Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

At this point, you have probably seen all those stunning pictures of the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. However, while they are a sight to behold in photographs, nothing will beat the experience of seeing with your own eyes these ancient monuments.

Undoubtedly the most notable and celebrated structures of Egypt, spectator have been in awe for many centuries of these ancient tombs with the serene Sphinx guarding them.

Pyramids of Giza are defining symbol of Egypt

To this very day, the pyramids haven’t lost their touch as they still remain magical in the eyes of visitors. No Egyptian trip will ever be complete if you don’t get to spend time in one of the most recognizable tourist spots of the world. Towering high and mighty over the edge of the suburban sprawl of Cairo, these majestic monuments commemorate the ambition and power of the pharaohs of Egypt.

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Pyramids of Giza – Quick Facts

It was approximately 5,000 years ago when Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza were built at the start of the early human history ever recorded.

The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known by the names Pyramid of Cheops and Pyramid of Khufu, is actually the oldest out of the three primary pyramids located on the Giza plateau. It is a pyramid established around 2570 BC and is also among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This is also the sole Ancient Wonder that still remains mostly intact.

The Pyramids of Giza are located on the Giza Plateau

The Great Pyramid, for 3,800 years, was the world’s tallest building until the construction of the Lincoln Cathedral in England in 1311 AD.

Every time people talk about the Pyramids of Giza, they are usually pertaining to the three huge pyramids situated in the Giza complex. The three pyramids are the Great Pyramid together with the two other neighboring pyramids, the Pyramid of Menkaure and the Pyramid of Khafre.

The pyramids were meant to serve as the tombs for Egypt’s pharaohs. The King’s Chamber can be found within the pyramid where the sarcophagus is located.

The Giza Plateau is the location of the Pyramids of Giza that is also called the Giza pyramid complex or Giza Necropolis. The Great Sphinx, a selection of tinier tombs, and nine pyramids are also sitting on the plateau.

The Giza Plateau sits right next to Giza’s sprawling city. If you want to book a hotel room that offers a stunning view, you can find numerous hotels that offer rooms with a scenic view of the Great Pyramid or Sphinx.

How to Get There

The easiest and also the most popular way to get to the pyramids for the independent travelers is to hire a cab for a Cairo trip good for half a day. The cab can take you around the location if you like and also drive you back afterwards to the main city. If the taxi you hire is only good for one way trip, you can stilt hail a taxi by the entrance of the Sphinx so you can go back to the town.

The three primary pyramids on the Giza plateau were built over the span of three generations

You can also take the minibus and Cairo Metro to get to the pyramids. Just take Cairo Metro to the city and take the minibus found outside the exit of Giza metro station.

Best Time for Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Winter is generally the perfect time for visiting Egypt. To be more specific, the ideal time for visiting the Pyramids of Giza is right after the rush of tourist buses in the morning. It is recommended to drop by at the Egyptian Museum to start your morning in case you didn’t catch the tour buses that reach the pyramids between 9:30 to 10:30 in the morning.

Video: Best tips for visiting the pyramids | Things to know about egypt travel

How Many Hours are Required During Your Visit?

Well, it actually depends on the amount of time that you have allotted for your visit. But, one thing is for sure, time will fly the moment you arrive at the complex. It would be great if you can allocate most of your day for exploring the entirety of the pyramids complex.

The best piece of advice here is to avoid rushing. Look for a peaceful spot and just enjoy the amazing view there.

Is It Possible to Go Inside?

Of course, it is possible. You can explore The Great Pyramid of Giza, Pyramid of Menkaure, Pyramid of Khafre, and Mers Ankh Tomb. Your ticket already includes the free visit to the center of the three satellite pyramids of Queen of Cheops.

Video: You can go inside the pyramids!? | Exploring the Great Pyramids of Giza – Egypt

Even though many people, with the local guides include, will try to discourage you from going inside Giza’s Great Pyramid, telling you that it isn’t worth your money, it is still a great decision to go inside. However, it depends on whether or not you are interested to go inside in the first place.

When you are there, you would surely want to go inside. You travelled all the way there so why shouldn’t you make the most of it, right? As mentioned earlier, the King’s Chamber can be found at the heart of the pyramid. Although there is technically nothing to see the chamber aside from the now empty sarcophagus, the experience of being able to walk through the Great Gallery with a height of 30 feet or 9 meter and seeing for yourself the inner workings of the incredible monument is already amazing in itself.

If going inside isn’t part of your plan, you can go to the Egyptian Museum inside to see the tombs with their wonderful decorations and the mummies. The Royal Mummy Room shouldn’t be missed as well.

Here are a few tips to remember when you go inside The Great Pyramid of Giza:

Set aside 30 to 40 minutes for you to complete your visit inside.
The Great Gallery within the Great Pyramid of Giza is quite narrow so you might want to reconsider, especially if you have claustrophobia.
It is extremely humid in the King’s Chamber so don’t forget to have some tissues handy.
Cameras and phones are not allowed inside. Items should be left with the guards at the entrance. You will get a ticket in exchange so make sure you don’t lose this to collect your stuff afterwards.

The Pyramids of Giza in Egypt will continue to be amazing to the eyes of both local and foreign tourists. Make sure you don’t miss checking them out if you have plans to visit Egypt soon.