Begin your private tour at the Dahshur Necropolis. Explore the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid of Pharaoh Sneferu. These structures represent the experimental transition from step-sided to smooth-sided pyramids and offer a rare, quiet atmosphere away from the crowds.
2
Memphis: The Ancient Capital
Visit the Mit Rahina Museum at Memphis, the first capital of a unified Egypt. Stand in awe of the massive Colossal Statue of Ramses II and view the Alabaster Sphinx, carved from a single block of stone during the 18th Dynasty.
3
Saqqara Necropolis & Step Pyramid
Drive to the vast Saqqara burial ground to see the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world's oldest monumental stone building. Your guide will lead you into the Tomb of Kagemni (or similar mastaba) to witness vivid, 4,000-year-old reliefs of daily Egyptian life.
4
Authentic Egyptian Flavors
Refuel with a traditional Egyptian lunch at a quality local restaurant. Enjoy freshly baked baladi bread, grilled meats, and seasonal salads in a tranquil setting before completing your archaeological journey.
Hotel Drop-off
Concluding your deep dive into the Old Kingdom of Egypt, your private guide will escort you back to your hotel. You'll leave with a profound understanding of how the Great Pyramids came to be.
Saqqara, Memphis & Dahshur: Essential FAQs
What makes Saqqara different from the Giza Pyramids?
While Giza is famous for the scale of the Great Pyramids, Saqqara is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser—the world's oldest pyramid. Visitors often prefer Saqqara because it features much better-preserved internal hieroglyphic carvings in the Nobleman's tombs (Mastabas) and offers a more peaceful, less crowded experience.
Is Memphis a modern city or an archaeological site?
Memphis was the first capital of Ancient Egypt and the center of the Old Kingdom. Today, it is an open-air museum (Mit Rahina) where you can witness the incredible Colossus of Ramses II and the Alabaster Sphinx. It provides the historical context of where the Pharaohs who built the pyramids actually lived.
Can we go inside the pyramids at Dahshur and Saqqara?
Yes! You can enter the Step Pyramid with an additional ticket. However, the Red Pyramid in Dahshur is a fan favorite because entry is often included with the area ticket and involves a thrilling, steep descent into the original 4,500-year-old burial chamber.
Do I need a Full Egypt Visa for this day trip?
Yes. Since Saqqara and Memphis are located in the Giza Governorate (outside the Sinai), a Full Egypt Tourist Visa ($25) is mandatory. If you are traveling from Sharm El Sheikh, please ensure you have the visa sticker in your passport before departure.
Is the Saqqara & Dahshur tour suitable for children?
This tour is excellent for active families. Kids love the "Indiana Jones" feel of Dahshur and the wide-open spaces of Memphis. Note that the terrain is sandy and uneven, so we recommend comfortable sneakers and a sun hat for younger travelers.
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