All-inclusive Private Day-Tour to Giza Memphis Saqqara Camel Ride

If you’re planning a trip to Cairo and want a comprehensive, personalized glimpse into Egypt’s ancient past, this private day tour might just be your best bet. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions tell a compelling story of a well-rounded, value-packed experience.

What really draws us in are the personalized attention from an expert guide, the opportunity to see iconic sites like the Pyramids and Sphinx up close, and the unique camel ride across the desert—a rare chance to connect with history in a fun, memorable way. Plus, the tour’s inclusion of transportation, entrance fees, and a local lunch makes it a convenient all-in-one package.

One potential consideration is that the tour might feel a bit rushed at times, especially at Saqqara, which is packed with fascinating sites. Still, for those looking for a full day’s deep dive into Egypt’s early history without the hassle of organizing everything independently, this tour offers excellent value. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate storytelling, comfort, and a bit of adventure, all delivered in an intimate setting.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with an Egyptologist guide ensures tailored attention.
• All-inclusive pricing covers transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and even a camel ride.
• Comprehensive itinerary includes Giza Pyramids, Memphis, Saqqara, and the Sphinx—covering Egypt’s earliest capitals and pyramids.
• Convenient logistics with hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicles with Wi-Fi.
• Authentic activities like riding a camel around the pyramids and exploring inside some of the oldest tombs.
• Great value for money at around $55 per person, especially given the length and depth of the tour.

The Itinerary: What to Expect Each Step of the Way

Start with Giza’s Pyramids and Sphinx

Your day kicks off early at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. As you arrive at the Giza plateau, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mycerinus—the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Here, your guide will provide context about this incredible feat of engineering, explaining the historical significance of each pyramid and the surrounding structures.

Most reviewers highlight the stunning views from the top of the plateau, especially the panorama of the pyramids and the iconic Great Sphinx. As one reviewer notes, “You can see the pyramids of Cheops and those of his son Chephren, plus the Queens’ pyramids.” The Valley Temple of King Chephren and the Great Sphinx are included, allowing you to get close to these iconic symbols and hear fascinating stories about their history.

Memphis and Its Artifacts

Next, the tour takes you to Memphis, now called Mit Rahina, a small village that was Egypt’s first capital. The highlight here is the Memphis Museum, showcasing impressive artifacts such as a colossal limestone statue of King Ramesses II and the biggest alabaster sphinx ever found in Egypt—weighing around 80 tons!

While Memphis might seem like a quick stop, reviews suggest it’s well worth the visit for its historical significance and impressive relics. One traveler mentioned that Memphis was a “single site that might not require much time,” but the artifacts there are quite memorable. It’s a good reminder that sometimes, smaller sites can pack a surprising punch.

Saqqara: The Dawn of Pyramid Construction

The next stop is Saqqara, home to the world’s oldest complete stone building—the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, dating back to around 2700 B.C. This site is a must-see for anyone interested in Egypt’s architectural evolution, as it marks the transition from simple mastabas to the true pyramids.

You’ll explore the complex of King Unas and inside the pyramid of King Teti to admire the Pyramid Texts—the oldest religious texts in history. As one reviewer pointed out, “Saqqara has so much, and it’s worth spending more time there,” which suggests that even a busy tour can’t cover all its treasures thoroughly.

Following this, there’s a chance to walk through the causeway and see ancient paintings and reliefs, giving you a tactile sense of Egypt’s early religious practices and burial customs. A highlight, according to reviews, is the interior of the Teti pyramid—fascinating and surprisingly well-preserved.

Lunch with a View

A highlight of the tour is the lunch break in a local restaurant overlooking the Giza pyramids. This provides a relaxing pause with a view, allowing you to enjoy authentic Egyptian cuisine while soaking in the scene of these legendary structures. The hotel-style setting offers both comfort and a great photo opportunity.

Giza Plateau and Camel Ride

Back on the plateau, you’ll visit the Mit Rahina Museum, which includes the Great Pyramid of Cheops—the only remaining wonder of the original Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Here, a panoramic view from the highest point of the plateau sets the scene for your camel ride.

The camel ride lasts about 30 minutes and offers a fun, authentic experience that many reviewers appreciated. One said, “The camel ride around the pyramids was a highlight,” providing an extra layer of connection to Egypt’s ancient landscape. You’ll see the pyramids from a different perspective—up close and on a gentle sway—while the guide shares stories of how camels have been part of Egyptian life for centuries.

Following this, your guide takes you down to visit the Valley Temple of King Chephren and the Great Sphinx, completing a full circle of Egypt’s most famous monuments.

End of Day and Return

After a full day of exploration, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel, usually around 5 or 6 pm. The transportation is air-conditioned and equipped with Wi-Fi, making the return comfortable, and the included entrance fees mean no unexpected costs.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At roughly $55 per person, this experience packs in a lot—covering key sites, providing a knowledgeable guide, and including transport, lunch, and activities like the camel ride. Given the comprehensive nature and the private setting, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to see the highlights of Egypt’s early civilization without the stress of planning every detail.

Authentic Experiences and Expert Guidance

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Fatma S, who bring stories to life and share insider insights you won’t find in guidebooks. The small group size (or private setting) means you get personalized attention and flexible pacing.

Convenience and Comfort

Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and Wi-Fi make the long day comfortable and stress-free. Plus, the lunch overlooking the pyramids enhances the experience without extra planning.

A Touch of Adventure

The camel ride adds a fun, memorable element that transforms a typical sightseeing day into a true adventure. It’s a chance to see the pyramids from a different angle and enjoy some lighthearted fun.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that balances sightseeing with comfort. It’s geared towards those interested in history, architecture, and culture with a desire for a personal touch. If you’re traveling with family, groups, or even solo travelers who appreciate expert stories and a flexible itinerary, this tour fits the bill.

While it might not be ideal for those wanting to spend endless hours at every site, it offers enough time to appreciate the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. It’s especially suited for travelers with a moderate budget who value guided insights, convenience, and authentic activities like the camel ride.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup, so you’ll start your day bright and early to beat the crowds and maximize sightseeing time.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention and flexible pacing.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees to the sites visited—Giza pyramids, Memphis museum, Saqqara pyramids, and others—are included in the price.

What’s the duration of the camel ride?
The camel ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the experience and take photos without it dragging on.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a local lunch in a restaurant overlooking the Giza pyramids, providing a taste of authentic Egyptian cuisine.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Check with the provider if you have young children or special requirements.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The round-trip transportation is air-conditioned and equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey back after a long day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

This private Giza, Memphis, and Saqqara tour offers a well-rounded, engaging day filled with iconic monuments, fascinating history, and unique activities like camel riding. The knowledgeable guides and all-inclusive setup make it a convenient choice for those wanting a rich, stress-free introduction to Egypt’s ancient past.

For travelers who value personalized service, authentic experiences, and excellent value, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s particularly suited for those new to Egypt or anyone eager to see the core highlights without the hassle of self-planning.

Whether you’re a history buff, a culture seeker, or just someone looking to tick off Egypt’s famous sites in a single day, this experience offers a meaningful and memorable way to connect with the country’s extraordinary heritage.