Dahshur Pyramid And Memphis City Tour

Visiting the Egyptian pyramids is a bucket-list moment for many travelers, and the Dahshur Pyramid and Memphis City Tour offers an excellent way to explore these iconic sites while avoiding the crowds of Giza. This private, four-hour adventure is packed with history, stunning views, and expert guidance—making it a standout experience near Cairo.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances affordable pricing with authentic, less touristy sites. The knowledgeable guides really bring the history to life, the transportation is comfortable and efficient, and the mix of pyramids, statues, and ancient ruins makes for a memorable day. However, keep in mind that this is a half-day tour, so if you’re craving an even more in-depth look or want to explore Giza’s pyramids extensively, you might want to consider longer options.

This experience is perfect for anyone interested in Egyptian history, architecture enthusiasts, or travelers seeking a quieter, more intimate look at the pyramids away from the busy Giza plateau. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guided insight and comfortable travel logistics.

Key Points

• Authentic Sites: Visit lesser-visited pyramids at Dahshur, including the Bent Pyramid, along with Memphis’s ancient statues.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making history engaging.
• Comfortable Transportation: All transfers are private, air-conditioned, and smooth.
• Value for Money: For $85, the tour includes entrance fees, bottled water, and full guidance—offering solid value.
• Flexible & Private: Only your group participates, with pickup and drop-off from your hotel.
• Timing & Pacing: The 4-hour duration is well-paced, with enough time at each site without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Stop 1: Pyramids of Dahshur – A Quiet Wonder

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel, usually around 9:00 am, with a private vehicle whisking you to Dahshur, about 40 km south of Cairo. This site is home to the famous Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built during the reign of Pharaoh Snefru around 2613–2589 BC.

According to reviews, this is a highlight for many visitors. One traveler mentioned, “We got there early, so we had the pyramid to ourselves for a good amount of time.” The Bent Pyramid is particularly striking because of its unusual shape—an early attempt at stability that resulted in its distinctive bent appearance. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity, especially since most visitors don’t get the chance to enter pyramids here, making your experience more intimate and less crowded than Giza.

Stop 2: Memphis – A Glimpse into the Old Capital

Next, the tour takes you to Memphis, once Egypt’s first capital founded by King Menes. You’ll see the statue of Ramses II, a giant alabaster Sphinx, and an overview of the ancient city’s importance in Egyptian civilization. One reviewer highlighted the guide’s ability to explain complex history simply, making this stop both educational and enjoyable.

Expect about an hour here, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions. The site’s fewer visitors mean you can soak in the history without feeling overwhelmed. The guide’s insights, shared during the visit, are often praised—many say they learned things they hadn’t known before, thanks to friendly and knowledgeable guides.

Stop 3: The Pyramids of Dahshur – More Time for Exploration

Back to Dahshur for a deeper look, this time spending around two hours exploring more pyramids. Aside from the Bent Pyramid, you might see the Red Pyramid, Egypt’s first successful smooth-sided pyramid, and other ancient tombs in the area.

Several reviews mention being able to spend time inside the pyramids, which is rare at Giza. One traveler shared, “We spent time alone in a giant pyramid—an experience that felt both humbling and awe-inspiring.” The quiet atmosphere makes this stop a favorite, especially for those who love off-the-beaten-path experiences.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides Who Truly Know Their Stuff

Multiple reviews rave about guides like Mahmoud, Dalia, and Imán, who deliver engaging commentary packed with facts and stories that bring Egypt’s ancient past alive. One guest noted, “Our guide Mahmoud was very friendly and patient, with extensive knowledge about the pyramids and Memphis.” Their passion and expertise shine through, making this tour more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an educational journey.

Authentic Sites Less Crowded Than Giza

While the Great Pyramids at Giza are iconic, they’re often crowded and commercialized. Dahshur and Memphis offer a more authentic, tranquil experience. Visitors frequently mention how the early start allowed them to explore the pyramids with minimal other travelers around. This quietness elevates the overall enjoyment and sense of discovery.

Comfortable and Convenient

All transportation is by private, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a big plus in Egypt’s warm climate. The pickup and drop-off service from your hotel ensures a hassle-free experience. The tour includes all entrance fees and bottled water, which keeps things simple and transparent.

Great Value for the Price

For $85 per person, you get a well-organized, guided tour that covers multiple sites, including entrance fees. Many reviewers agree that the quality of guides and the sites visited justify the price. The inclusion of bottled water and private transportation adds to the overall value, especially considering the personalized experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Transportation & Timing

Starting early at around 9:00 am (though some reviews mention an 8:00 am start), the timing allows for a cooler, more peaceful visit. The private vehicle ensures comfort, especially on long drives between sites. The roughly four-hour schedule keeps the trip manageable, leaving you plenty of time to explore each site without rushing.

Entrance & Accessibility

All entrance fees are included, which is a relief as it prevents surprise expenses upon arrival. While the tour focuses on outdoor sites, some pyramids allow entry, and visitors have reportedly spent time alone inside—an unusual treat. However, tickets to go inside the pyramids are not included separately and may require additional payment if you wish to explore that aspect.

Guides & Insight

The guides are frequently praised for their friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge. Examples include stories about the construction of the pyramids, the significance of Memphis, and the history of Ramses II. Their ability to explain complex history in an engaging way truly enhances the experience.

Sites Visited & Highlights

• Dahshur’s Pyramids: Unique shapes, early construction techniques, and rarely crowded.
• Memphis: Impressive statues and a glimpse into Egypt’s first capital.
• Additional Pyramids: Time to explore and take photos, with some guests entering pyramids for a closer look.

What Travelers Love

Reviews consistently mention being able to explore Egypt’s ancient sites at a relaxed pace, the expert guidance, and the value of seeing lesser-known sites. One reviewer said, “We did this trip with Mahmoud and had a great time. He presents facts in an interesting way and you won’t be bored.”

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for history lovers who want more than just the Giza Pyramids, offering a more authentic, less crowded experience. It’s perfect if you prefer guided insights from friendly, knowledgeable guides and value comfort and convenience. The half-day duration makes it suitable for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting a gentle introduction to Egypt’s ancient wonders.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and looking for a personalized, educational experience, this tour ticks those boxes. Just keep in mind that it’s a half-day trip, so if you want to explore Giza’s pyramids in depth or see other sites like Saqqara, you might consider combining this with additional tours.

The Sum Up

The Dahshur Pyramid and Memphis City Tour offers a fantastic blend of authenticity, expert guidance, and comfort. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy fewer touristy sites with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. The highlights—like the Bent Pyramid, the fewer visitors, and the fascinating statues at Memphis—make it a memorable experience packed into just four hours.

For those eager to learn about Egypt’s early dynasties and see iconic sites without the Giza crowds, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s especially suited for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, or visitors on a tight schedule looking for a meaningful, authentic glimpse into Egypt’s past.

If you want a personalized, hassle-free, and insightful journey into Egypt’s ancient wonders, this tour is a solid pick that will leave you with stories to tell for years.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel and drop-off afterward, making the experience hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, providing enough time to see key sites without feeling rushed.

What sites are visited?
You’ll visit the Pyramids of Dahshur, including the Bent and Red Pyramids, and Memphis to see the statues and relics of Egypt’s first capital.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all listed entrance fees are included in the $85 price.

Can I go inside the pyramids?
Tickets to go inside pyramids are not included in the package. Some reviews mention spending time inside the pyramids, but check ahead if this is a priority.

Is the tour private?
Yes, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility and interest in history for younger children or elderly travelers.

What language are guides available in?
Tours are conducted with guides who are friendly and knowledgeable, but the data doesn’t specify language options—likely English.

How do I book this tour?
You can book in advance, averaging 94 days ahead, through platforms like Viator or directly via Sun Pyramids Tours.

What is the value of this tour?
For the price, you get a well-organized, insightful experience that covers multiple key sites, making it a great value for those wanting a meaningful, guided look at Egypt’s pyramids and Memphis.

This tour offers a balanced, well-reviewed way to explore Egypt’s lesser-known pyramids and Memphis with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and the kind of insights that make history come alive. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic sites, fewer crowds, and expert storytelling—all wrapped into a four-hour adventure.