Giza Pyramids & Saqqara Day Trip from Alexandria Port

Summary

Alexandria to Cairo for pyramids camel ride & ancient Saqqara

You’ll leave Alexandria Port early and cross Egypt’s desert for a day trip to Cairo’s Giza Pyramids—stand before Cheops, ride camels near the Sphinx, then wander through Saqqara’s ancient tombs after lunch. With a local Egyptologist guiding you every step, you’ll feel both awed and surprisingly at ease.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous when we left Alexandria Port—Cairo felt far and the city names are almost mythic. Our guide, Hany, met us right at the cruise exit with a big grin and a sign (my name spelled right, which honestly impressed me). The van was cool inside even though outside it already smelled like sun on stone. We settled in for the drive—Hany told stories about pharaohs and traffic jams in the same breath. There was this moment when I caught a glimpse of the Giza Pyramids rising up through the haze; it didn’t feel real yet.

The first real jolt of “I’m actually here” hit me standing in front of Cheops’ pyramid. It’s massive but what got me was the texture—rough blocks, sand dust sticking to my fingers. We did a short camel ride (the camel’s name was Bob Marley, no joke) around the pyramids. I tried to look cool but mostly just held on tight while Hany laughed and snapped photos. The Sphinx had this calm face that made me feel weirdly small. There was a faint scent of incense near the temple ruins—someone must have been burning it nearby.

Lunch was in a quiet spot away from the crowds—a simple meal but good, with bread that tasted smoky from the oven. Afterward we drove out to Saqqara where everything felt older and quieter than Giza. The Step Pyramid of Djoser is different—almost gentle compared to Giza’s sharp lines. We ducked into one of those mastaba tombs (I think it was Idut?) and there were faded colors on the walls that made me wish I could read ancient Egyptian. The air inside was cool and still.

The drive back blurred by—I watched palm trees flick past and tried to hold onto how small I’d felt next to all that history. Still not sure if I dreamed half of it or not.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Alexandria to Giza and Saqqara tour

• Pickup from Alexandria Port
• Travel to Cairo with rest stop
• Panoramic view of Giza Pyramids
• Camel ride around pyramids
• Visit Great Sphinx and mummification temple
• Lunch at quality restaurant
• Visit Saqqara ancient cemetery
• Explore Step Pyramid of Djoser
• See Mastabas like Idut or Mere Ruca
• Return to ship in Alexandria

Top questions

How long does it take from Alexandria Port to Giza?

It usually takes about 3 hours by car from Alexandria Port to Giza, depending on traffic conditions.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

Yes, lunch at a good quality restaurant is included during your tour.

Do I need cash for entrance fees?

No, entrance fees are included in your booking price.

Will there be a guide with us all day?

Yes, a qualified Egyptologist guide accompanies you throughout the tour.

Is pickup directly from my cruise ship?

Yes, pickup is at Alexandria Port right by your cruise exit door.

How long is the camel ride at Giza?

The camel ride around the pyramids lasts about 30 minutes.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Bottled water is included as part of your day trip package.

Can vegetarians be accommodated for lunch?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if requested at booking time.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off right at Alexandria Port by large van, all entry fees for sites like Giza Pyramids and Saqqara, bottled water throughout, a private Egyptologist guide who stays with you all day, a 30-minute camel ride near the pyramids, and lunch served at a VIP restaurant before heading back to your ship.