Pyramids and Saqqara Tour itinerary
Pick you up from your hotel and start our tours as described below:
On this day, we go to explore Saqqara, the vast necropolis of hundreds of tombs and 14 pyramids, including the famous Step Pyramid built by Zoser in 2700 BC. Afterward, following an optional lunch, we travel to the Giza Plateau, which is the site of the Pyramids of Mycerinus, Chefren, and the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the only survivor of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Moreover, this is also the site of the Great Sphinx, the guardian of the royal tombs dating back to the third millennium BC. To begin with, we will pick you up from the hotel for a private guided full-day tour to the Giza Pyramids and Saqqara.
The Giza Pyramids Complex
During this tour, you will explore the Great Pyramid of King Cheops, the Pyramid of King Chephren, and the Mycerinus Pyramid. In addition, you will tour the Mummification Temple, the Queens’ Pyramids, and the Great Sphinx.
Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to explore the Step Pyramid complex of King Djoser and the Imhotep Museum. Finally, we will transfer you back to the hotel.
The Great Pyramid
Now, let’s delve into the Great Pyramid of King Cheops: The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest Egyptian pyramid and serves as the tomb of Fourth Dynasty pharaoh Khufu. Specifically, it was built in the early 26th century BC over a period of around 27 years.
Consequently, the pyramid is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the only one to remain largely intact. In terms of location, it is situated in the Pyramid Fields of the Memphis and its Necropolis UNESCO World Heritage Site, in Giza, Egypt, and is at the northern end of the line of the three pyramids.
The Pyramids of the Queens
Notably, the Great Pyramid of Giza stands at an impressive height of 146.5 meters (481 feet) and was the tallest structure in the world for over 3,800 years. Next, we have the Queens’ Pyramids: The Queens’ Pyramids in Giza are smaller pyramids that are arranged as satellites around the three larger pyramids.
Specifically, these are the pyramids of the queens and the royal children. In total, there are six known Queens’ Pyramids in Giza that were built during the 4th Dynasty reigns of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure. Although they are not as impressive as the larger pyramids, the Queens’ Pyramids still provide valuable insight into the burial customs and architecture of ancient Egypt.
Panoramic Photo
Additionally, the Panorama of Giza offers a viewpoint that provides a sweeping view of the entire Giza Plateau and its famous pyramids. Located near the Sphinx, it offers a unique panoramic view of the pyramids, allowing visitors to see all three pyramids in one view.
Visitors can access the viewpoint by climbing up the hill or taking a camel ride up the plateau. Furthermore, the view from the Panorama of the Giza Pyramids is an excellent opportunity for visitors to appreciate the scale and magnificence of these ancient structures and the Giza Plateau as a whole.
The Great Sphinx
Consequently, it is a popular spot for tourists and photographers alike, who often visit during sunrise or sunset to capture stunning photographs of the pyramids in golden light. Moving on, the Great Sphinx of Giza is a massive limestone statue of a reclining sphinx located in Giza, Egypt. As a mythical creature, the sphinx has the head of a human and the body of a lion.
Notably, it faces directly from west to east and is located on the Giza Plateau on the west bank of the Nile. Interestingly, the face of the Sphinx represents the Pharaoh Khafre. The sphinx is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Egypt and is one of the world’s largest monuments, measuring 240 feet (73 meters) long and standing 66 feet (20 meters) high.
Thus, it is a popular tourist attraction and has been the subject of much scholarly exploration and research to unravel the mysteries surrounding its history and purpose. Now, let’s take a break for lunch. Enjoy a variety of Egyptian local cuisine.
Saqqara Pyramids
Continuing, the Saqqara Archaeological Site is a vast ancient burial ground in Egypt. Importantly, it is home to the Pyramid of Djoser, which is the oldest known pyramid in Egypt and was built around 4,700 years ago during the Third Dynasty.
Moreover, the site contains numerous other tombs and pyramids of various sizes and styles, many of which are in great condition and decorated with intricate hieroglyphics. Consequently, Saqqara is one of the most important archaeological sites in Egypt, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt.
The Step Pyramid of King Djoser
Next, the Step Pyramid Complex of King Djoser is an ancient Egyptian architectural complex from the Third Dynasty of Egypt. Significantly, it is the earliest known example of a monumental stone building and the first pyramid in Egypt. Designed by the famed architect and royal adviser Imhotep, the complex consists of a series of structures, including a pyramid, temples, courtyards, and underground galleries.
Notably, the Step Pyramid itself is a unique architectural achievement. It consists of six successive layers, or “steps,” that gradually decrease in size towards the top. Thus, the complex is an important artifact of ancient Egyptian history and an outstanding example of early monumental architecture.
Imhotep Museum
Additionally, the Imhotep Museum in Saqqara is an Egyptian museum named after the famous architect and adviser to Pharaoh Djoser, Imhotep. This museum is dedicated to the history of ancient Egyptian architecture and displays artifacts unearthed from the nearby Saqqara archaeological site, including Imhotep’s tomb.
In summary, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of ancient Egyptian culture, with exhibits featuring ancient pottery, statues, and other decorative objects alongside more practical items like tools and jewelry. Therefore, visiting the Imhotep Museum is an excellent way for visitors to experience the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt and to gain a greater understanding of the architectural achievements of Imhotep and his contemporaries.
Pyramid of King Titi
Furthermore, the Pyramid of King Titi is an ancient Egyptian pyramidal tomb located in Saqqara, Egypt. Although it is smaller than the nearby Step Pyramid of Djoser, the Pyramid of Titi is still an impressive architectural achievement, standing 51 meters (167 feet) tall.
The noble Tombs
Notably, the pyramid is notable for its intricate inner chambers and decorative reliefs, which depict scenes from Titi’s daily life and various religious rituals. Despite some damage over the years, the Pyramid of King Titi remains a fascinating testament to the skill and ingenuity of ancient Egyptian architects and artisans. Lastly, the Noble Tomb of Ka-Jemni is an ancient Egyptian burial site located in the Saqqara Necropolis, south of Cairo.
Dating back to the Old Kingdom period, the tomb belongs to the nobleman Ka-Jemni, a high official during the reign of Pharaoh Teti. Importantly, the tomb depicts scenes from Ka-Jemni’s life and elaborate funerary rituals. Consequently, it is an example of ancient Egyptian tomb decoration and provides valuable insight into the social and religious customs of the time.
Thus, the Noble Tomb of Ka-Jemni in Saqqara is an important archaeological site and a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from around the world. Finally, we will transfer you back to the hotel.