How to Visit the Pyramids of Giza (Stress-Free & Scam-Proof)

The Pyramids of Giza. Just the name itself evokes images of ancient majesty and architectural marvels that have stood the test of time for millennia. It’s one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that is on every traveller’s bucket list. For many, a trip to Cairo wouldn’t be complete without seeing these colossal structures. But, let’s be real, visiting the pyramids is overwhelming especially when you’ve got pretty much the whole world telling you to “be careful” when visiting.

Worry not, my girls, I’ve written a comprehensive guide specifically designed to equip you with all the knowledge you need to experience the Pyramids of Giza stress-free, scam-proof, and with nothing but incredible memories. I’ve ensure you can enjoy your trip without the hustlers and confusion.

Pre-Trip Planning to the Pyramids of Giza

Preparation is key, especially when visiting a landmark like the Pyramids of Giza.

Best Time to Visit

Early Morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM): This is your golden window. The gates open at 8 AM. Make sure you arrive by the opening time so you can get cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the best light for photos. You’ll have a more serene experience at the Pyramids of Giza before the tour buses fully descend. The buses run for free, by the way!

Late Afternoon (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM): This is another good option if you can’t make the morning. The crowds start to thin out and the sunset light casts beautiful golden hues over the pyramids, perfect for photos. However, it can still be quite warm until sunset, because well, it’s always warm in Egypt.

Avoid Fridays & Saturdays: These are the busiest days for local tourism. If possible, visit on a weekday.

Seasons: Winter (October to April) offers the most pleasant weather. Summer (May to September) is scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). If you must visit in summer, stick strictly to early mornings.

Booking Your Tickets

Currently, purchasing tickets online in advance for the Pyramids of Giza is not widely available or reliably functional for tourists. The most common and reliable method is to buy your tickets directly at the entrance gates. I must warn you, though, it’s busy and non-systematic. So, just brave through that experience, as soon as you go through the gates, it should be smooth sailing from thereon.

Which Gate? There are two main entrances to the Giza Plateau:

• The Sphinx Gate: This gate is the closest to the Great Sphinx and often the more convenient entry point.
• The Mena House Gate: This gate is closer to the Great Pyramid.

Ticket Types & Prices (approximate, subject to change):

• General Entry to Giza Plateau: Around EGP 240 (Egyptian Pounds) for foreigners. This gets you onto the plateau, allowing you to walk around and see all nine pyramids and the Sphinx from the outside.
• Entry inside the Great Pyramid (Khufu): An additional EGP 440.
• Entry inside the Pyramid of Khafre (2nd largest): An additional EGP 100.
• Entry inside the Pyramid of Menkaure (3rd largest): An additional EGP 100.
• Camel/Horse Ride: Prices vary wildly and are negotiated directly with the vendors, unfortunately!

Payment: Bring cash for tickets, as card machines can be unreliable, although they are becoming more common. Having smaller notes for tips and vendors is also useful.

Getting to the Pyramids of Giza

How you arrive at the Pyramids of Giza can significantly impact your stress levels. So, choose wisely.

Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber/Careem/inDriver): Highly recommended! This is hands down the best way to get to the Pyramids of Giza from anywhere in Cairo.

• Pros: Fixed prices, no haggling, drivers are tracked, and you avoid many of the initial touts you might encounter with taxis. You can set your destination to “Pyramids of Giza Main Entrance” or “Sphinx Entrance.”
• Cons: Traffic in Cairo can be intense, so factor in travel time.

Private Driver/Tour Company: If you’ve booked a full-day tour or a private driver, they will handle the logistics. This is the most hassle-free option, especially for first-time visitors or those who prefer a guided experience.

Taxis: Only if you are confident in your haggling skills and know the approximate fair price. Unmetered taxis are notorious for overcharging tourists. If you do take a taxi, agree on the price before you get in.

Public Transport (Metro): I just don’t recommend this at all. AVOID.

Navigating the Site

Once you’re inside the Giza Plateau, you have several options for getting around. The area is vast, and you’ll do a lot of walking if you choose to explore entirely on foot. Trust me, I had to trek the sand dunes just to get to where I wanted to be.

Walking: The budget-friendly and immersive option. You can walk from the Great Pyramid to the Sphinx, taking in the scale of the site. Because of the heat and uneven terrain, it’s tiresome and will take time. Your shoes will also be filled with sand. Wear comfortable walking shoes!

Camel or Horse Ride: This is my preferred option. However, this is also where most of the scams and stress can occur.

• My Advice: If you want to do it, negotiate aggressively and agree on the price before you mount the animal. Clearly state what the price includes (e.g., “30 minutes, to the panoramic viewpoint, and back, for ONE person”). Do not pay upfront. Pay only after you have returned safely and are satisfied. A fair price for a short ride to the panoramic viewpoint and back should be around EGP 200-300 per person, but this can fluctuate.
• Beware: Some vendors will try to take you on a much longer ride or refuse to bring you back unless you pay extra. Be firm, stick to your agreed terms. If you’re with a reputable tour guide, they can arrange a fair deal for you.
• Consider Animal Welfare: While many camel/horse owners rely on this income, be mindful. If an animal looks unwell or mistreated, politely decline.

Avoiding Scams & Unwanted Attention

The Pyramids of Giza are magnificent but the area surrounding them can be notorious for persistent vendors and touts. Heed my advice and suggestions below:

The “Friendly Local” Approach: Someone might approach you, claiming to be a student, a guide offering “free” information, or just wanting to practice English. While some might be genuinely friendly, many have an ulterior motive. Usually to sell you something or pressure you into a service. Just politely say “no” and walk away, don’t look back.

“Free” Gifts/Photos: Someone offers to take your photo, or puts a headscarf on you “for free.” As soon as they do, they’ll demand money. Politely decline any unsolicited help or items.

Fake Tickets/Guides: Only buy tickets from the official booths at the entrance. Do not purchase from anyone else.

The “Secret” Entrances/Views: There are no secret, better, or free entrances. Stick to the official gates.

The “Broken” Camera/Phone: Someone might suggest your camera or phone isn’t taking good pictures and offer to take one for you, then demand payment or try to run off with it. Keep your electronics secure.

Be Polite but Firm: You don’t need to be rude, but you do need to be clear. Maintain eye contact, shake your head, say “no” clearly, and keep walking. Do not engage in lengthy conversations if you sense a sales pitch coming.

Dress Modestly: While not strictly enforced at the Pyramids of Giza as it is at mosques, dressing modestly can help reduce unwanted attention and is respectful of local culture. It also protects you from the sun!

Travel with a Companion or Guide: If you’re a solo female traveller, consider joining a small group tour or hiring a reputable female guide for the day. This can significantly reduce the amount of attention you receive.

Essential Packing List for Your Pyramids of Giza Adventure

Don’t forget these crucial items to make your visit comfortable:

Sun Protection: Hats, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen are your best friends. The sun is intense, even in winter.

Water: Stay hydrated! There are vendors on the plateau but prices will be higher.

Comfortable Walking Shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking on sand and uneven paths.

Camera/Phone: Fully charged, with plenty of storage! I’d even bring a powerbank, if I were you.

Cash (EGP): For entrance tickets, water, snacks, and tips. Small denominations are best. Locals are big on tips.

Hand Sanitiser: Public restrooms might be basic.

The Pyramids of Giza is a Memorable Experience

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. The lead up to your trip can be daunting but by arming yourself with knowledge, being prepared, and approaching the site with a confident and respectful attitude, your trip will be nothing but short of magical.

Embrace the history, marvel at the engineering, and let the sheer majesty of the Pyramids of Giza do the rest.

Rachel

Rachel is an intrepid world traveller, lifestyle connoisseuse, and the resident beauty advisor at Girls Who Travel. A true ocean lover with a soft spot for flowers, films, and storytelling, she also has a growing collection of medium-sized tattoos. When she’s not immersed in her next adventure, Rachel shares stories from her travels along with practical tips and insights to help other women make the most of their journeys.