Pyramids of Giza: reviews, price and practical tips

+19
recos
4.4/5 7 reviews
Sharia el-Ahram, route des pyramides , 202 Giza, Egypt
Sharia el-Ahram, route des pyramides , 202 Giza, Egypt
From 450 EGP (~$13)*
Booking recommended
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Pyramides de Gizeh

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

Located in the Sahara desert, about 12 miles west of the capital of Egypt, Cairo, the Pyramids of Giza include the world-famous Khufu, Khafre, Menkaure and the Great Sphinx, all designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. These royal burial sites on the Giza Plateau represent the grandeur of the pharaohs and the engineering prowess of ancient Egypt. Modern visitor infrastructure, including souvenir shops and parking areas with a utilitarian aesthetic, has been added to the site.

4 jewels of antiquity

Built around 2580 BC, the massive Khufu pyramid, tomb of the pharaoh of the same name, is a sight to behold. Often cited as the first of the seven wonders of the ancient world, it remained the tallest and most massive human-made structure for thousands of years. Its square base measures over 820 feet on each side, it stands 450 feet tall, and its total volume exceeds 2.5 million cubic meters. A masterpiece of ashlar masonry by the architect Hemiunu, the structure still holds many secrets today.

Located just a short distance away, the pyramid of Khafre, son of Khufu, is the second largest. It is easily identified by its smooth faces and the limestone casing remaining at its peak. Its funerary complex is well preserved and features a temple built from pink granite sourced from Aswan.

Much smaller and set further apart, Menkaure reaches a height of 206 feet. Originally, its exterior was a combination of red granite and limestone. The sarcophagus of Menkaure is currently on display at the British Museum. Khentkaus I, a relative of the king, also has her tomb located nearby.

Situated to the east, below the pyramid of Khafre, the Great Sphinx with its damaged nose remains the largest monolithic monumental sculpture in the world. This human-headed lion statue, constructed around 2500 BC, is believed to represent Khufu and may have served as a guardian of the site or as a sanctuary of Anubis.

From 450 EGP (~$13)*Booking recommended
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Opening hours

Open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Hours are indicative and subject to change

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Reviews of Pyramids of Giza

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Summary of 7 reviews
4.4/5
Average rating
+19
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.3
As a couple
4.4
With friends
4.7

Avygeo ranking

#187
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.

81
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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.

11
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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.

8
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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."

7
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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.

9
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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.

4
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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.

4
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