Things to Do at Great Pyramid of Giza

Complete Guide to Great Pyramid of Giza in Cairo

About Great Pyramid of Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu or Cheops, stands as the last remaining wonder of the ancient world and one of humanity's most remarkable architectural achievements. Built around 2580-2560 BCE during Egypt's Fourth Dynasty, this colossal monument was constructed as a tomb for Pharaoh Khufu and originally stood at 146.5 meters (481 feet) tall, making it the world's tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years. Composed of approximately 2.3 million stone blocks, each weighing between 2.5 to 15 tons, the pyramid showcases the incredible engineering prowess of ancient Egyptian civilization. Located on the Giza plateau on the outskirts of Cairo, the Great Pyramid is part of a complex that includes two other major pyramids, the enigmatic Sphinx, several smaller pyramids, temples, and causeways. The precision of its construction continues to astound archaeologists and engineers today, with its base forming an almost perfect square and its sides aligned precisely with the cardinal directions. Despite centuries of exploration and study, the pyramid still holds mysteries about its construction methods and internal chambers, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers from around the world.

What to See & Do

King's Chamber

The main burial chamber containing an empty granite sarcophagus, accessible through the Grand Gallery. Experience the incredible acoustics and marvel at the precision of ancient Egyptian engineering.

Grand Gallery

A magnificent ascending corridor with a corbelled ceiling rising 8.6 meters high, featuring precisely cut granite blocks and serving as the main passage to the King's Chamber.

Queen's Chamber

A smaller chamber with a pointed ceiling, likely intended for ritual purposes rather than burial, featuring mysterious shafts that may have had astronomical significance.

Descending Passage and Subterranean Chamber

The original entrance passage leading to an unfinished underground chamber carved directly into the bedrock, offering insight into the pyramid's construction phases.

Pyramid Complex Exterior

Walk around the pyramid's base to appreciate its massive scale, examine the remaining casing stones at the base, and visit the boat pits where ancient solar barques were discovered.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Daily 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (winter), 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM (summer). Interior access may have limited daily entries.

Tickets & Pricing

Giza complex entry: 200 EGP for adults, 100 EGP for students. Great Pyramid interior access: additional 440 EGP. Tickets available at the site or online through official channels.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning (8:00-10:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM) to avoid crowds and heat. Winter months (November-March) offer the most comfortable weather.

Suggested Duration

2-4 hours for the complete experience, including interior exploration and surrounding complex

Getting There

The Great Pyramid is located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of central Cairo. Take a taxi or ride-sharing service (30-45 minutes depending on traffic), join an organized tour, or use public transportation via bus or metro to Giza station followed by a local taxi. Many hotels offer shuttle services to the pyramids. If driving, parking is available near the entrance, but traffic in Cairo can be challenging for visitors unfamiliar with local driving conditions.

Things to Do Nearby

Great Sphinx of Giza
The iconic limestone statue with a human head and lion's body, standing guard over the Giza complex for over 4,500 years
Pyramid of Khafre
The second-largest pyramid at Giza, appearing taller due to its elevated position, with some of its original limestone casing still intact at the top
Pyramid of Menkaure
The smallest of the three main pyramids, notable for its granite lower courses and the three smaller queens' pyramids nearby
Solar Boat Museum
Houses the reconstructed cedar boat of Khufu, discovered in a pit beside the Great Pyramid and considered one of the world's oldest intact ships
Sound and Light Show
Evening multimedia presentation that illuminates the pyramids and Sphinx while narrating the history of ancient Egypt

Tips & Advice

Book interior pyramid access tickets in advance as daily entries are limited, especially during peak tourist season
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip as passages inside the pyramid can be steep and narrow
Bring water and sun protection, but note that food and large bags are not allowed inside the pyramid
Photography inside the pyramid requires a separate ticket, and flash photography is prohibited to preserve the ancient structures

Tours & Activities at Great Pyramid of Giza