Port
Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt
Activity Level
Strenuous
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At
$319.95
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 12 Hours
Meals Included
Meals included
Discover the history and heritage of ancient Egypt with The HISTORY Channel.
An approximately 3.5-hour motorcoach ride along the desert road leads from Alexandria to Saqqara -- the vast necropolis of ancient Memphis.
The pyramids here include the distinctive Step Pyramid of Djoser, dating back to around 2670 BC and believed to be among the oldest stone structures on earth. It was built for the pharaoh Djoser and designed by his chief architect Imhotep, who was the first architect to be known by name.
A chance to browse for souvenirs at a local shop, time permitting, before lunch is served at a leading hotel in Giza.
Then, you will proceed to the site of the magnificent pyramids of Giza. These stark and lonely sentinels in the desert are simply an awesome sight. The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Cheops or Khufu, is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing and is said to be comprised of 2.3 million stone blocks, each one weighing an average of 2.5 tons. What makes these statistics truly astonishing is that the pyramids of Giza were built between 2600 and 2500 BC. Continue to see the mysterious Sphinx. With the face of a man and the body of a lion, it looks to the sun rising in the east, is carved from a single mass of limestone, and measures 240 feet long by 66 feet tall.
The drive back to Alexandria takes approximately three hours-- time to reflect on the amazing sights you have seen.
Notes:
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. If time permits, independent entrance to the pyramid may be possible (at your own expense, which is approximately USD$ 10.00); not recommended for those with claustrophobia or a heart or respiratory condition. It is very hot and stuffy inside the pyramid, and you must be able to bend over and crouch down at times while you are inside. When visiting a mosque, modest attire is required; knees, shoulders, and midriffs must be covered. Tight-fitting, transparent, or translucent clothing is not permitted. Women should cover their shoulders and knees and are advised to bring a scarf to cover their hair. Men should avoid sleeveless shirts. Please err on the side of conservatism with your attire. Please err on the side of conservatism with your attire. Due to site regulations and preservation considerations, no service animals are allowed at the Pyramids. There are many stray dogs in the area, which may lead to potential conflicts. At the Museum, service animals are restricted by the management. The minimum age is 6 years.