Private Tour to Dahshur Pyramids, Memphis, and Saqqara All Inclusive

Exploring Egypt’s Ancient Wonders: A Private Tour to Dahshur, Memphis, and Saqqara

If you’re craving an authentic glimpse into Egypt’s past without the crowds and chaos of the Giza Plateau, this private tour covering Dahshur, Saqqara, and Memphis might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a compelling picture of an experience packed with history, stunning sights, and expert guidance.

Three standout features make this tour attractive: the personalized approach with a dedicated Egyptologist, the chance to explore lesser-visited sites like Dahshur’s Bent and Red Pyramids, and the delicious local lunch included in the price. One thing to keep in mind is that entry fees for the sites are not included, so budget accordingly.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, curious travelers eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, and anyone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and a hassle-free day. If you’re after a well-rounded, immersive day of ancient Egypt, this might just be your ticket.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private tour ensures you won’t be part of a large group and can tailor the day to your interests.
• Expert Guidance: Your Egyptologist guide shares in-depth knowledge and insider insights, making history come alive.
• Visit Lesser-Known Sites: Explore the Dahshur Pyramids, including the Bent and Red Pyramids, which are often less crowded but equally impressive.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: From the step pyramid of Djoser to Memphis’s statues, the tour covers a broad swath of Egyptian history.
• Hassle-Free Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make for a stress-free day, plus bottled water keeps you refreshed.
• Value for Money: At $105 per person, including lunch and private transport, it offers a well-rounded and affordable way to see major sites.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is designed for travelers seeking an enriching, flexible day exploring some of Egypt’s most iconic ancient sites, minus the overwhelming crowds. The entire journey takes approximately 8 hours, starting with hotel pickup in Cairo or Giza, via air-conditioned vehicle that keeps you comfortable as you hop from one site to the next.

The Itinerary Breakdown

1. Saqqara: An Ancient Step into Egyptian Innovation
The day kicks off at Saqqara, home of the famous Djoser Step Pyramid. Built around 2700 BCE, this is believed to be the world’s first stone structure, a groundbreaking achievement in architecture. Walking through the complex, you’ll see the pyramid and its surrounding tombs, giving a sense of how Egyptian mortuary practices evolved.

Access to the tomb of Teti and the burial chambers of Unas allow a peek into elaborate ancient burial customs. The Serapeum of Saqqara, a dedicated necropolis for the sacred Apis bulls, is a highlight. Reviewer Mahmoud shared that this site is “more impressive than Giza pyramids” because of its serenity and the knowledgeable guidance. You might find that the long, quiet walk among ancient tombs offers a reflective moment, away from bustling tourist spots.

2. Dahshur: The Bent and Red Pyramids
Next, the tour takes you to Dahshur, roughly 40 kilometers south of Cairo. Here, you’ll see two of Egypt’s oldest and best-preserved pyramids: the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid. These are particularly fascinating because they represent important steps in the evolution of pyramid construction, with the Bent Pyramid showcasing a unique angle shift partway up.

Reviewers often mention that visiting Dahshur offers a more authentic experience. One noted that it’s “more impressive than Giza and far less crowded,” which enhances the sense of discovery. The Red Pyramid, the third-oldest pyramid in Egypt, is known for its smooth sides—an early precursor to the iconic pyramids of Giza, but with a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.

3. Lunch and Local Flavors
A highlight of this tour is the included lunch, which features authentic Egyptian cuisine. This not only saves money but also offers an opportunity to taste local flavors, making your experience more immersive. Many travelers comment on the deliciousness of the food, noting it as a refreshing break during a busy day of sightseeing.

4. Memphis and Sakkara: The Heart of Ancient Egypt
The final part of the day is dedicated to Memphis, Egypt’s capital during the Old Kingdom. As the old city once reigned for over 3,000 years, it’s packed with fascinating ruins and statues, including the giant Ramses II statues, which are among the most iconic relics of ancient Egypt. Your guide, like Mahmoud, is praised for sharing in-depth knowledge about these sites, turning mere stones into stories of kings and gods.

The quick visit here wraps up your journey through Egypt’s cultural and political history, leaving you with a sense of the grandeur that once was.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour’s included air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives between sites comfortable. With hotel pickup and drop-off, you avoid the hassle of navigating Cairo’s traffic or arranging taxis. The tour lasts around 8 hours, which means you’ll have ample time to explore each site without feeling rushed.

It’s worth noting that while entry fees are not included, the overall value is high considering the private guide, transport, and lunch. Being a private experience means your schedule is flexible, and your guide can tailor explanations and focus on the aspects that interest you most.

Guides and Authentic Insights

Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of the guides. Mahmoud, in particular, is singled out for his knowledge and enthusiasm. Reviewers appreciated how he shared stories and explanations that made the history come alive—more than just dates and facts, but engaging narratives that added context and depth.

This personalized guidance significantly enhances the experience, especially at sites where the significance can sometimes feel lost amidst the ruins. Reviewers also mention that Mahmoud’s insights helped them avoid the crowds, starting early and exploring with a quieter, more intimate atmosphere.

Value and Cost Consideration

At $105 per person, this tour offers remarkable value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private guide, bottled water, and lunch, which are often additional costs when exploring independently. Entry fees are extra, but this is typical for tours of this kind, and the cost is reasonable when considering the personalized experience.

Given the quality of guides and the inclusion of lunch, this tour provides a comprehensive, hassle-free way to tick off several key sites in a single day. It’s perfect for travelers who want depth over a rushed overview, and who appreciate authentic, less crowded spots.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, small group travelers seeking a personalized touch, and those craving a more relaxed and intimate look at Egypt’s ancient sites. It’s also ideal if you prefer having a knowledgeable guide to answer questions and provide insights, rather than exploring solo or in a large group.

It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds at Giza and enjoy a quieter, more contemplative day. If you’re after an affordable, well-organized, and culturally rich excursion, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Dahshur, Memphis, and Saqqara packs in a lot of history, stunning sights, and authentic moments into a single day. The attention to detail—like hotel pickup, a personal guide, and local lunch—makes it incredibly convenient and immersive.

You’ll love the chance to see lesser-visited pyramids, learn from passionate guides, and experience Egypt’s ancient past without the typical tourist overload. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of Egyptian history while enjoying a comfortable, personalized day.

For travelers eager for a meaningful, well-rounded exploration of Egypt’s pyramids and ancient sites, this tour offers great value and unforgettable moments. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a quieter, more authentic experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour features hotel pickup and drop-off from Cairo or Giza, making for a hassle-free day.

Are entry fees for the sites included?
No, entry fees are not included. You will need to pay separately for access to each site you visit.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, giving plenty of time to explore each location comfortably.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the weather can impact the experience. The tour is generally suitable most days, but poor weather might result in rescheduling or a full refund.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, exclusive for your party, allowing for a personalized and flexible experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers an air-conditioned vehicle, guide, bottled water, and a local lunch.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Being a private tour, your guide can likely tailor the experience a bit, focusing on your interests.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but remember that some sites may involve walking and climbing, so consider your mobility.

How much does the tour cost per person?
The rate is $105.00 per person, offering good value given all included services and the private nature of the tour.

This private tour to Dahshur, Saqqara, and Memphis promises a well-rounded, intimate, and insightful journey into Egypt’s ancient past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply eager to see beyond the crowds, it’s an experience that blends comfort, culture, and discovery.