Destination Guides

Visit to The Giza Necropolis: How to Get There, Prices And Advice

As you step foot in Cairo, Egypt, one of the most thrilling experiences is visiting the Necropolis of Giza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been captivating travelers for centuries. This majestic complex is home to the Pyramids of Cheope, Chefren, and Micerino, three towering wonders of the ancient world that will leave you awestruck. But beyond their grandeur lies a wealth of history, mystery, and intrigue waiting to be uncovered.

Where it’s located and how to get there

Imagine yourself standing at the crossroads of civilization, with the Pyramids of Giza standing sentinel in the distance. Located just 20 kilometers from Cairo, this archaeological site is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or metro. If you’re looking for a hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation from your hotel.

Taxi: A convenient option, but be prepared to negotiate prices before boarding. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs between €3.40 to €4.50.

Bus: Catch the bus lines 355, 357, or 997 from Abdel Moneim Riad Square (behind the Egyptian Museum in Cairo). Departures are every 30 minutes, with a journey time of around 45-60 minutes.

Metro: Take line 2 from Cairo to Omm El-Misryeen in Giza. From there, take a taxi for the remaining 20 minutes and €1.10.

Hours and prices

Before you embark on your adventure, it’s essential to know the operating hours and ticket prices. The Necropolis of Giza is open every day from 7:00 am, with varying closing times depending on the season.

October to March: 5:00 pm
April to September: 7:00 pm

The entrance fee for foreigners is €11.20, granting access to the pyramid area and the Sphinx. If you want to venture inside the pyramids, an additional ticket will be required (€22.40).

Guided tours, online tickets, and visits

To make the most of your visit, consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation from your hotel. These tours typically last around 4 hours and offer a comprehensive overview of the site’s history and significance.

Online tickets can also be purchased in advance, but be aware that some pyramids may sell out quickly. Arrive early to avoid disappointment!

What to see and visit the Pyramids of Giza

As you explore the Necropolis of Giza, be sure to:

Visit the Pyramid of Cheope, one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World
Marvel at the majestic Sphinx, half-lion and half-human creature
Explore the Solar Boat Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts

Useful tips for visiting the attraction

Before you embark on your adventure, keep these tips in mind:

Arrive early to avoid crowds and heat exhaustion
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for exploring ancient sites
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay hydrated
Respect local customs and traditions when interacting with site staff

Brief historical notes and curiosities: what you need to know

The Necropolis of Giza is shrouded in mystery, and its history is still being uncovered. Here are some fascinating facts to whet your appetite:

The pyramids were built around 2500 BC, using advanced mathematical techniques that are still not fully understood.
The Pyramid of Cheope is aligned with the stars that form the constellation of Orion, a testament to ancient astronomers’ knowledge and ingenuity.
Despite numerous studies, many questions remain unanswered about how the pyramids were constructed.

Additional ticket: Night Show

For a truly unique experience, consider booking an additional ticket for the night show, which involves the projection of videos on the pyramid facades. This event is only available at certain times of the year and must be pre-booked online.

Ticket prices and areas

Here’s a breakdown of the ticket prices and areas:

Area	Full Ticket Price	Reduced Ticket Price
Pyramid of Cheope	€22.40	€11.20
Pyramid of Chefren	€5.60	€2.80
Pyramid of Micerino	€5.60	€2.80
Solar Boat of Cheope Museum	€5.60
Night Show	€22.40 (pre-book online)

Conclusion

As you stand before the majestic Pyramids of Giza, remember that this site is more than just a collection of ancient ruins – it’s a window into the past, a testament to human ingenuity and creativity. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and mysterious allure, the Necropolis of Giza is an experience not to be missed.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the best times to visit the Pyramids of Giza?
A: The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest hours of the day.
Q: How do I get to the Necropolis of Giza from Cairo?
A: You can take a taxi, bus, or metro from Cairo to reach the site.
Q: What are the operating hours for the Pyramids of Giza?
A: The site is open every day from 7:00 am, with varying closing times depending on the season.
Q: Can I buy an additional ticket for the night show?
A: Yes, but it must be pre-booked online and only available at certain times of the year.
Q: How much does it cost to visit the Pyramids of Giza?
A: The entrance fee for foreigners is €11.20, with additional tickets required for pyramid access or the night show.
Q: Can I explore the pyramids inside?
A: Yes, but an additional ticket must be purchased and only available on site.
Q: Are there any student discounts available?
A: Yes, a reduced ticket price of €5.60 is available for students with valid ID.
Q: Can I book a guided tour to help me navigate the site?
A: Yes, consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation from your hotel for a hassle-free experience.

Additional Information

Before you visit, it’s essential to know some additional information about the Necropolis of Giza:

The pyramids are open to visitors year-round, but the best time to visit is during the cooler months (October to March).
Visitors are not allowed to touch or climb on the pyramids.
Photography is permitted for personal use only, and no flash photography is allowed.
Visitors with disabilities can access some areas of the site, but special arrangements may be required in advance.

Tips for Taking Pictures

When capturing memories of your visit to the Necropolis of Giza, keep these tips in mind:

Use a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the pyramids.
Avoid using flash photography, as it can create harsh shadows and disrupt the natural light.
Take advantage of the unique perspective offered by drone photography, but be sure to follow local regulations and safety guidelines.

Special Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, the Necropolis of Giza hosts various special events and festivals that are worth attending:

Sham el-Nessim Festival: Celebrate spring with traditional Egyptian food, music, and dancing.
Iftar Festival: Enjoy a traditional iftar (break-fast) meal and watch the sunset over the pyramids.
Egyptian Music Festival: Listen to traditional Egyptian music performed by local artists.

Cultural Significance

The Necropolis of Giza is not just an archaeological site – it’s also an important cultural landmark that holds significant meaning for the people of Egypt:

The pyramids are a symbol of ancient Egyptian power and ingenuity.
The Sphinx represents the fusion of human and animal forms, embodying the spiritual connection between humans and animals.
The Solar Boat Museum houses an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and other relics from ancient Egypt.

Getting Around

When exploring the Necropolis of Giza, it’s essential to know how to get around:

The site offers guided tours that include transportation from your hotel.
Visitors can also rent bicycles or take a taxi to navigate the site.
For those with mobility issues, wheelchair-accessible taxis and shuttle services are available.

Accommodation

Before you visit, make sure to book your accommodation in advance. Here are some recommendations:

Hotel Pyramids: Stay at this 5-star hotel located near the pyramids.
Giza Pyramids Hotel: Enjoy comfortable accommodations and stunning views of the pyramids.
Pyramid View Bungalow: Relax in a cozy bungalow with breathtaking views of the pyramid complex.

Language

When communicating with locals or reading signs, keep in mind that:

Arabic is the official language of Egypt.
English is widely spoken among tour guides, hotel staff, and restaurant workers.
Visitors can also use hand gestures and body language to communicate basic needs.

By following these tips and guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable adventure at the Necropolis of Giza.

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