Egypt is one of the most fascinating places in the world. With a profoundly rich history. It is one of the most mysterious destinations on the planet.There is literally so much history and culture to experience here.
The Great Pyramid of Giza also called as The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest Egyptian pyramid and served as the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu, who ruled under the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom.It is the largest pyramid built in ancient Egypt.Nearly 3,100 years ago, Memphis was the capital of Egypt and Giza served as the burial grounds for the royals. The three pyramid complexes were created in honour of their kings -Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, Pyramid of Menkaure. The oldest of the Pyramids of Giza were built roughly in 2550 to 2490 B.C. The Great Pyramid was the world's tallest man-made structure for more than 3,800 years.
The pyramids are located on the west side of the Nile River because this is the side the sun sets on. Back thousands of years ago, Egyptians believed that the living should be on the east side where the sun rises while the dead should be on the other side.The area known as the Giza Complex includes the Giza Necropolis, Sphinx, Pyramids, and Valley Temple of Khafre.
Giza Pyramid Complex is located about 18 km away from Downtown Cairo.It is open from 8 am to 4 pm daily (stretched out to 5 pm during the summer). You will absolutely want the full day to explore so come early. Entry tickets are approximately for 1,167 EGP each.
I’d highly recommend getting a guide to explore the pyramids. It’ll make your day so much better and you’ll get more insight.
There are 4 major modes of transport to reach the Pyramid Complex of Giza from Downtown Cairo:
1. Private taxi :The most comfortable way and does not involve complex efforts from your side. From your hotel/hostel, just walk on the main streets, wave your hands and hire a taxi, that’s it. Pyramid complex is about 30 minutes away from Downtown.A taxi from Cairo airport to Giza will cost around 200 EGP.
2. Book a Cab: Uber cabs are easily available throughout Cairo. Careem is another ride-hailing app that offers taxi services in Cairo just like Uber.A Uber/Careem ride from Downtown Cairo to the pyramids will cost around 150 EGP.
3. Public Buses: The buses are relatively cheaper than the taxis. These buses are large, comfortable, and some have air-conditioners also. The fare is about 2-4 EGP from downtown to the pyramids.
4. Cairo Metro: The city has an efficient metro network. It does not cover the entire city, but it covers the notable tourist attractions in Cairo.However, There is no metro station in the direct vicinity of the pyramid complex, but Giza metro station (El-Giza or Giza) is located about 10 km away. Therefore, you have to follow two steps to reach the Pyramid Complex from Downtown Cairo. In the first step, travel by a metro train from Downtown to Giza and in the second step, travel by a public bus or hired cab from Giza to the Pyramid Complex.
Cairo is a busy city and the traffic is crazy. If you are traveling pretty much anywhere in Cairo, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get around. I would definitely opt to NOT drive yourself. It’s much easier to hire a driver, or even use Uber.
Best time to visit:
The summers can get crazy hot in Egypt, and if you visit in July or August, the heat is oppressive, making it difficult to explore. The best time to visit Egypt is from October to April.
Plan your trip well in advance so you can avoid the seasonal increase in flights, tours and accommodation as much as possible.
Travel Tips:
1. Avoid Fridays - Fridays are the holy days in Egypt rather than Sundays. While the Pyramids of Giza are still open on Fridays, they are seriously crowded.
2. Wear comfortable clothes, shoes, a hat, and sunglasses.And yes, sunscreen is a must.
3. Do not drink tap water.
