Tour to Pyramids of Giza & Saqqara and Memphis city

If you’re dreaming of stepping back into time to marvel at Egypt’s most celebrated monuments, this tour to the Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara, and Memphis offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and unique experiences—all for just $30 per person. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and professional itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded day that balances iconic sightseeing with authentic touches.

What we really appreciate about this tour are the expertly guided narratives, the opportunity for memorable photos at the Pyramids Panorama, and the chance to enjoy a traditional Egyptian lunch. The private nature of the tour ensures a more personalized experience, free from the hustle and bustle of large groups.

However, one potential consideration is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget for tickets separately. This is common with budget-friendly tours but worth noting if you’re not familiar with the process.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who want an affordable, rundown of Cairo’s ancient sites without sacrificing comfort or guidance. It’s ideal for history buffs, first-timers, or anyone eager to enjoy authentic sights with a touch of personalized service.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $30, this private tour offers good value with all essential sites included.
• Expert Guidance: A professional art historian guide enhances the experience with detailed insights.
• Flexible, Private Experience: Only your group participates, providing a more intimate visit.
• Authentic Highlights: Includes the Pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara, and Memphis, along with a camel ride.
• Cultural & Photographic Opportunities: Best viewpoints like the Pyramids Panorama provide unbeatable photo moments.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees and tickets are not included, so plan accordingly.

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

The Itinerary & What You’ll See

The day kicks off around 9:00 am with hotel or port pickup, setting you on your journey through Egypt’s history-rich landscape. The first stop is Giza, home to the famed Three Pyramids—Khufu, Khafra, and Merenka—each a marvel of engineering and a testament to ancient Egyptian ingenuity. The Khufu Pyramid (also known as the Great Pyramid) is the star of the show, towering over the desert and offering an awe-inspiring sight.

One of the tour’s highlights, often mentioned in reviews, is the Pyramids Panorama spot. Here, you’ll get a sweeping view of nine pyramids from a hilltop vantage point, perfect for photos that capture the scale and grandeur of these structures. This viewpoint offers a perspective that you can’t get from ground level, making it a favorite among visitors.

Camel rides are included for about 30 minutes in the desert surrounding the pyramids, adding a fun, authentic touch to the visit. We loved the chance to see the desert landscape from a different angle and try a classic Egyptian activity—though it’s worth noting that some travelers, based on reviews, found guides somewhat distracted or less engaging during part of the trip.

Next, you’ll head to Sakkara, a vast necropolis famous for the Step Pyramid, considered Egypt’s first pyramid and a significant archaeological site. This stop offers fascinating insights into early pyramid construction and burial practices. Some visitors mention that the guide’s explanations were minimal, but the site itself is a treasure trove of history.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Memphis, ancient Egypt’s capital city. Here, you’ll see the giant Colossus of Ramses II, and get a sense of the scale of ancient Egyptian civilization. The trip wraps up with a drive back to your hotel, leaving you with plenty of memorable moments and photos.

The Guidance & Educational Value

A major plus for this tour is the presence of a professional art historian guide. While reviews suggest that some guides could be more engaging—one reviewer mentioned the guide was often distracted—generally, the guide’s expertise adds significant value. They help contextualize each site and answer questions, making the experience more than just sightseeing.

Having someone explain the stories behind each pyramid and statue transforms a photo opportunity into a meaningful visit. Expect explanations about the construction, purpose, and symbolism of these ancient marvels, which enrich the experience and deepen your understanding.

Transportation & Comfort

Transportation is by air-conditioned minivan, which ensures comfort during the roughly 8-hour tour. The private setup means you won’t be sharing space with strangers, enabling a more relaxed experience. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or port make logistics straightforward, especially after a long journey or early start.

The Pricing & What It Means for Value

At just $30 per person, this tour provides excellent value considering the private guide, transportation, and included activities like the camel ride. However, you’ll need to budget separately for the entrance fees, which are not included. Depending on how many sites you wish to visit and your interest in added activities, this might increase your overall cost.

Some reviews highlight that the guide’s explanations could be more detailed, but given the budget, this is a reasonable trade-off. For a rundown without breaking the bank, this tour hits a sweet spot.

Considerations & Extras

A noteworthy aspect is that entrance fees are not included, so travelers should prepare for this additional expense. The tour operates in smart casual attire, suitable for the warm Egyptian climate, and is accessible to most travelers. Children can join, provided they’re accompanied by an adult.

While the tour is generally well-organized, some travelers noted that guides might be less attentive or distracted at times. This suggests that managing expectations about guide engagement could enhance your experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an affordable, comprehensive snapshot of Egypt’s most iconic sites. It’s fantastic for first-timers wanting to tick off the major landmarks with the comfort of private transport and expert guidance. The inclusion of a camel ride and photo stops makes it engaging and fun.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, with a focus on history and culture rather than strenuous exploration, this tour offers a well-balanced itinerary. It suits those who want to maximize sightseeing while keeping costs low, and who are comfortable managing their own entrance fees and optional extras.

Final Thoughts

This Pyramids of Giza, Saqqara, and Memphis private tour strikes a good balance between affordability and authentic experience. The knowledgeable guide, private transport, and unique photo opportunities make it a solid choice for travelers eager to explore Egypt’s highlights without fuss.

While a few reviews suggest that guide engagement can vary, the overall value and convenience make it worth considering—especially if you’re on a budget or visiting Cairo for a short time. It’s an excellent way to see the key monuments, learn some fascinating facts, and enjoy Egypt’s ancient majesty firsthand.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, educational, and enjoyable day with great photo ops, this tour deserves your attention. Just remember to budget for entrance fees, and you’ll be set for a memorable adventure into Egypt’s past.

FAQ

Are entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, entrance fees and tickets are not included, so you should budget separately for access to the pyramids, Sphinx, and other sites.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pickup from your hotel or port, making it suitable for a full day of sightseeing.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is by air-conditioned minivan, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout the roughly 8-hour tour.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join as long as they are accompanied by an adult, making it family-friendly.

How long is the camel ride?
The camel ride lasts approximately 30 minutes in the desert area around the pyramids, adding an authentic touch to your visit.

What are the main sites visited?
You’ll visit the three main pyramids at Giza, the Sphinx, Sakkara with its step pyramid, and Memphis with its giant statues and relics.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended, suitable for warm weather and respectful of cultural sites.

In summary, this tour offers an excellent starting point for those who want an affordable, guided introduction to Egypt’s most famous ancient sites. Its combination of expert guides, iconic landmarks, and authentic activities makes it a compelling choice for anyone eager to connect with Egypt’s history without overspending.