Giza Pyramids, Saqqara Pyramids, Memphis Old City Private Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of standing before the grand Pyramids of Giza or wandering the ancient streets of Memphis, this private day tour offers a practical and immersive way to do just that. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and details paint a clear picture of a thoroughly enjoyable experience — one that balances comfort, knowledge, and authentic encounters.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized attention thanks to a private guide and vehicle makes it a tailored experience rather than a rushed group hustle. Second, the combination of highlights— from the Giza Plateau to Saqqara and Memphis — provides a well-rounded snapshot of Egypt’s most legendary sites. Third, the value at just $19 per person, including door-to-door transfers and bottled water, offers great bang for your buck, especially considering the expert guidance involved.

One possible consideration is the admission tickets not included — so you’ll want to budget for those separately. But overall, this trip suits travelers looking for a flexible, informative, and comfortable way to explore Egypt’s ancient wonders in a single day.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience: Led by an Egyptologist-trained guide with door-to-door hotel pickup.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to Giza pyramids, Saqqara step pyramids, Dahshur, and Memphis.
• Comfortable travel: Air-conditioned vehicle and bottled water included.
• Flexible timing: About 8 hours, with ample time at each site for photos and exploration.
• Extra options: Camel rides available for an authentic touch.
• Affordable price: At $19 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to see major sites.

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day journey packs in history, culture, and stunning photo opportunities. The tour kicks off early in the morning, typically around 7:30 to 8 am, with a private vehicle ready to whisk you from your Cairo or Giza hotel. The experience is designed to maximize your time and comfort, making it especially appealing if you’re short on days but eager to see Egypt’s most renowned sites.

Giza Pyramids

The highlight for many travelers, the Pyramids of Giza, are unforgettable. Your guide will lead you across the plateau, where you’ll see the three famous pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinos, along with the smaller Queen’s pyramids. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos — from the classic shot with the pyramids in the background to more playful images, like holding them up.

A significant draw is the Great Sphinx, with its mysterious face of a human and lion’s body, which adds an iconic touch to the experience. Your guide will likely explain its significance and history, making the photo moments both fun and informative. The Valley Temple of Chephren offers a glimpse into ancient mummification practices and is usually included in the visit.

Travelers have mentioned enjoying panoramic viewpoints for photos, with some even opting for an optional camel ride—though this is at an extra cost. Boarding a camel adds a splash of adventure, giving you a different perspective of the site and some memorable photos.

Saqqara and Dahshur

After Giza, the tour moves on to Saqqara, home to the Step Pyramid of Zoser — one of the earliest stone pyramids, dating around 2670 B.C. It’s a fascinating step away from the smooth-sided pyramids and offers insight into early pyramid-building techniques. Visitors often comment on how this site feels more intimate and less crowded, making for a more relaxed exploration.

Next is Dahshur, famous for its Red Pyramid, which is notable for its striking reddish hue and slightly steeper angles than Giza’s pyramids. Dahshur’s pyramids tend to be less crowded, and the site offers a sense of adventure as you explore the ancient, weathered structures. Some visitors enjoy the mixture of history and the raw, unpolished landscape here.

Memphis

The final stop is Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt, which is now an open-air museum. Here, you can see the colossal statue of Ramses II and the ruins of the once-thriving city that was the seat of power for centuries. Many travelers find Memphis’s history fascinating, especially those interested in the evolution of Egyptian civilization.

The site is small but packed with photo-worthy artifacts and statues that tell stories of a long-lost Egypt. It’s a great way to round out the day with a sense of the grandeur that once defined this ancient metropolis.

The Benefits of a Private Tour

Travelers consistently praise the expert guides, noting how much their knowledge enhanced the experience. As one review mentions, their guide was “full of information about the pyramids and answered many questions,” which makes the visit more meaningful than just walking through ruins.

The door-to-door pickup and drop-off service, along with air-conditioned transport, makes the entire day comfortable and stress-free. You won’t have to worry about navigating public transport or haggling with taxis, which is especially valuable when touring multiple sites in one day.

What about timing?

With roughly 8 hours, the schedule allows for a relaxed pace — plenty of time to take photos, ask questions, and soak in the atmosphere at each location. The tour is designed to be flexible, so guides often tailor the pace based on your interest.

Cost and value

At $19 per person, including all taxes, fees, bottled water, and private transportation, this tour offers excellent value. Since admission tickets are not included, you should budget extra for entry fees, which could vary depending on the site.

Limitations

The main consideration is that this is a guided day trip, so if you’re keen for a more in-depth exploration or to spend more time at each site, you might want to consider other options. Also, some reviews note that photos are encouraged, but there might be restrictions at some sites, so it’s best to ask your guide locally.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Egypt’s most famous sites without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s ideal for those with limited time but eager to get a meaningful taste of Egypt’s history. Family travelers, solo explorers, and first-timers will appreciate the door-to-door service, the knowledgeable guides, and the value for the price.

If you enjoy photo opportunities, like learning from eager guides, and prefer a comfortable, all-in-one package, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s also suitable for those who might want to add optional extras, like camel rides, for a bit of extra fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is designed to be family-friendly, and children sharing with two adults qualify for child rates, making it accessible for family outings.

Are meals included? No, meals are not part of the package. Most travelers bring snacks or plan to eat before or after the tour.

What should I wear? Light, breathable clothing, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended, especially for walking and exposure to the sun. Comfortable shoes are a must.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since this is a private tour, guides may be willing to adjust the pace or focus on specific sites if requested.

How long at each site? The schedule typically allows about two hours at Giza, three hours for Saqqara and Memphis combined, giving plenty of time for photos and exploration without feeling rushed.

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned private vehicles, providing a relaxed and cool environment between sites.

Do I need to buy tickets? Admission tickets are not included, so you should budget separately for entry fees at each site.

What if I want photos with a camel? Camels are available at an extra cost, offering a fun photo opportunity and a taste of authentic desert travel.

Final Thoughts

This private day tour of Egypt’s iconic sites offers a practical, well-organized way to explore some of the world’s most recognizable monuments. Thanks to knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and a flexible schedule, you’ll get a genuine taste of Egypt’s grandeur without feeling rushed. It’s especially suited for those who seek a personalized experience that balances history, culture, and fun.

While you’ll need to budget separately for site tickets, the overall value remains impressive for the quality and comfort provided. Whether you’re a history buff, first-time visitor, or simply eager to tick the pyramids off your bucket list, this tour delivers a memorable introduction to Egypt’s ancient marvels.

Final Summary

This tour excels in offering a convenient, informative, and cost-effective way to see Egypt’s major landmarks in a single day. The private guide’s knowledge adds depth, transforming a sightseeing trip into a learning experience. The door-to-door service ensures comfort and convenience, making it ideal for travelers who value hassle-free travel.

Because of its balanced pace and value, it suits first-time visitors, families, or anyone looking for a rundown without spending days. The optional camel rides and photo stops add fun touches that make the trip memorable, especially for those keen on capturing their Egyptian adventure.

In short, if you’re after a well-rounded, accessible, and authentic glimpse into Egypt’s history, this tour might just be the perfect choice for your visit to Cairo.