Small group tour Giza Pyramids and Saqqara with Camel Ride

Exploring Egypt’s Ancient Wonders: A Complete Review of the Small Group Giza Pyramids and Saqqara Tour

If you’re dreaming of wandering among Egypt’s legendary monuments, this small group tour offers an ideal way to experience the Giza Pyramids and Saqqara with the personal touch of a knowledgeable Egyptologist. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded, value-packed day filled with iconic sights, insights, and authentic moments.

What we really love about this experience is the personalized guidance from a dedicated Egyptologist, the opportunity to ride a camel across the sands, and the combination of two major sites—Giza and Saqqara—in one seamless outing. Plus, it’s a door-to-door service, meaning you won’t worry about navigating Cairo’s busy streets. On the flip side, some travelers might find the admission fees are paid separately, which could add up if you’re on a strict budget. This tour appeals perfectly to history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to get a comprehensive snapshot of Egypt’s ancient marvels with a local expert.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience with knowledgeable Egyptologist guides
• Includes camel ride and a local restaurant lunch overlooking the pyramids
• Door-to-door transfers with Wi-Fi, making it convenient and comfortable
• Visit Giza’s famous pyramids and the Great Sphinx in one day
• Explore Saqqara’s step pyramid, the oldest in history
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Excursion

Start at Let’s Explore Egypt and Meet Your Guide

Your day begins at the meeting point near El-Helw Canal in Giza, where a friendly guide from “Let’s Explore Egypt” will welcome you. This initial meet-and-greet sets a relaxed tone, and the guide will take care of the logistics, giving you a brief overview of what’s to come. The tour is limited to your group only, ensuring you get personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

The Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx

Your first stop is at the Giza Plateau, home to the world-famous Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren, and Mykerinus. These monuments are awe-inspiring in their sheer size and the precision with which they were built. The guide will share stories about their construction, purpose, and the pharaohs they honor, helping you understand their significance beyond just pretty pictures.

A highlight here is the photo opportunity from the panoramic vantage point, where you can capture all three pyramids along with the iconic Great Sphinx. This limestone sculpture, with the body of a lion and a human head, is often associated with protecting the tombs and represents the strength of the ancient guardians.

You’ll also get the chance to ride a camel for about 30 minutes around the area. This fun and slightly quirky experience allows you to see the sands of Giza from a different perspective and adds an authentic touch to your visit.

Saqqara: The World’s First Pyramid

Next, you’ll head to Saqqara, a vast necropolis that houses Egypt’s earliest pyramid—the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Built around 2630 BCE, this pyramid was a groundbreaking achievement, being the first large-scale stone structure in history. You’ll explore nearby tombs decorated with inscriptions that reveal daily life and beliefs of ancient Egyptians, making it a fascinating contrast to the grandeur of Giza.

The site also offers a chance to see some well-preserved ancient relics and understand how Egyptian civilization evolved from simple tombs to the monumental pyramids. The guide’s insights made this part especially engaging, with some visitors noting the depth of knowledge and friendly demeanor of their guide, Ibrahiem Rashad.

The Great Sphinx and Mummification Temple

Following Saqqara, you’re taken to the Great Sphinx’s complex, where you’ll see the famed monument up close and learn about its mysteries. The Mummification Temple nearby provides context about Egyptian burial rituals and the significance of preserving the body for the afterlife.

This part of the tour offers a calming, awe-inspiring experience, giving you plenty of time to take photos and absorb the atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned that the guide’s explanations made the visit particularly meaningful, helping clarify the symbolism behind these ancient symbols.

End of Tour and Return to Your Hotel

After a full day of exploration, you’ll return to your hotel or original meeting point, relaxed and filled with new knowledge. The tour concludes with a brief stop back at the company’s office, where you can reflect on the day or ask additional questions.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the cost is $48 per person, what you’re really paying for is the expert guidance, convenient transportation, and exclusive experiences like the camel ride and private lunch overlooking the pyramids. The private guide ensures you won’t be stuck in a generic group, allowing for tailored questions and deeper engagement.

The door-to-door service means you avoid hassle and save time, especially valuable in Cairo’s busy traffic. Plus, the inclusion of Wi-Fi in your transfer keeps you connected, perfect for sharing your highlights or planning your next stop.

Admission fees for the pyramids and Sphinx are paid separately, which is typical for such sites, but it’s worth accounting for this additional expense when budgeting your day.

Authentic Experiences and Tips Based on Reviews

Travelers emphasize the quality of their guides. One reviewer called Ahmed “the best tour guide I ever had,” highlighting his knowledge, friendliness, and genuine care. Another noted how guide Jimmy (Jamil) effectively managed his group, including a small child during the June heat, ensuring everyone stayed comfortable and engaged.

The camel ride received praise for being a fun, authentic touch, with visitors loving the chance to cross the sands in a traditional manner. The views from the pyramids’ vantage points are stunning, making this a photographer’s dream.

Reviewers also appreciated the helpful attitude of guides like Ibrahiem Rashad, who offered good information and ensured the group stayed on safe footing, even helping to avoid common tourist pitfalls.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Egypt’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning logistics. History buffs, first-timers, or families with children will find the mix of monuments, engaging guides, and authentic activities like camel riding very appealing.

If you value personalized service, insightful explanations, and a relaxed pace, this is a great choice. Keep in mind that admission fees are extra, and the tour lasts around 8.5 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring.

For travelers who enjoy culture combined with comfort and convenience, this tour hits the sweet spot—delivering a memorable, educational, and visually stunning experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the tours suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is flexible enough to accommodate families, and the camel ride can be particularly fun for kids.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers private door-to-door transfers with Wi-Fi, making pickup and drop-off seamless and comfortable.

How long does each site visit last?
You’ll spend approximately 3 hours at Giza, about 3 hours at Saqqara, plus additional time at the Sphinx and mummification temple, totaling around 8.5 hours.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are paid upon arrival at each site and are not included in the ticket price.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a meal in a restaurant overlooking the Giza pyramids is included, allowing you to enjoy authentic Egyptian cuisine with a view.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can plan with some peace of mind.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended. Given the outdoor nature of the tour, comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable.

Is there Wi-Fi during transfers?
Yes, Wi-Fi is included in the private transfers, helping you stay connected or share your experience.

How accessible are the sites?
While the sites are generally accessible, some areas may involve walking on uneven terrain, so wear comfortable shoes.

Will I get enough time to take photos?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to give ample time for photos, especially at the pyramids’ panoramic spots and the Sphinx.

In Closing

This small group tour to Giza and Saqqara offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into Egypt’s ancient marvels, led by passionate guides who bring history to life. Its balance of iconic monuments, engaging storytelling, and authentic experiences like camel riding makes it a standout option for those eager to explore without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personal service, culture, and the convenience of door-to-door transfers. While the extra costs of entry fees are not included, the overall package provides great value for a full day of discovery, offering a rich, memorable journey into Egypt’s timeless past.