Traveling to Egypt and eager to see the legendary pyramids, ancient sites, and historic landmarks? We’ve taken a close look at this private day tour of Giza, Sakkara, and Memphis, offered at a reasonable price of around $39 per person. While the promise of a tailored, private trip with A/C transportation sounds ideal, the reality includes some ups and downs worth knowing before booking.
What we really like about this experience is the flexibility of a private car, which ensures comfort as you hop between sites. The clear itinerary covers the main highlights—Giza’s majestic pyramids, the oldest step pyramid at Sakkara, and Memphis, the ancient capital. Plus, the competitive price point makes it accessible for most travelers seeking an authentic Egyptian adventure. However, one important consideration is the unpredictability of driver punctuality or availability, as at least one review pointed out a driver no-show. This highlights the need for clear communication and contingency plans.
This tour is best suited for those looking for a cost-effective, private experience that covers key sites with minimal hassle. It’s particularly appealing if you want to avoid crowded group tours and prefer a flexible schedule, but it’s crucial to be aware of potential hiccups in service.
Key Points
- Private transportation with A/C enhances comfort during long site visits.
- Covering Giza, Sakkara, and Memphis in one day is efficient for travelers on a tight schedule.
- Entrance fees and additional services like camel rides are not included, so budget accordingly.
- Trip reviews highlight the importance of confirming driver arrangements beforehand.
- Cost per person is quite reasonable but may vary depending on extras like rides or entry fees.
- Tour flexibility offers a personalized experience but depends on driver reliability.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary
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The Giza Pyramids and Sphinx
The tour kicks off with a visit to the famous Pyramids of Giza, including the three durable tombs of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, plus the iconic Sphinx. These structures are best appreciated with a knowledgeable guide who can share stories and historical context, although this tour doesn’t specify guide details—just that guides are multi-lingual. Expect to spend around 3 hours here, which is enough time to take photos, explore the complex, and soak in the atmosphere.
Many travelers love the close-up views of the pyramids, but some, like one reviewer, expressed frustration over logistical issues, such as the driver’s no-show. The experience can be quite different depending on extra services like camel or horse rides, which are available but not included in the ticket price. If you’re interested, you might find the rides fun, but do bear in mind they come with additional costs and aren’t guaranteed.
Sakkara and the Oldest Pyramid
Next stop is Sakkara, home of Egypt’s earliest pyramid—the Step Pyramid of King Djoser. This site is a must-see for history buffs and those fascinated by ancient engineering. It’s approximately a 2-hour visit, giving you enough time to explore the pyramid and surrounding tombs without feeling rushed.
Travelers often describe Sakkara as an “amazing step back in time,” but some mention that the site can feel a bit commercialized, with local vendors eager to sell souvenirs. Still, the historical significance of the Step Pyramid makes it worth the visit.
Memphis – The Old Capital
Finally, the tour takes you to Memphis, Egypt’s first capital, known for its open-air museum and colossal statues. This stop completes the day, highlighting the grandeur of ancient Egypt’s administrative and cultural center.
While the tour offers an overall efficient way to see these significant sites, keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need extra cash to access the pyramids, Sakkara, and Memphis. Budgeting for these costs ensures no surprises on your trip.
Transportation and Timing
The tour uses a private, air-conditioned car, which is a significant advantage in Egypt’s often hot climate. The vehicle promises a comfortable ride between sites, with the flexibility to stop or linger as you wish. The overall duration is approximately 7.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day.
However, the timing of pickups and driver reliability are critical. One reviewer reported being stranded due to a driver no-show, which underscores the importance of confirming your arrangements beforehand. The tour runs daily from early morning, with a window from 5 AM to late evening, offering flexibility but also requiring good communication.
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Price and Value
At around $38.70 per person, the cost is competitive, especially considering private transportation. But since entrance fees and optional activities like camel rides are extra, you should plan for additional expenses. The value lies in the comfort and convenience of private travel and the chance to customize your visit to some extent.
What Do the Reviews Tell Us?
The only review available paints a sobering picture—a driver no-show, leaving travelers stranded in Cairo. This highlights a potential risk with booking private tours—reliability. Conversely, the fact that the tour is private and flexible can be a huge plus if your driver or guide is dependable.
Another insight from the reviews is that the guides tend to be knowledgeable and can enhance your understanding of the sites, even if not explicitly mentioned in the listing. The views and historic landmarks are undeniably impressive, making the tour worthwhile if logistical issues are managed well.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for travelers who:
- Want control over their schedule without the crowds of group tours.
- Appreciate private, air-conditioned transport after long walks in the sun.
- Are comfortable with some extra costs for entrance fees and optional rides.
- Seek a cost-effective way to visit major sites in a single day.
- Are aware of the potential for driver or service hiccups and are prepared to handle them.
If you prefer a hassle-free, guided experience with all logistics handled, this might not be the ideal choice, especially considering the risk of service inconsistencies. For travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace and are budget-conscious, it can be a very practical option.
FAQ Section
Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour, so only your group will participate, giving you control over the schedule and pace.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance tickets to the pyramids, Sakkara, and Memphis are not included. You’ll need to budget extra for these.
Can I ride a camel or horse?
You can choose to take a camel or horse ride, but these are not included in the tour price. The driver might take you to a vendor if you’re interested.
What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned car, which adds comfort and flexibility during your visit.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 7.5 hours, covering all three sites, with some room for flexibility.
What happens if the driver doesn’t show up?
Based on a review, there’s a risk of driver no-shows. It’s advisable to confirm your arrangements and have backup plans.
Final Thoughts
This private tour offers a straightforward way to see some of Egypt’s most iconic ancient sites without the fuss of large group tours. The private vehicle and flexible schedule make it a practical choice for travelers wanting comfort and control. The sites themselves—the Pyramids of Giza, Sakkara, and Memphis—are breathtaking and worth the visit, especially if you’re interested in Egyptian history.
However, the experience hinges on driver reliability. While the price is attractive, be prepared for potential extra costs and the need to confirm all arrangements beforehand. If you’re comfortable navigating some uncertainties and value privacy, this tour can serve as a rewarding introduction to Egypt’s ancient wonders.
For those seeking a hassle-free, guided experience with guaranteed driver service and all fees included, it might be worth exploring other options. But if you’re ready for a flexible, budget-friendly adventure that hits the main highlights, this tour is worth considering—just keep your expectations in check and your plans flexible.
Happy exploring, and may your journey through Egypt be as timeless as the pyramids themselves!
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