The Great Pyramid of Giza

Navigating a trip to the Great Pyramid of Giza does not have to be daunting. Some smart planning helps maximize the experience and sidestep the biggest crowds. Most visitors land in Cairo and take a taxi or tour bus toward the Giza Plateau, about half an hour away from central Cairo, depending on traffic. Buying tickets in advance or arriving early makes entry easier. Expect plenty of visitors—this pyramid gets millions each year. Bring patience and curiosity for a smoother day.

• Best time to visit: October to April offers cooler, pleasant weather. Early mornings or late afternoons are best for smaller crowds and golden sunlight.
• How to get there: Reach Giza by taxi, ride-sharing app, metro (with a short taxi from Giza station), or private tour from Cairo's center.
• Accessibility: The area is mostly flat, but sand and uneven surfaces can pose challenges for strollers and wheelchairs. Some tour operators offer accessible routes.
• Average visit duration: Allow 2–3 hours for the pyramid, Sphinx, and nearby sights. Longer if planning to enter the pyramid chamber or explore nearby museums.

The Great Pyramid isn't just a solitary monument in the sand—its surrounding area holds stories, art, and opportunities to come face-to-face with Egypt's Old Kingdom. The sheer scale of the limestone blocks shocks even those who have seen photos a thousand times. Don’t miss smaller, quieter corners nearby, where camels graze and local guides share old legends.

• The Great Pyramid—stand beside its immense sides, imagining pharaohs and workers from more than 4,000 years ago.
• Interior chambers—for the adventurous, the steep, narrow climb inside leads to ancient passageways and the King’s Chamber. Short but memorable.
• The Sphinx—this iconic statue, carved from a single block of limestone, guards the plateau’s east edge.
• Panoramic viewpoint—head a little west for that classic view: the three great pyramids lined side by side, with Cairo’s skyline in the distance.
• Solar Boat Museum (if open)—see a full-sized, ancient funerary boat reconstructed in a sleek, modern building beside the pyramid base.
• Unexpected extras—camel or horse rides, meet a local craftsperson near the Sphinx, or sample a sweet hibiscus drink in the nearby village of Nazlet El-Samman.