A world wonder if there ever was one, the Pyramids of Giza in northern Egypt are truly magnificent. They are huge and awe-inspiring and were built with bare hands, sweat and toil an incredible 4,500-plus years ago.
What is it?: The last surviving wonder of the ancient world, a complex of monumental pyramids and temples built as royal tombs over 4,500 years ago, located on the Giza Plateau near Cairo.
Popularity: Extremely popular – Egypt’s most famous tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors annually.
Best Time to Visit: October to April for cooler weather and comfortable sightseeing; avoid midday heat in summer.
Known For: Ancient pyramids, the Great Sphinx, camel rides, hieroglyphs, archaeological history, panoramic desert views, cultural heritage.
Duration of Visit: 2-4 hours for the plateau; half-day or more if entering pyramids and exploring museums.
Accessibility: Uneven terrain; limited wheelchair access near some viewpoints; climbing inside pyramids involves narrow, steep passages.
Suitability For: History enthusiasts, photographers, families, culture lovers, bucket-list travelers.
- Location: Giza Plateau, Egypt
- Nearest Town: Giza (part of Greater Cairo)
- Entrance Fees: ~450 EGP (~$14 USD) for general site entry; additional tickets for pyramid interiors
- Opening Hours: ~8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by season)
- Website: Egyptian Ministry of Tourism
- Map Links: Google Maps | Apple Maps
- Coordinates (for GPS): 29.9792, 31.1342
The Pyramids of Giza were built as tombs to the ancient pharaohs of Egypt, including that of Khufu, who was entombed in the biggest one which sits in the middle of the main group of three. His mummy was removed by tomb robbers, along with others, and much treasure.
The individual blocks that make up the bulk of the structures were hewn from the nearby banks of the Nile and then heaved over to the site to be dragged up and around an earthen ramp. Levers, pulleys and logs were the only extras involved. The Pyramids originally had a covering of polished limestone which have them a smooth look. Sadly, the limestone was dislodged by an earthquake and used elsewhere.
In addition to touring the main three pyramids, those who don’t mind tight spaces can enter the Pyramids to check out the tunnels and the mausoleums. The Sphinx is also nearby and if you are here at night you can check out the Pyramids Light and Sound Show.
Cairo International Airport receives flights from all over the world and there are direct tour buses (run by the Cairo Transport Authority) to the Pyramids of Giza. They go every 20 minutes from the airport, while a combination of Metro Line 2 and minivan will also get you here.
- What is it? A collection of 11 impressive pyramids built as tombs for ancient pharaohs.
- When to go? October through May has the most comfortable weather.
- Nearest town: Giza, six miles to the northeast.
- Don’t miss: the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx.
- Trivia: contrary to popular belief, Tutankhamen was not entombed here; he was stationed in the Valley of the Kings at Luxor.