Go on a Half-Day Tour to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx from Cairo

Are you visiting Cairo and looking for an exciting day trip? Look no further than a half-day tour to explore the ancient wonders of the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. The iconic sites located in Giza, just outside of Cairo, have stood the test of time, and are a must-see when taking a trip to Egypt. Although many people plan multi-day tours to explore the Great Pyramids, a half-day trip is feasible and makes for a rewarding experience.

What You’ll See During Your Tour

When you arrive at your tour site, you’ll be able to view the three pyramids, Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Each pyramid was built as a royal tomb to guard the mummified bodies of four different pharaohs. The largest of the pyramids was built for Pharaoh Khufu by an estimated 20,000 workers over a span of 20 years. Once there, you can also explore the Great Sphinx which stands guard next to the three pyramids. In its very recognizable lion form, the Sphinx has watched silently over the desert landscape for over 4500 years.

What You’ll Experience on Your Half-Day Tour

The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx make for an engaging day trip from Cairo. Depending on the tour you choose, your journey can include stops at a papyrus institute, as well as cultural performances, including whirling dervishes and belly dancers. Your tour guide will be able to fill you in on the fascinating history of each site and give you time to take photographs and enjoy some of the local food offerings.

What to Wear and Bring With You

It is best to dress modestly when visiting any historical sites in Egypt. Both men and women should wear light clothing that covers their arms and legs and avoid wearing shorts or summer dresses. During summer months, it can get pretty hot outside, so be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, water and sunglasses. You’ll thank yourself that you did! Depending on how long your tour takes, you may want to bring a snack and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Other Ways to See and Experience the Pyramids of Giza

There are several different ways to experience the Pyramids at Giza. If a half-day tour isn’t for you, consider hopping on a horse and camel trek through the desert or take an exhilarating hot air balloon ride. Another option is a jeep safari adventure or romantic horse and carriage ride. For an extra special experience, book an overnight desert camping tour including an unforgettable star gazing experience beneath the open night sky.

Book Your Tour Through GetYourGuide

If you’re planning a day trip to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx from Cairo, be sure book through GetYourGuide. With GetYourGuide you are guaranteed secure transactions with great customer service available 24/7 in multiple languages. Besides deposits being 100% safe, GetYourGuide offers a variety of payment methods with convenient prices and great discounts for bookings during peak times. GetYourGuide also allows you to book multiple activities in one easy step plus cancellations are available up to 24 hours prior to your activity date, so you don’t have to worry about forgetting your appointment or paying non-refundable fees last minute.

Check out GetYourGuide now for an unforgettable experience exploring the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx from Cairo!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Cairo, Egypt

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, is a bustling city filled with history, culture, and adventure. Located on the banks of the river Nile, Cairo is famous for its ancient and modern attractions, including the Giza pyramids, the Sphinx, mosques, museums, and bustling bazaars. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top attractions, best dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make the most out of your trip.

Top Tourist Attractions

Cairo has several historical and modern tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Here are the top three:

1. Giza Pyramids and Sphinx: The Giza Pyramids are the only ancient wonders that remain standing. These imposing structures were built over 4,500 years ago as tombs for Pharaohs. The Sphinx, a half-lion, and half-human statue, stands guard nearby. A half-day tour is enough to visit these iconic landmarks.

2. Egyptian Museum: The Egyptian Museum has an extensive collection of ancient Egyptian art, artifacts, and mummies. The museum is home to over 120,000 items, including the famous Tutankhamun’s treasures.

3. Khan El-Khalili: The bazaar of Khan El-Khalili is a bustling market that dates back to the 14th century. Here, you can find souvenirs, spices, jewelry, and traditional Egyptian crafts. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and soak up the atmosphere of the old city.

Best Dining Spots

Cairo is a foodie’s paradise, and there are plenty of dining options to choose from. Here are some of our top picks:

1. Felfela: Felfela is one of the oldest, most popular eateries in Cairo. It serves authentic Egyptian food, such as stuffed vine leaves, koshari, foul (cooked fava beans), and fresh juices.

2. Abou El Sid: Abou El Sid is a restaurant that specializes in Egyptian cuisine. The restaurant’s decor is inspired by the country’s history, and the menu offers traditional dishes such as molokheya, stuffed pigeon, and kofta.

3. Kazouza: Kazouza is a stylish restaurant that serves modern Egyptian cuisine. The menu includes dishes such as eggplant salad, spicy shrimp, and lamb chops. The restaurant also has a rooftop terrace with fantastic views of the city.

Cultural Experiences

To get a taste of Cairo’s rich cultural heritage, consider these experiences:

1. Islamic Cairo: Islamic Cairo is a maze of narrow streets, mosques, and madrasas (Islamic schools). A walking tour of this area will give you an insight into Cairo’s Islamic past and present.

2. Nile Cruise: Taking a Nile cruise is an unforgettable experience. You can enjoy stunning views of the city while savoring delicious food and traditional music.

3. Al-Azhar Park: Al-Azhar Park is a beautiful park that offers a stunning view of the city skyline. The park has several restaurants, a lake, and a play area for kids.

Local History

Cairo has an extensive and rich history, spanning over 4,000 years. Here are some historical sites to visit:

1. Saqqara: Saqqara is the site of the oldest Egyptian pyramid, built in the 27th century BC. The site contains several other pyramids and is a testament to ancient Egyptian architecture.

2. Al-Muizz Street: Al-Muizz Street is a historical street that has been around since the Fatimid period (10th century). The street is lined with mosques, madrasas, and traditional houses.

3. Citadel of Salah El-Din: The Citadel of Salah El-Din is a medieval Islamic fortress that dates back to the 12th century. The citadel offers a stunning view of Cairo and houses several museums.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to go off the beaten path, here are some hidden gems in Cairo:

1. City of the Dead: The City of the Dead is an ancient cemetery that has been inhabited for over a thousand years. The area is full of old tombs and mausoleums and is a fascinating place to visit.

2. Darb Al-Ahmar: Darb Al-Ahmar is a historical district that houses several traditional crafts such as carpentry, metalwork, and glass-blowing. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and watch the artisans at work.

3. Wadi Degla: Wadi Degla is a desert valley that is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking in this beautiful natural park.

In conclusion, Cairo is a beautiful city filled with history, culture, and adventure. By following this insider’s guide, you’ll make the most out of your trip and experience everything that Cairo has to offer.