Saqqara, Dahshur – 10%to stray dogs and cats

Introduction

This comprehensive tour of Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis offers a rare glimpse into Egypt’s architectural evolution and cultural heritage. We love how it combines immersive site visits with expert insights, making history come alive. From exploring the Bent Pyramid to learning hieroglyphics with a trained Egyptologist, every moment feels both authentic and educational. The inclusion of a genuine Egyptian lunch and visits to local villages adds a layer of cultural richness that typical day trips often miss.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves walking and some physical activity—particularly when exploring inside the pyramids—so it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels. Also, since admission tickets are not included, you might want to budget extra for entry fees. This experience is perfect for history lovers, curious explorers, and those eager for a personalized, meaningful encounter with Egypt’s ancient sites.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Guided by a knowledgeable Egyptologist, not a typical guide, this tour offers deep insights into Egypt’s history and hieroglyphics.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Includes door-to-door hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a delicious local meal, providing convenience and comfort.
• Cultural Touches: Visits to local farms and carpet schools give a glimpse into everyday life and artisan crafts.
• Private & Flexible: Only your group participates, and the itinerary can adapt slightly, making for a personalized experience.
• Authentic Sites: The pyramids at Dahshur and Saqqara are less crowded than Giza, offering a peaceful and awe-inspiring visit.
• Animal Compassion: Safy, the guide, is known for her genuine love for stray dogs and cats, often feeding them during the tour.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The Pyramids of Dahshur: An Amazing Introduction to Pyramid Evolution

Your day starts with a visit to Dahshur, home to the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid. These are often overlooked in favor of the Giza Plateau but are arguably more impressive because of their unique architecture and calmer atmosphere. As Safy guides you through the site, you’ll learn about the pyramid’s design challenges and innovations that marked Egyptian engineering.

Multiple reviews praise the experience of entering the Dahshur pyramids—something most travelers don’t get to do. One reviewer mentioned how Safy “kept stopping in the tunnel to explain subtle things,” which added depth to the visit. Walking through the narrow passages can be a workout, but having a guide who genuinely explains each detail makes it worthwhile. This part of the tour is perfect for those who want a more intimate, less commercialized pyramid experience.

Saqqara: The Step Pyramid and Ancient Necropolis

Next, the tour moves to Saqqara, the world’s oldest stone pyramid and a treasure trove of Egyptian history. Highlights include the Step Pyramid of King Djoser, the Serapium, and the Unas Pyramid. These sites reveal the evolution of pyramid-building techniques, and Safy’s storytelling makes it easy to picture how these monuments fit into ancient Egyptian life.

Visitors can expect to spend around four hours here, exploring tombs, hieroglyphic inscriptions, and ancient burial complexes. Several reviewers appreciated the extra time and personalized attention Safy provided. One said, “she gave me plenty of time to visit everything and was never in rush,” which is a rarity in Egypt’s busy archaeological sites.

A Farm Breakfast and Local Life

A standout feature of this tour is the early morning visit to a farm in Dahshur. Imagine breakfast amid fields of eggplant, mango, corn, and dates, with butterflies fluttering around and a peaceful dawn scene. Reviews mention how Safy “brought bread for the stray dogs,” showcasing her love for animals and the authentic countryside vibe. You can choose between breakfast or lunch, and this rural experience offers a refreshing contrast to the archaeological sites.

The Carpet School Visit: Art and Livelihood

The tour wraps up with a visit to Saqqara village, where you’ll see a manual carpet weaving school. Here, locals craft carpets in traditional Egyptian, Coptic, and Islamic styles. It’s a rare chance to witness artisans at work and understand how these crafts sustain the community. Reviewers appreciated this insight, noting that it’s a genuine window into local life, not a tourist trap.

Transportation, Timing, and Overall Experience

Transportation is air-conditioned, door-to-door, making the entire day comfortable, especially in Egypt’s heat. Starting early at about 6 AM and returning around 3-4 PM, the tour offers a full day of exploration without feeling rushed. The private setup means your group won’t be squeezed into crowded buses, and you’ll benefit from personalized attention from Safy, who many reviewers describe as “knowledgeable,” “kind,” and “passionate.”

The tour is priced at $80 per person, which many consider excellent value given the rich itinerary, expert guidance, and included meals. Considering the cost of entry tickets and meals separately, the overall package feels like a wise investment for anyone serious about understanding Egypt’s archaeological heritage.

Guides and Personal Touch

Reviews consistently mention Safy’s genuine care and depth of knowledge. She doesn’t rush you, explains hieroglyphs, and even goes inside the Dahshur pyramids—the kind of extra effort that elevates this tour from average to exceptional. Her love for animals is also evident; she feeds stray dogs and cats along the route, adding a compassionate element that many travelers found touching.

Unique Aspects and Authentic Encounters

Unlike big tour companies, this experience feels personal. Several reviewers mention how Safy’s enthusiasm, local knowledge, and kindness make the day memorable. Safy’s collaboration with her driver ensures smooth transfers, and her flexibility means she can adapt to your pace and interests.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than just a quick glance at Egypt’s pyramids. If you’re passionate about history, enjoy learning from experts, and crave authentic experiences, this will suit you perfectly. It’s especially good for those who prefer a private, flexible itinerary and appreciate the personal touch.

The inclusion of local village visits and farm breakfast offers a rare look at Egyptian rural life, making the trip not just about monuments but about understanding the country’s cultural fabric. The opportunity to explore less crowded sites like Dahshur and Saqqara makes this tour a peaceful alternative to the hustle of Giza while still delivering breathtaking sights.

The Sum Up

This private tour of Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis is a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and genuine local interactions. With an expert guide like Safy, you’ll gain insights that bring the sites to life—beyond what guidebooks or typical tours can offer. The thoughtful inclusion of a rural farm breakfast and visit to a carpet weaving school adds layers of authenticity and charm.

The price reflects excellent value, especially considering the personalized service, transportation, and meals. It’s a perfect fit for travelers seeking a meaningful, unhurried exploration of Egypt’s ancient past, topped with warm interactions and a chance to support local artisans and animals.

If you’re looking for a tour that combines depth, authenticity, and kindness, this experience could be the highlight of your Egyptian adventure.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, door-to-door hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it very convenient for travelers.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, typically starting early in the morning and ending in the late afternoon.

Are admission tickets to the pyramids included?
No, admission tickets are not included, so you should budget extra for entrance fees at Dahshur and Saqqara.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
It requires moderate physical activity, especially when walking inside pyramids, so it’s best for those with moderate fitness levels.

What kind of transportation is provided?
An air-conditioned vehicle is used for transfers, with pick-up and drop-off at your hotel.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is private and flexible, specific details can be discussed with the guide, especially if you wish to spend more time at certain sites.

Is food included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy a traditional Egyptian meal, either breakfast or lunch, served at a local farm or restaurant.

Are animals fed during the tour?
Yes, Safy has a love for stray dogs and cats, often feeding them during breaks, which many travelers find touching.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with walking and some physical activity, it’s suitable for families with older children.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 36 days in advance, so early booking is recommended to secure your preferred date.

In essence, this tour offers a deep, authentic look into Egypt’s pyramids and local life, guided by someone truly passionate about sharing her homeland.