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Egypt Pyramids Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Giza
How to visit the Giza pyramids and Sphinx: history, tickets, the best time to go, what to see and how to avoid common tourist traps.
By the Egypt Knight Tours team · Updated September 2026 · 2 min read
In this guide
The Giza pyramids are the most famous sights in Egypt, and they live up to the hype. They also get busy and warm, so a little knowledge goes a long way. This guide covers what to see, when to go, tickets and how to avoid the usual annoyances.
What you will see at Giza
- The Great Pyramid of Khufu: the largest of the three, originally around 146 metres tall.
- The pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure: neighbouring pyramids with their own character.
- The Great Sphinx: the limestone guardian at the foot of the plateau.
- The panoramic viewpoint: where all three pyramids appear together for photos.
- Nearby: the Grand Egyptian Museum, close to the plateau.
A short history
The pyramids were built as royal tombs during Egypt's Old Kingdom, more than 4,000 years ago, by organised teams of workers. The Great Pyramid was the tallest man-made structure in the world for many centuries. Your guide can explain how they were built and why they are placed as they are.
Best time to visit the Giza pyramids
Arrive at opening time in any season. In summer this matters even more. October to April is the most comfortable period. Read the best time to visit Egypt for the full month-by-month picture.
Tickets and entry
There is a ticket for the Giza Plateau, and separate tickets to enter the pyramids and some other sites. Fees change, so your tour should list what is included. The inside of a pyramid is narrow and warm, and it is not a must for everyone.
Camels, horses and street sellers
Agree any camel or horse ride with your guide before you go, and decline unwanted offers politely. A private guide handles this for you and keeps the visit relaxed.
What to wear and bring
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen and water. Light, modest clothing works best. See what to wear in Egypt.
Book a guide, or go alone?
You can visit independently, but many people prefer a guide for context and comfort. Options include a private Giza pyramids tour, or a day that pairs the pyramids with the Grand Egyptian Museum. Browse private tours in Egypt.
Nearby sites worth adding
Saqqara and Memphis for the first pyramid, Dahshur for quieter pyramids, and Old Cairo for markets and mosques. See the Cairo travel guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you need at the Giza pyramids?
Allow three to four hours for the plateau and Sphinx, or half a day if you also visit the panoramic viewpoint and nearby sites.
What is the best time to visit the pyramids?
Opening time, when it is cooler and quieter. Late afternoon is a good second choice.
Can you go inside the Great Pyramid?
Yes, with a separate ticket, but the interior is narrow and hot. Many visitors prefer to explore the outside and choose one other pyramid interior.
Is a guide worth it at the pyramids?
Most visitors find it is. A guide explains the history, chooses the best viewpoints and handles vendors and camel offers.
Plan it with a local team
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