Great Pyramid of Khufu
The Great Pyramid of Khufu, an ancient marvel and the last standing wonder of the world, offering a glimpse into pharaonic history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect weather, fewer crowds
Great Pyramid of Khufu
Best Time
Perfect weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The Great Pyramid of Khufu, an ancient marvel and the last standing wonder of the world, offering a glimpse into pharaonic history.
"Standing before such an awe-inspiring wonder of the ancient world left me speechless."
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water; it's expensive on-site. The area is vast and can get very hot.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sandy, uneven terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Pyramid of Khufu
Stand in awe of the last remaining ancient wonder of the world. Its sheer scale is breathtaking.
King's Chamber
Inside the Great Pyramid
Venture into the heart of the pyramid to see the ancient burial chamber.
Khufu's Restaurant
Giza Pyramid Complex
Enjoy a meal with an unparalleled view of the pyramids.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Inside the Pyramid: Worth the Climb?
Beat the Heat & the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water; it's expensive on-site. The area is vast and can get very hot. +1
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sandy, uneven terrain.
🚫 Firm 'No' to Touts
Be prepared for persistent vendors. A firm, clear 'no' is essential. +1
💳 Card Payments Accepted
Tickets can be purchased with credit cards at the entrance.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Stay Hydrated!
Bring plenty of water; it's expensive on-site. The area is vast and can get very hot. +1
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on sandy, uneven terrain.
🚫 Firm 'No' to Touts
Be prepared for persistent vendors. A firm, clear 'no' is essential. +1
💳 Card Payments Accepted
Tickets can be purchased with credit cards at the entrance.
📸 Capture the Majesty
Photos don't do justice to the scale; capture as much as you can!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe the Great Pyramid as an awe-inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime experience, marveling at its ancient grandeur. The site is generally well-maintained, and many appreciate the convenience of on-site transport options. However, some find the interior of the pyramid to be hot, cramped, and lacking in significant sights, leading to mixed opinions on its value. +1
"Visiting the Great Pyramid of Egypt was an unforgettable experience! Standing before such an awe-inspiring wonder of the ancient world left me speechless. The site is beautifully maintained, and walking around the pyramid felt like stepping back in time.
What made the visit even more enjoyable was the excellent bus service. It was comfortable, punctual, and very convenient, making it so much easier to explore the area without stress. Having reliable transport gave me the chance to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about logistics.
Overall, I highly recommend visiting the Great Pyramid. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey, and the smooth transportation service made it even more memorable!"
MAHMOUD HASSAN
"I visited in January. This is something everyone should do and experience. Weather was perfect, I do not recommend going in the summer. We rode a horse carriage around the pyramids and pictures cannot do it justice. Everyone was nice and courteous, it was extremely busy because we visited on a public holiday. Entrance and area surrounding the pyramids was very dirty, the government should clean this area up as many visit from all over the world. Camels and horses were abused for entertainment which saddened me but I assume this is what the norm is. Overall, I believe everyone should visit the pyramids at least once in their lifetime!"
Sam N
"A fantastic once-in-a-lifetime experience, so if you find yourself there, I strongly recommend not missing it.
It’s not too difficult to climb into the chamber, but in general, it’s narrow, low-ceilinged, and very humid.
If you are claustrophobic, it’s better not to try it."
Konstantinos Gkezepis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Uber is a reliable and affordable option from Cairo hotels to the Giza plateau. Some travelers opt for private tours booked through hostels or local companies for convenience, which often include transportation. +1
The site is vast. While walking is possible, consider horse carriages or camel rides for longer distances, but be prepared to negotiate prices firmly. +1
Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the peak crowds. January is also noted as a good time to visit for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. +1
Yes, many tour companies and local guides offer services. It's recommended to look for highly-rated local companies with good reviews and direct communication channels like WhatsApp or email.
While public transport options exist, Uber is frequently recommended by travelers for its ease of use and lack of bargaining hassle compared to taxis.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to the Giza plateau is around 300 Egyptian pounds. Accessing the Great Pyramid itself typically costs an additional 600 Egyptian pounds. Prices can vary, so check current rates upon arrival.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance booths. Machines are available, and credit card payments are accepted.
Tickets are generally available for purchase on-site. Booking in advance is usually not necessary unless you are part of a pre-arranged tour.
The Giza Pyramid complex typically opens early in the morning and closes around sunset. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to confirm closer to your visit date.
Opinions vary. Some find it a worthwhile experience for the bragging rights and unique adventure, while others feel it's too cramped and hot with little to see, suggesting the money might be better spent elsewhere in the complex or on other sites like the Valley of the Kings. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Going inside involves walking up a steep, narrow wooden walkway. It's often described as hot, humid, and claustrophobic, with limited ventilation. Most artifacts have been removed, leaving an empty sarcophagus. +1
Generally, no. The interior is mostly bare passages and the King's Chamber with an empty sarcophagus. For intricate hieroglyphics and decorated tombs, sites like the Valley of the Kings in Luxor are recommended. +1
While generally safe, the narrow passages and crowds can be challenging. Be mindful of your surroundings and other visitors.
Light, breathable clothing is essential due to the heat. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the sandy terrain. Consider a bandana for windy days.
While some visitors report aggressive touts and attempts to upsell services, many also report positive interactions and no scams. Being firm with your 'no' and sticking to official ticket points can help. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Khufu's Restaurant, located within the Giza Pyramid complex, offers meals with stunning pyramid views. It's a popular spot for breakfast after visiting the site.
Khufu's Restaurant serves traditional Egyptian breakfast items, including mutabbal, falafel, and special potato dishes.
Eating at Khufu's Restaurant offers a unique experience with incredible views. It's a convenient option after exploring the pyramids.
While there might be some vendors selling snacks and drinks, Khufu's Restaurant is the primary sit-down dining option within the immediate vicinity of the pyramids.
It's advisable to have a proper meal before your visit, especially if you plan to explore extensively. This ensures you have energy for the day.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoint offers a classic vista of all three pyramids. The area around the Sphinx also provides iconic photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed outside the pyramids. Inside, it may be restricted or discouraged due to the cramped conditions and lighting.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in sensitive historical and military areas in Egypt. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the sheer scale is still impressive.
Capturing the pyramids with the Sphinx in the foreground, or from the panoramic viewpoint with all three pyramids lined up, are highly recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider opting for a horse carriage ride around the complex for a fun and less strenuous way to see the sights. Ensure you bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as sun protection. A firm but friendly approach with vendors is key, and teaching children to politely decline offers can be a good strategy.
💰 Budget Travelers
Decide carefully if entering the Great Pyramid is worth the extra cost for you; many travelers suggest skipping it to save money and avoid discomfort, recommending that funds might be better allocated to other experiences or sites. Pack your own snacks and water to avoid inflated prices within the complex.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours, and consider a wide-angle lens to capture the immense scale. While interior photography might be restricted, the exterior vistas are truly breathtaking.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Experience of Entering the Great Pyramid
Inside, the primary feature is the King's Chamber, which contains an empty sarcophagus. Unlike the elaborately decorated tombs found in places like the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, the Great Pyramid's interior lacks hieroglyphics and intricate carvings. This has led many to question if the ticket price and the physical exertion are truly worth it. Some visitors suggest that the experience is more about the 'I did it' factor than the visual spectacle.
However, for some, the thrill of exploring the interior, even with its limitations, is a memorable part of their Egyptian adventure. If you do decide to go inside, it's crucial to be prepared for the heat, the confined spaces, and the possibility of crowds. Visiting during off-peak hours or when the pyramid appears less busy might enhance the experience.
Navigating the Giza Plateau: Tips from Travelers
A significant aspect of visiting Giza is managing interactions with local vendors and touts. Many visitors report persistent offers for camel rides, souvenirs, and guiding services. While some find these interactions manageable with a firm 'no,' others recommend being decisive and avoiding prolonged engagement to prevent being pressured. Using Uber for transportation to and from the site is often preferred over taxis due to its fixed pricing and reliability, bypassing the need for haggling.
For those seeking a more comprehensive understanding of the site, hiring a licensed guide or booking a tour can be beneficial. Many travelers recommend researching local tour companies with strong reviews and direct communication channels. This can help ensure a smoother experience, with guides often handling ticketing and providing historical context, allowing visitors to focus on the awe-inspiring ancient structures.
Dining with a View: Khufu's Restaurant
Travelers rave about the opportunity to enjoy traditional Egyptian breakfast dishes like mutabbal and falafel while gazing at the ancient wonder. It's a popular spot for visitors to relax and refuel after exploring the pyramids, offering a moment of respite with an extraordinary vista.
While the food is generally well-received, the main draw is undoubtedly the location. It's a chance to combine culinary enjoyment with iconic sightseeing, making it a recommended stop for those looking to enhance their Giza experience.
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