Cairo Day Tour: Memphis, Sakkara & Dahshur Pyramids
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Dahshur Pyramids are a mesmerizing reflection of ancient Egyptian architectural prowess. Located in the south of Cairo, these impressive structures have stood the test of time, showcasing the rich history and culture of the region. Visitors to Dahshur Pyramids can marvel at the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, two of the most iconic landmarks in Egypt. Step back in time and explore these historic wonders, each with its own unique charm and significance.
Available options
private tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Entry Fees
Tour Guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pickup from your hotel to visit Dahshur was the southern part of the cemetery of Memphis, the capital of ancient Egypt. Pyramids of the kings of the Old and Middle Kingdoms were erected on this hill. The first king of the 4th Dynasty Sneferu chose the rocky plateau of Dahshur to establish his first pyramid to compete with the pyramid of King Djoser in Saqqara but failed to complete it. This first attempt turned into a broken shape, but he built a complete pyramid at a distance from it, called the Red Pyramid. Nearby, the pyramids dating to the Middle Kingdom, starting from the pyramid of King Amenemhat II, stand although in a bad state. The pyramid of King Senwosret III is surrounded by the tombs of the princesses Sit-Hathor and Ment.
after tour drop off at the same hotel
2
Stop 2
Memphis (Arabic: مَنْف, romanized: Manf, pronounced [mænf]; Bohairic Coptic: ⲙⲉⲙϥⲓ; Greek: Μέμφις), or Men-nefer, was the ancient capital of Inebu-hedj, the first nome of Lower Egypt that was known as mḥw ("North").[3] Its ruins are located in the vicinity of the present-day village of Mit Rahina (Arabic: ميت رهينة), in markaz (county) Badrashin, Giza, Egypt.[4]
3
Stop 3
Saqqara (Arabic: سقارة : saqqāra[t], Egyptian Arabic pronunciation: [sɑʔːɑːɾɑ]), also spelled Sakkara or Saccara in English /səˈkɑːrə/, is an Egyptian village in the markaz (county) of Badrashin in the Giza Governorate,[1] that contains ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty, serving as the necropolis for the ancient Egyptian capital, Memphis.[2] Saqqara contains numerous pyramids, including the Pyramid of Djoser, sometimes referred to as the Step Pyramid, and a number of mastaba tombs. Located some 30 km (19 mi) south of modern-day Cairo, Saqqara covers an area of around 7 by 1.5 km (4.3 by 0.9 mi).
What's not included
Tipping
Lunch
Available languages
Audio guide
AR
DE
EN
IT
ES
Guide guide
AR
DE
EN
IT
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Giza
Giza, home to the iconic Great Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx, is a city steeped in ancient history and modern intrigue. Just a short distance from Cairo, Giza offers a blend of ancient wonders and bustling urban life, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
Top Attractions
Great Pyramids of Giza
The iconic Great Pyramids, including the Pyramid of Khufu, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure, are the last standing wonders of the ancient world.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Great Sphinx of Giza
The enigmatic Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is a symbol of ancient Egypt and a must-see attraction.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Solar Boat Museum
This museum houses the reconstructed solar boat of Pharaoh Khufu, discovered near the Great Pyramid.
Historical
1 hour
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Saqqara
Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Dahshur
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate (Entrance fees apply)
Camel Market
The Camel Market is a unique and bustling market where you can see and buy camels, as well as experience traditional Egyptian commerce.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free (Purchases extra)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Koshari
A hearty dish made with lentils, rice, pasta, chickpeas, and fried onions, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.
Dinner
Vegetarian
Ful Medames
A traditional breakfast dish made from slow-cooked fava beans, often served with tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Breakfast
Vegan
Grilled Kofta
Spiced minced meat (usually lamb or beef) shaped into sausages and grilled to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat
Molokhia
A green leafy vegetable soup, often served with chicken or rabbit and eaten with bread.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian (if made without meat)
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides over the pyramids
Quad biking in the desert
Spa treatments
Beach visits in Alexandria
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending traditional Egyptian performances
Boat tours on the Nile
Visiting historical sites during the cooler months
Best Time to Visit
October to April
This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for exploring the ancient sites.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Giza is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Avoid accepting help from strangers, especially at tourist sites.
- • Use reputable tour companies and guides.
Getting there
By air
- Cairo International Airport • 25 km from Giza
By train
Giza Station
By bus
Giza Bus Station, Downtown Cairo Terminals
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Giza. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Pyramids Road
Downtown Giza
Haram
Day trips
Cairo
20 km • Half day to full day
Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a vibrant city with a rich history and numerous attractions, including the Egyptian Museum, Islamic Cairo, and Coptic Cairo.
Saqqara
20 km • Half day to full day
Saqqara is an ancient burial ground and home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt.
Dahshur
30 km • Half day to full day
Dahshur is an ancient royal necropolis featuring the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, both built by Pharaoh Sneferu.
Festivals
Cairo International Film Festival • November (dates vary)
Eid al-Fitr • End of Ramadan (dates vary)
Coptic Christmas • January 7
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the ancient sites and their significance.
- Visit the pyramids early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the intense heat.
- Bargain politely but firmly when shopping at markets and souks.
- Carry small bills and coins for easier transactions, as change can be hard to come by.
- Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for their culture.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
