Private Tour Sakkara Memphis & Dahshur

An In-Depth Look at the Private Sakkara, Memphis & Dahshur Tour

If you’ve ever wondered what lies beyond the famous Giza Pyramids, this private tour offers a chance to explore some of Egypt’s lesser-visited gems with a personalized touch. It’s a full-day adventure that takes you through ancient sites that many travelers miss, all while providing insights from knowledgeable guides.

What we love about this experience is its focus on authenticity and value. First, there’s the chance to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara, a monument dating back to 2700 BC—an architectural marvel that set the stage for all future pyramids. Second, the Dahshur Pyramids, including the Red Pyramid (the first “true” pyramid) and the Bent Pyramid, offer unique shapes and stories you won’t find at Giza. Third, the tour’s private format means you’re not stuck in a crowded group—your experience is tailored just for your party.

One potential consideration is the entrance fees, which aren’t included in the $35 per person price, so budget accordingly. This might seem additional, but with expert guiding and hassle-free logistics, many consider it a worthwhile investment.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path sites, value personalized attention, and want to see Egypt’s ancient history through a comprehensive, well-structured day.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit lesser-known pyramids and ancient sites that most travelers overlook.
• Expert Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides enrich your understanding of Egypt’s history and architecture.
• Flexible Options: Optional add-ons like lunch and an ATV tour can enhance your day.
• Hassle-Free Planning: Includes pickup from Cairo or Giza accommodations, making logistics simple.
• Value for Money: At $35, the tour offers a detailed, personalized experience with excellent reviews.
• Limited Crowds: The private tour format ensures a more intimate exploration, avoiding the crowds.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Starting Point

The adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your Cairo or Giza hotel. This is a significant perk, saving you the hassle of navigating busy streets or arranging transport. The driver and guide are experienced and arrive punctually, setting you at ease for the day ahead.

Saqqara – The First Stop

Your first major stop is the Sakkara Step Pyramid, built around 2700 BC by the architect Imhotep. This was Egypt’s first stone pyramid, and it’s a true marvel to see up close. According to one reviewer, the guide, Salib, “coordinated time very well,” allowing the group to arrive early—“the first visitor in the morning”—which means fewer crowds and better photos.

Inside, you’ll walk through narrow corridors, exploring the tombs and the walls decorated with reliefs depicting daily life scenes of ancient Egyptians. The highlight is the tomb of Kagemni, which visitors report being able to enjoy in peace thanks to the early start.

Memphis – The First Capital

Next, you travel to Memphis, Egypt’s first capital around 3150 BC. The site is compact but packed with history, featuring the great statue of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx, which is reportedly the second-largest of its kind in Egypt. According to reviews, guides make the history come alive, sharing stories about Memphis’s role in early Egyptian civilization and explaining how the statues survived millennia of weather and human activity.

Dahshur – The Unique Pyramids

The highlight for many is the visit to Dahshur, home to two of Egypt’s most distinctive pyramids. The Red Pyramid is notable for its nearly perfect shape—some call it the “first true pyramid”—and it’s impressive to look at up close. The Bent Pyramid features a dramatic shift halfway up, giving it its characteristic “bent” appearance.

One reviewer mentioned, “our expectations were exceeded,” praising the guides’ care and thoroughness. The area’s desert landscapes provide stunning photo opportunities, especially with the pyramids’ stark geometries contrasting against the sandy backdrop. Both pyramids date from the 4th Dynasty (around 2600 BC) and are as old and grand as Giza’s, but see far fewer visitors, making the experience more intimate.

Wrap-up and Return

After exploring Dahshur, the tour returns to Cairo, with a scenic drive back that offers time to reflect on the day. The total duration is about 6 to 7 hours, making it a full but comfortable day.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour offers incredible value, especially when you consider the price of $35 per person. While the entrance fees—currently around 600 EGP for Sakkara, 200 EGP for Memphis, and 200 EGP for Dahshur—are additional, most travelers find that the guided experience and hassle-free logistics justify the extra expense.

The private setting means you’re not part of a large group, and your guide can tailor explanations based on your interests. The reviews consistently mention knowledgeable guides—a key factor for many guests who want a deeper understanding of Egypt’s ancient monuments.

The optional add-ons, such as lunch and an ATV tour, allow you to customize your experience, making it suitable for adrenaline junkies or foodies alike. One reviewer particularly enjoyed the ATV ride outside the Giza Plateau, which added fun and adventure to their day.

Transport and Logistics

The use of a private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day, especially important given Egypt’s warm climate. The driver’s punctuality and the ease of pickup and drop-off make this a stress-free option, ideal for travelers who prefer to focus on sightseeing rather than navigating busy streets.

The tour runs approximately 6 to 7 hours, which is enough to visit all sites without feeling rushed. The timing also allows you to experience the sites in the cooler morning hours or late afternoon, making your photos and exploration more enjoyable.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer, Mitsuru_K, appreciated the early start at Saqqara, which let them avoid crowds and enjoy the monuments in peace. They also appreciated the guide’s flexibility in adding Coptic Cairo and watching the sunset at Giza, highlighting how this private tour can be tailored to your interests.

Valerie_G praised the care of the guide and driver, stating that they “visited everything they wanted to see,” and that the expectations were exceeded. This suggests the tour’s flexibility and guide’s professionalism are key reasons visitors leave satisfied.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a more authentic, personalized experience beyond the crowds at Giza, this tour is highly recommended. It’s perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to see Egypt’s ancient pyramids in a more relaxed, intimate setting. The flexibility to add activities, combined with excellent reviews of knowledgeable guides, makes this a compelling choice.

However, keep in mind that entry fees are not included, so budget around 1,000 EGP extra for entrance tickets. Also, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and water are advisable. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with limited mobility might find some areas challenging.

Final Thoughts

This private tour delivers a well-rounded introduction to Egypt’s lesser-seen pyramids and historic sites, with an emphasis on authentic experiences and expert guidance. It’s especially valuable for travelers who appreciate a tailored approach and want to avoid the bustling crowds of popular spots.

At a reasonable price point, the tour offers superb value, blending history, adventure, and comfort in one package. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone interested in the lesser-known chapters of Egypt’s history, this experience is a smart choice that balances education, exploration, and fun.

FAQs

Are hotel pickups included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Cairo or Giza accommodations, making planning simple and convenient.

Do I need to pay for entrance fees separately? Yes, entrance fees for Saqqara, Memphis, and Dahshur are not included and amount to around 1,000 EGP collectively. These are payable on-site.

Can I customize this tour? Absolutely. Guides are known for their flexibility, and options like lunch or ATV rides can be added for an extra charge.

How long does the tour last? The full experience takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, allowing ample time for visits and photos without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for families? Yes, most travelers can participate comfortably, but be sure to wear suitable walking shoes and bring water.

What makes this tour different from other Egypt pyramids tours? Its focus on lesser-known sites, private format, knowledgeable guides, and optional add-ons provide a more personalized and in-depth experience.

Is it worth booking in advance? Yes, especially since most travelers book about 37 days ahead, and the tour often sells out quickly due to its popularity.

Are there any age restrictions? Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility levels if visiting some of the sites with uneven terrain.

In summary, this private tour of Saqqara, Memphis, and Dahshur offers an excellent balance of authenticity, value, and comfort. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts craving a deeper look into Egypt’s ancient past, or for travelers who prefer personalized experiences over tourist crowds. The knowledgeable guides, flexible options, and hassle-free logistics make it a standout choice for exploring Egypt’s lesser-known pyramids.