This day trip to the pyramids from Cairo connects Memphis, Saqqara, and the Giza Pyramids—the three sites that tell the whole story of ancient Egypt. From the first capital of the pharaohs to the last surviving wonder of the ancient world, this journey reveals the true spirit of Egypt.
Memphis—Egypt’s First Capital
Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Cairo and a warm welcome from your Egyptologist guide.
Travel south to Memphis, once the heart of ancient Egypt. Here, you’ll see the colossal statue of Ramses II and the alabaster sphinx, symbols of a city that once ruled the Nile Valley.
💡 Tip: Memphis is about 30 km south of Cairo—an easy 40-minute drive.
Saqqara—The Step Pyramid of Djoser
Next, continue to Saqqara, home to the world’s first pyramid—the Step Pyramid of King Djoser.
Designed by the legendary architect Imhotep, this masterpiece changed the course of history.
Your guide will share how ancient engineers built the foundation for all later pyramids.
🗣️ Many travelers say Saqqara feels more peaceful than Giza, with fewer crowds and breathtaking desert views
Giza—The Great Pyramids and the Sphinx
After lunch, explore the Giza Plateau, home to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. This highlight of your day trip to the pyramids from Cairo offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities from the panoramic viewpoint, where all three pyramids align perfectly against the desert horizon.
Then, meet the Great Sphinx, guardian of Giza, with the body of a lion and the face of King Khafre.
Nearby, the Sphinx Temple still echoes Egypt’s golden age rituals.
Optional to make your adventure.
For an added touch of adventure, you may enter one of the pyramids or enjoy a camel or horse ride across the timeless desert landscape—an unforgettable way to complete your day of discovery.
By the end of your day trip to the pyramids from Cairo, you’ll have walked through Egypt’s earliest capital, admired the first pyramid, and stood before the last wonder of the ancient world—all in one extraordinary journey.
Overview
Step into the heart of Egypt’s history on a day trip that connects Memphis, Saqqara, and the Giza Pyramids—three legendary sites that tell the story of Egypt’s ancient glory. From the Pharaohs’ first capital to the ancient world’s last surviving wonder, this journey unveils the roots of a civilization that shaped history.
Begin your adventure with a visit to Memphis, the ancient capital founded by King Menes more than 5,000 years ago. Here, you’ll stand before the colossal statue of Ramses II and the elegant Alabaster Sphinx, timeless symbols of royal power and artistic mastery.
Continue to Saqqara, home of the iconic Step Pyramid of King Djoser, the earliest large-scale stone monument ever built. As you explore its ancient tombs and corridors, you’ll feel the spirit of the Old Kingdom that laid the foundation for centuries of pyramid building.
Your final destination is the world-famous Giza Plateau, where the majestic pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure rise proudly from the desert sands. Gaze upon the Great Sphinx, guardian of these eternal monuments, and take in panoramic views that capture Egypt’s enduring wonder.
Trip Highlights
- • Visit Memphis, Egypt’s first capital, and see the colossal statue of Ramses II.
- • Explore Saqqara, home of the world’s oldest pyramid—the Step Pyramid of Djoser and the Royal Tombs.
- • Stand before the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World.
- • Discover the Pyramid of Khafre and enjoy a panoramic view of all three pyramids.
- • Visit the legendary Great Sphinx and the ancient Sphinx Temple.
- • Enjoy a professional Egyptologist guide who brings history to life.
