This Saqqara day tour covers the three sites that tell the story of how the pyramids were invented: Sakkara, Memphis and Dahshur, south of Cairo. Your guide picks you up from your hotel and brings you back at the end of the day.

Itinerary

• Sakkara: the Step Pyramid of King Djoser, the oldest stone building in history, designed by the architect Imhotep.
• Memphis: the first capital of ancient Egypt, founded by King Menes around 3000 BC, with the colossal statue of Ramses II and the remains of temples and a royal palace.
• Dahshur: the Red Pyramid, built of reddish stone, and the Bent Pyramid, both from the reign of King Sneferu, where the Egyptians learned to build true smooth-sided pyramids.

Why choose this tour

These sites are quieter than Giza, so you can explore and take photos with fewer crowds. Seeing them before or after Giza gives you the full picture of pyramid building, from the first step pyramid to the Great Pyramid.

Good to know

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen, and bring water: the sites are open and sunny.

Complete your Cairo visit

Add the Giza Pyramids & Egyptian Museum day tour, and in the evening the Pyramids Sound and Light show.

Frequently asked questions

When will I get my pickup time? After booking we confirm your pickup time and meeting details by email, usually the day before.

Can children join? Yes. Select the number of adults, children and infants in the booking form to see the price for your group.

Can I pay in another currency? Prices are set in US dollars, but you can switch the displayed currency with the currency selector at the top of the page.

Can this be added to a holiday package? Yes. Contact us and we will add it to your itinerary with the right transfers.

How to book

Choose your date and number of guests in the booking form and pay online, or contact us if you would like to add this experience to a longer holiday. Prices are per person in US dollars.