Private Tour To Giza Pyramids, Memphis City, Dahshur And Sakkara Pyramids

If you’re planning a trip to Cairo, chances are the pyramids are high on your list—and for good reason. This private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Egypt’s most iconic archaeological sites, combined with expert guidance and hassle-free transportation. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect.

One of the standout features we love is the convenience of door-to-door pickup and private transport, which really helps maximize your day without the stress of navigating busy streets or bargaining with taxis. The knowledgeable Egyptologist driver-guides clearly make a difference, offering insights that bring the sites to life and answering all your questions. Plus, with admissions and lunch included, you won’t be hit with surprise costs, making this an attractive value for those eager to explore comprehensively.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the potential for heavy tourist traffic and haggling at certain sites, which can detract from the experience if you’re not prepared. Still, for travelers who value a curated, all-inclusive day with expert narration, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This experience is best suited for history buffs, first-time visitors wanting a rundown, or anyone short on time but eager to see Egypt’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Visits to Giza Pyramids, Memphis, Saqqara, and Dahshur in one day.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup.
• Expert Guidance: Egyptologist driver-guides provide detailed commentary.
• Hassle-Free Entry: Tickets and lunch included, so no additional costs or planning.
• Balanced Itinerary: A mix of famous sites and less crowded pyramids.
• Good Value: At $120 per person, with personal guide and full access, it’s a thorough introduction to Egypt’s ancient wonders.

The Itinerary in Detail

Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx

Your day kicks off with a pick-up from your Cairo or Giza hotel around 8:00 am, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free experience. The first stop is the Giza Plateau, home to the Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus, along with the world-famous Great Sphinx. Expect to spend around two hours here, exploring the grandeur of these iconic structures.

According to reviews, the guides are quite knowledgeable and eager to share details. One reviewer mentioned their guide, Mr. Egypt Tours, was “extremely knowledgeable,” making the experience more engaging and memorable. You might find yourself captivated by stories of how these pyramids were built, or inspired by the sheer scale — a true reminder of Egypt’s ancient engineering prowess.

Saqqara and the Step Pyramid

Next, the tour visits Saqqara, about 30 km south of Cairo. Here, you’ll see the Step Pyramid of Zoser, believed to be the world’s oldest major stone structure, dating back to the 3rd Dynasty. This site offers a different vibe compared to Giza—more intimate, less crowded—and you’ll appreciate wandering through the ancient tombs and pyramids.

Most travelers find this stop especially rewarding. Reviews note the “somewhat rigorous climb” into the Red Pyramid — so comfortable shoes are recommended. After touring Saqqara, you’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch, included in the tour price, which helps break up the day and gives you a taste of Egyptian cuisine.

Memphis and the Alabaster Sphinx

Following lunch, the trip continues to Memphis, the first capital of unified Egypt, founded by King Menes. Here, you’ll see the Statue of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx of Memphis. This site offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s ancient political and cultural heart, with historical significance that dates back over 3,000 years.

The reviews highlight how having an Egyptologist guide enriches the experience, offering context and stories that bring the ruins alive. Expect about an hour here, enough to soak in the history and snap some photos.

Dahshur Pyramids

The final site is Dahshur, home to the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid — notable for their unique shapes and historical importance. Located about 40 km south of Cairo, these pyramids are less crowded and often less visited than Giza, making for a quieter, more reflective experience.

Visitors have pointed out the impressive scale of the Red Pyramid, and the chance to walk around a site with fewer travelers than Giza. The pyramids here date back to around 2600 BC, offering a different perspective on pyramid-building techniques. Expect about two hours exploring this area, taking in the historic structures and capturing stunning photos.

What This Tour Means for You

Transportation and Comfort: Having a private, air-conditioned vehicle means you’ll be comfortable through the often hot Egyptian day. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off ensure you’re not wasting time or energy on logistics.

Guided Insights: The experience of knowledgeable guides — some reviewers mention guides who are “incredible” and “extremely knowledgeable” — adds depth to what you see. They clarify the significance of each site and answer all your questions, making this a highly educational experience.

All-Inclusive Convenience: Tickets, lunch, bottled water — everything’s included. This means fewer unexpected costs and hassles, especially for those unfamiliar with Egyptian site procedures or customs.

Time Management: The 7-8 hour schedule strikes a good balance, allowing you to visit all major sites without rushing. The tour is designed to give a broad overview, perfect for first-timers or those with limited time.

Possible Downsides or Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, some mention haggling or extra costs at certain sites, especially at the pyramids or for activities like camel rides. One reviewer noted being charged $90 for entry into the Bent Pyramid, which is significantly higher than typical entrance fees and highlights the importance of clarifying costs beforehand.

Plus, because the itinerary covers four major sites, the day can be quite busy and physically demanding, especially if climbing or walking around pyramids is involved. Arriving prepared with comfortable shoes and water is advised.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want a rundown without the stress of planning each site individually. It also suits solo travelers or couples looking for a personalized experience, as the private guide ensures intimacy and flexibility.

History buffs will appreciate the depth of commentary, while those wanting to maximize their limited time in Cairo will find the itinerary well-paced. However, if you prefer an extremely relaxed pace or want to explore sites at your leisure, this might feel a bit packed.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience of Egypt’s most famous and significant pyramids, along with a taste of Memphis and Saqqara. The inclusion of admissions, lunch, and hotel pickup makes it a straightforward, valuable choice, especially for those who want expert narration and comfort.

Thanks to multiple reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and value for money, it’s clear that this tour delivers a lot of bang for your buck. It’s a great way to see the highlights without the chaos of trying to organize transport or tickets yourself.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized, and insightful day exploring ancient Egypt — and don’t mind a full schedule — this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel in Cairo or Giza, making logistics simple and stress-free.

How long does the tour last? The full experience is approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8:00 am, allowing ample time to visit all four sites.

Are tickets and lunch included? Yes, entrance fees to all sites and a local lunch are covered in the price, ensuring no hidden costs.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking and climbing involved at some sites. Bring water and sun protection if visiting in warmer months.

Can I customize the tour? Since it’s a private experience, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, though the fixed itinerary covers the major highlights.

Is this suitable for children? While suitable for most travelers, be aware that some sites involve physical activity, so children should be prepared for walking and climbing.

To sum it up, this private Giza pyramids tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sights, expert guidance, and hassle-free logistics — making it a smart choice for travelers wanting to make the most of their time in Cairo. It’s perfect for those eager to deepen their understanding of Egypt’s ancient monuments while enjoying a comfortable, well-organized day.