sand; closed-toe shoes with grip reduce fatigue and slip risk.
Respect site rules
Do not climb monuments or remove stones; follow your guide’s directions to protect fragile archaeology.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the lower Giza plateau at sunset for quieter views and city-light contrasts
- •Explore the smaller tombs at Saqqara for detailed reliefs that reveal daily life in the Old Kingdom
Wildlife
- •Feral cats that frequent visitor areas
- •Common kestrels and other small raptors hunting over the plateau
Conservation Note
Tourism pressures and urban expansion challenge preservation; follow marked paths, avoid touching stonework, and support guides who promote responsible practices.
The Giza pyramids date to the 4th Dynasty (c. 2600–2500 BCE); Saqqara’s Step Pyramid (Djoser) predates them and marks an early monumental shift to stone construction.
What to Bring
Closed-toe walking shoesEssential
Protects feet on limestone, sand, and worn stone surfaces.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Essential for midday sun and long exposures on open plateau areas.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is crucial; bottled water is often provided but refillable reduces waste.
Light daypack
Carries layers, water, camera, and personal items comfortably during the day.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour runs about 8 hours and typically includes pick-up and drop-off in Cairo with time at both Giza and Saqqara.
Are entrance fees included?
Confirm with the operator — many private tours include entry fees, but policies vary so check the booking details.
Is this suitable for children or seniors?
Yes; the route is low-impact with short walks, but bring shade and rest breaks for heat-sensitive travelers.
Can I go inside the pyramids?
Access inside the Great Pyramid or other structures is limited, may require additional tickets, and can involve tight, steep passageways.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Cairo, Cairo
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves multiple short walks on uneven ground that require basic mobility.
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