Visiting the Pyramids of Giza is an experience that leaves a lasting impression, but one that requires a minimum of preparation. From the different sites to see, to the timetables to be aware of, to the best time to visit, we've got the essentials to help you have the best possible time. Here's all the practical advice you need to organise your visit and know what to bring with you.
What are the pyramids of Giza? Why visit them?
The Pyramids of Giza are a group of Egyptian pyramids very close to Cairo, forming an ancient necropolis. There are three main pyramids:
- The pyramid of Khéops: the most imposing, 138 metres high. In its day, it was the tallest and most voluminous human construction in the world. In ancient times, it was considered to be the first of the Seven Wonders of the World. In fact, it features in our article on the Wonders of the World you should see at least once in your life.
- The Pyramid of Khephren: the second largest in the complex and in Egypt, it can be recognised by its top, which is still covered in limestone.
- The pyramid of Mykerinos : the smallest of the three, 63 metres high.
Together, they form the most famous pyramids in Egypt, and certainly in the world. They are also the largest in the country. The pyramid of Cheops is not only the oldest of them all, but also the only one to have survived to the present day. It is therefore an exceptional testimony to ancient Egypt, its way of life and its engineering. In fact, it features in our article on ancient sites that can still be visited. This exceptional site has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. A visit to the pyramids of Giza is therefore a must on any trip to Egypt.
Article to read: plan your trip in more depth with our article on the best things to do in Cairo.
How to organise your visit Must-sees
Discover Egypt's great historical treasures on this half-day tour from Cairo. Among other things, you'll visit the Great Pyramid of Giza and the famous Sphinx.
There are two entrances to the pyramids of Giza. The first is near the Pyramid of Cheops, while the second is near the Sphinx, which is more convenient and generally involves less waiting. It also offers a great view as soon as you arrive.
You can visit the Pyramids of Giza with or without a guide, but a guided tour allows you to better navigate and understand this site with its very complex history. If you opt for this option, it is essential to select the guide or agency carefully in advance, to find a reliable and reputable provider. The entrance to the pyramids is also a place where salesmen and camel-drivers are often solicited: to avoid unpleasant surprises, it is best to book the services you are interested in in advance and politely refuse if you do not want any services. In fact, contrary to what some merchants may advertise, note that even though the site is vast, you can still visit it on foot. However, you need to take into account the visiting conditions. The plateau is very spread out, with no shade or water sources, which makes walking tiring in very hot weather. So remember to take a bottle of water, a hat and sun cream. As far as clothing is concerned, it's best to wear light, covering clothes such as linen or cotton to protect you from the sun. Finally, don't forget that climbing the monuments is forbidden.
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The must-see sites are as follows:
- The pyramid of Cheops: you can visit the interior of the most famous pyramid in the world and access the burial chamber. Access is sometimes limited.
- Khephren's pyramid: its interior is also open to the public, but is closed more frequently for conservation or maintenance work.
- The pyramid of Mykerinos: it is also possible to enter the interior, but access may also be restricted at certain times.
- The Pyramids of the Queens: these three satellite pyramids, which are smaller structures, were used in particular by the wives of Pharaoh Cheops.
- The Sphinx: it is thought to have guarded the burial tombs. It is on the same site as the pyramids and is included in the tour.
- Panoramic views: move away from the pyramids, particularly to the south and west, and you'll be able to step back and take in some wonderful panoramic views, as well as detaching yourself from the crowds.
What to read: extend your trip to Egypt by reading our article on the best things to do in Sharm el-Sheikh.
What are the prices and opening times?
Here are the prices for visiting the Pyramids of Giza. Please note that they are subject to change and that we have provided them for information only. It is best to check the prices in force on site:
- Admission to the site, full price: 700 EGP
- Admission to the site, student rate: 350 EGP
- Entrance to the interior of the Cheops Pyramid: EGP 1,000
- Entrance to the Pyramid of Khephren or Mykerinos: 280 EGP
You can also enjoy a sound and light show after dark. This involves projections onto the pyramids and the Sphinx. A separate ticket must be purchased on site.
Times vary according to the season. Once again, it's best to check directly on site. They are as follows
- April to September: 7am to 7pm.
- October to March: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Please note that the interior of the pyramids may be closed for maintenance or conservation work.
Full excursion: Visit the world's first pyramid at Saqqara, the ancient ruins of Memphis, the pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Temple of the Valley by booking your half-day tour from Cairo right here.
When should you visit the Pyramids of Giza?
Winter and spring are the best times to visit the Pyramids of Giza. This avoids the intense heat of the Egyptian summer. If you're visiting in the summer, we strongly recommend that you plan a visit first thing in the morning to escape the heat. Even in winter, it's a good idea to arrive at the opening to take advantage of the minimal number of visitors to the site. Don't expect to enjoy the sunset on site, as the site always closes earlier. In both summer and winter, avoid weekends and school holidays if possible, as these are busy periods.
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How much time should I allow?
You should allow half a day to visit the Pyramids of Giza, i.e. around 2 to 4 hours. If you have a passion for history or photography, you should allow 5 hours to visit the site so that you don't have to rush. This also allows you to calibrate your breaks, drink and avoid rushing when the heat rises or the light changes. Note also that if you want to take good photos, the light changes very quickly on the plateau. In the morning, the sun shines on the pyramids from the front, highlighting their relief and giving a sharp rendering. In the afternoon, the light becomes warmer, ideal for golden shots but with more shadows. It may therefore be worth spreading out your visit to take advantage of the changing light.
Visiting the Sphinx of Giza
The Sphinx of Giza is a must-see for anyone wishing to visit the pyramids of Giza. At 20 metres high and 73 metres long, it is considered to be the largest monolithic sculpture in the world (i.e. carved from a single stone). Archaeologists and historians believe that it was used to guard the pyramids. It is thought to have been made around 2500 BC, during the reign of Khafren. It is assumed that his face, now eroded and damaged, was inspired by that of the pharaoh. Fragments of this face are now in the British Museum.
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