Insider Secrets to Visiting Giza
Insider Secrets
To Visiting
Giza
It has always been my dream to visit the mysterious Pyramids of Giza, the last of the Seven Ancient World Wonders still standing. When I first set my plans on visiting Egypt before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I SCOURED the Internet, searching for any and every account I could find of others who have been to Giza before: “What was their visit like?” “Did they encounter any scams?” “What did they do there?” and “What would they avoid?”
Once my trip was inevitably delayed, I had plenty of extra time to research and plan and boy, did I not let it go to waste! Now that I’ve been there and back again, with quite an enjoyable, scam-and-crowd-free experience, follow along as I uncover the secrets to visiting the mysterious Giza Pyramids.
secrets to visiting giza
Hire A Guide, Or At Least A Driver
The Giza complex is massive and filled with literal tons of history. No doubt the best way to explore is with a guide who can answer any questions you have as you go and help you navigate any potential frustrations along the way.
If you are opposed to hiring a guide, however, at the very least hire a driver. Many of the sites and viewpoints are extremely spread out, and in the desert heat, you’ll definitely want that air conditioned vehicle.
Secret Giza Pyramids Tip:
Reham, my Guide at Memphis Tours, was FANTASTIC. She made visiting the mysterious Giza Pyramids, well, much less mysterious! She was transparent with costs, helped me avoid a few different scams, was patient with all my history questions and showed me the best photo spots!
secrets to visiting giza
Go Early
As the most popular tourist destination in the country, the Pyramids are also the place you’ll probably experience the most hassle. A guide definitely helps deter scammers and aggressive salesmen, but the time of day and even time of year you go also helps.
I traveled to Egypt during Ramadan and visited the Pyramids early in the morning, right when the gates opened! During the whole first hour or two of my visit, I was able to peacefully enjoy the sites, unbothered by any persistent salespeople or excessive crowds!
Secret Giza Pyramids Tip:
Buyer be warned: The souvenirs at the Pyramids and at most ancient Egyptian temples are typically inauthentic. Don’t be fooled by convincing vendors. If you’re looking for shops with real gold, limestone, rugs, etc., the best person to ask may just be your guide! As mentioned above, I highly recommend Memphis Tours.
secrets to visiting giza
Book a Photography Session
I’m a big fan of using my tripod and a self timer, but if I’m able, I also love to treat myself to one vacation photography session during my travels. Typically, I’ll plan to shoot with a photographer at my destination’s most popular or most highly foot-trafficked sites, like the Pyramids.
It’s the easiest way to make a local friend, get insider recommendations and take great photos without worrying about someone stealing your gear the second you step away.
My Favorite Photo Spot
One of the best photo spots is literally right in front of the Sphinx, you’ll even get a great view of Khafre Pyramid lined up right behind.
There’s a small fence you might have to hop over, depending on which way you’re coming from, and it is OK to crossover, but beware of any police trying to scam you and tell you it isn’t.
Secret Giza Pyramids Tip:
Since I was traveling with a tour company, I planned my Pyramids shoot a little differently than I normally would and booked directly with Memphis Tours. They have a hook-up with local photographers who did not disappoint.
secrets to visiting giza
Bring a Hat and Water
Being situated on a plateau, Giza is not only extremely hot with little-to-no-shade, but also terribly windy! In order to avoid a sunburn or hair obscuring your view, bring a hat and thank me later.
secrets to visiting giza
Don’t Climb the Pyramids*
Secret Giza Pyramids Tip:
If you’re interested in exploring the inside of a pyramid, I recommend exploring Saqqara Complex instead. Less crowds and intricately painted ceilings make Saqqara way more of an exciting adventure!
It’s true, you might find a guard who will let you climb on the Pyramids… for a tip. However, it’s actually illegal to climb these monuments today, so please only do so at your own risk. That said, there is a slight loophole to this:
The entrances for those wanting to brave the inside of one of the pyramids are actually located above the Plateau, meaning you have to climb up a set of stairs carved into the monuments to enter. The above photo was taken on the Pyramid of Khufu near one of these entrances, so if your main goal is just to get a fun pic, I’d recommend going that route instead of potentially risking an illegal climb.
secrets to visiting giza
Don’t Pay For “Entry” to the Sphinx
The price of your admission to the Sphinx is included in your ticket to the Pyramids. Make sure to keep your ticket on you in order to get up close, and don’t let anyone convince you that you’ll need to pay for admission again.
Secret Giza Pyramids Tip:
The entrance is located near the Ancient Funerary Temple to the left of the Sphinx
secrets to visiting giza
Be Cautious About The Camels
One of the most popular things to do at Giza is camel riding, but even this activity can be tricky and even unethical if you’re not careful!
I documented a few of the specifics of my experience and what to expect in another blog post, but for now, here are a few top-line tips to help you decide if you’d like to partake in this experience:
- Don’t engage with a seller until you’ve had a chance to observe the animals, and especially witness the owner’s treatment toward them.
- Lock in an inclusive price for a camel ride with your tour guide (tips, etc. included).
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