One experience that stands out, above all others, during my trip to Egypt was my visit to the majestic Great Pyramids of Giza. As our driver navigated the streets of Cairo, my excitement grew with every mile as we drew closer to these legendary pyramids.
These megalithic (and engineering) wonders have beckoned travelers for millennia. Each of the three famous pyramids pertained to the king for whom they were built namely Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Along with the other pyramids across Egypt, the Pyramids of Giza have been collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979.
Giza Plateau - Setting Foot in the Realm of Pharaohs
Going on a trip to the Great Pyramids of Giza is a dream of mine. Located on the outskirts of Cairo, these iconic landmarks are easily accessible by taxi, bus, or guided tour. I opted for a more convenient option and took a guided tour as I did not want to worry about transportation plus I needed a knowledgeable guide to provide me with an informative commentary.
If you are the type who wants to explore the area independently, fret not as there is ample parking space for those traveling by car, and as mentioned above, you can get there by taxi as well. Be forewarned though as “guides” will swarm you offering their services as soon as you get out of your vehicle.
Anyway, as soon as I set foot on the hallowed Giza Plateau, I was welcomed by the towering silhouette of the Great Pyramid of Giza which was constructed as an immortal tomb for Pharaoh Khufu over 4’500 years ago.
Words fell short as I marveled at the colossal scale of the Great Pyramids of Giza and its profound aura of ancient power. It is impossible not to be humbled just standing beside the staggering 481-foot height of the Great Pyramid.
The Great Pyramid isn’t the sole marvel here. Flanking it are the monumental Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure. Meanwhile, the famous Sphinx sculpture stands for eternal guard, its lion body, and enigmatic human head carved from a single slab of bedrock.
Tour Inside the Great Pyramid of Giza: An Unmatched Thrill
No trip to the Great Pyramids of Giza would be complete without taking the opportunity to tour inside the Great Pyramid. Knowing that it would not be an easy ascent, I braved myself up and took on the challenge to climb the steep and narrow passageways that lead to the chamber. It is an amazing experience to see the ancient interior walls of the Great Pyramid and until now, I still feel awed that I was able to tour the interiors of the Great Pyramid! As I was climbing the tunnel towards the chamber, I could not help but wonder how they created this pyramid. Truly, it is an engineering marvel that any traveler should visit at least once!
Note: This is not an easy activity. For a place to be this famous, expect a lot of tourists to do this same activity at any given time and the tunnel may feel packed. Be prepared to crouch through tight spaces and brace yourself for the steep climb up the entrance shaft.
My friends and I only did the Pyramid of Khufu (Great Pyramid). Do check out during your travel if you can have a tour inside the other pyramids. Photography is permitted in most areas, but be sure to respect the site as it is considered sacred by refraining from using flash.
Tickets, Operating Hours & Fees to Enter the Great Pyramid of Giza
Before setting out on your adventure, it’s important to budget for entrance fees to the Great Pyramid of Giza. Additional fees may apply for access to certain areas within the pyramid.
Entrance fees (area entry only):
Foreigners – EGP 540 / 270 (Adult/Student)
Egyptians/Arabs – EGP 60 / 30 (Adult/Student)
Additional fees if you would like to go inside the Great Pyramid:
Foreigners – EGP 900 / 450 (Adult/Student)
Egyptians/Arabs – EGP 100 / 50 (Adult/Student)
It is also essential to check the opening hours of the Pyramids of Giza, as they may vary depending on the season but typically it is open from 8 am to 5 pm daily. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you beat the crowds and make the most of your time exploring the pyramids.
Please check Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and entrance fees to the Great Pyramids of Giza.
Guided Great Pyramids of Giza Tours vs. Going Solo
While you can explore the pyramid grounds independently, I highly recommend booking a guided tour of the Great Pyramids of Giza. Having an experienced Egyptologist guide enriched my visit tremendously with their insights into the history and significance of this iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. I took the tour with a photography service and did not regret it! The photos were amazing – they are a good starting point to retell to friends my amazing journey.
Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking an adventure, a guided tour is the perfect way to explore these iconic landmarks.
What to Bring
No matter if you take a tour or go solo, pack the essentials:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Sunglasses and hat
- Proper shoes for walking on the sandy plateau
- Plentiful water and snacks
- Camera/video gear
It can get extremely hot walking around the Giza pyramids under the blazing Egyptian sun so please do not forget to constantly re-apply your sunscreen.
Other Sights Near the Giza Pyramids
While the pyramids are the undisputed stars, there are some other fascinating sights nearby worth visiting:
- The Solar Boat Museum housing Khufu’s remarkably preserved wooden ship
- Panorama area with epic views of all three pyramids
- Giza Plateau viewpoint overlooking Cairo’s sprawl
- Camel/horse rental for unique pyramid photos
The Pyramids of Giza After Dark: The Incredible Sound and Light Show
While the pyramids are an awe-inspiring sight during the day, they take on an entirely new atmosphere and energy after the sun sets. I did not hesitate to catch the Sound and Light show at the pyramids for a truly memorable experience.
The hour-long show is a multimedia extravaganza combining lights, lasers, projected images, and a booming soundtrack that illuminates over 4,500 years of history. It is simply breathtaking to witness these monuments transformed into an immersive experience that celebrates their ancient glory. The stories and secrets of the Sphinx, temples, and great pyramids are dramatically re-told and visualized across the towering surfaces of these ancient stones.
The Sound and Light Show operates year-round (and is available in 10 languages), with start times varying based on the sunset schedule. Show times are typically around 7 pm in winter and 8 pm in summer’s peak season. Tickets for tourists and foreigners are USD 26 (VIP), USD 20 (Regular) and USD 11 (Child).
For the most updated information on show times, and fees and to book your tickets online, please check out the Sound and Light Show website.
Conclusion
The splendor of the Pyramids of Giza defy all of my expectations. As I reflect on my time spent exploring the Great Pyramids of Giza, I am filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the opportunity to witness such timeless marvels. I hope that my insights and practical tips will inspire you to embark on your journey to discover the wonders of Egypt’s iconic pyramids.
