Standing at the edge of the Giza Plateau, with Cairo's skyline behind you and the desert ahead, you understand why the pyramids have captivated travelers for more than four thousand years.

Three pyramids, three kings

  • The Great Pyramid of Khufu — built around 2560 BC, it rose about 146 metres and was the tallest human-made structure on Earth for nearly 4,000 years.
  • The Pyramid of Khafre — Khufu's son; it looks taller because it stands on higher ground and still has some original casing stones at its peak.
  • The Pyramid of Menkaure — the smallest of the three, surrounded by the smaller Queens' pyramids.

The Great Sphinx

Carved from the bedrock of the plateau, the Great Sphinx has a lion's body and a human head, widely believed to represent King Khafre. It is about 73 metres long and faces the rising sun.

Who built the pyramids?

Not slaves, as old films suggested. Archaeologists have excavated the workers' town south of the plateau, with bakeries, breweries and tombs of the builders themselves. The pyramids were raised by organized teams of skilled workers and seasonal labourers.

Only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World

Of the Seven Wonders listed by ancient Greek writers, the Great Pyramid is the only one still standing. The Giza pyramid fields are part of the Memphis and its Necropolis UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tips for visiting

  1. Go early. Arrive at opening time to beat heat and crowds.
  2. Combine with the Grand Egyptian Museum, which sits close to the plateau. See our GEM guide.
  3. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water and sun protection.
  4. Use licensed guides and agree prices before any camel or horse ride.
  5. Stay for the evening — the Sound and Light show brings the plateau to life.

Getting there

The pyramids are in Giza, on the west bank of the Nile across from central Cairo. From Cairo International Airport the drive typically takes about an hour or more depending on traffic. MISR VISA can arrange airport pickup and a hotel with pyramid views.

Plan your Egypt trip — visa, flights, hotel and pickup handled by one team.