Dahshur and Memphis, step pyramid of Saqqara with flight from Hurghada

If you’re dreaming of stepping into Egypt’s past while based in Hurghada, this Dahshur and Memphis tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the country’s iconic archaeological sites, all with the convenience of a flight. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, detailed reviews suggest it’s an excellent way to maximize a day, especially when time is tight but your curiosity is boundless.

What we love about this experience is its well-structured itinerary that covers key sites without feeling rushed, the professional German-speaking guides who bring the history to life, and the seamless logistics that take the hassle out of travel planning. Plus, the inclusion of lunch and entrance tickets adds value to the package. The only downside? The tour is quite long—around 18 hours—so it demands good energy and an early start, which might not suit everyone. Still, if you’re eager to see Egypt’s pyramids and relics in one go, this trip could be perfect.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a focused, guided experience with minimal fuss and ample insights from knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for history buffs, curious travelers short on time, and those who appreciate organized, all-inclusive day trips. Now, let’s break down the experience more thoroughly.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Pick-Up and Flight from Hurghada

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup from Hurghada, usually around 90 minutes before your flight. The transfer to the airport is smooth, with many reviewers noting the punctuality and comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle. Once you arrive at Cairo airport, a German-speaking guide will meet you outside the arrival hall. This is a big plus—having a guide who speaks your language, especially German, makes navigating Egypt’s capital much easier and more enjoyable.

Flight to Cairo and Transfer to Dahshur

After meeting your guide, you’ll hop on a quick flight to Cairo, typically lasting around an hour. The flight adds a bit of excitement and helps cover the roughly 30 km distance to Dahshur quickly, saving you hours of driving. This is especially beneficial for those staying in Hurghada, as it means experiencing Egypt’s highlights without spending days on the road.

The Pyramids of Dahshur

Your first stop is the Dahshur pyramids, home to around 15 pyramids from the 4th to 13th dynasty. Here, you’ll explore the Bent Pyramid of Sneferu, a true architectural milestone. This pyramid is considered a turning point in pyramid construction, showcasing a unique bent shape that puzzled builders and inspired subsequent pyramids.

Visitors consistently mention the impressive scale and state of preservation of these structures. One reviewer highlighted their fascination with the “template” for Giza’s Great Pyramid, describing it as a “turning point” in Egyptian architecture. The site is less crowded than Giza, so you’ll likely enjoy a more intimate experience, and the short one-hour admission ticket makes it manageable even for those with limited time.

Lunch and Rest

After Dahshur, a typical lunch is included, giving you a chance to recharge. Reviews note that the meal is straightforward, but it’s a good way to relax and discuss what you’ve seen so far. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes and shoes since you’ll be walking around the pyramids and archaeological sites.

Memphis and Saqqara

The next leg takes you to Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital, where you’ll see the colossal statue of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx. Memphis is a sprawling open-air museum offering a stunning glimpse into Egypt’s glorious past.

From Memphis, you’ll journey to Saqqara, Egypt’s most famous necropolis, home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser. This site is often called the “world’s first stone monument,” and you’ll love the juxtaposition of the ancient step pyramid against the surrounding tombs and temples. The Saqqara necropolis is a treasure trove for those interested in Egypt’s burial practices and pyramid evolution.

Return to Cairo and Flight Back to Hurghada

By late afternoon, your guide will escort you back to Cairo airport for your return flight to Hurghada. Many reviews praise the efficiency and professionalism of the team, noting that the entire process—from pickup to drop-off—is well-organized, avoiding unneeded delays.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This tour offers a value-packed experience, especially considering the airfare, entrance fees, guided commentary, and lunch are included. The air-conditioned transportation makes long travel segments comfortable, and the small group size (max 15 travelers) ensures personalized attention.

However, some travelers mention that drinks in the restaurant are not included, and you might want to bring bottled water or snacks for the day. The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, which is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer praised the “very good logistics,” noting the timely pickup and efficient airport transfers. Another highlighted their guide, Ahmed, saying he was “fantastic,” accommodating all requests and communicating fluently in Polish, which shows the tour’s flexibility in catering to diverse travelers.

A guest from the Netherlands called it “very well organized” and appreciated the friendly, knowledgeable guide who made the long day enjoyable. Others appreciated how the short wait times at each site meant they could focus on exploring rather than standing in lines.

Key Points

• Seamless logistics make this tour a stress-free way to see Egypt’s pyramids and relics.
• Expert guides, especially those fluent in your language, add depth to your understanding.
• Includes flights, entrance fees, and lunch, offering excellent value for a full-day adventure.
• Smaller group size ensures a more personal experience, away from the crowds.
• Long day, so good energy and comfortable shoes are a must.
• Limited time at each site means you should be prepared for a packed schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history lovers eager to see multiple sites without coordinating logistics themselves. It suits short-duration travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Egypt’s ancient wonders in one day. It’s well-suited for those comfortable with early mornings and long hours, and who value guided insights over self-guided exploration.

Final Thoughts

For those based in Hurghada wanting to unlock Egypt’s classical treasures, this flight-based day trip offers an efficient, organized, and enriching experience. The combination of flying, guided tours, and access to key sites makes it both convenient and educational. Plus, the positive reviews about guides like Ahmed and Hussein suggest you’ll be in good hands, making the long hours more enjoyable.

While it’s a demanding day, the payoff—standing beneath a pyramid or gazing at colossal statues—can be genuinely unforgettable. For travelers curious about Egypt’s history but pressed for time, this tour delivers a comprehensive snapshot without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup directly from your hotel in Hurghada, making the start of your day hassle-free.

How long is the flight from Hurghada to Cairo?
The flight typically lasts around an hour, providing a quick and comfortable way to travel between the Red Sea coast and Egypt’s capital.

What sites will I visit on this tour?
You will see the pyramids of Dahshur, the colossal statues and tombs of Memphis, and the Step Pyramid of Saqqara.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, if you select the option, entrance tickets to the sites are included in the tour price.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, bottled water, and some cash for drinks or extras not included.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but given the long hours and walking involved, it’s best for those in good health and with good mobility.

In summary, this tour from Hurghada offers a well-organized, value-packed opportunity to see some of Egypt’s most iconic ancient monuments with guided insights, all while traveling comfortably between sites. It’s perfect for travelers eager to combine adventure with convenience, wanting a guided experience that covers the highlights efficiently.