Full Day Pyramid of Giza , Sphinx, Saqqara, Memphis with Lunch

Full Day Pyramid of Giza, Sphinx, Saqqara, Memphis with Lunch: An In-Depth Review

Exploring Egypt’s ancient landmarks in a single day can sound like a whirlwind, but this full-day tour manages to pack in the most famous sights with a smooth, well-organized itinerary. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, detailed reviews and descriptions suggest it’s an excellent way to get a comprehensive taste of Egypt’s ancient marvels—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What we love about this experience is the balanced itinerary that includes the Giza Pyramids, the Sphinx, the step pyramid at Saqqara, and Memphis, giving you a holistic view of Egypt’s rich history. The professional transportation, included lunch, and hotel pickup make it hassle-free. The only thing to consider is that the tour is quite packed; if you prefer to linger at each site, you might find the schedule slightly tight.

This tour works best for travelers who want a thorough introduction to Egypt’s archaeological sites in a single day, especially those with limited time or who prefer guided insights over solo exploration. If you enjoy history, culture, and a bit of adventure, this could be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Covers Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara, and Memphis, providing a well-rounded historical overview.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private A/C transportation, hotel pickup, and drop-off streamline the day.
• Historical Depth: Includes visiting the oldest monumental sculpture and the evolution of pyramid design.
• Authentic Local Food: Lunch options like Koshari or Shawarma add local flavor and value.
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and appreciation of each site.
• Good Value: At $60 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive, hassle-free experience for a competitive price.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Pickup and Initial Transfer

The tour begins early at 8:00 am with hotel pickup, which is a major convenience. You’re transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long day more comfortable. Expect a friendly guide to greet you, often someone with good knowledge about Egypt’s ancient sites, sometimes even with personal anecdotes or little-known facts that make each stop more engaging.

Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx

The first major highlight is the Giza Pyramid complex, home to the three iconic pyramids—Cheops (Khufu), Chephren, and Mykerinos—and the Great Sphinx. The tour allocates about 30 minutes at each major pyramid, giving you enough time to take photos, enjoy the views, and get a sense of their scale.

The Sphinx, with its lion’s body and human head, faces east and is believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre. One reviewer mentions that the Sphinx is a limestone statue cut from the bedrock, revealing its ancient craftsmanship. While admission tickets aren’t included, the close-up views and the chance to snap that perfect shot make the visit worthwhile.

The Pyramids of Cheops, Khafre, and Menkaure

The tour features viewing the largest pyramid built, Khufu’s, and the smaller but equally impressive pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure. Each offers a different perspective on Egyptian engineering and burial practices. Visitors often comment that seeing these structures up close makes history come alive—something photos simply can’t capture entirely.

Saqqara: The Step Pyramid

After Giza, the tour heads to Saqqara, about 27 km southwest of Cairo. The Step Pyramid of Zoser is a must-see, representing Egypt’s early experimentation with pyramid design. Its significance lies in being an important step in the evolution towards the classic smooth-sided pyramids.

Travelers like you might find it interesting that Saqqara also contains numerous tombs and mastabas that show the progression of Egyptian funerary architecture. The 2-hour visit offers enough time to appreciate the site without feeling rushed, and it’s often praised for being less crowded and more atmospheric than Giza.

Memphis: The Ancient Capital

The last major stop is Memphis, Egypt’s ancient capital dating back to around 3100 B.C. Here, you can see the imposing statue of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx—both impressive relics that provide a tangible connection to Egypt’s grandeur. Visitors note that Memphis offers a different vibe—less tourist-heavy and more about feeling the history, especially with the massive statues still standing.

Lunch Break & Return to Hotel

After a full morning of sightseeing, you’ll enjoy a lunch (Koshari or Shawarma), providing a chance to rest and refuel before heading back. This included meal adds great value, especially considering the busy schedule. The tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to your hotel, typically around 5-6 pm, making it a long but rewarding day.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

The $60 price point offers a lot, especially considering the private transportation, guided insights, and included lunch. This makes it a hassle-free, affordable way to see Egypt’s most essential ancient sites without the need to book multiple tickets or arrange transportation independently.

While the itinerary is quite full, it’s designed to maximize your time and give you a broad overview. Reviewers have praised the professionalism of guides like Ahmed, who’s commended for being knowledgeable and personable, making the experience more memorable. Many also appreciate that the tour is private, meaning your group can explore at your own pace and ask questions freely.

However, the packed schedule might not suit travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend more time wandering each site. Also, since admission tickets are not included at each monument, be prepared for some extra expenses if you wish to go inside specific pyramids or the Sphinx.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is well-suited for history enthusiasts eager to get an impactful overview of Egypt’s most famous monuments without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. It’s ideal for those with limited time in Cairo, wanting a comprehensive yet manageable experience.

Travelers who value convenience and guidance will find this tour particularly beneficial, especially with the inclusion of hotel pickup, lunch, and private transport. It’s also a smart choice for first-time visitors to Egypt who want to see the highlights and learn from knowledgeable guides.

On the other hand, if you’re a seasoned Egypt traveler or prefer to explore independently, this might feel a bit rushed. Some might wish to linger longer at each site or visit additional off-the-beaten-path locations, which this tour doesn’t include.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour starts with hotel pickup from Cairo or Giza, making transportation hassle-free.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, ending with a drop-off back at your hotel.

Are tickets to the pyramids and other sites included?
No, admission tickets for the Giza pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara, and Memphis are not included, but the tour provides excellent views and photos without them.

What’s the size of the group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What is the meal included?
A typical Egyptian lunch is included, with options like Koshari or Shawarma, adding local flavor and convenience.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you can generally discuss with your guide about focusing more on certain sites or adjusting timing, but that depends on the provider.

The Full Day Pyramid of Giza, Sphinx, Saqqara, Memphis tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed introduction to Egypt’s ancient wonders. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking to maximize your limited time, this tour gives you a solid, guided experience with the comfort of private transport and the bonus of included lunch. It’s a practical option that balances historical depth with convenience, making your Egyptian adventure memorable and enjoyable.