All Saqqara treasures (Pyramids and Tombs) and the underground Serapeum

Getting a chance to explore Egypt’s lesser-known archaeological sites is a real treat, especially when they are packed with history, stunning architecture, and fewer crowds. This private tour of Saqqara, led by expert guides and including all entrance fees, promises an enriching journey through one of the oldest burial grounds of the old kingdom. With a flexible itinerary and a focus on authentic experiences, it’s an ideal choice for travelers eager to go beyond the Giza pyramids.

What makes this tour stand out are three main highlights: the personalized attention from an Egyptologist guide, the opportunity to see some lesser-visited pyramids and tombs, and the convenience of hassle-free transportation from Cairo or Giza hotels. However, it does require a reasonable level of physical activity, as some sites involve walking and entering tombs. This tour suits history buffs, curious explorers, and anyone who wants an intimate glimpse into Egypt’s ancient civilization away from the overwhelming crowds.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience ensures personalized insights into Saqqara’s monuments.
• All-inclusive pricing covers entrance fees, taxes, and bottled water, avoiding surprises.
• Flexible duration of 2 to 4 hours allows tailoring the visit based on your interest and energy.
• Expert guides like Deen and Sam are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Escape the crowds and explore some of the lesser-visited pyramids and tombs.
• Convenient transfers from Cairo or Giza hotels make the journey seamless.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Saqqara’s Pyramids and the Step Pyramid of Djoser

The tour begins with a pickup from your Cairo or Giza hotel around 8:30 am, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. From the moment you arrive at Saqqara, you’re stepping into a landscape teeming with history. The site itself is sprawling, with numerous pyramids, tombs, and temples, but your guide will focus your attention on the most significant and accessible structures.

The Step Pyramid of Djoser is the star here — the oldest pyramid in Egypt, dating back to the 27th century BCE. Its distinctive, layered structure was revolutionary at the time and set the stage for future pyramid construction. Reviewers like Candice_P note that the guide is very friendly and professional, making the experience of walking through such ancient spaces both educational and captivating. You’ll get a chance to see the beautiful temple complex associated with the pyramid, which adds context to the grandeur of this early monument.

Exploring the Tombs of Unas and Others

One of the highlights is entering some of the tombs, such as the Pyramid of Unas. This tomb is famous for its wall inscriptions and hieroglyphs that depict ancient Egyptian stories and daily life. According to reviews, guides like Deen are adept at explaining hieroglyphic meanings, making the history come alive. The experience of being inside a tomb that’s over 4,000 years old, close enough to touch the ancient paintings, is often described as awe-inspiring.

The Serapeum’s Underground Tunnel

A unique feature of this tour is visiting the underground Serapeum, an underground necropolis that houses massive stone sarcophagi. This site is particularly appreciated by visitors because of its mysterious atmosphere and the chance to walk through tunnels that few travelers see. Reviews mention the joy of getting inside tombs and seeing the intricate paintings and carvings. The Serapeum’s underground tunnels provide a different perspective on burial practices in ancient Egypt, making it a must-see for those interested in the darker, more secretive side of Egyptian mortuary culture.

Fewer Crowds, More Authenticity

Unlike the Giza Plateau, Saqqara tends to be less crowded — a significant advantage for travelers craving a more authentic, unhurried experience. Multiple reviewers emphasize how guides like Deen and Sam make sure visitors get ample time to explore and take photos without feeling rushed. On top of that, the tour’s private nature means only your group participates; this intimacy fosters a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Value for Money

At $140 per person, including all fees and taxes, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the private guide, transportation, and entry tickets. Compared to large group tours, the cost-per-value ratio is quite high, delivering an in-depth, tailored experience. Travelers mention that the guide’s knowledge transforms the site visits from simple sightseeing into stories and lessons, enriching the entire trip.

Transportation and Timing

The tour’s round-trip transfer from Cairo or Giza ensures a smooth start and end to your day. The journey usually takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic, which is manageable and avoids the hassle of navigating alone. The flexible duration (around 2 to 4 hours) makes it easy to tailor the visit to your interest. For some, a shorter visit focusing on the major pyramids may be enough; others might want to linger longer in the tombs and tunnels, especially with a knowledgeable guide facilitating access.

What to Expect During the Tour

Expect a combination of walking, standing, and some climbing or entering confined spaces, so moderate fitness is recommended. Reviewers like Robert_D mention how their guides—Deen and Faisal—made the experience both fun and informative, with jokes and insights along the way. Bottled water and air-conditioned transport are provided, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Entrance Fees and Hidden Costs

The tour fee covers all entrance fees and taxes, so you won’t need to worry about additional costs. One reviewer highlighted how this transparency adds peace of mind, especially for first-time visitors. The only expense you’ll need to consider separately is lunch, which is not included but can be enjoyed at local eateries after the tour.

Insights from Actual Travelers

Many reviews praise the guides for their expertise, friendliness, and ability to make complex hieroglyphs and ancient stories understandable. For example, Boris_p states that their guide, Sam, “really brought everything to life,” making the experience memorable even for a former history professor.

Deen, in particular, receives high praise for being “friendly, professional, punctual, and knowledgeable,” and reviewers emphasize how his insights make the monuments more meaningful. The ability to ask questions freely and receive detailed answers is a major advantage of private tours like this.

Reviewers also love the chance to see inside tombs and pyramids, which are often off-limits in larger group tours. Being close to the ancient paintings and carvings, some of which are over 4,000 years old, is described as a moment of awe—one reviewer even calls it the “most interesting experience of my entire life.”

Real-World Tips

• Arrive early to avoid the afternoon heat and crowds.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat, as there’s a fair amount of walking.
• Prepare for some tight spaces if you want to enter tombs or tunnels.
• Bring your camera — the views and carvings are photogenic.
• Consider adding a visit to jewelry or papyrus stores, as some guides offer this as an option.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Saqqara tour is ideal for travelers who crave a more intimate and detailed exploration of Egypt’s ancient sites. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts eager to see lesser-visited pyramids and tombs with expert guidance that makes the past come alive. If you value personalized service, enjoy exploring at your own pace, and want access to significant but less crowded monuments, this experience won’t disappoint.

For those who appreciate knowledgeable guides like Deen and Sam, who can explain hieroglyphs and stories in a friendly, engaging manner, this tour offers both education and fun. The private transportation and all-inclusive fees streamline the day, allowing for maximum focus on the sights rather than logistics.

However, if you prefer a very quick overview or are on a tight schedule, this may be a longer, more in-depth alternative to the quick Giza visit. It’s best suited for visitors who want to deepen their understanding of Egypt’s burial practices and see some of the most fascinating parts of Saqqara firsthand.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private air-conditioned transport from Cairo or Giza hotels is included, making your trip to Saqqara hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 2 to 4 hours, depending on your interests and pace, with flexibility built into the schedule.

Are all entrance fees included?
Yes, the price covers all fees and taxes for visiting the pyramids, tombs, and the Serapeum.

Can I go inside the tombs?
Yes, the tour includes access to some tombs, such as the Pyramid of Unas, allowing you to see hieroglyphs and ancient artwork up close.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, bottled water, and a camera are recommended. The tour is physically active, so moderate fitness helps.

Is this suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
Yes, but keep in mind some sites involve walking and entering tunnels. Reviewers with families say children loved the experience, especially seeing the tombs.

To sum it up, this private Saqqara tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Egypt’s ancient burial sites with expert guidance, comfortable transportation, and the chance to see the monuments in a more personal way. It’s especially suited for those wanting a deeper, quieter experience away from the crowds, and who appreciate meaningful storytelling about Egypt’s past.