Giza: Sakkara, Memphis & Dahshur (Pyramid & Felucca Options)

Exploring Egypt’s Pyramids and Ancient Sites: An Honest Look at the Giza, Sakkara, Memphis & Dahshur Tour

If you’re considering a trip to Egypt, a tour that covers the Giza Pyramids, Sakkara, Memphis, and Dahshur offers a fantastic way to soak up history without feeling overwhelmed. This tour, offered by Egypt Excursions Online, is highly rated and packed with options tailored for different interests and schedules. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or want an in-depth experience, there’s a version for you.

What we love about this tour? First, the knowledgeable guides who make complex history accessible and engaging. Second, the value for money, especially considering the range of sites and optional extras you can add, like camel rides or a Felucca sail. The only potential snag? Depending on your chosen option, it can be a full day, so you’ll want to be prepared for a fair amount of walking and sightseeing.

This experience suits travelers who love history, appreciate flexible itineraries, and enjoy a mix of guided tours and optional activities. If you’re traveling with a curiosity for Egypt’s iconic monuments but also want some personalized touches, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Flexible options ranging from just the pyramids to a full-day adventure including all sites and a Felucca sail
• Expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach
• Good value, with entry tickets, transportation, and some extras included
• Customizable experiences with private or shared tours and add-ons like camel rides
• Comfortable transportation, often in air-conditioned vehicles
• Authentic experiences, from entering pyramids to enjoying a peaceful Nile boat ride

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary and Experience

This tour offers a thoughtful way to explore Egypt’s most legendary archaeological sites, and the flexibility means you can tailor it to your interests and energy levels. Whether you just want a quick look at the Giza Pyramids or a full immersion that includes Memphis, Sakkara, and Dahshur, you’ll find options that fit.

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza

Most travelers arrive dreaming of standing before the Great Pyramid of Khufu, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. With this tour, you’ll get close-up views of the three main pyramids—Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure—and the iconic Great Sphinx. Experienced guides make sure you understand their stories, construction, and significance, which can sometimes be lost on a solo visit.

Reviewers often praise guides like Joanna Montserrat, who said, “Aladdin did a great job telling us everything about each pyramid… we didn’t feel rushed, and we enjoyed the details.” Expect to spend ample time wandering around, taking photos, and soaking in the atmosphere of this legendary site.

Exploring Memphis, Egypt’s First Capital

Not everyone includes Memphis in their itinerary, but those who do tend to find it a worthwhile stop. It’s the first capital of Egypt, founded over 5,000 years ago, and its ruins include the impressive colossal statue of Ramses II and an alabaster Sphinx. Reviews highlight that Memphis offers a quieter, less crowded experience than Giza, which some find more relaxed and insightful.

A visitor from the UK shared, “The Memphis open-air museum had many interesting things,” and many appreciate the chance to see an ancient city in a more laid-back setting.

The Step Pyramid at Sakkara

Sakkara is a highlight for many, especially because it’s home to Djoser’s Step Pyramid, often called the world’s first true pyramid. Its distinctive, layered design signals a major advancement in architecture and religious burial practices. The site is surrounded by tombs, offering a snapshot of ancient daily life and spiritual beliefs.

Reviewers like Jemima from the UK call Sakkara a “highlight,” noting its unique atmosphere and the sense of stepping back in time. It’s a quieter, more contemplative setting compared to Giza, and many visitors find it fascinating to walk through the history of Egypt’s early pyramid builders.

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Dahshur: The Experimentation in Pyramid Design

Dahshur is often overlooked in favor of Giza, but it’s full of surprises. Here you’ll find the Bent Pyramid, known for its unusual angle change, and the Red Pyramid, one of the earliest “true” pyramids. These sites reveal how Egyptian architects refined their techniques over time.

Guests who venture inside these pyramids often comment on the physical effort involved—some describe it as “a good challenge,” but all agree it’s worth it. For example, a reviewer noted, “Going into the Bent Pyramid was so exciting but exhausting,” which is a fair warning to come prepared with comfortable shoes and energy.

Optional Extras and Customizations

One of the best aspects of this tour is the ability to customize. Choose the Pyramids Only option if you prefer a shorter experience, or opt for the full-day VIP tour that includes all four sites plus the Felucca sail on the Nile.

The VIP private tour, in particular, is praised for its luxury feel—ending with a peaceful boat ride, which provides a relaxing contrast to the busy archaeological sites. It’s ideal if you want a more exclusive experience or if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

Practicalities and Value

The basic price of $31 per person is very reasonable, especially considering that it often includes transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, entry tickets, and a professional licensed guide. The private tours, naturally, cost more but often include lunch and personalized service.

Many reviews echo the sentiment that the tour is “great value” for money. Reviewers like Yamil from Belgium mention their guide was very knowledgeable, and the experience felt well-paced and comprehensive.

The tour is flexible—some options include visits to museums, bazaars, and factories if you’re interested in a more cultural experience. Just note that the Felucca sail is exclusive to the VIP option, making it a perfect luxurious ending for those who want to unwind after a busy day.

The Real Benefits of This Tour

What makes this tour worthwhile? First, the expert guides who provide engaging, informative commentary. Many reviewers remark on guides like Nader, Ammash, or Mariam, emphasizing their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to answer all kinds of questions. It’s clear that guides play a huge role in making the experience memorable.

Second, the balance of sites and optional activities allows you to customize your experience. Whether it’s the awe of the pyramids, the serenity of the Nile, or engaging visits to lesser-known sites like Memphis, this tour offers a well-rounded view of Egypt’s ancient civilization.

Third, the cost-effectiveness is notable. For around $31, you get a SAFELY-HEATED, air-conditioned ride, entry to major sites, and a guide who loves sharing stories. Many reviewers say the experience exceeded their expectations, especially considering the price.

However, it’s worth remembering that the tour involves a fair bit of walking and exploration—so comfortable shoes are key. Also, if you’re someone who prefers a very relaxed pace, the full-day options might be intense, but the shorter options still pack plenty into a few hours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts who want an efficient, guided overview of Egypt’s early capitals and pyramid sites. It’s especially appealing if you prefer structured, informative tours with the flexibility to add extras. Couples, solo travelers, and small groups all seem to enjoy the personalized feel of the private options.

It’s not specifically geared for those with mobility issues or large families with very young children, given the physical aspects of entering pyramids and walking around expansive sites. Still, the quieter Memphis and well-organized transportation make it accessible for most physically able travelers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Most of the sites involve walking and some climbing inside pyramids, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. Check specific options for accessibility details.

Are food and drinks included?
Lunch is included only in the VIP private tour. Otherwise, bottled water is provided, but you’ll want to bring your own snacks, especially if you opt for the shorter versions.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, there are multiple options—some include only pyramids, others add Memphis and Sakkara, and the VIP includes a Felucca sail. Private tours can also be tailored further with add-ons like mosques or museums.

How long does the tour last?
Duration varies from around 3 to 8 hours depending on the option. Shorter “Pyramids Only” tours are quick, while full-day experiences include multiple sites and the Felucca ride.

What’s the best time of day to do this tour?
Most tours start in the morning, which helps avoid the late-day crowds and heat. Check your booking details for exact start times.

Is the Felucca sail included?
Only in the VIP private tour. It’s a peaceful way to end your day and enjoy views of the Nile.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a solid, flexible way to explore some of Egypt’s most iconic ancient sites without the hassle of planning each detail yourself. Its combination of knowledgeable guides, decent pricing, and optional extras makes it attractive to a wide range of travelers. Whether you want a quick overview or a full immersion, you’ll find a version that suits your style.

If you enjoy history, value good storytelling, and appreciate a mix of guided visits with leisure time, this tour could be just right. The added bonus of ending with a Felucca ride, especially in the VIP version, makes for a relaxing and memorable finish to your Egyptian adventure.

In summary, this experience is best suited for those seeking an informative, well-organized journey through Egypt’s early capitals and pyramids, with enough flexibility to customize your day. It offers authentic insights, great value, and the chance to avoid the crowds—making it a smart choice for most travelers eager to connect with Egypt’s ancient past.

You can check availability for your dates here: