Giza Pyramids, Saqqara & Memphis Full Day Tour from Cairo

Summary

Day Trip to Ancient Egypt’s Landmarks: Giza, Saqqara & Memphis

You’ll see Egypt’s most famous sites in one day: stand beside ancient pyramids at Giza and Saqqara, explore Memphis’ open-air museum, and hear real stories from an expert guide along the way. It’s history brought to life—with all the details handled for you.

What’s the experience like?

The air was already warming up when we left our Cairo hotel at 8am—just enough of a breeze to keep things comfortable. Our Egyptologist guide, Hany, greeted us with a grin and a few quick facts about the city as we drove through the morning traffic. By the time we reached the Giza Plateau, the pyramids were peeking through a light haze—honestly, nothing really prepares you for that first glimpse. We wandered right up to Cheops’ pyramid, feeling the rough stone under our hands. Hany pointed out tiny details on the blocks and shared how workers once hauled them here in the heat. The Sphinx sat nearby, its face surprisingly expressive up close. You can actually get pretty close for photos (and if you want to go inside one of the pyramids or hop on a camel, just ask—those extras aren’t included but can be arranged). I still remember the faint smell of sand and horses drifting by as we walked around.

Next stop: Saqqara. It’s only about half an hour southwest of Cairo but feels like another world—quieter, less crowded than Giza. The Step Pyramid of Zoser rises above everything; it’s older than the big pyramids and has this weathered look that makes you realize just how ancient it is. Hany explained how this was where pyramid building really started out. There were hardly any other groups around when we visited, so we could actually hear birds calling from the palm groves nearby. If you’re curious about going inside smaller tombs or want to try a quad bike ride in the desert here too, there’s time for that (just let your guide know—it’s extra).

We finished up in Memphis—the old capital city—where giant statues of Ramses II lie stretched out under a simple shelter. The scale is wild; you have to walk around just to take it all in. There’s also an alabaster sphinx tucked away in a corner that most people miss unless someone points it out (thanks again, Hany). After a quick lunch at a local spot (the falafel was fresh and hot), we headed back into Cairo traffic—tired but honestly glad we didn’t try to do this on our own.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Giza Pyramids and Sphinx Visit

• Visit Great Pyramids of Giza
• Explore Step Pyramid at Saqqara
• Tour Memphis City and Colossus of Ramses II

Top questions

Can I go inside any of the pyramids during this tour?

Yes! You can enter some pyramids for an extra fee—just let your guide know during booking or on site.

Is lunch included?

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

Are camel rides or quad biking part of this tour?

Camel rides and quad biking aren’t included by default but can be arranged for an additional cost if you’d like to add them.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes—the vehicle and most areas are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Cairo or Giza, transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, guidance from a licensed Egyptologist, and lunch at a local restaurant. Entrance fees for optional activities like pyramid interiors or camel rides aren’t included but can be arranged on request.