Saqqara, Dahshur & Memphis: Private Pyramids Day Tour

Summary

Saqqara’s step pyramid, Dahshur’s red stones and the quiet of Memphis ruins

You’ll walk beneath Saqqara’s ancient step pyramid, climb deep into Dahshur’s mysterious Red Pyramid (if your knees allow), and stand face-to-face with Ramses II in Memphis—all with a local guide who brings every stone to life. Expect hotel pickup, entry fees covered, and moments that linger long after you’ve left Egypt behind.

What’s the experience like?

“You want to try the echo?” our guide Ahmed grinned as we stood in front of the Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara. I didn’t really know what he meant, but I clapped anyway — and the sound bounced off those ancient stones like it had a thousand years to travel. The air was dry and a little dusty, with that faint smell of old earth you only get in places that have been buried and dug up again. Ahmed told us about Imhotep, the architect, his voice getting softer when he talked about how these pyramids were basically Egypt’s first skyscrapers. I kept looking at the carvings inside King Unas’ pyramid — tiny blue stars on the ceiling — and honestly, I still think about that view.

After a quick lunch (falafel sandwiches wrapped in paper, eaten sitting on a low wall under some scraggly trees), we drove out to Dahshur. The Red Pyramid looked almost pink in the noon sun — not something I expected. Climbing inside was… well, let’s just say my knees are still mad at me for it. The air got cooler as we went down, and there was this chalky smell mixed with limestone dust. Ahmed joked that if we could pronounce “Sneferu” right he’d buy us tea (I failed). The Bent Pyramid was next — its sides slanting like someone changed their mind halfway through building. It felt quieter here than at Giza; just wind and our footsteps crunching gravel.

Last stop: Memphis. There isn’t much city left — more like scattered stones and palm trees leaning over broken statues. But then you walk into this little museum hall and there’s Ramses II lying on his back, massive and somehow gentle-faced even after all those centuries. A few kids ran past giggling while their grandmother tried to shush them; she winked at me when she caught my eye. The alabaster Sphinx sat outside in the heat, its features worn smooth but still watching everything go by.

I didn’t expect to feel so much just standing among ruins — maybe it was the stories Ahmed told or just realizing how old everything is here compared to my own life back home. Anyway, if you’re thinking about a day trip from Cairo that goes beyond the usual Giza pyramids, this private tour of Saqqara, Dahshur & Memphis is something else entirely.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Saqqara, Dahshur, and Memphis

• Pick up from requested location
• Visit Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara
• Explore Step Pyramid complex and tombs
• Lunch break
• Visit Dahshur Pyramids (Red and Bent)
• Enter Red Pyramid
• Enter Bent Pyramid
• Visit ancient capital Memphis
• See Colossus of Ramses II statue
• See Alabaster Sphinx of Memphis
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does the Saqqara, Dahshur & Memphis tour take?

The private day tour usually lasts 6–8 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included for this pyramids day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Cairo or Giza accommodation is included.

Can you enter inside the pyramids at Dahshur?

You can enter both the Red Pyramid (free) and Bent Pyramid if you wish—just be prepared for steep passages.

Are entry fees included in this private tour?

Entry fees are included if you select that option during booking; otherwise they may be extra.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

A traditional lunch is included if you choose that option when booking.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to uneven ground and pyramid interiors.

What will I see at Memphis?

You’ll visit the Colossus of Ramses II, the Alabaster Sphinx, and other ancient ruins in what remains of Egypt’s old capital city.

Do I need special tickets to enter King Unas’ pyramid?

Yes—entering King Unas’ pyramid or southern tomb requires a special ticket; your guide can help arrange it if available.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your Cairo or Giza hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, all area entry fees if selected when booking, bottled water along the way, plus a traditional Egyptian lunch if you choose that option—before heading back to your accommodation by late afternoon.