Pyramids of Giza: reviews, price and practical tips

+19
recs
4.4/5 7 reviews
Sharia el-Ahram, route des pyramides, 202 Giza, Egypt
Sharia el-Ahram, route des pyramides, 202 Giza, Egypt
Guided tours from $15*
Booking recommended
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Pyramides de Gizeh

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

Located in the Sahara desert, 20 km west of the capital of Egypt, Cairo, the Pyramids of Giza include the world-famous Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure and the Great Sphinx, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built on the plateau of the same name as royal tombs, they form a complex symbolizing the magnificence of the pharaohs and the genius of ancient Egypt. Modern tourist facilities, such as souvenir shops and parking lots with questionable aesthetics, have also been built nearby.

4 jewels of antiquity

Built around 2580 BC, the imposing Khufu, tomb of the pharaoh of the same name, will impress you. Considered the first of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, it was for millennia the tallest and most massive human-made structure in existence: its square base measures more than 230 metres on each side, its height reaches 137 metres, and its volume represents more than 2.5 million cubic metres. A masterpiece of ashlar masonry by the architect Hemiunu, it has not yet revealed all its secrets.

Located a few kilometres away, the pyramid of Khafre, son of Khufu, is the second largest. You will easily recognize it by its smooth faces and the limestone casing remaining at its top. Its remarkably preserved mortuary complex features a temple made of Aswan pink granite.

Much smaller and more distant, Menkaure rises to a height of 63 metres. Originally, its exterior cladding was made of a combination of red granite and limestone. The sarcophagus of Menkaure is now exhibited at the British Museum. Khentkaus I, a relative of the latter, also has her tomb a bit further away.

Located to the east below Khafre, the Great Sphinx with its mutilated nose is the largest monolithic monumental sculpture in the world. This theranthropic statue, half animal and half human, built around 2500 BC, is believed to represent Khafre and served either as a guardian of the site or as a sanctuary of Anubis.

Guided tours from $15*Booking recommended
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Opening hours

Monday 08:00-16:00
Tuesday 08:00-16:00
Wednesday 08:00-16:00
Thursday 08:00-16:00
Friday 08:00-16:00
Saturday 08:00-16:00
Sunday 08:00-16:00
Hours are indicative and subject to change

*Information subject to change

Reviews of the Pyramids of Giza

Summary of 7 reviews
4.4/5
Average rating
+19 recs +19 -0 Score weighted by contributor expertise level: a recommendation from a level 3 member counts as 3.
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.3
As a couple
4.4
With friends
4.7

Avygeo ranking

#193
in the world
#2
in Africa
#1
in Egypt
#1
in Giza

I wasn't disappointed!

The Pyramids of Giza are without a doubt one of the most impressive sites I have ever seen in my life. Obviously, the Great Pyramid of Giza is the most striking, especially when you are standing right next to it, as it seems immense (and it really is!). The only downside is the number of tourists, which can take away from the experience. Still, I was not disappointed by this visit that I had been looking forward to for a long time.

533
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A true wonder of the world

The three pyramids of Egypt are the only remains of the 7 wonders of the ancient world. It is one of the most impressive places on Earth. Childhood memories, reading about them in Asterix and Obelix for example. Just thinking about the work of the slaves who hauled those blocks toward the heavens is moving. You absolutely have to go inside a pyramid to better understand how they were built. By going early in the morning and with a guide, you will avoid the crowds and the onlookers who can bother you.

65
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4,000 years of history are watching you!

I do not think I am telling you anything new, but the Pyramids of Giza, very close to Cairo, are one of the 7 wonders of the world. These stone structures, which have withstood 4000 years of history, are very impressive. They are even more so if you put their construction into context. Given the technical means of the time, they seem disproportionate. I actually think the same thing about the great medieval cathedrals. It is easier to build 800m towers today than it was to build the Pyramids back then.

A must see, then! However, be prepared for the "urban shock," as the slums are right next door. We always have an image of the Pyramids standing alone in the middle of the desert. Depending on the angle, you might be a little disappointed.

35
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Big but pretty basic

The pyramids are massive in size, but the shape is pretty basic. It is their age that makes them symbols, but I didn't think to myself, "wow, this is beautiful."

30
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A striking contrast

The city and the slums have spread right to the gates of these massive pyramids. A truly striking contrast when you arrive, with the modern city on one side and the desert on the other. Impressive site.

29
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A technical mystery of our shared heritage

Egypt was one of the first cradles of human civilization. As such, the Pyramids of Giza are among the first great monuments of humanity.

Go see them. It is a bit like going on a pilgrimage to immerse yourself in our shared history.

25
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A must-see in Egypt

Right near the Egyptian capital, and on the itinerary of almost every excursion offered by local guides, you would really have no excuse to miss this historic monument during your stay in Cairo.

Not to be missed, it is a major structure of humanity.

25
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