Cairo & Giza: Pyramids, Sphinx, Memphis & Saqqara tour

Summary

Step into ancient Egypt’s secrets with a local guide from Cairo

You’ll walk among Egypt’s legendary pyramids with a local guide who brings ancient history to life. From Giza’s golden sands to Saqqara’s quiet mystery and Memphis’ fallen statues, every stop is packed with stories and small surprises — plus lunch and easy hotel pickup so you can just focus on soaking it all in.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the size of the pyramids — it was the way the morning light hit the sand, making everything look almost gold. Our guide, Hossam, met us right at our hotel in Cairo (on time, which surprised me honestly), and by the time we reached the Giza Plateau, I could already smell that dry desert air mixing with city dust. He started telling stories about Cheops and Khafre before we’d even stepped out of the van. I remember thinking: these names sound so much bigger when you’re actually here.

Standing in front of the Sphinx felt stranger than I expected. There were birds nesting in its paws and a couple of kids selling postcards nearby — one tried to teach me how to say “hello” in Arabic but I definitely messed it up (he laughed anyway). Hossam pointed out how parts had been rebuilt over centuries; you could see where old stone met new if you looked close enough. The crowds weren’t too bad that day, maybe because it was still early or maybe just luck.

Saqqara was quieter — almost eerie. The Step Pyramid looked rougher than photos make it seem, but that made it feel more real somehow. We ate lunch not far from there (I still think about that bread and tahini), and Hossam explained how Imhotep designed this place thousands of years ago. Memphis was our last stop; there’s this massive statue of Ramses II lying on its back, toes chipped and all. It’s weirdly moving seeing something so old just resting like that. The bazaar nearby smelled like spices and dust — I bought a tiny carved cat for my niece but nearly forgot it at the stall.

By late afternoon we were back in Cairo traffic, tired but kind of buzzing from everything we’d seen. It’s hard to explain what it feels like standing where pharaohs once walked — maybe a little small, but also lucky to have seen it with someone who really knows these stories.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Giza Pyramids and Sphinx

• Visit Giza Plateau and Pyramids
• See the Great Sphinx of Giza

Day 2 — Visit Saqqara and Memphis

• Tour Saqqara Step Pyramid
• Explore Memphis and Colossus of Ramses II

Top questions

How long does this Cairo & Giza tour take?

The tour lasts a full day, including visits to Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara, and Memphis before returning to your hotel.

Is lunch included on this tour?

Yes, an Egyptian local lunch is included as part of your day trip.

Will there be a professional guide?

You’ll have an Egyptologist guide leading your group throughout the tour.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Cairo or Giza is included.

Are entry fees covered?

All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included in your booking price.

Is this private or group tour?

This is a private tour for your group only.

What sites will we visit on this day trip?

You’ll visit Giza Pyramids, Great Sphinx of Giza, Saqqara Step Pyramid, and Memphis including Ramses II statue.

Is this suitable for children or people with limited fitness?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; children must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cairo or Giza, all entry fees to sites like the pyramids and Saqqara, bottled water and snacks along the way, a traditional Egyptian lunch with your group (and probably some good bread), plus guidance from a professional Egyptologist before heading back through city traffic at sunset.