An excellent Tour to Pyramids of Giza, Memphis and Saqqara including camel ride

If you’re dreaming of standing in front of the Pyramids of Giza, wandering through ancient tombs, and learning about Egypt’s fascinating history, this tour might just be your ideal choice. While we haven’t personally joined this particular experience, the details and reviews paint a compelling picture of why it’s highly rated and popular among travelers.

What we love about this tour is its combination of convenience and depth. The pick-up and drop-off service takes the stress out of navigating Cairo’s busy streets, especially when trying to visit scattered sites. The expert Egyptologist guide promises insightful commentary, adding layers of understanding you won’t get from a guidebook. Plus, the camel ride offers a fun, authentic touch that makes the experience memorable.

However, one consideration for potential travelers is the price point—$25 per person— which covers a lot but also means some optional extras, like guides or additional sites, might be offered as upgrades. It’s worth weighing whether you want to add those on for a fuller experience.

This tour suits history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to see Egypt’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially appealing if you’re short on time or prefer a structured day with local insights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Giza, Saqqara, and Memphis, covering key sites in a single day.
• Value for Money: At just $25, including entrance fees and a camel ride, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable Egyptologist guides enhance the experience with detailed explanations.
• Convenient Transport: Door-to-door pickup and drop-off in Cairo or Giza make logistics simple.
• Authentic Experiences: The camel ride and local lunch add cultural flavor.
• Flexible Options: Choose between transport-only or upgraded packages with guide, lunch, and entrance fees.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Pickup and Transportation

Starting your day with hotel pickup means you avoid the typical Cairo taxi haggling. The private tour mode ensures a comfortable and personalized journey. We imagine the drive through Cairo’s bustling streets—an eye-opener on its own—before heading out 20 kilometers to Giza.

Giza Pyramids and Sphinx

The highlight of any Egyptian trip, the Giza pyramids and Sphinx are a must-see for their sheer scale and historical significance. This tour gives you roughly three hours to absorb the sights. You can expect to walk around the pyramids, capture photos with the Sphinx, and perhaps even get close enough to feel the ancient stones’ weight.

One review mentions, “Wael and his driver were very kind and knowledgeable and accommodating,” emphasizing the importance of a guide who can make the experience more engaging. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets means less waiting and more time to enjoy the scenery.

Saqqara Pyramids and Djoser

After Giza, the tour heads to Saqqara, home to the first Egyptian pyramid of Djoser. The step pyramid is a significant milestone in pyramid construction and offers a glimpse into early Egyptian engineering. Here, visitors also explore the tomb of vizier Mehu, which was opened to the public for the first time since its discovery, with its well-preserved hieroglyphs.

The review from Yi_A highlights the value of knowledgeable guides, noting that “Wael quickly quoted me a price for an add-on to Dashur,” which shows how flexible and accommodating guides can be in customizing your experience.

Lunch and Rest

Lunchtime features a typical Egyptian meal with grilled chicken kebabs, hummus, tahini, and pastries. The inclusion of local cuisine helps you get a taste of everyday life in Egypt, adding a cultural layer to the visit. The fruit salad and pastries are a sweet finish, re-energizing you for the afternoon.

Memphis and the Mit Rahina Museum

The final stop is Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital, now an open-air museum. Here, you’ll see the massive sculpture of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx. One reviewer remarks that the guides’ insights helped them appreciate the historical significance of these monuments, transforming a simple sightseeing stop into an educational experience.

Camel Ride and Additional Extras

The 30-minute camel ride is often highlighted as a fun addition, offering a different perspective and a picture-perfect moment. It’s a chance to enjoy Egypt’s iconic landscape in a traditional way, making the tour more memorable.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

This tour covers a lot for its modest $25 fee. The entrance fees to the key sites are included, so no unexpected expenses pop up. The qualified Egyptologist guide is a major perk, providing context that turns mere sightseeing into storytelling.

The hotel pickup and drop-off are essential for travelers unfamiliar with Cairo’s transport. Bottled water keeps you hydrated, especially in Egypt’s hot climate. The camel ride and lunch turn a standard sightseeing tour into a more rounded cultural experience.

Flexibility and Customization

While the standard package is comprehensive, there are options to upgrade with a guide, additional sites, or a more elaborate meal. This flexibility allows travelers to tailor the day according to their interests and budget.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking quite a bit at each site.
• Bring sunscreen and hats—the desert sun can be intense.
• The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, so plan for an early start to maximize your day.
• If you’re interested in photography, early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds.
• The camel ride is a fun highlight, but if you have mobility issues or a fear of heights, check with the provider beforehand.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of history, culture, and fun without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets themselves. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off Egypt’s most iconic sights in one go, and for budget-conscious travelers who want excellent value.

If you’re seeking a guided, informative experience with authentic touches like a camel ride and local lunch, this tour is a solid choice. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer the convenience of door-to-door service and a personalized, private experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a straightforward yet enriching way to experience Egypt’s most famous monuments. The combination of knowledgeable guides, cultural activities, and all-inclusive pricing means you can relax and focus on soaking up the history and atmosphere.

While the itinerary is fairly full and structured, the flexibility to add extras or customize your experience makes it adaptable to different interests. Its affordability, combined with the quality of the guide and memorable activities like the camel ride, makes it a standout option for travelers seeking value without sacrificing depth.

In essence, it’s a comprehensive, well-organized tour that balances efficiency, culture, and fun—perfect for those new to Egypt or those wanting a hassle-free day of exploring.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your Cairo or Giza accommodation, making logistics easier.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, giving sufficient time to visit all sites comfortably.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for Giza, Saqqara, and Memphis are included in the tour price.

Can I upgrade the tour?
Yes, you can add a guide, lunch, and entrance fees to the basic transport package for a more detailed experience.

What is the camel ride like?
It’s a 30-minute ride, described as fun and authentic, offering a unique way to see the landscape and take memorable photos.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, but consider mobility and stamina—comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, comfortable footwear, and a camera for photos.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sights, cultural experiences, and convenience at an excellent price point. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a first-time visitor eager to check off Egypt’s highlights, you’ll find it delivers both value and memorable moments.