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Everything You NEED to Know About Visiting the Pyramids & Sphinx

The Pyramids of Giza in Egypt are the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World to survive into the modern era. Everything else has vanished or crumbled or been destroyed by man or nature, yet these massive monuments have stood the test of time and are still standing today.

And take my word on this – these structures are truly awe-inspiring when you’re actually there standing before them in person. No photograph or image can do them justice. Honestly! You really do have to go there and see them for yourself to really understand what people are talking about when they say that Egypt’s Pyramids are incredible.

So in this article I’ll break down talking about the Pyramids and visiting them into several different parts for easier digestion. I’ll start out with some basics, as usual. Then we’ll switch gears and dive into some history. Then we’ll jump back to the present and I’ll walk you through a day trip out to the Pyramids from a logistical and insider perspective.

It’s in this last part where I’ll also get into what to watch out for and tell you about some very common and notorious, albeit very sneaky and clever, scams and ripoffs at the Pyramids. But don’t worry – I’ll tell you how to avoid them and make sure you have an amazing time, whether you’re with a group or, God help you, on your own.

Ok, let’s start with the basics. It’s important to know right off the bat that when people talk about the Pyramids in Egypt they’re almost always talking about the Pyramids at Giza. Sometimes you might hear people say the Great Pyramids, plural, but they’re really getting that wrong.

Technically there’s just one Great Pyramid and that’s the largest pyramid at Giza known as the Pyramid of Khufu or Cheops, depending on whether you use the ancient Egyptian names or the ancient Greek names. You may hear both and they’re both correct, but I usually prefer to use the ancient Egyptian names for the Pharaohs because, well, those were their real names in their own language.

So Khufu’s pyramid is the oldest and largest of the Pyramids at Giza, and it’s therefore known as the Great Pyramid. But here’s something that might trip you up a little – it doesn’t look like the largest one. The second oldest and second largest is the Pyramid of Khafre – or Chefren as the Greeks later called him – and it actually looks larger both in person and in photographs, but it’s actually 7 feet shorter than the Great Pyramid. That’s because Khafre’s pyramid, the middle one, was built on terrain that was 33 feet higher than the nearby ground on which his father Khufu’s pyramid was built.

Now, originally Khufu’s pyramid (the great one) was 481 feet high, but the capstone on it’s top has been lost so it only sits at a height of 455 feet today. But that’s still 7 feet higher than Khafre’s pyramid, even though, as I said, Khafre’s pyramid sits on a piece of land that’s 33 feet higher, which makes Khafre’s pyramid appear bigger to the eye. It was a kind of clever trick that Khafre played to make his pyramid more prominent without dishonoring his father. Sneaky, huh?

The third primary pyramid you’ll see at Giza is the Pyramid of Menkaure. This one was only built to a height of 215 feet, although it’s down to 204 feet today. The ancient Egyptians evidently had a thing about not showing up their forefathers, but Menkaure also had his own clever way of making his smaller pyramid stand out. He encased much of his pyramid in red granite instead of all white limestone.

So you have these two much more massive structures beside his, but his was mostly red so it still stood out as the most unique. Most of that beautiful red granite was stripped off Menkaure’s pyramid long ago, but there are a few spots on the pyramid where you can still see the original red polished granite preserved and it’s quite amazing to look at.

Now, notice how I said the third “primary” pyramid at Giza. In addition to the three Pharaohs’ pyramids, there are also six additional Queens’ Pyramids at Giza. Three are beside Menkaure’s pyramid and 3 are beside Khufu’s pyramid.

So at Giza there are a grand total of nine pyramids, although you can’t always see all of them in most shots people take of the Pyramids. Later when we talk about the logistics of visiting the Pyramids, I’ll tell you where you can go to get photos of the Pyramids that show all nine in the same shot.

It’s also important to know that the nine pyramids at Giza are not all of the pyramids still standing in Egypt, by far. There are over a hundred pyramids still standing in Egypt today, and many more that did not survive because they either fell apart or were torn down so that their stones could be reused for other building projects over the millennia. But there are a couple more really neat and historically important pyramids that you can visit near the most famous ones at Giza if you have extra time.

If you only have or only want to spend half a day exploring pyramids when you’re in Egypt, then you’ll probably only be able to explore the Pyramids at Giza, which is perfectly ok. If you spend a few hours out at the Giza plateau and see the Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure and then call it quits on pyramids so you can move on to other stuff, you’ve done what probably 90-95% of tourists to Egypt do and you’ve seen the biggest and best of the Pyramids of Egypt.

If you have a full day to explore pyramids, though, then after you explore Giza you can head a little further south to two additional areas known as Saqqara and Dashur and see some more unique pyramids. Each of these sites is about a half-hour or so from the other, and they’re usually pretty empty of other tourists, which sometimes means that you have these older pyramids all to yourself when you take the time to visit them.

Now that we’ve broached the topic of pyramids even older than the famous Pyramids of Giza, let’s transition into talking about the history of Egypt’s pyramids and how they came about to begin with.

The beginnings of pyramid tombs are sourced in earlier burial structures in ancient Egypt known as mastabas. The word comes from the Arabic word for bench because they looked like big benches perched out in the desert. They were usually two levels, so imagine a rectangular wedding cake with only two layers to get an idea of what these mastabas looked like.

Then along came a Pharaoh named Djoser in the Third Dynasty who had a brilliant advisor named Imhotep. Imhotep functioned as Djoser’s Prime Minister but he also moonlighted as his architect, chief scientist, and all-around court genius.

Imhotep had the novel idea to add even more layers to his boss Djoser’s mastaba. So now imagine a square wedding cake with 5 or 6 layers getting smaller and smaller as they go up. That was what Imhotep constructed for Djoser’s tomb at the site of Saqqara and when finished it became what we know today as the Step Pyramid.

To be sure, the Step Pyramid at Saqqara was much more beautiful in Imhotep’s and Djoser’s day than it is today. Back then it was covered in white limestone so that it sparkled brilliantly under the bright Sahara sun. It was also surrounded by temples and tombs for other royal and noble figures. Today all of that is gone, but the Step Pyramid itself remains and is quite an amazing site to go visit, especially since so few tourists do.

A little later came along a Pharaoh named Sneferu. He tried building another step pyramid then changed course and tried turning it into a true pyramid. But his construction was off and it couldn’t be finished. This is the partial pyramid down at Meidum, but it’s not much to see.

His next try was at the site called Dashur, where he started building another pyramid but his architects got the angle too steep and it wasn’t working out either. But instead of abandoning this one, they simply changed the angle halfway up and finished it. The result was that this pyramid looked bent on all four sides, so it’s known today as the Bent Pyramid.

But for Sneferu, the third time was a charm. On this third attempt at pyramid building, his team got the geometry right. He also used red limestone blocks to build this third one, so today this one is known as the Red Pyramid. The Red Pyramid was the first successful real pyramid in ancient Egypt.

Now for context, the Red Pyramid is about a third of the height of the Shard skyscraper building in London, which was built in 2012, or a little less than half the height of the TransAmerica skyscraper in San Francisco, which was built in 1972. Except the Red Pyramid was built sometime around about 2580 BC, so in other words about 4600 years ago, give or take a few decades.

But even the Red Pyramid doesn’t have anything on the Great Pyramid of Khufu, which was built a few decades later further up north in Giza and was about one and a half times as large as Sneferu’s Red Pyramid. The Great Pyramid of Khufu is somewhere between a half and a third the height of the Empire State Building in New York City, and it’s almost as wide on each of its 4 sides.

So now you can get an idea of just how massive this monument is, and how mind-blowingly impressive it is that it was built over 4500 years ago around 2560 BC, give or take.

Not much is known about Khufu these days, despite his chief building project being the most famous ancient monument in the world. His father, Sneferu, who built the Bent and Red Pyramids at Dashur, founded Egypt’s Fourth Dynasty, so Khufu was the second king of the Fourth Dynasty. Historical sources give us conflicting information on how long exactly he reigned as Pharaoh of Egypt, but we tend to think it was somewhere between 25-35 years after the death of his father.

One interesting note about how we figure out how long Pharaohs reigned back then is the references we find in inscriptions to the national cattle counts. Back in Khufu’s day, cattle counts were done for the purposes of tax collection every two years. Much later they became an annual event, but back then it was every two years. So a few inscriptions have survived referring to the 13th and 17th cattle counts of Khufu’s reign. So if those are accurate, then we just double that and we know those counts were going on in the 26th and 34th years of Khufu’s reign.

In addition to a pyramid for himself, Khufu also built three smaller Queens Pyramids beside his that are about a fifth the size of his. There are also three more Queens Pyramids beside Menkaure’s pyramid, for a grand total of six Queens Pyramids at Giza. These were for both the Queen Mothers and the favorite wives of these kings.

Eventually, as we all do (even Pharaoh god-kings), Khufu died and his son Djedefre took over and began building his pyramid up at a site called Abu Rawash. Unfortunately, Djedefre’s pyramid was destroyed long ago, so we don’t know much about it other than what we can tell from examining its ruins. When Djedefre died, his brother Khafre took over as Pharaoh and he returned to the site of their father’s pyramid at Giza to start building his own.

Not a lot is known about the reign of Khafre either, although the ancient Greek historian Herodotus wrote that Khafre was a mean and despotic ruler. However, we don’t know how Herodotus would have known this since he lived in the 400s BC, more than two thousand years after Kafre was around. Herodotus said this about Khafre’s father Khufu too, so maybe he was just picturing them forcing tens of thousands of slaves to lift those heavy stones in the searing heat for decades to build these new massive pyramid contraptions, like in the movies.

It wasn’t quite like this though. While there were indeed slaves in ancient Egypt, mainly captured during wars and brought back enslaved as punishment, a lot of evidence suggests that the workers who built the Pyramids were decently provided for and even possibly paid wages of some sort. Excavations of worker villages around the Pyramids Complex show that the workers were fed beef, lamb, and goat and that those who died were buried nearby with bread and beer for nourishment in the afterlife.

Now, there’s just no way that slaves back then would have been fed prime rib and t-bones and allowed to be buried with provisions anywhere near the mighty Pharaohs’ tombs. You might then say that perhaps the thousands of people dining well in life and being honored in death could have been the overseers of the pyramid builders instead of the builders themselves. But analysis of the bones of those buried in the workers’ cemetery near the Pyramids show signs of severe arthritis and lower vertebral fusion and decay, meaning these individuals were literally engaged in a life of back-breaking work.

The talk about a hundred thousand slaves building the Pyramids came from the Greek historian Herodotus two thousand years later, who seems to have had an agenda in portraying the ancient Pharaohs in a negative light. If 100,000 people toiled for years or decades on the Giza plateau, there would have been plenty of archaeological evidence of them being housed, fed, tended to, etc. But the evidence being dug up from Giza’s sands points to only 10-20,000 relatively (for the time) well-treated laborers.

Now on to Menkaure, most likely the son of Khafre, grandson of Khufu, and the third Pharaoh to build a pyramid for himself at Giza. For what it’s worth, Herodotus wrote that Menkaure was a much kinder and gentler Pharaoh than his father and grandfather, but we have no evidence of this either. Herodotus may have just been writing down legends told to him by locals when he visited Egypt.

Herodotus visited the area during the occupation of Egypt by the Persians, who probably had a self-serving interest in portraying an image of the conquered and vanquished dynasties of Pharaohs in a negative light for PR purposes. But interestingly, Herodotus would have had no way of knowing that the Macedonian Greeks would very soon be conquering the Persians, kicking them out of Egypt, and eventually establishing a new dynasty of Pharaohs to rule Egypt after the death of Alexander the Great.

While Pharaohs before Khufu had no problem one-upping each other in building their pyramids, Khufu’s immediate successors showed more reverence for their predecessors by upstaging them in more discrete ways. As mentioned earlier, Khufu built the largest and greatest pyramid, but Khafre’s pyramid looks taller from most angles because he built it on higher ground. So in the afterlife, he can deny trying to upstage his father.

The same goes for Menkaure. He built the smallest of the Kings Pyramids at Giza, but he wrapped it in a sheath of bright red granite so that it would catch the onlooker’s eye more so than the others. (I guess trying to figure out how to outshine your dad without upstaging him could be labeled “hashtag ancient first world problems.”)

There is a LOT more than can be said about the history of the Pyramids, like what happened to all stuff that was put in them (hint: it was stolen because grave robbers in antiquity knew precisely where to look because of the gigantic markers saying “Pharoah’s Stuff Here”), what the mummification and funeral ceremonies were like, what all the other random structures are around the Pyramids, where all the stones came from, how they got them up on top of the plateau, how they stacked them on top of one another, and so on and so on.

You get the point – there is SO much to talk about when it comes to ancient Egypt, which is why the entire academic specialization of Egyptology exists to study and explain all of this, and why zillions of books on ancient Egypt have been written. But we can’t possibly cover all of that here. Instead, I’ve endeavored to give you an introduction to where the Pyramids came from and when they were built.

Next, we’ll move into the present and talk about what it’s like to visit the Pyramids today. Whether you’re staying in a hotel right by the pyramids or staying downtown, you’ll still have to get to the Pyramids by vehicle. If you’re with a tour group and you’re in a van or bus, you’ll be driven right up to the ticket office entrance. But if you’re going via taxi either by yourself or with others, you need to be really careful about what I call the “Taxi Jumpers” as you approach the Pyramids area in western Giza.

These guys are so-named because as your taxi is meandering through the streets and turns when you get near the gates, young men who are enterprising but very aggressive may open the door of your taxi as it is stuck in traffic or slows for a turn and literally jump in with you. This can be a scary experience, but if it happens to you at least know that they’re not there to hurt anyone or prevent you from entering the Pyramids site.

They start off by asking you if you want a donkey, camel, or horse ride to the Pyramids. When you say no, they tell you that you have to take one because you cannot go any further by car and the Pyramids are still many miles away, even though you can see them as big as daylight right there in front of you.

They will be persistent and annoying and your taxi driver may start trying to shoo them away at this point. They will yell at him in Arabic and return to trying to convince you that you have to buy a donkey or horse or camel ride from them if you want to see the Pyramids. As you grow more frustrated and even angry and insist you’re not interested (because you’re informed about this BS from listening to the Egypt Travel Blog Podcast, of course!), you realize they’re just not going to back down.

To be honest, I don’t know how ordinary people shake these scamsters off. This didn’t use to happen 10 years ago, but since the Revolutions after tourism dropped and they started getting either more desperate or more creative or both, every time I’ve gone out to the Pyramids via taxi I’ve had the taxi jumpers attempt to do this.

Now with me, I know what’s up and I get very aggressive back. I yell at them in Arabic to get out of the car, which shocks them, but even still I have been surprised to see them persist as if I’m an ordinary tourist. I can’t imagine how persistent they must be with tourists who are still excited about Egypt and who want to be polite and who won’t be as aggressive back as I am when these suckers strike.

Again they’ve never shown signs of violence or physical aggression around me, but they’re just very very very annoying. The really sad thing is that experiences like this, especially at the outset of your trip and before you even get to the Pyramids, can really ruin your day at best, and sour you on the whole trip at worst. I’ve seen this happen so many times and it’s such a shame. It really pisses me off too!

Some people in Egypt get mad at me for telling future visitors about things like this to watch out for and how to avoid being scammed, but I’d much rather tell you and let them be pissy than you have something like this happen and it ruins a trip you’ve waited a lifetime for and spent a Pharaoh’s fortune on.

Ok, so back to the Pyramids. Whether you arrive by private driver, by tour bus, or by taxi, you’ll most likely be dropped off at the ticket gate. Go up to the window and grab your ticket at an outside window before you go inside the structure and go through the “security” and metal detectors.

Note that if you want to go inside of one of the Pyramids, you also need to get your separate ticket for that here at the ticket window too. Ticket sales for going inside the Pyramids are usually limited to a certain number per day, and when it’s busy they often run out by mid-day. I don’t think many have to worry about this these days with the still-depressed tourist numbers, but just be aware that I’ve always generally considered it a good idea to go in the morning if you want to go inside of a Pyramid to make sure there are no issues.

The Great Pyramid is usually open for going inside with the extra ticket and the other two Pyramids usually rotate openings. Out of the three Kings Pyramids at Giza, there are usually two open at any given time. On top of those, at least one or two of the Queens Pyramids are usually open too and don’t require a ticket, although the dude watching the entrance will expect a small tip.

So all that’s to say that you should get your ticket for entrance to the Pyramids complex and the extra one if you want it for going inside one or two of the Kings Pyramids at the ticket window before you go through security. Then you go through pseudo-security, give them your ticket to tear, and then emerge on the ramp up to the Pyramids.

Now, note that I’ve been describing the main entrance. There’s also another entrance down by the Sphinx. That one is not always open and sometimes just functions as an exit, but if it’s open and you find yourself at that one instead, the same procedures and advice apply.

If you’re with a guide or group, you’ll carry on your merry way once you enter the complex. But if you’re on your own – and believe me the scamsters know if you’re on your own or not – then this is another choke point for sheisters to approach you and try another scam.

For this one, what they do is approach you as you’re walking up the ramp (after you’re already inside) and ask to see your ticket. If you try to shoo them off, they’ll insist they work there and they need to see your ticket. Trust me – they don’t work there and they don’t need to see your ticket again. These are low-quality predatory guides who either have a license to do tour guiding at the Pyramids and are showing you that license to convince you that they’re “official” in some capacity or they’re just showing you some fake credential.

There are real freelance tour guides that wander around inside of the sites like the Pyramids Complex or the Museum, but the sincere guides will just politely ask you if you’d like a guide and then smile and back away if you say no thank you. The fake ones or predatory ones will try to pull this scam where they pretend to be site staff and ask to see your ticket again after you’re already in, then when they have taken it away from you they’ll hold onto it while they try to talk you into taking some kind of service from them, whether it be a guided tour or a camel ride or whatever.

The worst of them will even just straight up ask you for money to give you your ticket back and tell you that you’ll be arrested if you’re caught inside without a ticket. Bottom line here is that you will only have to show your ticket on the way into the main entrance door before the metal detectors where they tear it. Then after that the only other place you may have to show it again is IF you go into the Sphinx Temple Complex. But that’ll be a very nice old man and not some predatory-acting younger guy right after you come in the entrance to the main complex. So just beware if you’re on your own.

One urge you’re going to have when you approach the Pyramids – and by approach I mean both by vehicle and on foot once you’re in the complex – is to immediately start taking pictures. Trust me on this point – resist this urge! You’re going to have plenty of time to take pictures. And you’re going to be able to take amazing pictures – wide-view, selfies, goofy ones, ones with camels, up close, far away, any kind you can imagine. But you are going to want to take them from the other side of the pyramids, the desert side, not the side you’ll approach from at first.

But even if you do have a burning desire to take photos from the approach side, do it after you circle the monuments first and have savored the experience of approaching them and taking them in. And here’s why – you’ve waited your whole life to see the Pyramids. You’ve heard about them, read about them, studied them, dreamt about them. You’ve spent a lot of time and money getting here, and these are the last remaining Wonders of the Ancient World. They’ve been there for over 4500 years and this is the first – and for many the only – time you’ll ever see them.

Trust me on this – forget the camera in the beginning and soak it in. Experience it. Live it. Be in the moment. Don’t clog your view with a piece of modern technology like a camera or iPhone and rob yourself of the opportunity to experience the approach to the Pyramids the same way that explorers have experienced it for four thousand years. Please don’t rob yourself of that moment and experience.

As your vehicle comes into view of the Pyramids, just look at them. Don’t start snapping crappy photos from the car that you’ll just skip over later. Just marvel. And as you first approach them on foot, don’t waste your initial impressions time with cameras when you’re going to spend ample time later photographing the ever-living crap out of them shortly.

Take it from someone who has literally taken hundreds and hundreds of people to the Pyramids for the first time. Take it slow. Soak it in. Marvel at them. Appreciate them at first sight. Ponder their history. Forgive me if I sound like I’m romanticizing the experience, but if there’s any experience in the world that you should romanticize, surely it’s your first time coming into the presence of the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World.

Most people enter the Pyramids Complex these days by the gate that’s right up beside the Great Pyramid and not the gate that’s further down the plateau by the Sphinx. If you do enter at the Sphinx Gate, that’s ok. You’ll just probably start out marveling at the Sphinx first and then you’ll have to walk uphill to get to the Pyramids. I always recommend starting at the higher gate on the north side of the complex beside the Great Pyramid and ending up down by the Sphinx and exiting through the Sphinx Gate.

So assuming you’re starting by the Great Pyramid and you’ve followed my advice to not start snapping and tapping away at cameras on your initial approach, once you get up to them you’re probably going to want to start taking some pictures of the enormous stones and looking upwards at the base and so on. That’s ok by this point, if you can’t resist the temptation. But remember what I said – your best pictures are going to come later. Trust me.

You shouldn’t climb on the stones of the Pyramids, even if you see others doing it. You’ll get yelled at by guards if you do. The only place you can climb on a pyramid is where the steps are to go up to the entrance to go inside of the Great Pyramid. Feel free to climb up there even if you didn’t get a ticket to go inside. Being up there makes for a great photo by someone on the ground.

If you did get a ticket to go into one of the Kings Pyramids, there will be a person or two at the opening to tear the ticket for you. If you have trouble with climbing steep stairs for long distances or hunching over or if you’re claustrophobic, I wouldn’t recommend going inside of one of the Kings Pyramids because it can be somewhat physically challenging in there to climb the passageway.

If you’re deciding whether to go in or not, just know that the main thing you get out of it is being able to say you were inside of a pyramid. There’s no wall art inside and no mummies or anything in there really. It’s just a tight rough climb to an empty chamber. But it’s neat if you’re up for it and don’t mind shelling out the extra ten bucks or so to say you’ve done it.

Photos inside the Pyramids are not allowed, so if you do try to sneak one you’re likely to get caught and they can do anything from tell you no, to ask for a bribe, to take your camera and demand money to give it back to you. Just be warned.

If that happens to you, I would not give them more than the equivalent of about five American dollar or so maximum. If they demand more, you just get angry and pitch a fit and demand your camera back and threaten to go tell the police that they stole it if you have to. While it’s true that you’re not supposed to be taking pictures in there, they’re also not supposed to be asking you for money or a bribe either and they can get in trouble for that. They have no authority to keep your camera, so don’t let them get away with extorting some huge sum from you.

When I’m with guests there, I or one of my team members will offer to hold our guests’ cameras outside for them while they go in so they don’t have any issues and aren’t tempted. Only give your phone or camera to someone you already know and trust, not to anyone else no matter how nice they may seem.

When you’ve taken in the Great Pyramid of Khufu sufficiently enough, you’ll be well served to wander on over toward to right or west of the Great Pyramid on the winding road that seems to go off into the desert. This road actually goes to a paved clearing overlooking the Pyramids that is a great point from which to take pictures and to find camels to ride if that suits your fancy.

People may come up to you about riding camels when you’re down by the Pyramids, but just tell them no thank you or ignore them if they get annoying. That’s because the best place to rent a camel to ride is up here at the western overlook.

One note about the guys down by the pyramid bases who will be offering you camel rides and souvenirs of all sorts. Some of them will offer you stuff, like small toy camels or pyramid statues, for free or they may offer to take pictures of you or suggest you take pictures of them and their camels. Know one thing about all of these people – they’re looking for money.

If someone tries to give you anything as a gift down by the pyramids, refuse it. If you want to take a picture of a camel guy, be prepared to give him a few pounds. And if he offers to take a picture of you if you’re alone, just know that he’s looking for money in exchange for doing so. They’re very sneaky and sly about this and may even tell you they’re not looking for any money. But they’ll ask for it before they give you your camera back or they’ll pitch a fit with you until you give them some money.

So the best practice regarding people who offer you anything at the pyramids unsolicited is to refuse, sternly if you have to. It really is that bad sometimes, especially if you’re alone and without a guide or escort.

Ok, back up to the western overlook. This area should be relatively free of harassers. Usually there’s a large extended family up there who have a camel monopoly and are much more fair and gentle than anyone down by the pyramid bases. If you’re by yourself, I’d strongly recommend taking one of THESE folks up on an offer of a camel ride up here at the overlook.

Be sure to agree on the price before you depart, and expect that in addition to that they’ll expect a tip too for the camel jockey. But this experience can be worth it. If you’re with a quality tour group, they’ll know these folks well and will arrange this experience for you.

The camel herders will assist you in mounting the camels and once atop these quirky creatures they’ll lead you out across a few dunes to one of the best spots to view all nine pyramids at once and get some amazing photographs, both of the Pyramids and of you on a camel. These guys will offer to take pictures for you and it’s totally ok to give them your camera here and have fun posing. These are the good camel guys and they’ll make sure you have a great experience, so you should tip them accordingly afterwards. A tip that’s the equivalent of about 2-3 American dollars is generous and they’ll be very happy. And so will you.

Once you finish up at the overlook with your photography session and camel mastery, you’ll head back down toward the base of the Pyramids following the same small paved road you you wandered up there on. If you’ve already done some wandering and pondering around them, this is a good time to do a little more exploring and reflection. It’s also a great time to check out the Solar Boat Museum nestled among the Pyramids too, if you’re interested.

I see many people skip the Solar Boat Museum, but those who don’t want to miss any opportunities to see everything can pay for an extra ticket at the exhibit’s dedicated ticket window right outside its door and go in to check it out. This is the well preserved remains of a ginormous boat believed to have carried the Pharaohs up the Nile to their pyramid tombs and which was then subsequently buried alongside the tombs for the Pharaoh’s continued use in the afterlife.

The scale of this boat is really impressive, as is looking at it and imagining what the scene must have looked like over 4000 years ago with all the pomp and circumstance and ceremony of a Pharaoh’s body being transported from the capital to the Pyramids for eternal interment. It truly must have been quite an amazing sight.

Unless you started down at the lower gate, the last thing you’ll be visiting out here at Giza is the Sphinx, which is co-located with the Pyramids at Giza. As you’re walking down the plateau towards the Sphinx, beware of one more very common thing that sheisters will do at the Pyramids that will literally mark you as easy prey for other sheisters and harassers.

If you’re walking around anywhere near the base of the Pyramids or the Solar Boat Museum and someone comes up to you and offers to put a white cloth on your head with a black headband to make you look like Lawrence of Arabia, don’t let them put it on you or give it to you as a “gift” unless you fully intend on paying for it and haggling down the price for a while.

If you want to buy one or two of these as a souvenir for yourself or someone else, that’s fine. Don’t pay more than a dollar or two for them. But one important thing I’d strongly recommend is that you don’t wear it there at the Pyramids. To the other vendors and hasslers, that automatically tags you as easy prey and you’ll suddenly find all kinds of people coming up to sell you stuff and they won’t let up because you’ve been marked as a sucker by this touristy Lawrence of Arabia-looking headdress.

You’ll even have camel guys – the bad ones, not the good ones – make a beeline for you from far away because they can see you wearing that bright white head scarf from afar and they assume you’re a sucker. Trust me on this point. I’ve known a number of the vendors personally and I know this is how they see you if you’re walking around with one of those things on your head. And their assessment is usually right, which is why they won’t let up in trying to get you to part with your money for other crap.

Ok, that’s my last scam alert in this article. I don’t mean to scare you, but I just want you to be aware of these so you can be prepared if you encounter any of them and not let it frustrate you or spoil your day. There are a lot of scams and a lot of scammers that will be after you if you’re traveling on your own, and they can be very sneaky and clever. They have a LOT more practice at targeting tourists than you’ll have at avoiding them and getting out of the situation smoothly.

Alright, back to the Sphinx. I’ve personally always found the Sphinx to be a bit smaller in person than I had imagined, but just remember as you’re walking down the roadway from the Pyramids to the Sphinx and looking at it, you’re still pretty far away and you’re a little elevated too. When you get further down and closer, you’ll be able to get a better feel for his actual size. But I still always assumed it would be much more massive before I saw it in person for the first time. Don’t’ get me wrong, though – it’s still plenty impressive and amazing.

Know that there are sphinxes all over Egypt and you’ll see lots more when you visit Luxor in southern Egypt where a lot of the remaining ancient temples and underground tombs are. But none of the other sphinxes compare to the Great Sphinx that guards the Pyramids at Giza. Unlike the Pyramids, no one really knows when the Sphinx was built, by whom, or who it’s supposed to represent. Most Egyptologists believe it’s supposed to be Khafre and was built around the time his pyramid was built a little over 4550 years ago, but it doesn’t really match other known sculptures of Khafre.

So the Sphinx is still holding a lot of secrets to this day. Even throughout history, most of the Sphinx structure was buried by sand for thousands of years. That protected its massive paws and the temple between them from severe erosion, but the same can’t be said for its face. The Sphinx’s head is most noticeably missing its nose, but it’s also missing the characteristic pharaonic braided beard as well as the snake on the front of its headdress. A small section of the sphinx’s original beard was uncovered in the ground in the early 1800s and is now in the British Museum.

Some people blame his missing nose on Napoleon, who came to Egypt in 1798. Legend used to be that Napoleon used the Sphinx for target practice and blew off his nose with a cannon. But we know that’s not true now because drawings of the Sphinx before that year show the Sphinx without a nose already. Some speculate that it could have still been taken off by a cannon, but from an earlier invader. Others think early religious fundamentalists may have desecrated the Sphinx because human statuary and depictions were considered heretical in early Islam. But we don’t really know what happened to the Sphinx, or even who it is for sure yet.

Besides being deprived of his nose and some ornamentation, another sad thing about the Sphinx to me is that for thousands and thousands of years he has stood there guarding the Pyramids and looking westward toward the Nile while witnessing the villages along the river as they grew closer and closer. But today the urban sprawl of greater Cairo and Giza has come right up to within about a hundred meters of the Sphinx, to the point that, after thousands of years of regally reigning over this remote royal burial ground, this Sphinx has to stare at a KFC and a Pizza Hut directly across the street from him today.

You won’t really notice any of that while you’re inside of the monument compound, though, so don’t worry about it spoiling your experience. But you may notice it as you exit through the Sphinx gate, and I just mention it because it’s just a perfect example of the growing threat of modern overreach and encroachment on ancient sites, especially in Egypt. So go see them while you still can, before someone puts two arches over the Sphinx’s head.

Speaking of modern overreach, that reminds me about another experience to be had out by the Sphinx and Pyramids that many tourists go to – the Sound and Light Show at the Pyramids. The times I’ve been, this has been a really cheesy production and I really am not a fan of it personally. But many others do enjoy it, and it can be really net for kids to see too because it’s colorful and interactive.

One last note about the Pyramids… I mentioned earlier that the Pyramids at Giza are just the most famous pyramids, but the older ones that are still standing at Saqqara and Dashur and are less-frequented by tourists are just about a half-hour to 45-mins south of Giza by car. If you have a full day to explore pyramids, I’d strongly recommend taking the second half of the day after lunch to go check these out as well while you’re nearby.

But don’t worry at all if you can’t make it down to Saqqara and Dashur. If you only go to Giza and only have a half-day there, your experience will still be amazing, wonderful and perfectly normal for a first-time trip to Egypt. You’ll have stood in the presence of the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, and it will undoubtedly be an experience you will never forget.

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By: History.com Editors

Updated: June 16, 2023 | Original: January 4, 2018

The Great Sphinx of Giza is a giant 4,500-year-old limestone statue situated near the Great Pyramid in Giza, Egypt. Measuring 240 feet (73 meters) long and 66 feet (20 meters) high, the Great Sphinx is one of the world’s largest monuments. It is also one of the most recognizable relics of the ancient Egyptians, though the origins and history of the colossal structure are still debated.

What Is a Sphinx?

A sphinx (or sphynx) is a creature with the body of a lion and the head of a human, with some variations. It is a prominent mythological figure in Egyptian, Asian, and Greek mythology.

In ancient Egypt , the sphinx was a spiritual guardian and most often depicted as a male with a pharaoh headdress—as is the Great Sphinx—and figures of the creatures were often included in tomb and temple complexes. For instance, the so-called Sphinx Alley in Upper Egypt is a two-mile avenue that connects the temples of Luxor and Karnak and is lined with sphinx statues.

Sphinxes with the likeness of the female pharaoh Hatshepsut also exist, such as the granite sphinx statue at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the large alabaster sphinx at the Ramessid temple in Memphis, Egypt.

From Egypt, the sphinx imported to both Asia and Greece around 15th to 16th century B.C. Compared with the Egyptian model, the Asian sphinx had eagle wings, was frequently female, and often sat on its haunches with one paw raised in depictions.

In Greek traditions, the sphinx also had wings, as well as the tail of a serpent—in legends, it devours all travelers unable to answer its riddle.

How Old Is the Sphinx?

The most common and widely accepted theory about the Great Sphinx suggests the statue was erected for the Pharaoh Khafre (about 2603-2578 B.C.).

Hieroglyphic texts suggest Khafre’s father, Pharaoh Khufu, built the Great Pyramid, the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in Giza. When he became Pharaoh, Khafre constructed his own pyramid next to his father’s; though Khafre’s pyramid is 10 feet shorter than the Great Pyramid, it is surrounded by a more elaborate complex that includes the Great Sphinx and other statues.

Residues of red pigments on the face of the Sphinx suggest the statue may have been painted.

Given the organization of the pyramids and the Sphinx, some scholars believe there may have been a celestial purpose to the Great Sphinx and temple complex, that is, to resurrect the soul of the pharaoh (Khafre) by channeling the power of the sun and other gods.

Several lines of evidence exist that tie the Great Sphinx to Pharaoh Khafre and his temple complex.

For one thing, the head and face of the Sphinx are strikingly similar to a life-size statue of Khafre that French archaeologist Auguste Mariette found in the Valley Temple—the ruins of a building situated adjacent to the Great Sphinx—in the mid-1800s.

Additionally, Mariette discovered remnants of a causeway (processional road) that connect the Valley Temple to a mortuary temple next to Khafre’s pyramid. In the early 1900s, French archaeologist Emile Baraize dug up another building (the Sphinx Temple) directly in front of the Sphinx that’s similar in design to the Valley Temple.

In the 1980s, researchers uncovered evidence that the limestone blocks used in the walls of the Sphinx Temple came from the ditch surrounding the great statue, suggesting workmen hauled away quarry blocks for the Sphinx Temple as they were being chipped off the Great Sphinx during its construction.

Researchers estimate that it would have taken 100 people 3 years to carve the Great Sphinx out of a single mass of limestone. But there’s some evidence that these workers may have suddenly quit before fully finishing the sphinx and temple complex, such as partially quarried bedrock and remnants of a workman’s lunch and tool kit.

Other Theories

Over the years, researchers have put forth many other theories for the Great Sphinx’s origins, though most are refuted by mainstream Egyptologists.

Some theories suggest the face of the sphinx actually resembles Khufu and, therefore, Khufu built the structure. Alternatively, Pharaoh Djedefre—Khafre’s older half-brother and Khufu’s other son—built the Great Sphinx in commemoration of his father.

Other theories hold that the statue depicts Amenemhat II (around 1929 to 1895 B.C.) based on the style of the stripes on the sphinx’s head cloth.

Some scientists also contend that the Great Sphinx is far older than is widely believed, based on the potential age of the causeway or various patterns of erosion of the statue.

Riddle of the Sphinx

What Egyptians called the Great Sphinx during its prime remains a riddle, because the word sphinx originates from Greek mythology some 2,000 years after the statue was built.

It’s also unclear in what regard Egyptians held the Great Sphinx during the Old Kingdom (c. 2613-2181 B.C.), as there are few texts that discuss the statue. However, Khafre associated himself with the god Horus and the Great Sphinx may have been known as Harmakhet (“Horus on the Horizon”), as it was during the New Kingdom (1570-1069 B.C.).

Whatever the case, the statue began to fade into the desert background at the end of the Old Kingdom, at which point it was ignored for centuries.

Inscriptions on a pink granite slab between the Great Sphinx’s paws tell the story of how the statue was saved from the sands of time. Prince Thutmose, son of Amenhotep II, fell asleep near the Sphinx, the story goes. In Thutmose’s dream, the statue, calling itself Harmakhet, complained about its state of disarray and made a deal with the young prince: It would help him become pharaoh if he cleared away the sand from the statue and restored it.

Whether or not the dream actually occurred is unknown, but when the prince did, in fact, become Pharaoh Thutmose IV, he introduced a Sphinx-worshipping cult to his people. Statues, paintings, and reliefs of the figure popped up across the country and the sphinx became a symbol of royalty and the power of the sun.

Great Sphinx Restoration

The Great Sphinx was eventually forgotten again. Its body suffered from erosion and its face became damaged by time as well.

Though some stories claim Napoleon ‘s troops shot off the statue’s nose with a cannon when they arrived in Egypt in 1798, 18th-century drawings suggest the nose went missing long before then. More likely, the nose was purposely destroyed by a Sufi Muslim in the 15th century to protest idolatry. Part of the Sphinx’s royal cobra emblem from its headdress and sacred beard have also broken off, the latter of which is now displayed in the British Museum .

The Sphinx was actually buried in sand up to its shoulders until the early 1800s, when a Genoese adventurer named Capt. Giovanni Battista Caviglia attempted (and ultimately failed) to dig out the statue with a team of 160 men.

Mariette managed to clear some of the sand from around the sculpture and Baraize made another large excavation push in the 19th and 20th centuries. But it wasn’t until the late 1930s that Egyptian archaeologist Selim Hassan was able to finally free the creature from its sandy tomb.

Today, the Sphinx is continuing to deteriorate thanks to wind, humidity, and pollution. Restoration efforts have been ongoing since the mid-1900s, some of which failed and ultimately caused more damage to the Sphinx.

In 2007, authorities learned that the local water table under the statue was rising due to sewage being dumped in a nearby canal. The moisture ultimately spread through the porous limestone of the structure, causing the rock to crumble and break away in large flakes in some cases. Authorities installed pumps close to the Great Sphinx, diverting the groundwater and saving the relic from further destruction.

Sphinx-lined road unearthed in Egypt; PhysOrg .

The Great Sphinx of Giza; Ancient History Encyclopedia .

The Mystery of the Great Sphinx; Ancient History Encyclopedia .

Old Kingdom of Egypt; Ancient History Encyclopedia .

What happened to the Sphinx’s nose?; Smithsonian .

Saving the Sphinx; PBS/NOVA .

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A Comprehensive Guide to The Great Sphinx in Giza, Egypt

Are you planning a trip to Cairo , Egypt? If so, be sure to check out The Great Sphinx – one of the world’s most iconic monuments. Located near the Pyramids of Giza, The Great Sphinx has been a source of mystery and awe since ancient times. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide all the information you need to know about The Great Sphinx in Cairo, Egypt. From its ancient history and mythology to its current state of preservation and restoration, this guide will help you get the most out of your experience.

The Great Sphinx Location

The Great Sphinx is located in Giza, Egypt, near the Pyramids of Giza . It stands at the edge of the plateau, facing eastward towards the rising sun. The Sphinx is made of limestone, and is believed to have been carved around 4,500 years ago by ancient Egyptians . The exact purpose of the Sphinx remains a mystery, but it is believed to have been a guardian of the plateau and an important symbol in the ancient religion.

The Great Sphinx can be visited as part of a tour of the Pyramids of Giza . There are many tour companies that provide guided tours to the site, which usually include a visit to the Sphinx, along with other attractions in the area such as the Solar Boat Museum and the Valley Temple .

The Sphinx History

The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most iconic monuments in the world, having stood guard at the entrance to the Pyramids of Giza for centuries. The history of the Sphinx is shrouded in mystery and its true age remains a matter of debate. Some historians believe it was carved around 2500 BC, making it one of the oldest known monumental statues in the world. Others think it could have been constructed as early as 4500 BC, during the reign of Pharaoh Khafra, who also built the second pyramid at Giza .

It is believed that the Sphinx was originally carved in the likeness of Pharaoh Khafre, with a human head and lion’s body to represent his strength and power. Over time, the features of the face have been eroded by wind and sand, making it difficult to identify with any certainty whose face it was meant to be.

In more recent times, the Sphinx has become a symbol of national pride and an important tourist attraction . It continues to draw visitors from around the world, many of whom come to marvel at its immense size and majestic beauty.

What does the Sphinx mean in Egypt?

The Sphinx of Giza is an iconic symbol of Egypt and its ancient civilization , and has been a source of mystery and fascination for centuries. In ancient Egypt , the Sphinx was associated with the god Horus and represented power, strength and protection. It was also believed to be a guardian of the pharaohs, protecting their tombs and temples from evil spirits. The Sphinx has been linked to the sun god Ra, which is why it is sometimes depicted wearing a solar disc around its head. It is even speculated that the Sphinx may have represented Pharaoh Khafre, who commissioned it.

The Sphinx has come to symbolize the long and rich history of Egypt, as well as its great monuments and monuments that are still standing today. It’s presence in Egypt is an important reminder of the country’s vast cultural heritage, and of its influence on many other civilizations around the world.

How was the Great Sphinx Constructed?

The Sphinx of Giza is one of the most iconic monuments in Egypt . Despite its immense size and grandeur, we still do not know exactly how it was constructed.

The traditional belief is that it was carved from an existing limestone outcrop, a theory supported by the fact that there is no evidence of quarried stone around it. However, there is debate over whether this was done using copper tools or hard stone tools like dolerite.

Another suggestion is that it was constructed using large blocks of limestone, as evidenced by the presence of larger pieces near the head of the Sphinx. This suggests that the builders used a technique known as “polygonal masonry” in which each block was cut to fit perfectly with its neighbors.

In addition to these theories, some believe that the Sphinx was built with a combination of both methods. The face and head of the Sphinx are thought to have been carved from a single large block of limestone, while the body was built with smaller blocks.

The exact age of the Sphinx remains a mystery. It is believed to be at least 4,500 years old but some archaeologists have suggested that it could be much older. The lack of records of its construction make it impossible to determine its exact date.

Regardless of how it was constructed, the Great Sphinx remains an incredible feat of engineering and one of the most mysterious monuments in Egypt. Its size and presence make it an impressive sight and a must-see for any visitor to Cairo.

What to see in The Great Sphinx Area

The Sphinx of Giza is one of the world’s most iconic monuments, and its presence in Cairo , Egypt is a sight to behold. At over 73 meters long and 20 meters high, the Sphinx is a massive structure that has stood for centuries. It is believed to have been carved from a single block of limestone during the reign of the Pharaoh Khafre, around 2500 BC.

Visitors to the Great Sphinx will be amazed by its grand size and detailed features. The body of the sphinx is lion-shaped with the head of a man, wearing a headdress of a Pharaoh. Its eyes are still visible and its ears are pierced with holes, suggesting that it once wore jewellery or decorations.

The Great Sphinx is more than just a large sculpture; it’s also a symbol of Ancient Egyptian culture and beliefs . Carved out of the limestone bedrock, it was designed to guard the entrance of Khafre’s temple complex . Its face is thought to depict Khafre himself, making the statue an homage to the ruler.

When visiting The Great Sphinx, it’s worth exploring the surrounding area. The sprawling Temple Complex of Khafre houses ancient tombs, temples, and chapels that offer an insight into Egypt’s past. You can also explore other monuments near the Sphinx, such as the Great Pyramid of Giza , as well as several smaller pyramids and tombs that were built nearby.

No trip to Cairo would be complete without visiting The Great Sphinx. It’s one of the most iconic sights in Egypt and a must-see for any traveler . With its impressive size and fascinating history, it’s sure to leave you in awe!

Secrets About the Great Sphinx

The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most iconic and mysterious monuments in the world, and it is shrouded in mystery. Throughout its history, many theories have been proposed about the origins, purpose and meaning behind the Great Sphinx. Here are some fascinating secrets about the Great Sphinx that are worth exploring.

The most prominent secret about the Great Sphinx is its age. It is widely accepted that the Great Sphinx was constructed sometime during the reign of King Khafre (2558-2532 BCE). However, some experts believe that the monument could be much older, predating even the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt. This theory is based on the fact that the monument appears to have been worn away by water erosion, which would not be possible if it was only constructed during the Fourth Dynasty.

The location of the Great Sphinx has also sparked controversy among scholars. Many believe that the Great Sphinx was placed at its current location due to a deep spiritual significance or ancient wisdom. There are several theories as to why the Sphinx was placed in this exact spot, from honoring a solar deity to being an astronomical marker.

One of the most compelling secrets about the Great Sphinx is its facial features. Historians have long debated about why the face of the Sphinx does not match with any known pharaohs, as was common for royal statues in ancient Egypt . Some believe that the face of the Sphinx may have originally been meant to represent a lion goddess, rather than a pharaoh.

The true secrets of the Sphinx will likely remain unsolved for years to come, as there is no way to definitively answer these questions without further excavations and studies. However, all of these mysteries have only added to the intrigue and mystique of this enigmatic monument.

Discover The Great Sphinx by category

Tips for visiting The Great Sphinx

1. Make sure you dress appropriately when visiting the Sphinx. A hat and comfortable shoes are a must!

2. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there is no food available on-site.

3. Early morning or late afternoon are usually the best times to visit the site, as it gets quite hot in the mid-day sun.

4. The Sphinx is located close to the Pyramids of Giza, so if you are visiting both sites on the same day, consider taking a guided tour for a more comprehensive experience.

5. Photography is allowed, but be respectful when taking pictures, and refrain from using a flash as it can be disrespectful to visitors who are praying or meditating at the site.

6. Don’t forget to bring some cash with you as you may need it for admission fees or souvenirs or Check Our What To Pack For Egypt Blog.

Tours To Visit The Sphinx

Q: Where is the Great Sphinx located?

A: The Great Sphinx is located in Giza, Egypt near the pyramids.

Q: How old is the Great Sphinx?

A: The Great Sphinx is believed to have been built around 2500 BCE.

Q: What is the height and width of the Great Sphinx?

A: The Great Sphinx stands at 20 meters (65 feet) tall and is 73 meters (240 feet) long.

Q: Who built the Sphinx?

A: It is believed that the Great Sphinx was built by the ancient Egyptians during the reign of the Pharaoh Khafre .

Q: Is it possible to climb on the Sphinx?

A: Climbing on the Great Sphinx is not allowed as it is a protected archaeological site.

Q: Are there any secret tunnels beneath the Sphinx?

A: It is believed that there are many secret chambers and tunnels beneath the Great Sphinx, however none have been discovered yet.

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• Great Sphinx of Giza

Undoubtedly, the Great Sphinx of Giza is, along with the pyramids, the most recognized symbol of Ancient Egypt. And it is no coincidence that it is all in the same place, in the city of Giza, 18 km from Cairo .

The Great Sphinx of Giza is an imposing and iconic sculpture with a human head and a lion’s body, which for the ancient Egyptians represented the union of intelligence and strength. A figure recognizable to anyone anywhere in the world. An extraordinary emblem of one of the most fascinating ancient cultures in history with a height of 20 meters and a length of more than 70 meters.

It has achieved worldwide fame not only because of its grandeur and beauty but also because it represents a mystery that has never been solved. Archaeologists still disagree on the function it served at the time of its construction, the date or period in which it was sculpted, and its provenance.

Most agree that it could have been created around 2,500 BC and as part of the works for the funerary complex of the pharaoh Chephren, with the aim of being the guardian to protect his tomb. This conclusion was reached after studying the rest of the sphinxes found in archaeological ruins of ancient Egypt: all have human heads (some with royal headdress) and lion bodies, and are in the entrances of tombs and temples. And since life in the afterlife was as or more important than life on earth, the pharaohs had to be duly protected by something that would unify strength and intelligence: a mythological being with a human head and a lion’s body .

But there are other theories that hold that the Great Sphinx of Giza predates the pyramids themselves and date its construction to the year 7000 BC. This version is based on the comparative erosion of the pyramids in relation to the Great Sphinx, much more accentuated in the second case. But there is no scientific agreement on this hypothesis either.

Anyway, this is not a problem but on the contrary: it will add a lot of extra spice to your visit so that you can also try to decipher the mysteries hidden in the Great Sphinx of Giza.

Curious facts about the Great Sphinx of Giza

• Why doesn’t it have a nose? This is another of the mysteries that have never been solved. The rock from which the sphinx was built varies according to its parts. The solid body is made of soft yellowish limestone and the head of a hard gray limestone. Thus, logic indicates that the nose should have been better preserved, as is the case with the rest of the sphinx’s head in relation to its body. But as of today it has disappeared. Some theories blame Napoleon for its destruction, but it is a hypothesis that was dismantled after the discovery of some drawings made by an explorer who visited it long before the birth of the famous French emperor and in which the sphinx already appeared without its nose. Other versions speak of a Muslim leader of the 15th century named Muhammad Sa’im al-Dahr who, offended by the sight of so many people worshipping the sphinx, ordered its nose to be smashed. But the mystery remains unsolved.
• It was full of colors. Today the sphinx retains almost none of the vivid colors it once wore and to appreciate any remaining color you have to get very close (or as close as is allowed inside the enclosure). Its loss of colors is due to the erosion of the desert. It is believed that the body and head were red, and the headdress with Egyptian garment that covered his head of white and blue stripes.
• Why is the head better preserved than its body? Because the stone from which the head was made is much harder and more resistant than the one used for the whole body. The deterioration could have been worse were it not for the sand in which the sphinx was buried for centuries that helped protect it from erosion.
• It is also missing some of the props . Some scholars believe that not only the nose was removed but also a pharaonic ceremonial beard, but it is also estimated that it was a complement added in later periods to its original construction.
• It has a tail, even if you can’t see it. Of course, if we see it from the front, we do not notice it, but if we stop to observe it from one of its sides or from behind, we will see that the Great Sphinx of Giza has a large lion’s tail.
• Why is it facing east? Because that is where the sun rises on the morning of the vernal equinox, a key moment in the calendar for the ancient Egyptians.

How to get to the Great Sphinx of Giza

The Great Sphinx of Giza is located on the same plateau as the pyramids, 18 km from the site. Cairo. All tours, vans, buses and minibuses, cabs or private cars depart from the Egyptian capital. It is best to hire a tour that will pick you up at the hotel, including a guided tour around the pyramids (once there you can hire the extras you want) and, at the end, leave you back at your hotel.

The entrance to the Giza site is from 7:00 to 19:30.

Visit prices

Entrance to the enclosure: 160 EGP the normal adult ticket, 80 EGP for accredited students. It is the same ticket of the  enclosure of the Pyramids of Giza, no need to buy another one .

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The Great Sphinx

The Enigmatic Great Sphinx: A Monument of Mysteries

Rising majestically from the timeless sands of the Giza Plateau , adjacent to Khafre’s valley temple, the Great Sphinx stands as a sentinel of Egypt’s rich history. Revered as a national emblem, this colossal statue has ignited the curiosity of generations, captivating the hearts and minds of travelers, scholars, poets, and writers for centuries. Yet, despite centuries of exploration and study, it continues to veil itself in enigmatic mysteries that have intrigued adventurers for millennia.

Carved from an outcrop of limestone, a residue from the quarrying of stones for the Great Pyramid , the Great Sphinx resides in a rectangular trench, framed by Khafre’s causeway to the south, a modern roadway to the north, and the ancient ‘Sphinx Temple’ to the east. In the shadow of this mighty monument lies a reconstructed New Kingdom religious structure, thought to date back to the reign of Amenhotep II, adding a layer of historical complexity to the site.

The Great Sphinx takes on the form of a crouching lion with the visage of a human, traditionally believed to represent Khafre, though this attribution remains a subject of spirited debate. While sphinxes are a common motif in Egyptian statuary, the Great Sphinx’s unique architecture has kindled the imaginations of many, giving rise to theories of an ancient civilization predating the builders of the pyramids. However, despite its enigmatic aura, recent excavations and restorations have uncovered no hidden chambers or traces of vanished civilizations, leaving some to speculate on a conspiracy to keep such secrets veiled from the world.

The colossal body of the Sphinx, stretching nearly 60 meters in length and soaring 20 meters in height, was sculpted from alternating layers of soft and hard marly limestone sediments, formed during the geological Eocene period. These limestone layers were quarried and employed in various Old Kingdom construction projects, with the remnants now aiding in tracking the origins of nearby structures. For instance, the massive blocks forming the walls of Khafre’s valley temple likely hailed from the upper body of the Sphinx itself, and certain limestone blocks of the Sphinx Temple originated from the vicinity of the Sphinx’s chest.

The head of the Sphinx portrays an Egyptian ruler donning a Nemes head-dress, once adorned with a uraeus-serpent on its forehead and a royal beard (fragments of which are now displayed in museums). The human head appears small in proportion to the lionine body, and some speculate that the body may have been elongated to accommodate a natural rock fissure, which would have impeded the completion of the carving of the rear quarters.

The Great Sphinx has weathered the ages, its body buried in the desert sands a mere thousand years after its creation, during the 18th Dynasty. Its reawakening is attributed to a young Prince Tuthmose (later Tuthmose IV ), who dreamt of the Sphinx entreating him to free its body from the encroaching sands. Years later, as pharaoh, Tuthmose remembered this vision, leading to the excavation and the placement of a commemorative stela between the Sphinx’s forepaws.

Records suggest that Tuthmose IV initiated the first restoration, and remains of mudbrick walls bearing his name surround the Sphinx. A renewed interest in the Sphinx flourished during the reign of Amenhotep II, under the epithet “Horemakhet” (Horus of the Horizon), marking the beginning of a cult revival. Further restorations are documented, including those by Rameses II and his son, Prince Khaemwaset. The Saite Period also witnessed attention to the Sphinx, as indicated by the ‘Inventory Stela’ east of the Great Pyramid. The Roman era saw the Sphinx become a beloved tourist attraction, prompting efforts at clearing and preservation by Emperors Marcus Aurelius and Septimus Severus.

In 1798, Napoleon Bonaparte arrived in Egypt, his awe for the Sphinx inspiring the excavation of the buried monument by his scientific team. The unveiling of the Dream Stela marked a pivotal moment. Subsequent explorations by Giovanni Battista Caviglia in 1816 yielded fragments of the Sphinx’s false royal beard, now housed in the British Museum.

More comprehensive excavations in the 1920s, led by French archaeologist Emile Baraize, brought to light the temple concealed beneath the Sphinx’s forepaws, and restored various elements, including a crack on the statue’s head. Conservation efforts continued sporadically, with noteworthy work by the Egyptian Antiquities Organization between 1955 and 1989. The most recent phase of conservation, under the guidance of Zahi Hawass and foreign experts, addressed issues of deterioration stemming from humidity, rising water tables, and air pollution. Restoration efforts focused on the south forepaw, southern flank, and the tail, breathing new life into this ancient enigma.

The Great Sphinx’s colossal figure gazes eastward, its monumental presence linked to solar worship. Identified with the gods Re and Horus, it embodies the eternal cycle of the sun rising and setting on the horizon. Is it a living representation of Khafre or a mythical guardian of the necropolis, offering homage to the sun-god?

As the sun sets and rises over the Giza Plateau, the Great Sphinx endures, its enigmatic smile hiding secrets of the ages, waiting for those intrepid enough to unravel the mysteries shrouded in its silent embrace.

Created On April 07, 2020

Updated On January 27, 2024

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Abusir Necropolis

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Memphis – The Ancient City

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No other nation in the world says ‘Welcome’ as often as the Egyptians, and every time, they mean it. While the ancient civilization of Egypt continues to amaze, contemporary Egyptians are equally remarkable.

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The Great Sphinx of Giza | Guardian of the Necropolis and an Icon of Ancient Egypt

Book tickets to visit the great sphinx of giza.

The colossal limestone statue of the Great Sphinx of Giza is the oldest known monumental sculpture in Egypt. It was built on the Giza Plateau by the ancient Egyptians of the Old Kingdom, during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre. The Sphinx is believed to have the face of Pharaoh Khafre and the body of a lion, often known as the Guardian of the Giza complex.

What is the Great Sphinx of Giza?

The Great Sphinx of Giza is a sculpture of a man with the body of a lion. It was called a 'Sphinx' by the ancient Greeks, as it resembled the ancient Greek mythical winged monster. It was carved from the bedrock along the causeway that connected the Pyramid of Khafre to its Valley Temple. This makes it likely that it was carved during Khafre’s reign (c. 2558–2532 BC). It is also believed that the face of the Sphinx was based on Pharaoh Khafre’s own features. The Sphinx faces from west to east and measures 73 meters (240 feet) long and 20 meters (66 feet) high.

Interesting facts about the Great Sphinx of Giza

• The Great Sphinx is the oldest known monumental sculpture in Egypt and was constructed around 2500 BC, during the reign of the pharaoh Khafre.
• It measures 73 meters long from paw to tail, and 20 meters high from the base to the top of the head. At its widest point near the haunches, it is 19 meters wide.
• The Sphinx was carved directly from the limestone bedrock, and the different strata of the stone have eroded at different speeds, leading to the horizontal striations seen today. 
• The statue of the Great Sphinx of Giza was once covered with plaster. Its face was painted red and the menes (or headdress) was painted yellow and blue. 
• The face of the Sphinx is said to be based on that of Khafre himself. However, today it is heavily damaged, with a broken nose and a missing beard.
• Despite the myth that the nose was destroyed, by the army of Napolean Bonaparte, artwork from before his time (by Frederic Louis Norden in 1737) shows the Sphinx already had a broken nose. 
• The Sphinx is oriented from west to east and faces east towards the rising sun. This was important to the ancient Egyptians who worshipped the sun and had a number of sun gods. 

More Pyramids of Giza facts >

The Temple of the Great Sphinx

When the Sphinx was carved around 2500 BC, the stones cut to create the sculpture were also used to build the Temple of the Sphinx. Despite its name and its location, this temple has little to do with the Great Sphinx. Instead, it is dedicated to the god Ra, the Sun God of the Egyptians. It was built along an East-West axis. During the time of the New Kingdom era of ancient Egypt, the Sphinx was worshipped as a deity Hor-em-akhet (or “Horus of the Horizon”). The pharaohs Thutmose I and Amenhotep II later restored and rebuilt the temple in the 14th century BC, dedicating it to the cult of Hor-em-akhet .

Plan your visit to the Great Sphinx of Giza

Pyramids of Giza opening hours

• April to September: 7 AM to 6 PM
• October to March: 8 AM to 4 PM

Duration of visit: 4 to 5 hours Best time to visit: The best months to visit the Great Sphinx in the Pyramids of Giza are around late October to mid-March. The weather is comparatively cooler than the summer months, making these months the best time to engage in outdoor activities around the Pyramids. You can go on a camel safari, a quad bike safari, or explore the sand dunes on foot comfortably. Avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays and arrive early in the morning to enjoy lesser crowds.

Pyramids of Giza location

Address: Giza Necropolis, Al Haram, Giza Governorate, Egypt Find on maps The Great Sphinx is located within the Giza Necropolis, near the Pyramid of Khafre. The Giza complex is situated around 15 km away from the Cairo city center, around the outskirts of the city. The limestone statue is situated at the eastern end of the Giza Complex. It sits next to the causeway that connects the Pyramid of Khafre’s Valley temple and its mortuary temple. The best way to reach the Great Sphinx of Giza is to catch a metro from line 1 of the Cairo metro station. Upon reaching the Giza metro station, you can get a taxi, Uber, or tour bus to reach the Pyramid complex.

About the Great Sphinx of Giza

Building the Great Sphinx

The Great Sphinx of Giza was carved from the bedrock of the Giza Plateau during the reign of Khafre around 2500 BC. It was likely built after Khafre’s Pyramid and his Valley Temple. Like many other ancient Egyptian monuments, the sphinx was once decked out in bright yellow and blue paint, but this has since disappeared. Since the purpose of the Sphinx has been long-forgotten, many intriguing legends and superstitions have sprung up about its creation.

Excavations during the New Kingdom

Sometime after the end of the Old Kingdom, the Giza Necropolis was abandoned. However, around 1400 BC, the New Kingdom Pharaoh Thutmose IV excavated the front paws of the Sphinx and erected a shrine with a Dream Stele (an inscribed granite slab) proclaiming his kingship. Later, further excavations were undertaken by Pharaoh Amenhotep II, who also built a temple to the sun god Hor-em-akhet in the 1300s BC, and Ramesses II the Great.

A Roman tourist destination

In Graeco-Roman times, Giza was a popular tourist attraction, and the Pyramids and the Sphinx were considered antiquities. The Great Sphinx in particular was visited by a number of Roman Emperors. And, in the first century AD, the Sphinx was once again cleared of sand, and a monumental stairway was erected leading up to the paws. Around 166 AD, there was further restoration of the walls surrounding the Sphinx. But, with the fall of the Roman Empire, the Sphinx was again left to be engulfed by the sands.

The Middle Ages and the broken nose

While the cult of the Sphinx persisted into the Middle Ages, Arab writers saw it as Belhib , a version of the Canaanite god Hauron. They also believed that it was a talisman that guarded Giza and Cairo against the desert. However, it was also during this time that the nose of the Sphinx was broken off. It is believed that it was intentionally broken with chisels between the 3rd and 10th centuries AD.  Arab historian al-Maqrīz believed that this was an act of retribution by Muhammad Sa'im al-Dahr, against local peasants praying to the Sphinx.

Modern excavations and restorations

The first modern archaeological excavation took place in 1817, supervised by Giovanni Caviglia, during which the Sphinx’s chest was uncovered. A further dig in 1887 by Eugène Grébaut, uncovered the paws, the altar, and the stele of Thutmosis IV. In 1931, a number of restorations were made, some questionable. The damaged head of the Sphinx was repaired using concrete, which created an altered profile. The Roman stairway near the paws was also dismantled.

The Great Sphinx today

Today, the Great Sphinx still retains some of its scars. But, its body has been shored up with layers of new limestone blocks. Recently, a series of repairs and restorations were undertaken in 1988 and the 1990s. While it continues to stand tall, it is also under threat from pollution and rising groundwater and needs constant repairs. Nevertheless, it is a wonder to behold and is a symbol of the might and artistic wonder of the ancient Egyptians.

Frequently asked questions about the Great Sphinx of Giza

The Sphinx of Giza is a statue of a creature that has the body of a lion and the head of a Pharaoh. Due to its limestone composition and proximity to the Pyramid of Khafre , it is believed that the Sphinx's face was based upon Pharaoh Khafre's face. The Sphinx is also known as the Guardian of the Giza complex.

The Great Sphinx was built during the reign of the Pharaoh Khafre in around 2500 BC. Pharaoh Khafre belonged to the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom period in ancient Egypt. This close association, along with the fact that it was carved from the bedrock and the blocks were then used to construct the King’s Valley temple, indicates that this Sphinx resembles the Pharaoh himself.

With the body of a lion and the head of a Pharaoh, the Sphinx was constructed during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre. In ancient Egypt, the Sphinx was associated with the sun god Ra and was considered a guardian of sacred sites. The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the world's oldest and most iconic monuments, reflecting the advanced civilization and architectural prowess of ancient Egypt.

The Great Sphinx, associated with the Sun God Ra, is 240 feet long and 66 feet high from the base to the top of the head. This huge sculpture reflects the spiritual beliefs and engineering achievements of ancient Egyptians. Scholars and tourists alike continue to marvel at the sheer size and brilliance of this sculpture year after year.

While the Sphinx of Giza is mostly solid, there are a number of passageways and tunnels bored into the structure. It is still not known who made these or why. This monumental structure was constructed under the reign of Pharaoh Khafre and was dedicated to the Sun God Ra in ancient times.

No, while visitors can enter some of the Pyramids of Giza, you cannot explore the interiors of the Great Sphinx. However, you can walk up to the entrance and admire this sculpture from up close. It is best to book a Pyramids of Giza camel safari tour because you can admire the sheer size and architectural details of the Sphinx from a distance.

Yes, you can book your Pyramids of Giza tickets online that include access to the Great Sphinx. Booking tickets online will save you time and money. Make sure to check your ticket details before confirming your payment.

Plan your visit to the Pyramids of Giza

Getting to the Pyramids of Giza

The Great Sphinx of Giza: Uncover Its History and Facts You Didn’t Know

One of the most impressive sights you'd almost certainly visit while on a tour of Egypt is one of the best known and most recognizable statues in the entire world. The Sphinx , named after a Greek word, is a limestone statue that depicts a reclining mythical creature which combines a human head and a lion's body .

The statue is 73 meters long (240 feet) and 20 meters high (66 feet) from the top of the head to the bottom, with its head meaning to resemble its builder (commissioner): Pharaoh Khafre. It was located in front of the pyramid of Khafre, towards the entrance of the Giza Necropolis and it is there, relatively intact, today.

Content Preview

• 1. Who Built, and How?
• 2. Why was it Built?
• 3. What Happened throughout History
• 4. What Happened to the its Nose?
• 5. Can You Visit the Inside of it?
• 6. Further Mysteries
• 7. Information: How to Visit
• 8. What Else to See Near it
• 9. the Best Time

Who Built the Great Sphinx, and How?

The Great Sphinx was allegedly built during the reign of Khafre (between 2558 and 2532 BC), the builder of the second-largest pyramid at Giza . However, not a lot is known about it at that time. For example, it is uncertain what name the Sphinx was given at the time or how it was referred to, and whether there were plans to build more structures including a Sphinx temple nearby the statue. On top of that, the Sphinx itself may not have ever been fully completed.

The Sphinx was carved from the bedrock at the Giza plateau , the same bedrock which provided stones for the building of the pyramids as well as other monuments in the area, which you will be able to see when you visit the other sights.

Experts have suggested that the Sphinx's head was carved first, and that the moat that you can see around the statue only appeared because the stones were needed for the full body of the Sphinx, with its surrounding area serving as a quarry of sorts to supply construction.

Suggested reading: 10 Best Places to Visit in Egypt (Can't Be Beaten for First-Timers)

Why was the Great Sphinx Built?

The Great Sphinx of Giza was likely built in order to guard the pyramid of Khafre — this is the most widely accepted theory about why the Great Sphinx was built due to its positioning in front of Khafre's pyramid. The statue faces from west to east , towards the rising sun, in line with ancient Egyptian belief in the power of the sun .

The sun was of great importance in ancient Egypt , and the way that both the Sphinx and the pyramids are aligned in relation to the sun and how the sun moves throughout the day have both answered and posed many questions to researchers today.

In ancient Egyptian ideology , the sphinx also represented a spiritual guardian confirming the theory of the sphinx guarding the pyramid. There may also have been a celestial purpose to the Great Sphinx and its positioning, to help resurrect the soul of the pharaoh by channeling the power of the sun. However, certain aspects of this are unlikely to ever be answered for sure due to the uncertainty surrounding a lot of the aspects of the Sphinx.

What Happened to the Sphinx throughout History?

During the First Intermediate Period (roughly 2181–2055 BC) the Giza complex was abandoned with sand burying the Sphinx up to its shoulders, making it barely visible. The Sphinx was then attempted to be excavated around 1400 BC by a young prince called Thutmose who later became a pharaoh of ancient Egypt.

During the New Kingdom , a ceremonial pharaonic beard was added to the Great Sphinx of Giza, as well as a granite stele at its feet, with inscriptions that today have mostly faded. Part of the beard is currently on display at the British Museum in London , after it broke off and British archaeologists completed their excavations.

What Happened to the Sphinx's Nose?

Sometime during its life, the Sphinx statue also famously had its nose knocked off , but nobody knows exactly what happened or has ever found evidence of the missing nose in surrounding areas.

One theory was that Napoleon's men accidentally knocked off the nose, but depictions of the Great Sphinx of Giza have been found from before that time that which show the nose was already missing before Napoleon and his troops arrived in Egypt. Archaeological evidence has confirmed this, and predicted that the nose was likely intentionally broken off at an unknown time between the 3rd and 10th centuries AD.

Other theories around the nose speculate that there were Turkish soldiers practicing their aim on the nose of the Sphinx , that the incident was a result of iconoclastic attacks, or that somebody who believed the nose to be evil chiseled it off on purpose.

Can You Visit the Inside of the Great Sphinx of Giza?

There is knowledge of a rump passage within the Great Sphinx , which was first discovered in 1926 and subsequently forgotten about again. This passage was then rediscovered in 1980, when it was shown that the passage has two sections that lead to cavities within the Sphinx. It is not possible to visit these at the moment, but these discoveries show that more research and excavations are still needed to further explore this impressive statue, as is the case with a lot of Egypt's incredible historical sights .

Today, the Sphinx stands tall and is an important marker of Egypt and its historical treasures , however, national efforts are needed to maintain the Sphinx, as the statue continues to erode with time and as a result of its exposure to the elements, its proximity to the roads and traffic, as well as water leakages from surrounding areas.

As a result, restoration work has actively taken place on the site from the 1950s by the Egyptian Antiquities Organization , and will continue to be done in phases to try and protect the Sphinx as much as possible.

Further Mysteries Surrounding the Sphinx

In case you are interested, there are many mysteries surrounding the Sphinx today, including the well-known ones about where its nose went and how precisely it relates to the other monuments found at Giza , but there are also plenty of conspiracy theories that keep researchers busy.

One question asks whether or not the Sphinx is actually aligned in order to point at more hidden chambers within the pyramids at Giza, and some believe the statue has supernatural powers, or that the Sphinx of Giza is an embodiment of antiquity itself.

There was also speculation that certain documents containing knowledge from Atlantis were hidden underneath the Sphinx, but no secret chambers have been found underneath the statue to this day.

Suggested reading: Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Egypt (Can't-Miss for First-Timers)

Visitor Information: How to Visit the Great Sphinx

Ticket prices to enter the Giza Necropolis (where you'll also find the Great Pyramids of Giza) are 200 Egyptian pounds (10.2 US dollars).

When you visit, it is best to wear light clothing depending on the time of year, to avoid getting too hot. We also recommend wearing proper footwear as you'll be walking around a lot in order to see everything! It is also a good idea to wear sunscreen or a hat to avoid getting sunburned if you go on a particularly sunny day, but in general the Great Sphinx of Giza is quite exposed to the sun.

We recommend seeing the Sphinx first , and then heading over to the pyramids afterwards.

Read about How to Plan Your First Trip to Egypt — 7 Easy Steps

What Else to See Near the Great Sphinx of Giza?

While you are not able to go inside the Sphinx or climb on it in order to protect the statue, you can see it from the outside. It is better to see it from a little further away, as it is huge! Near the Sphinx, you'll be able to visit the Great Pyramids of Giza , the three pyramids include the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure (you can read more about what to see there in this article about the pyramids), which makes a perfect day of sightseeing altogether. They're all on the same archaeological site and within walking distance of each other.

Ticket prices for the pyramids are as follows:

• The Pyramids of Giza : 200 EGP or 10.4 US dollars
• Entry to the Great Pyramid : 400 EGP or 20.4 US dollars
• Entry to the 2nd or the 3rd pyramid : 100 EGP or 5.1 US dollars
• Entry to the Solar Boat Museum : 100 EGP or 5.1 US dollars

Nearby you'll also find the new Grand Egyptian Museum which is opening in November of 2022, so there is lots to do and see within close proximity. The museum probably requires a separate day, so in total we recommend taking two full days to visit Giza's attractions . The new Grand Egyptian Museum has a separate Tutankhamun Hall, which is worth taking the time for, with some of the artefacts on display there never having been on show in a museum before.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Great Sphinx?

The best time of year to visit the Great Sphinx of Giza is either March or April (in the spring) or October to November, in the fall. During the summer months of May, June, July and August, Giza can get extremely hot and we recommend avoiding those months if possible with your schedule. While December and January are also good times for visiting, these are peak season in Egypt and all tourist sites will be busier than usual.

Temperatures in Giza in March and April are between 20 and 29 °C during the day (64 to 84 °F). October sees temperatures of around 30°C (or 86°F) during the hottest part of the day, and November around 25°C (77°F).

During the day, the Sphinx can get quite busy with crowds , so we recommend visiting either at dawn or dusk if you can, and starting or finishing your day at the Giza Necropolis with the Sphinx (also because of its location). That way there will not only be fewer people for a better atmosphere, but you'd also be able to take better photographs with fewer other people in.

Suggested reading: When is the Best Time to Visit Egypt?

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How to Visit the Great Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza

The Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza are bucket list items for many travellers. But as with many popular tourist attractions, they either meet expectations at least or fall exceedingly short of them. Still, when visiting Cairo, Egypt, they are a must-see and to make the most of your trip, it is important to learn about the best way to see them.

I’ve now visited the Pyramids and Sphinx three times. Once in 2018 , on my first visit to Egypt with Mark and twice, on my most recent trip there. The difference between these visits had to do with the timing, weather, and the number of people in the complex.

What's Covered in this Post

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza: Then and Now…

In 2018, Egypt was still recovering from an exodus of tourists and when we arrived at the complex at about 11 am, save for a few camel and horse merchants, it was bare. In 2023, though still not at its peak, tourism-wise, the difference is clear.

When my guide and I arrive shortly before 9 am, the complex is pouring with tour buses and visitors. In contrast to my previous visit, there is a queue at the ticket booth, the camel and horse riders are aplenty, and those who have arrived without a guide feel the full weight of their persistence, or in a more factual term, harassment.

Something else I also noticed was the sheer amount of debris and stray dogs in the complex. Combined with the scorching morning heat, the visit ended up being somewhat uncomfortable, despite my guide’s best efforts. Or perhaps it felt this way because I had visited before and knew what a better experience felt like.

I made up my mind to revisit on my own the next day, just as soon as the complex opened up to visitors and herein lies my top tip to visit the Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza.

The Best Way to See the Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza – Go Early

The saying “The early bird gets the fattest worm” has never been truer when it comes to visiting the Pyramids of Giza. And especially so when you visit in the summer months or peak travel seasons. I can tell you for a fact that the few hours of solitude you get elevate your experience so much more!

It’s not even about the cool photo opportunities – it’s the quietness, the coolness of the day, the chance to just be in the moment, to truly appreciate that you’re there, staring at these magnificent ancient wonders.

It also contributes positively to your experience if you have read a bit about their history, or if you are visiting with a guide. The chances that a vendor will eventually approach you are still high but it will be nothing compared to if you visit later in the day.

My Solo Experience Following an Early Visit…

I got an Uber from my hotel to the complex and as the driver pulled into the street leading up to the entrance gate, some men stopped him to ask where he was taking me and if I needed a horse or camel. I simply said I was going to a lodge nearby and they let us be.

A couple more men approached me at the ticket booth and once I was inside the complex, but a firm “No” and just ignoring them was enough to shake them off. I later enjoyed my time alone around the complex, without too much disturbance.

Afterwards, I walked over to the 9 Pyramids Lounge to get breakfast. This lounge is currently the only restaurant located within the complex (another is being constructed) and it is a good restaurant to grab a meal during your visit.

The Best Way to See the Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza – Dine at the 9 Pyramids Lounge

I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the meal and services as typically, many places close to tourist attractions end up being rather disappointing.

I had breakfast here and it was reasonably priced and delicious. Another benefit of going early was that I was able to get a nice seat outside, even without making a reservation in advance.

Getting here was quite the walk though as I chose not to ride a camel or horse over. If you have a car, then it’s very easy to just drive to the restaurant.

I certainly recommend including this stop in your visit if you have the time to do so.

PS: I also recommend reading the latest reviews about this place before you go. I did so after putting up this post and can see it has a lot of mixed reviews.

The Best Time to Visit the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx and Entrance Fees (2023)

The best time to visit the complex is as soon as it opens at 7 am. At the time of this writing, it costs 240 EGP (~ $8) for a ticket into the complex. There’s an additional fee of 440 EGP and 150 EGP to gain entrance into the Khufu and Khafre Pyramids. Students pay half the price.

There’s also a 20 EGP charge to bring in a tripod but when I mentioned I had one for my phone, the ticket officer didn’t acknowledge it.

Finally, another crucial decision you need to make to enjoy and optimize for a great visit to the Pyramids is whether or not to hire a guide.

Should you visit the Pyramids without a Guide?

It is possible (and cheaper) to visit the Pyramids of Giza without a guide, but should you do so? Here’s my take. If you’re a seasoned traveller who has been exposed to all kinds of places and cultures, and you are not too phased by the disturbance from vendors, then you will be fine without a guide.

Without a guide, you will most likely be harassed by touts and vendors, especially if you arrive at peak visiting hours. If you visit early, then you can minimize this.

My first visit with Mark and my third were excellent and I went without a guide. For my second, I decided to visit with one because I was initially apprehensive about visiting on my own (I had nothing to worry about). I also wanted a convenient way to see many parts of Cairo on the same day and also wanted to learn more about the places I was visiting.

I hired the services of Sam from Egypt Eye Tour and I was very pleased with the entire outing.

Should You Stay in Giza to Optimize for a Good Experience?

You don’t necessarily need to stay in Giza if you plan to see the Pyramids but doing so has a few advantages. For example, it’s pretty cool to wake up to a view of the Pyramids at sunrise and to also enjoy them at sunset. Depending on where you stay, you can also probably catch the light and sound show for free from the comfort of your hotel.

That being said, there’s not much else to do in Giza and the area itself is not particularly charming. If you find a place you love, then you can make it a base for your time in Cairo, otherwise, one night is enough time to spend in the area.

Visiting the Great Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza – The Sum Up

These days, it is not enough to just show up at your dream destinations and expect that they fit the image you have of them in your mind. If you’re spending your time and resources to visit a place, you owe it to yourself to research a bit about what to expect. So if you’re reading this article, kudos to you!

When visiting the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, you should know that these structures are situated in the middle of an urban, populated part of the city. Getting to the complex early and knowing what to expect while you’re there is the best way to optimize for a wonderful experience .

Have you been to Cairo or visited the Pyramids? What was your experience like? Is Cairo or Egypt in general on your travel wish list? Let’s talk in the comment section below!

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I had mixed feelings about Giza. While the pyramids were undeniably impressive, the constant hassle from vendors and locals trying to sell souvenirs or camel rides was exhausting. I would recommend visiting early in the morning to avoid the crowds and persistent touts. A guide is very necessary too.

I think everyone who visits has mixed feelings too but if you go there at a good time, it could be an incredible experience.

I’ll revisit this post when I finally get the chance to visit Egypt. It’s high on my list but flights from the Caribbean to Africa/Middle East are devilishly expensive.

I hope you can visit soon. I also think flight prices are on the higher side, compared to pre-pandemic levels. Recently, I got a good flight deal by tracking prices on Google Flights (which has never happened before, lol).. So it might be worth setting up an alert, maybe just to even see how prices are changing with time to figure out the best time to book.

Such a beautiful experience! And all the pictures are so stunning.😍 Thanks for sharing.

Thank you, Favour! 🙂

How To Visit The Pyramids Of Giza & Sphinx In Egypt

What kind of bucket list doesn’t include the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt? Believe it or not, the Giza pyramids are fairly easy to visit on a day trip from Cairo, the capital of Egypt.

Built in 2560 BC, the Great Pyramid of Giza was the tallest man-made object in the world for 3,800 years. It’s the oldest of the Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World, and the only one still standing today.

Visiting the Egypt pyramids is a pretty simple experience, and there’s not a whole lot to do there except gaze at the big piles of rock, but it’s still a profound and unique experience that every traveler should check off their list.

This travel guide will explain how you can visit the Egyptian pyramids on your own, with or without a tour, and with a very modest budget and minimal planning!

Quick Facts (Main Pyramid)

• Date: 2560 BC
• Height: 150 meters (500 ft)
• Base Length: 150 meters (500 ft)
• Weight: 6 million tons
• No. of Blocks: 2.3 million
• Builders: 200,000+

Best Day Tours To The Egypt Pyramids

First of all, if you’re on a tight schedule and want to skip the extra steps involved in arranging your own trip to the pyramids, or if you’d rather travel in a tour group for safety or convenience, there are options for doing that.

There are a number of companies that offer prearranged day tours to the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx for as low as $45 USD, complete with hotel transfer, optional camel ride, and same day return to Cairo.

If you’d rather make your own arrangements and go without a group, that’s covered next.

How To Get To The Giza Pyramids

The Great Pyramids are located on the outskirts of Giza , a suburb of Cairo, Egypt.

The nearest airport is the Cairo International Airport (CAI), which is served by a bunch of international airlines. You can shop for flights to Cairo at Skyscanner.

From the Cairo airport, it’s a 1 hour drive to Giza. The arrivals zone has plenty of taxis you can take, but I used Uber and I would highly recommend this because it’s much cheaper and probably safer too.

Do not rent a car in Egypt unless you are familiar with driving in the Middle East! Traffic in Arab countries is dangerous and chaotic, and you’ll be much better off going with a driver who’s familiar with how the traffic works here.

Besides, the drivers in Egypt are pretty affordable — as of 2024, the price for an Uber ride from Cairo to Giza is around 340 EGP (~$7 USD).

Giza Pyramids: What To Expect

If you’re staying at least one night in Giza, which I’d recommend, then you can drop off your luggage first at your hotel and then easily walk to the entrance of the pyramids and sphinx.

There are a bunch of hotels in Giza that are within a 5 minute walk to the main entrance for the pyramids, and they usually have great rooftop views to boot. More on that later.

If you’re ready to visit the pyramids, then just head up to the main ticket office and buy your tickets. The scammers and touts will already be trying to chat you up at this point, but you should ignore them.

As of 2024, the general ticket price is 540 EGP (~$11 USD) and that gives you admission to the sphinx and the whole area surrounding the pyramids.

Camel Rides At The Egypt Pyramids

If you do go on a horse or camel ride, which I think is a great idea, then be sure to negotiate your price and terms BEFORE hopping on.

It’s common for the touts to try to come up with ridiculous prices after you’re already in the saddle and feeling obliged.

Do not pay before your ride either, handle the payment after your ride — no matter what they say!

As of 2024, the government of Egypt has a fixed price for the camel rides of 500 EGP (~$10 USD) for 1 hour. There’s a sign near the entrance that says so, and you can always point to it if you’re having a hard time getting a fair price from the touts.

The Great Sphinx of Giza

Don’t forget to stop at the Great Sphinx too.

This mythical creature, with the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, is the oldest surviving sculpture in Egypt.

It’s also included in the same 120 EGP ticket you bought at the entrance for the pyramids, so just show your ticket at the doorway to the sphinx and you can walk up to it.

Hotels Near The Egyptian Pyramids

There are a bunch of neat hotels in Giza that are within a 5 minute walk to the main entrance for the pyramids, and they usually have awesome rooftop views of the whole area.

I would highly recommend staying at least one night in Giza, because it allows you to go at a relaxed pace and make the most of your time there.

It also makes it easy to do the Sound & Light Show, or just sit back and watch the sunset at Giza.

I stayed at Marvel Stone Hotel

I stayed at Marvel Stone Hotel for $32 USD/night, and it had a great rooftop terrace with views of the pyramids and sphinx, complete with easy chairs and even a pool table.

This was actually one of the highlights of my trip to Giza, because I was able to sit back and admire the pyramids and the camels running around in the distance — without being harassed by sellers and touts.

In the evening I watched the sunset over the Pyramid of Khafre and took some photos from the rooftop.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The Giza Pyramids?

Egypt has an arid climate, so it’s hot and dry year round.

The coolest months are from December to March, and this is probably the most popular time to visit the pyramids, but honestly any month in the spring or fall would also be fine.

I visited Egypt in September, and the heat was bad at times (mostly in Luxor), but I didn’t think it was too much of a problem in Giza. Northern Egypt is not nearly as hot as nearby Middle Eastern countries like Qatar or the United Arab Emirates.

You can take photos of the pyramids in the morning, but the dust will obscure the colors a bit. The best time of day for taking photos at the pyramids is around noon, when the dust clears up and the blue sky can be seen in the background.

• Egypt Travel Guide - Tips, Info & Photos
• Best Things To Do In Egypt

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What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Egypt again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

Thanks! Indeed.

I love the article

Fantastic guide! Planning my trip to the Pyramids of Giza, and your tips on day tours, getting there, and the camel rides are super helpful. Excited to tick this off my bucket list, thanks for the insights!

Nice! Have a great trip.

One of the best articles I have read. I hope to continue following

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• HISTORY MAGAZINE

Who built the Sphinx? Who broke its nose? 4,500 years later, a fresh look

The popularity of Egypt’s iconic ancient wonder has shifted with the sands over the centuries. Here’s what we know about it, from years of archaeological detective work.

With the body of a lion and the face of a king, the Great Sphinx has become an instantly recognizable symbol of ancient Egypt, inspiring grand replicas all over world, from Las Vegas, Nevada, to Lanzhou, China. For thousands of years, this massive monument has lain at the feet of the pyramids of Giza, guarding the necropolis. The Sphinx’s popularity rose and fell, much like the desert sands that engulfed it during periods of neglect. When the Sphinx would reemerge, it aroused curiosity and wonder in those who gazed upon its colossal form.

Desert colossus

Archaeologists believe that the Great Sphinx was built during Egypt’s Old Kingdom (circa 2575–2150 B.C.) by the fourth-dynasty pharaoh Khafre. It is one of the world’s oldest works of monumental sculpture and one of the largest. It measures more than 65 feet tall, from the base to the top of its head, and 240 feet long, from forepaws to tail. Much of the Sphinx was carved directly from the limestone rock of Giza and then supplemented with more limestone blocks.

( Who was Egypt's first pharaoh? )

The Sphinx’s head has a royal look and bears some traditional symbols of ancient Egypt’s monarchy. It wears the nemes , a cloth headdress worn by Egyptian pharaohs . The remains of a carved royal cobra, or uraeus, can be seen on the Sphinx’s forehead. The human facial features are masculine. Time has robbed the Sphinx of its nose and kingly beard, but the rest of its features remain well-defined despite erosion.

Two massive paws stretch out before the Sphinx’s leonine body. A tail wraps around it. Much of the body was once faced with high-quality limestone blocks from the quarry at Tura. This surface layer has deteriorated over time. Some has been entirely lost in places despite restoration projects over the centuries.

Archaeologists have found traces of blue, yellow, and red pigments on parts of the Sphinx, making it likely that it was once colorfully decorated. Writing in the first century A.D., Roman author Pliny the Elder described the Sphinx’s vivid appearance: “The face of the monster is colored red.”

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( Pliny wrote this miracle plant was eaten into extinction 2,000 years ago—or was it? )

Riddles of the Sphinx

In ancient Greece , a sphinx was a monster with a woman’s head, a lion’s body, and a bird’s wings; she was dangerous and would kill any person who couldn’t answer her riddles, most famously in the myth of Oedipus. Her Egyptian cousin, however, was a benevolent, protective being who guarded kings and country. The word “sphinx” is of uncertain origin. It may be derived from the Egyptian term shesep-ankh , which means “living image” and was used to refer to depictions of a god or pharaoh.

Unlike the Greek monster, the Great Sphinx has a man’s head and lacks wings. Other depictions of sphinxes appear in different eras of ancient Egypt, and while the lion’s body remains consistent, the heads change. In addition to human heads, there are also animal ones, including rams, jackals, falcons, and crocodiles.

These kinds of statues were often found as part of Egypt’s sacred spaces. A pair of 13th-century B.C. falcon-headed sphinxes were found at Ramses II’s temple at Abu Simbel. Another example is Luxor’s avenue of sphinxes, built in the fourth century B.C. They still stand guard along a nearly 1.5-mile road that connected the temples of Karnak and Luxor.

While the Sphinx has spent 4,500 years watching the centuries pass, attitudes toward the giant wonder have greatly changed over the years. In the Old Kingdom, the Sphinx was worshipped and was regarded as part of the sacred landscape of the Giza necropolis. When new regimes took over, it was abandoned. Desert sands blew in and covered it up until only its head was visible. Over time, visitors to Giza would rediscover the Sphinx as it sat patiently waiting to be noticed. The colossus would be reborn as it emerged from the sand, and new visitors would flock to marvel at its size, mystery, and endurance.

Who built the Sphinx?

Two of the biggest mysteries surrounding the Sphinx of Giza are when it was built and by whom. Scholarly consensus is that it was constructed some 4,500 years ago, during the Old Kingdom while the great pyramids were being built. The Sphinx and these massive tombs are definitely connected; the giant guardian appears to sit right between two of them, each erected by a different fourth-dynasty pharaoh. Khufu, who reigned around 2500 B.C., built the Great Pyramid, and his son Khafre built his own slightly smaller yet still impressive tomb.

( How cosmic rays helped find a tunnel in Egypt's Great Pyramid. )

As grand as the pyramids of these early Old Kingdom rulers are, records of these pharaohs are scant. Archaeologists have had to resort to detective work when trying to solve the mystery of who built the Sphinx. To date, no smoking gun has been found, or inscriptions that credit either Khufu or Khafre.

The most popular hypothesis, held by Egyptologists like Mark Lehner and Zahi Hawass, is that Khafre commissioned the Sphinx as part of his monumental building projects, including his resting place and the surrounding temple complex. These scholars have studied the remains of the necropolis and the various structures each king commissioned there. The Sphinx’s positioning within Khafre’s scheme for his pyramid and mortuary temples is a better fit, suggesting careful planning and logic. They believe that the Sphinx itself was carved from a massive piece of limestone, which was likely exposed as workers were quarrying big pieces of rock for the construction of nearby temples.

( This Egyptian queen's tomb lay untouched for more than 4,000 years. )

Some have proposed a much earlier dating based on the Inventory Stela, a text from circa 670 B.C., millennia after the events it describes. It suggests that the Sphinx was restored in the time of Khufu, implying that the monument existed before these early pharaohs. This stela, however, is full of anachronisms, leading many experts to treat the text with a healthy dose of skepticism.

Temple of the Sphinx

Opposite the Great Sphinx are the remains of a temple that was likely begun at the same time as the gigantic sculpture. Although the building was never completed, it is believed to have been consecrated. Archaeologists have found representations of different aspects of the solar divinity Re. The Sphinx, located behind the sanctuary, would have formed part of this sacred complex.

Excavations in the early 20th century revealed the ruins of the temple’s megalithic limestone blocks. It was likely that these would have been faced with granite. The floor was made of alabaster. According to German Egyptologists Herbert Ricke and Siegfried Schott, the 24 columns within the temple’s central courtyard may represent the 24 hours of the day. Statues of the pharaoh could have been placed against them. An altar stood in the center.

The temple had two sanctuaries, an eastern one and a western one. The first may have been dedicated to the morning sun god, Khepri, and the second to the evening sun god, Atum. It’s likely that both sanctuaries were enclosed, while the central area would have been open to the sky. At midday, it would have let the light of the mighty sun god Re shine in at the zenith of its daily course.

During the equinoxes, an astronomical solar alignment can be observed among the Temple of the Sphinx, the Sphinx itself, and Khafre’s pyramid. An observer standing on the east-west axis of the temple and looking toward the setting sun in the west would see the equinoctial sun set on the south side of the Sphinx and Khafre’s pyramid. (Scholars point to this phenomenon to support the theory that Khafre built the Sphinx.)

( What it’s like to scuba dive under pyramids , built by one of Africa's earliest civilizations .)

About a thousand years later, Pharaoh Amenhotep II of the 18th dynasty built another small temple near the ruins of Khafre’s complex. The New Kingdom structure is made from adobe bricks and sits next to the northeast corner of the Sphinx’s temple. It was dedicated to the god Har-em-akhet, “Horus on the Horizon,” who was then associated with the Sphinx.

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The prince's dream.

Following the decline of the old kingdom, the Sphinx and the structures around it were abandoned and fell into ruin. They lay dormant for centuries as the desert sands piled up around them. The Sphinx would be reborn during the New Kingdom (circa 1539-1075 B.C.), when a young pharaoh used the Sphinx to tie his reign to the kings of old.

Standing between the paws of the Sphinx is the Dream Stela of Thutmose IV. Discovered in 1817, the stela was a late addition to the Sphinx complex, installed sometime during the 18th dynasty. The Dream Stela is a massive piece of solid granite, weighing some 15 tons and standing about 12 feet tall. Its ornately carved inscriptions relate an episode from the life of Pharaoh Thutmose IV, the eighth king of the 18th dynasty, when he was a young prince and the Sphinx was buried up to its shoulders in sand.  

According to the stela, Thutmose took a noonday nap in the shadow of the Great Sphinx, and the sun god Horemakhet-Khepri-Re-Atum appeared in the form of the Sphinx. The god told the prince that if he cleared the sands from the statue, then he would make Thutmose king. The end of the story has been lost to time, as the inscription has been worn away.

Thutmose IV used the account of the dream to legitimize himself as king. He had not been first in line to succeed his father, Amenhotep II.  

The dream, whether real or not, helped serve as propaganda to link the new pharaoh to the divine and his ancient royal heritage. The pharaoh then began a restoration project of the Sphinx, helping it reemerge from the sand. As part of this restoration, scholars believe that Thutmose IV had a stone braided beard attached to the Sphinx’s chin. The facial hair fell off, but fragments of it were discovered in 1817.      

( He was the first pharaoh found intact in his tomb—but he wasn't alone. )            

Wear and tear

Following a great revival of interest during the New Kingdom, the Sphinx fell into another long period of neglect. The sands built up until only its head could be seen. Despite its semi-burial, the Sphinx still exuded power. In the 12th and 13th centuries, locals were recorded making offerings to the Sphinx to flood the Nile and boost harvests. In the 11th century, the North African geographer Al-Idrisi reported that those who wished to obtain positions in the Fatimid caliphate, based in Egypt, presented themselves to the Sphinx.

The monument exerted a major fascination over European visitors. The French explorer André Thévet described the Sphinx in his Cosmography of the Levant, published in 1556, as “the head of a colossus.” Two centuries later, in the late 1790s, when Napoleon’s forces fought the British in Egypt, the French became fascinated with ancient Egyptian history and its sites, including the Sphinx. When he saw it and the pyramids, Napoleon allegedly exclaimed, “Thousands of years of history are looking down upon us!” Ancient Egypt so inspired Napoleon’s followers that when they returned to France, they embarked on the creation of an extensive multivolume history of ancient Egypt with detailed renderings of all they had encountered.

( Napoleon's defeat in Egypt gave birth to Egyptology. )

A fanciful story arose out of Napoleon’s time in Egypt regarding the Sphinx’s nose, or lack thereof. Tradition claims that French troops shot off the nose, leaving the Sphinx disfigured. Despite the story’s staying power, it is not true. Danish explorer Frederic Louis Norden visited France in 1737, well before Napoleon’s excursion, and extensively documented his trip. His 1755 book, Voyage to Egypt and Nubia , features a sketch of the noseless Great Sphinx, indicating that the appendage had gone missing before the late 1790s.

An Islamic source reported that the Sphinx’s nose was removed in the late 14th century. The medieval Egyptian historian Al-Maqrizi wrote that a Sufi Muslim, Muhammad Sa’im al-Dahr, offended by local people worshipping the Sphinx, chiseled the nose off. Unlike the Sphinx’s beard, fragments of the statue’s broken nose have never been found, but Egyptologist and Sphinx expert Mark Lehner believes the existing evidence supports an intentional break as the account describes, rather than a gradual decline and fall.

Resurfacing

Attempts to dig out the Sphinx met with little success at first. In 1817, Italian Egyptologist Giovanni Battista Caviglia managed to clear the front end. At the end of the 19th century, the Sphinx’s broad chest and massive paws could be seen. More progress followed in the subsequent decades, until finally, in the late 1930s, all the sand was swept away and the full Sphinx was on display. Since then, archaeologists have gone beyond the surface to find deeper secrets. Led by Egyptologist Mark Lehner, the American Research Center in Egypt conducted an intensive mapping project of the entire Sphinx complex. It revealed new insights into the monument’s construction, which will help conservationists preserve it.

( New reasons to visit Egypt now. )

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The Sphinx: A Monument Shrouded in Mystery

The Great Sphinx of Giza is one of the most iconic monuments of ancient Egypt, standing at the edge of the Giza plateau and guarding the pyramids of Khafre and Khufu. It is a mysterious and enigmatic statue, with a lion's body and a human face that has been the subject of much speculation and research. This essay will delve into the history, construction, and symbolism of the Great Sphinx, as well as its cultural significance and modern-day impact.

History of the Sphinx:

The Great Sphinx is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre in the Fourth Dynasty of ancient Egypt, around 2500 BCE. It is carved out of a single block of limestone and stands at 66 feet tall and 240 feet long. The statue is believed to have been constructed over a period of 20 years by a team of skilled craftsmen and laborers. The Great Sphinx is one of the oldest and largest statues in the world, and its construction remains a remarkable feat of engineering and artistry.

The Origin and Construction of the Sphinx

The Great Sphinx of Giza is believed to have been built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre, around 2558-2532 BC. It is carved from a single piece of limestone bedrock, with layers of limestone blocks added later for restoration purposes. The Sphinx measures 73 meters (240 feet) in length, 20 meters (66 feet) in height, and 19 meters (62 feet) in width at its rear haunches.

Although the original purpose of the Sphinx remains uncertain, it is thought to have been a guardian of the Giza Plateau and a representation of the pharaoh Khafre. The face of the Sphinx bears a striking resemblance to Khafre, suggesting that the statue was created in his image.

 The Sphinx: A Symbol of Ancient Egypt

The name "Sphinx" is derived from the ancient Greek word Σφίγξ (sphinx), which means "to squeeze" or "to strangle." This name was given to the statue in classical antiquity, around 2,000 years after its construction. The Sphinx is associated with the mythical creature of the same name in Greek mythology, which had the body of a lion and the head of a woman, a falcon, a cat, or a sheep. However, unlike its Greek counterpart, the Egyptian Sphinx has the head of a man and no wings.

In ancient Egypt, the Sphinx was revered as a solar deity named Hor-em-akhet (Horus of the Horizon). During the New Kingdom, Pharaoh Thutmose IV referred to the Sphinx as Hor-em-akhet in his Dream Stele, a granite slab erected between the paws of the statue. This association with the sun and the horizon may have been an important aspect of the Sphinx's symbolism in ancient Egypt, as it faces east towards the rising sun.

Cultural Significance:

The Great Sphinx has played a significant role in the culture and mythology of ancient Egypt. It is believed to have been the subject of many legends and myths, including the story of the Sphinx riddle. According to the myth, the Sphinx would ask travelers a riddle, and if they were unable to answer correctly, they would be devoured by the Sphinx. The Sphinx was also believed to be a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, and many scholars and philosophers would come to the statue to seek its wisdom and guidance.

Modern-Day Impact:

The Great Sphinx continues to be an important cultural and historical monument, attracting thousands of tourists every year. The statue has also been the subject of much research and study, as scholars and archaeologists seek to unravel the mysteries surrounding its construction and symbolism. In recent years, the Great Sphinx has also been the target of conservation efforts, as the statue's limestone body has been eroded by wind and weather over time.

Mysteries and Theories Surrounding the Sphinx

The Sphinx has been the subject of countless theories and speculations since its discovery. One of the most enduring mysteries is the reason behind the broken nose of the Sphinx. Popular myths suggest that Napoleon Bonaparte's army damaged the nose with cannon fire during their campaign in Egypt in 1798. However, this theory has been debunked by evidence predating Napoleon's time, such as 17th-century paintings and a 15th-century account by Arab historian al-Maqrīzī.

Another theory, based on archaeological study by Mark Lehner, suggests that the nose was intentionally broken off sometime between the 3rd and 10th centuries. The exact reason for this act remains unknown, but it is thought to have been an act of vandalism or an expression of religious extremism.

The Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza

The Sphinx is closely associated with the three famous pyramids of Giza: the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), the Pyramid of Khafre (Chephren), and the Pyramid of Menkaure (Mycerinus). These pyramids were built during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom and are part of the Giza Necropolis, an extensive burial site for the pharaohs and their families.

The proximity of the Sphinx to the pyramids, as well as its alignment with the causeway connecting Khafre's pyramid to its Valley Temple, has led some researchers to believe that the Sphinx was part of Khafre's larger building complex. This theory is supported by the discovery of the Sphinx Temple, which shares a similar ground plan with the Valley Temple and is connected to it by a stone causeway.

The Lost City and the Workers of the Sphinx

In the 1990s, archaeologist Mark Lehner discovered the remains of a large settlement, known as the "Lost City," near the Sphinx. This settlement, which dates back to the time of Khafre, is believed to have housed the workers who built the Sphinx and the pyramids. The discovery of the Lost City has provided valuable insights into the lives of the laborers who worked on these monumental projects, including their living conditions, diet, and social organization.

Lehner's research suggests that the workers were not slaves, as previously thought, but were skilled laborers who were well-fed and well-cared for. They may have been part of a system of national service or feudal obligation to their superiors.

Conservation and Preservation of the Sphinx

The Sphinx has suffered significant damage and erosion over the centuries, with various restoration efforts undertaken since ancient times. In recent years, concerns have been raised about the effects of pollution and rising groundwater on the statue, prompting further conservation efforts and ongoing monitoring.

Despite the challenges it faces, the Sphinx remains an enduring symbol of the power and artistic achievements of ancient Egypt. Its enigmatic presence continues to draw visitors from around the world, eager to experience the awe and wonder of this timeless monument.

Exploring the Sphinx and its Surroundings

Visiting the Sphinx offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of ancient Egypt. In addition to the Sphinx itself, the Giza Plateau is home to the three famous pyramids, numerous tombs, and the intriguing Lost City settlement. With its fascinating mysteries and enduring symbolism, the Sphinx provides a captivating glimpse into the past and a lasting testament to the remarkable achievements of this ancient civilization.

The Sphinx is a truly awe-inspiring monument that has captivated the imaginations of people for centuries. Its enigmatic nature, fascinating history, and association with the ancient world make it a must-see destination for those interested in exploring the mysteries of the past. As we continue to uncover new information about the Sphinx and its surroundings, we gain valuable insights into the lives of the people who built and maintained this incredible structure, as well as the powerful symbolism and celestial alignments that underpin its design. The enduring appeal of the Sphinx serves as a reminder of the remarkable achievements of ancient Egypt and the enduring power of human curiosity and creativity.

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How Many Pyramids are in Egypt?

Egypt is famous for its magnificent pyramids; these incredible structures are among the most iconic landmarks globally. These pyramids were not just random buildings but also were specially constructed as tombs for the revered pharaohs and their loved ones. But have you ever wondered how many pyramids are in Egypt ? And which ones are the most famous pyramids? Let us explore the magnificent pyramids of Egypt, one of the best Cairo historical sites :

How Many Pyramids Are In Egypt?

The number of Egyptian pyramids varies among different sources. According to Wikipedia, approximately 118 have been identified, while others suggest numbers as high as 138. Additionally, over 200 pyramids are believed to exist within the historical Kingdom of Kush, located north of Sudan. The primary purpose of these structures was to serve as tombs for the pharaohs of Egypt and their consorts during the Ancient Egypt dynasty Old and Middle Kingdom periods.

The Top Pyramids in Egypt:

Egypt is home to around 138 pyramids, with the most famous ones located in Giza. Here is a list of the 20 most famous pyramids in Egypt:

• Great Pyramid of Giza (Pyramid of Khufu) : The largest pyramid, built for Pharaoh Khufu.
• Pyramid of Khafre : The second-largest pyramid at Giza, built for Pharaoh Khafre.
• Pyramid of Menkaure : The smallest of the three main pyramids at Giza, built for Pharaoh Menkaure.
• Step Pyramid of Djoser : Located in Saqqara, this is the oldest known pyramid, built for Pharaoh Djoser.
• Bent Pyramid : Located in Dahshur, known for its bent slope, built for Pharaoh Sneferu.
• Red Pyramid : Also in Dahshur, named for its reddish limestone, also built for Pharaoh Sneferu.
• Pyramid of Userkaf : In Saqqara, built for Pharaoh Userkaf.
• Pyramid of Unas : Also in Saqqara, known for the Pyramid Texts, built for Pharaoh Unas.
• Pyramid of Teti : Located in Saqqara, built for Pharaoh Teti.
• Pyramid of Pepi I : In Saqqara, built for Pharaoh Pepi I.
• Pyramid of Pepi II : Also in Saqqara, built for Pharaoh Pepi II.
• Pyramid of Sekhemkhet : An unfinished step pyramid in Saqqara, built for Pharaoh Sekhemkhet.
• Pyramid of Sneferu (Meidum Pyramid) : Located in Meidum, believed to be an early attempt by Sneferu.
• Pyramid of Amenemhat I : Located in Lisht, built for Pharaoh Amenemhat I.
• Pyramid of Senusret I : Also in Lisht, built for Pharaoh Senusret I.
• Pyramid of Senusret II : Located in El-Lahun, built for Pharaoh Senusret II.
• Pyramid of Senusret III : Located in Dahshur, built for Pharaoh Senusret III.
• Pyramid of Amenemhat II : Also in Dahshur, built for Pharaoh Amenemhat II.
• Pyramid of Ahmose : Located in Abydos, built for Pharaoh Ahmose.
• Pyramid of Djedefre : Located in Abu Rawash, built for Pharaoh Djedefre, son of Khufu.

These pyramids represent some of the most significant and historically important structures in ancient Egypt. Now, let us highlight the most famous pyramids in Egypt:

Khufu Pharaoh: All you Need to know about Khufu Pharaoh and Khufu Pyramid

Khufu was one of the most famous Pharaohs of ancient Egypt of the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. He is particularly well-known for the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza, which is now considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Giza Pyramids

The Giza Pyramids rise majestically, captivating the world as one of its most mesmerizing wonders. Yet, the mysteries of their construction, purpose, and timeline linger unanswered. In this article, we embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of why, How, and when Pharaohs built the pyramids.

Why did the Pharaohs build the Giza Pyramids?

The Giza Pyramids have fascinated historians and archaeologists for centuries, with numerous theories attempting to unravel their purpose. The prevailing belief suggests that these colossal structures were erected as tombs for the pharaohs and their consorts upon their demise.   Crafted with astounding architectural precision, the Egypt Pyramids showcase the extraordinary skills of ancient Egyptian builders. Each limestone block, weighing several tons, contributes to the sheer grandeur of these monuments, challenging our modern understanding of construction techniques.   One prevalent theory suggests that the pyramids symbolized the divine authority and everlasting legacy of the Pharaohs. Driven by the belief in the immortality of their souls, the pharaohs aimed to immortalize their reign through these monumental structures.   Moreover, some scholars propose that the alignment of the pyramids with celestial events, such as the Great Pyramid's alignment with the North Pole star, reflects the ancient Egyptians' profound interest in astronomy. That implies that astronomical knowledge played a significant role in the building architectural wonders.   Despite the plethora of theories, the exact purpose behind the Great Pyramids of Giza 's construction remains elusive. Nevertheless, their enduring allure continues to captivate people worldwide, serving as a testament to the remarkable achievements of ancient civilizations and a symbol of human ingenuity across generations.

Embark on a journey through time with our exclusive Egypt travel packages and witness the magnificence of the Giza Pyramids firsthand.

Djoser's Step Pyramid: The Monument that Revolutionized Ancient Egyptian Architecture

Djoser's Step Pyramid in Saqqara is undoubtedly one of Egypt's most iconic monuments, and rightfully so. This magnificent structure marks a pivotal moment in ancient Egyptian history, as it set the stage for the architectural marvels that followed. In this comprehensive article, we'll delve into the fascinating details of Djoser's Step Pyramid, exploring its historical significance, architectural innovations, and the secrets that still lie beneath its layers.

The Red Pyramid ( Bent Pyramid of Sneferu) : A Marvel of Ancient Egyptian Architecture

The Red Pyramid, also known as the North Pyramid, is a true testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Egyptians. It stands tall as one of the most well-preserved and fascinating pyramids in Egypt. Built by Pharaoh Sneferu, the father of the famous Khufu, the Red Pyramid is an iconic structure that has captivated the hearts and minds of historians and tourists alike. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the history, design, and significance of this incredible monument.

Explore the Marvels of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo

Egypt is a country that has always fascinated people from all walks of life. From the pyramids of Giza to the Valley of the Kings, Egypt is a land of ancient wonders. And at the heart of it all is the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. This is a place where the past comes to life, and where visitors can experience the richness and complexity of one of the world's oldest civilizations.

Unveiling the Beauty of the Hanging Church in Coptic Cairo

Coptic Cairo is a treasure trove of historical and cultural wonders, and one of its most significant gems is the Hanging Church. Situated in the heart of Old Cairo, this ancient church is a testament to the rich heritage of Egypt's Coptic Orthodox community.

With its unique architectural features, historical significance, and religious importance, the Hanging Church is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the historical marvels of Coptic Cairo.

Unveiling the Hidden Gems of Khan El Khalili in Old Cairo

Welcome to Khan El Khalili, a vibrant and bustling market district nestled in the heart of Old Cairo. Steeped in a rich history that spans centuries, this enchanting neighborhood is a treasure trove of culture, tradition, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. As you step into its narrow, winding streets, prepare to be transported back in time to a bygone era filled with tales of merchants, artisans, and explorers.

Saladin Citadel in Cairo : Everything you Need to Know

Are you a lover of history and architecture? Do you have an insatiable thirst for exploring ancient wonders? Then, the Saladin Citadel in Cairo should be on the top of your travel bucket list. This historic fortress is a testimony to the rich cultural heritage of Egypt and is a must-visit for all those who wish to explore the country's glorious past.

Abdeen Palace in Cairo: A Journey Through Egypt's Most Lavish Royal Residence!

Are you a history buff looking for a glimpse into Egypt's past? Or perhaps an architecture enthusiast keen on exploring the grandeur of palaces? Look no further than Abdeen Palace, located in the heart of Cairo, Egypt. This majestic residence is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and lavishness that will leave you in awe. Join us on a journey through Abdeen Palace, one of Egypt's most magnificent royal residences!

Introduction to Abdeen Palace in Cairo

Abdeen Palace is a grand palace located in the central district of Cairo, Egypt. It was built in the late 19th century by Khedive Ismail, the ruler of Egypt at the time. The palace served as the official residence of the royal family until the 1950s, and today it is a museum open to the public. The palace covers an area of 24 feddans (about 100,000 square meters) and features a stunning blend of different architectural styles, including neoclassical, rococo, and Islamic.

History of Abdeen Palace

The history of Abdeen Palace dates back to the late 19th century when Khedive Ismail decided to build a grand palace to showcase Egypt's wealth and power. He commissioned French architect Leon Rousseau to design the palace, and the construction began in 1863. However, the construction was delayed due to financial constraints and political instability, and it was not until 1874 that the palace was finally completed.

Over the years, Abdeen Palace served as the residence of several Egyptian monarchs and witnessed many significant events in Egypt's history. It was the site of the signing of the Treaty of Abdeen in 1906, which ended a long-standing conflict between Egypt and the Ottoman Empire. During the revolution of 1919, the palace was used as a headquarters for the nationalist movement. In 1952, a military coup led by Gamal Abdel Nasser overthrew the monarchy, and Abdeen Palace became the property of the state.

Explore the Enchanting Baron Palace in Cairo!

The Baron Palace was originally the residence of the wealthy Belgian industrialist, Baron Edouard Empain, and has since become a symbol of luxury and sophistication in Egypt. Know more!

6 Things You Cannot Miss About The Grand Egyptian Museum

The grand egyptian museum.

It is considered to be one of the greatest touristic and archaeological projects in 2021 currently in progress by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism which is anticipated to open at a time that will be convenient for everyone, as world heads of state, kings, princes and international dignitaries will be invited to attend this global event as they will come to see the civilization of Egypt's new icon that is anticipated to be one of the most essential elements in all  Egypt travel packages .

Here are 6 things you cannot miss about this huge Egyptian project.

• It is considered to be the greatest museum in the world that presents the  ancient Egypt  civilization and the pharaonic antiquities as it targets 5 million visitor every year.
• It was established on an area of 117 acres in Giza at a cost of more than one billion dollars.
• It houses thousands of artifacts from ancient Egypt.
• It will display more than 5,000 artifacts from the tomb of King Tutankhamun for the first time in the world.
• It houses the world's first hanging obelisk.
• It supports the preservation of Egyptian cultural heritage and the promotion of the Egyptian tourism sector.

And this project is considered one of the greatest  Cairo historical sites , touristic and archaeological projects for which the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism is making a huge promotional plan that coincides with its opening date for all the world to witness the civilization of ancient Egypt which required coordination with several stakeholders to be built with that greatness.

Because the museum is located in front of the  pyramids of Giza , the facade is designed in the form of triangles that are divided into smaller triangles in a symbolic framework for the pyramids, according to a Polish scientist's mathematical theory that talks about the infinite division of the shape of the triangle.

Its buildings are located on an area of 100,000 square meters, including 45,000 square meters for museum display, and the remaining space includes a library specialized in Egyptology, a conference center, a research center, restoration laboratories, a 3D cinema, and places dedicated to serving visitors such as restaurants, and shops selling reproductions gifts, and parking.

It is noteworthy that the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization,  Zurab Pololikashvili , was keen to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, although it had not yet been officially opened or the construction work had been completed, expressing his great admiration for it, so he posted pictures of him inside the museum on his personal account via social networking sites and wrote a comment On the photos, "Egypt really has a lot to make me want to come back to it again to attend the opening of this great edifice".

Cairo: The Timeless Capital of Egypt

Introduction to cairo: egypt's timeless capital.

Cairo is one of the most important cities in Egypt. It is the capital of Egypt, and it is the home of over 20 million people. Nestled along the majestic Nile River, the timeless allure of Cairo draws visitors from across the globe to explore its ancient wonders and experience its dynamic presence. Known by many historical names, Cairo has earned the title of (the city of a thousand minarets) due to its abundance of mosques scattered throughout the city. One of the most significant mosques is the Mosque of Amr ibn al-Aas, founded by Al-Muezz Lidin Allah Al-Fatemi as his capital, shaping Cairo into the iconic city it is today. Join us in this article to delve into the rich history of Cairo and the vibrant present, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.

More Information About Cairo, Egypt

Cairo today is one of the largest and most populous Arab cities and is the administrative city in Egypt. Cairo has become an important tourist destination when visiting Egypt because it contains many tourist places, ancient archaeological monuments, and important cultural landmarks that express different cultures all over the world. The city of Cairo is famous for its favored atmosphere mixed with the fragrance of history and the smell of heritage spread in all its alleys and streets and its nightlife filled with a lot of fun and entertainment in cafes that attract visitors to watch the Nile River in the evening. Cairo is not just a city; it is an experience that engages all your senses and leaves a lasting impression of cultural richness and excitement.

The History and Culture of Cairo Egypt

Steeped in over 4,000 years of history, Cairo is a living testament to the ancient past of Egypt. From the iconic Pyramids of Giza to the magnificent Sphinx, the city's landscape is adorned with architectural marvels that tell tales of pharaohs and dynasties. The labyrinthine streets of Old Cairo unveil hidden mosques, bustling souks, and centuries-old monuments, offering a glimpse into Cairo's captivating past.

Top Attractions in Cairo City

Cairo is bursting with captivating attractions that you can't miss. Whether you are a history lover, an art aficionado, or just seeking adventure, this energetic city has something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit sites that will make your Cairo experience unforgettable: The Pyramids of Giza: Among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these awe-inspiring structures include the Great Pyramid of Khufu and the enigmatic Sphinx . The Egyptian Museum:   Home to treasures and countless ancient artifacts of Tutankhamun, the Egyptian museum offers a captivating journey through the history of Egypt. Khan El Khalili Bazaar: Lose yourself in the maze of alleyways at Khan El Khalili , one of the oldest markets in the Middle East. From spices to jewelry, textiles to souvenirs, this bazaar is a sensory delight. Islamic and Coptic Cairo : Explore the historic neighborhoods filled with beautiful mosques and ancient churches. Wander through Al-Muizz Street, lined with stunning medieval architecture that transports you back in time. Al-Azhar Park: Take a break from the city hustle and bustle at Al-Azhar Park. This lush oasis offers panoramic views of Cairo's skyline and a serene escape from the urban rush. Nile River Cruises: Experience Cairo from a different perspective with a leisurely cruise along the Nile. Enjoy breathtaking views of the waterfront landmarks, including the Cairo Tower and Old Cairo. Cairo Tower: For sweeping views of Cairo and its surroundings, head up the Cairo Tower. Marvel at the cityscape and the Nile River, and even watch the distant Pyramids on a clear day. Al-Muizz Street: Stroll along this historic street adorned with beautifully preserved medieval buildings, mosques, and mausoleums—an architectural gem that highlights the rich heritage of Cairo. From ancient wonders to vibrant markets and serene gardens, the top attractions of Cairo promise an enchanting journey through history, culture, and natural beauty.  

Modern Metropolis of Cairo Egypt

Beyond its ancient wonders, Cairo pulsates with modern energy. Skyscrapers dominate the skyline, while vibrant neighborhoods like Zamalek and Maadi are dotted with trendy cafes and boutiques. A leisurely stroll along the Nile banks reveals a blend of old and new, where traditional feluccas share the waters with luxury cruise boats.

Dining in Cairo

Cairo's culinary landscape is a feast for the senses. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Egyptian cuisine, where dishes like koshari beckon with their comforting blend of rice, lentils, and pasta, topped with crispy fried onions. Indulge in succulent kebabs and perfectly grilled meats that tantalize the taste buds with every bite. And let's not forget the street food scene—a true highlight of Cairo gastronomy. Treat yourself to crispy falafel balls bursting with herbs and spices, or sink your teeth into a flavorful shawarma wrap filled with tender meat and tangy sauces. These street-side delights offer a genuine taste of the culinary heritage of Cairo amid the lively ambiance of its bustling streets.

Weather In Cairo Africa

The weather in Cairo is marked by moderation most days of the year, which makes visitors turn to Cairo. The temperature in Cairo ranges between 22 and 34 degrees Celsius, which makes the weather suitable for various recreational activities. It can be considered that there are two seasons during the year, a hot summer from May to October and a mild winter from November to April. The climate of Cairo Governorate is also characterized by being very dry, rain falls in low intensity during the winter, and humidity levels rise during the summer, which makes Cairo’s weather receptive and beautiful. The winter and spring seasons from September to March, are the best time to visit Cairo as the temperature in Cairo is at its lowest, and the tourist can enjoy many outdoor recreational activities.

Accommodations in Cairo City

There are many 5-star Cairo hotels and 4-star Cairo distinguished hotels that provide various high-end and luxurious hotel services and many Cairo hotel apartments. One of the best hotels in Cairo is the Nile Ritz Carlton Hotel, a 5-star Cairo hotel, which is known for its luxury and its strategic location in the heart of Cairo and its charming and picturesque view of the Nile River, and the Four season Nile Plaza on the Nile, one of the most distinguished hotels, with its charming and picturesque view of the Nile. One of the distinct 5-star hotels is the Sofetil El Gaziera Cairo, and one of the best hotels in Cairo that attracts visitors is the Sheraton Cairo Hotel; do not miss your stay at the Fairmont Cairo Hotel, which is located next to the Nile River features a charming view of the Nile River and the Egyptian pyramids. As for the 4-star hotels in Cairo, dear visitor, you will find the Nabila Cairo Hotel, the Pyramisa Cairo Hotel, and other Cairo hotels that provide various services to all visitors residing in Cairo.

Exploring The Diversity of Cairo

Immerse yourself in the captivating blend of history and modernity that Cairo offers. With its moderate climate, ancient wonders, and lively urban atmosphere, Cairo is an enchanting destination that promises a seamless fusion of the past and present. Whether you're drawn to the majestic pharaonic monuments or intrigued by the vibrant energy of Cairo's bustling streets, a visit to this timeless capital guarantees an unforgettable journey through the ages. Plan your Egypt tour to Cairo—a city where every corner unveils a new chapter in Egypt's captivating story. Experience the allure of Cairo's historical sites, indulge in its vibrant culture, and immerse yourself in the dynamic spirit of this remarkable city.

The Pyramid of Lahun

The Pyramid of Lahun , also known as the Pyramid of Senusret II , is a fascinating archaeological site located in the Faiyum Oasis of Egypt. Constructed during the Twelfth Dynasty of the Middle Kingdom, this pyramid stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and cultural significance of ancient Egypt . In this comprehensive wiki, we delve into the history, construction, purpose, and significance of the Pyramid of Lahun, unraveling its mysteries and shedding light on its enduring legacy.

The Buried Pyramid: Unraveling the Secrets of Ancient Egypt

The buried pyramid.

In the heart of the Saqqara necropolis, south of Cairo , lies a hidden treasure of Egypt's ancient past – the Buried Pyramid , also known as the Pyramid of Sekhemkhet . This enigmatic structure, dating back to the Third Dynasty of the Old Kingdom , stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of Egypt's pharaohs. Despite its relative obscurity compared to the more renowned pyramids of Giza , the Buried Pyramid holds within its walls a wealth of mysteries waiting to be uncovered. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve deep into the history, construction, purpose, and significance of this fascinating archaeological site.

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The Great Sphinx of Giza – history, facts, what to see inside, tours and more

Egypt, known for its pharaohs and pyramids, consistently astounds visitors with its rich culture and medieval treasures. 

Among these wonders, the Great Sphinx of Giza reigns supreme.

It’s an enormous statue with a lion’s body and a human’s head, meticulously hewn from a single block of native limestone bedrock.

This colossal Egyptian relic claims the title of the world’s oldest and largest known sculpture.

It is a testament to ancient Egypt’s enduring mysteries and historical significance. 

What is the Sphinx of Giza

The purpose behind the construction of the Sphinx remains a mystery. 

Some historians and archaeologists suggest it was crafted to be a guardian for significant areas. 

Specifically, the Great Sphinx of Giza was built to protect the three imposing pyramids of Giza: Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren), and Menkaura (Mycerinus).

Archaeologists propose that this colossal Sphinx was once adorned with vibrant colors, with a red face and a body painted in blue and yellow hues. 

It is also believed that the Sphinx originally sported a long beard and a nose, which are now missing.

It was made around 2500 BC during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom.

The Great Sphinx of Giza is situated on the Giza plateau, prominently in front of the Great Pyramid. 

Facing east, this magnificent monument glistens in the morning sunlight. 

The Great Sphinx measures 73 meters in length and stands 20.21 meters tall. 

It had been buried beneath the encroaching desert sands until the first documented effort to clear it was undertaken in 1400 BCE during the reign of Pharaoh Tuthmosis IV.

Following a series of restoration efforts, the massive structure once again found itself buried up to its neck in the sand when Napoleon arrived in Egypt in 1798.

Numerous excavation projects were initiated between 1816 and 1858 by renowned antiquarians such as Giovanni Caviglia, Auguste Mariette, and Gaston Maspero. 

However, these endeavors were ultimately abandoned due to the relentless sand accumulation.

Sphinx of Giza timings

The Pyramids of Giza have designated opening hours between summer (April to September) and winter (October to March).

The opening hours are from 8 am to 5 pm in the summer. 

During the winter months, the Pyramids of Giza hours of operation are from 8 am to 4 pm. 

During the sweltering summer months, with temperatures often surpassing 30°C (86°F), visitor numbers are lower, and prices are more favorable. 

However, it’s essential to note that the scorching desert heat can make extended outdoor exploration uncomfortable. 

In such conditions, the optimal time to visit is 8 am when the site opens, offering cooler temperatures and fewer fellow tourists. 

Conversely, the milder winter season, averaging around 22°C (71°F) is the best time to visit Giza.

Yet, it’s also the peak tourist period, resulting in larger crowds and increased costs. 

To make the most of a winter visit, the best hours are between 10 pm and noon or late afternoon, just before closing. 

This will help you avoid the morning haze and the afternoon heat. 

Aim for a 10 am and noon visit to circumvent the morning haze and evade the searing afternoon sun.

Inside the Sphinx of Giza

The entrance to the pyramid has been enlarged through excavation, now featuring cement steps and iron guardrails. 

As visitors venture inside, they’ll find that the ascending passage gradually narrows, with some segments measuring less than 1.5 meters in both height and width. 

To ease the passage for tourists, non-slip wooden boards, handrails, and lighting lamps have been installed. 

Navigating this deep and narrow tunnel requires constant bending and climbing.

It serves as a physical test while highlighting the immense challenge faced by ancient Egyptians in constructing such a colossal pyramid.

Visitors arrive at the permissible endpoint about 20 minutes into the passage – the King’s Chamber.

The final section is the narrowest and lowest, with dimensions less than 1.2 meters in height and width, yet remarkably smooth on all four sides. 

The size of this passage is believed to have been designed to accommodate the coffin. 

The King’s Chamber is situated at the heart of the Pyramid of Khufu, housing an empty sarcophagus, the mystery of which still awaits unraveling. 

The precise alignment of the chamber’s walls, floor, and ceiling appears more characteristic of modern construction, raising questions about the capabilities of ancient builders over 4,000 years ago.

Despite the Pyramid of Khufu’s towering height, equivalent to that of a 40-story building, the interior defies the expectation of spaciousness. 

The pyramid consists of massive stone blocks stacked closely together for stability, leaving limited interior space. 

The pyramid’s interior is far from expansive, challenging the perception of its grandeur.

Sphinx of Giza tour

You can enjoy the Sphinx of Giza tour with two different ticket options.

The private all-inclusive tour will allow you to witness the Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Memphis and Saqqara. 

With this tour ticket, you can also access lunch and camel riding.

The next option is the private tour to Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum with Local Lunch .

To choose the best option, read the ticket details below.

Private All Inclusive: Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Memphis, Saqqara, Lunch & Camels

In just half a day, escape the persistent hawkers of Giza and partake in three quintessential Egyptian experiences. 

This door-to-door tour offers convenience as you’re introduced to the mysteries of ancient Egypt. 

Accompanied by a private guide, delve into the history of Egypt.

With this ticket , you can admire the three pyramids, the enigmatic Sphinx, and the Valley Temple. 

Pose for iconic photos, then embark on a camel-back journey across the desert sands. 

Your day is complemented with an authentic Egyptian lunch at a traditional restaurant.

Tour Includes:

• Qualified Egyptologist guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private tour
• Bottled water
• Riding camel for 30 minutes during the tour
• Lunch in a Quality restaurant
• Entrance fees Giza Pyramids – Memphis – Sakkara – Sphinx

Tour Price:

The ticket price for adults is EGP 6065 ($197) and for children between 6 and 11 years is EGP 2925 ($95).

However, children below 5 years old can enter for free.

The ticket prices for different age groups are given below:

Private tour to Giza Pyramids, Sphinx, Egyptian Museum with Local Lunch

Avoid the tourist crowds and gain intimate insight into Egypt’s 3 most iconic landmarks on a private tour of the Great Pyramids, Sphinx, and Egyptian Museum. 

Benefit from your Egyptologist guide’s full attention as you tick off the Big 3 in just 1 day. 

Enjoy round-trip transfers from your hotel for a hassle-free experience. 

• Bottled water 
• Qualified Egyptologist guide 
• Hotel pickup and drop-off 
• Guaranteed to skip the long lines 
• Private tour 
• Entry / Admission to the Giza Pyramids 
• Lunch 
• Entry/ Admission – Pyramids of Giza Area 
• Entry/ Admission – The Museum of Egyptian Antiquities 
• Entry / Administration for Sphinx – Valley Temple

The ticket price for adults is EGP 4557 ($148) and for children between 3 and 11 years is EGP 1385 ($45).

However, children below 2 years old can enter for free.

Great Sphinx of Giza history

The Great Sphinx of Giza is an enduring symbol of ancient Egypt.

This colossal statue, embodying the fusion of a lion’s body and a pharaoh’s head, is an iconic representation of ancient Egyptian artistry. 

It is believed to have been constructed around 4500 years ago during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre in Egypt’s Fourth Dynasty. 

This colossal limestone statue, measuring 240 feet long and 66 feet tall, represents ancient Egyptian craftsmanship. 

Carved from a single block of limestone, its creation is estimated to have required about three years and the labor of 100 workers. 

Prevailing beliefs suggest it was intended to serve as a guardian for the nearby pyramids, including those of Khufu (Cheops), Khafre (Chephren), and Menkaura (Mycerinus). 

Despite the ravages of time, including damage and the loss of its nose, the Great Sphinx remains a powerful symbol of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.

Some theories have suggested alternative creators, such as Khafre’s older brother, Djedefre or their father Khufu.

Most scholars lean toward Khafre as the most likely architect behind this masterpiece. 

The intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail displayed in the sphinx carving from a single block of limestone underscore the advanced architectural skills of ancient Egypt. 

Despite the passage of time and the statue’s damaged visage and missing nose, the Great Sphinx continues to intrigue visitors from across the globe.

Fun facts about the Great Sphinx of Giza

Now that we know the basic details about the Great Sphinx of Giza, let’s uncover some lesser-known but fascinating facts about this iconic Egyptian monument.

The Missing Nose: A Mystery Unveiled

The enigmatic absence of the Great Sphinx’s one-meter nose has stirred numerous stories and speculations throughout history. 

Some have pointed fingers at Napoleon and his troops, accusing them of damaging the nose during their expedition to Egypt in 1798. 

Contrarily, documented evidence suggests that Muhammad Sa’im al-Dahr, a 15th-century Sufi Muslim leader, may be the culprit behind the nose’s destruction. 

Driven by opposition to the Sphinx’s worship, Muhammad is said to have furiously eradicated the nose, leaving behind a perplexing void.

The Sphinx’s Lost Beard: A Relic of the Past

Archaeologists reveal that this monolithic sculpture once sported a beard.

It eventually crumbled – perhaps succumbing to the natural erosion caused by blowing sands. 

Interestingly, a fragment of the missing beard was discovered between the Sphinx’s front paws during the 19th century. 

This fragment is now displayed at the British Museum in London as a link to the Sphinx’s ancient appearance.

The Sphinx used to be Multicolored

Despite enduring the ravages of time, including the relentless forces of wind and thousands of years of erosion, faint traces of red paint persist on the statue’s face. 

These remnants hint at the Sphinx’s former colorful existence. 

Additionally, remnants of blue and yellow pigments on the body further support the belief that this ancient masterpiece was once a vibrant and multicolored sculpture.

The Largest and Oldest Sculpture on Earth

With colossal proportions measuring 73 meters in length, 20.21 meters in height, and 19 meters in width, the Great Sphinx is the largest single sculpted statue on the planet. 

Its immense size and antiquity make it an unparalleled marvel of ancient artistry and a symbol of Egypt’s rich cultural heritage.

If you are planning to visit Pyramids of Giza, here are some more information to help you plan your visit: 

• Pyramids of Giza tickets
• Opening hours 
• Tips to visit 
• What is inside the Giza Pyramids
• Great Pyramid of Giza
• Pyramid of Khafre
• Pyramid of Menkaure
• Valley Temple
• Pyramids of Giza sound and light show
• Saqqara Pyramids

The Sphinx of Giza – FAQs

1. what is the sphinx of giza .

The Sphinx of Giza is a colossal statue located near the pyramids in Egypt. 

It has the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, most likely Pharaoh Khafre, and is believed to symbolize a guardian or protector.

2. Why was the Great Sphinx of Giza built? 

The exact purpose of the Sphinx’s construction remains a mystery, but it is commonly believed to have been built to guard the nearby pyramids.

It serves as a symbol of power and protection.

3. How old is the Great Sphinx of Giza? 

The Great Sphinx of Giza is estimated to be around 4,500 years old, dating back to the reign of Pharaoh Khafre during Egypt’s Fourth Dynasty.

4. Can you go inside the Sphinx of Giza?

No, tourists cannot go inside the Sphinx of Giza. Its interior is not accessible to the public.

5. Does the Sphinx of Giza have a tail? 

No, the Sphinx of Giza does not have a tail. 

It is typically depicted with a lion’s body and a pharaoh’s head without a tail.

6. How tall is the Great Sphinx of Giza? 

The Great Sphinx of Giza stands approximately 20.21 meters (66.3 feet) in height and 73 meters (240 feet) in length.

7. Can tourists go inside the Great Sphinx of Giza?

No, tourists are not permitted to enter the interior of the Great Sphinx of Giza.  Visitors can only admire it from the outside.

8. Can you buy tickets to visit the Great Sphinx?

Yes, visitors can purchase tickets to visit the Great Sphinx as part of their entry to the Giza Plateau, which includes access to the Sphinx and the nearby pyramids.

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The Great Sphinx of Giza Egypt | Description, History & Facts

The Great Sphinx of Giza Egypt | Description, History & Facts | Discover Why Was The Great Sphinx of Giza Built front King Khafre Pyramid in Old Kingdom, 4th Dynasty…

Sphinx or the Great Sphinx is one of the top tourist attractions in Giza & Best Places to Visit in Egypt . The great Sphinx has stirred the imaginations of poets, scholars, adventurous and tourists for centuries. The first colossal statue of Pharaonic Egypt. The Great Sphinx presides majestically over the Giza necropolis.

Facts About The Great Sphinx of Giza Egypt

The Sphinx is 73 meters long, 6 meters wide, and 20 meters high

As long as the word Sphinx is a Greek word and it means a figure consisting of the body of a lion, the head of a woman, and the wings of a bird, so technically the Great Sphinx of Giza is not Sphinx.

We are not quite sure who built the Great Sphinx of Giza

Once, the Sphinx was colored

The Sphinx was for a very long time buried under the sand of the desert and it was ignored.

The statue was worshiped like a god and they built a temple in front of the statue because of Thutmose’s mystical vision of the Sphinx

French and Napoleon have nothing to do with the lost nose of the Sphinx.

The Sphinx was bearded, it has a false beard like 1 meter long

It is the biggest statue from one single piece of stone

What is The Great Sphinx of Giza famous for?

The Great Sphinx of Giza is famous for being carved from a single piece of limestone and it is the first colossal royal sculpture in Ancient Egyptian civilization .

Where is The Great Sphinx of Giza located?

The Great Sphinx of Giza is located on the Giza plateau, facing the Pyramid of Khafre , on the West Bank of the River Nile in the Giza governorate, Near Cairo .

What did The Great Sphinx of Giza originally look like?

The Sphinx of Giza looks like a huge statue(creature) with a lion’s body and the head of a human. The word Sphinx is not an Egyptian word, it is a Greek word and it represented a fabulous creature that had the head of a woman, the body of a lion, and the wings of a bird.

How long did it take to build The Great Sphinx of Giza?

From ancient Egypt, we have nothing mentioning how long they took to curve the statue but according to some now, it is estimated that it took around 3 years. Around 100 workers with their stone hammers and copper chisels, to finish the statue.

 Is the Sphinx in Cairo or Giza?

The ancient Egyptians believe that the Nile divides the Egyptian land into 2 parts, the Kingdom of the alive on the eastern bank and the kingdom of death on the western bank. Accordingly, the Sphinx is in Giza on the western side of the Nile. Cairo is on the eastern side but keeps in mind the term great Cairo including Cairo, Giza, and Qalyubia, so, we can conclude that the Great Sphinx is in Giza and in the great Cairo but not in Cairo.

Who actually built The Great Sphinx of Giza?

Nobody knows for sure who built the Sphinx but according to the location of the Sphinx in relation to Khafre’s mortuary temple suggests that maybe Khafre is the builder of the Sphinx. However, nobody is certainly sure if the face of Khafre or not. French archaeologist Auguste Mariette found in the Valley Temple a life-size statue of Khafre now in the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square and it is very similar to the head and the face of the Sphinx.

How did the Sphinx lose his nose?

Al Makrizi, a famous Arab historian who lived around the 15 th century, mentioned that a Sufi names Saem El Dahr, who lived in the 9 th century AD, damaged the nose of the Sphinx to show the people that the Sphinx was just a stone statue, not a god or holy figure.

Did The Great Sphinx of Giza have color?

The original Sphinx would have looked a lot different. It had a long-false beard and a nose. It also was painted in bright colors. Archeologists think that the face and body were painted red, the beard was blue, and much of the headdress was yellow.

Is there anything inside the Sphinx?

The answer is yes, the Sphinx is not a solid stone. The same Arabic historian mentioned that there was a secret cavity inside the Sphinx that hid the cup that had belonged to Solomon, the son of David.

Many legends mentioned Tunnels under the Sphinx but recent excavations revealed three tunnels under the statue.

1 st tunnel is located behind the Sphinx’s head and it goes inside the body of the statue for 5 meters.

2 nd in the Sphinx tail and its about 9 meters long

3nd was discovered and opened in 1926 and it is located on the north side of the statue

All these passages date back to the pharaonic era but the purpose behind them we still do not know

How Old Is the Sphinx?

Some believe and it’s widely accepted suggested that Pharaoh Khafre from the 4 th Dynasty, Old Kingdom built it.

Sand clearness of the Sphinx

The story started at the end of the Old Kingdom when the statue begins to fade into the desert background and the statue started to be totally ignored. That may be the reason why such ancient travelers like Herodotus never mentioned it. Seems he did not even see it.

1 st Attempt

The Dream Stela between the paws of the animal explains that Prince Thutmose , son of Amenhotep II , fell asleep under the head of the Sphinx. In his dream, the statue, calling itself Harmakhet , complained about the heavy sand covering his body. In exchange, he made a deal with the young prince: if you clean my body from the sand, I will give you the throne of Egypt.

2 nd Attempt

In 1789, French engineers of Napoleon’s Expedition were supposed to have made a considerable excavation in front of the Sphinx. The sand covered the Sphinx to the neck. Many attempted to clear the sand from around the body of the Sphinx but were each forced to abandon the project due to the enormous amount of sand.

3rd Attempt

Giovanni Battista Belzoni in 1817 with the help of 160 men did try to clean the sand but they did not succeed.

4th Attempt

For the first time, the statue was free from the sand in 1930 by one the Egyptian Archeologists Selim Hassan

5 th Attempt

Finally, in 1936 the French engineer Emil Baraize was successful in clearing the sand to reveal the base of the Sphinx.

 Restoration of the Sphinx

Since antiquity, some Pharaohs made restorations for the statue, for example

Pharaoh Tuthmosis IV

Ramesses II

During the Greco-Roman Period (306 B. C – 284 A.D.)

Marcus Aurelius (161 -180 A.D.) and Septimus Severus (193-211 A.D.), reconstructed the pavement of the Sphinx. Under Antinous (138-161 A.D.) and Verus (161- 169 A.D.), the retaining walls were reinforced.

Last Restoration work for the Sphinx

For 6 years starting with the 1980s, more than 2000 limestone blocks were added to the body of the Sphinx. Meanwhile, chemicals were injected.

In 1988, The archaeologists of the Supreme Council of Antiquities did the last restorations.

What did they find Near the Sphinx?

Here are some of the important discovers around and near the Sphinx

The first discovery was a fragment of the beard of the Sphinx, and then the head of the uraeus from its brow.

Granite Stela of Tuthmosis IV, and the two limestone stelae of Rameses II between the paws of the Sphinx.

A stone lion was found in situ, as though guarding the entrance to this temple. Besides, fragments of other lions, as well as the head of a small Sphinx, were also found and more will see when booking Private Tour to Giza Pyramids .

Granite altar between the paws

Great Limestone Stela and the Temple of Amenhotep II

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Great Sphinx, Egypt

The greatest monumental sculpture in the ancient world, the Sphinx is carved out of a single ridge of stone 240 feet (73 meters) long and 66 feet (20 meters) high. The head, which has a markedly different texture from the body, and shows far less severe erosion, is a naturally occurring outcrop of harder stone. To form the lower body of the Sphinx, enormous blocks of stone were quarried from the base rock (and these blocks were then used in the core masonry of the temples directly in front and to the south of the Sphinx). While a few stubborn Egyptologists still maintain that the Sphnix was constructed in the 4th Dynasty by the Pharaoh Chephren (Khafre), an accumulating body of evidence, both archaeological and geological, indicates that the Sphinx is far older than the 4th Dynasty, and was only restored by Chephren during his reign. There are no inscriptions on the Sphinx, or on any of the temples connected to it that, that offer evidence of construction by Chepren, yet the so-called 'Inventory Stele' (uncovered on the Giza plateau in the 19th century) tells that the Pharaoh Cheops - Chephren's predecessor - ordered a temple built alongside the Sphinx, meaning of course that the Sphinx was already there, and thus could not have been constructed by Chephren.

A much greater age for the Sphinx has been suggested by R.A. Schwaller de Lubicz, based upon geological considerations. Schwaller de Lubicz observed, and recent geologists (such as Robert Schoch, Professor of Geology at Boston University) have confirmed, that the extreme erosion on the body of the Sphinx could not be the result of wind and sand, as has been universally assumed, but rather was the result of water. Geologists agree that in the distant past Egypt was subjected to severe flooding. Wind erosion cannot take place when the body of the Sphinx is covered by sand, and the Sphinx has been in this condition for nearly all of the last five thousand years - since the alleged time of its 4th Dynasty construction. Furthermore, if wind-blown sand had indeed caused the deep erosion of the Sphinx, we would expect to find evidence of such erosion on other Egyptian monuments built of similar materials and exposed to the wind for a similar length of time. Yet the fact of the matter is, that even on structures that have had more exposure to the wind-blown sand, there are minimal effects of erosion, the sand having done little more than scour clean the surface of the dressed stones.

Additional evidence for the great age of the Sphinx may perhaps be indicated by the astronomical significance of its shape, being that of a lion. Roughly every two thousand years (2160 to be exact), and because of the precession of the equinoxes, the sun on the vernal equinox rises against the stellar background of a different constellation. For the past two thousand years that constellation has been Pisces the Fish, symbol of the Christian age. Prior to the age of Pisces it was the age of Aries the Ram, and before that it was the age of Taurus the Bull. It is interesting to note that during the first and second millennia BC, approximately the Age of Aries, ram-oriented iconography was common in Dynastic Egypt, while during the Age of Taurus the Bull-cult arose in Minoan Crete. Perhaps the builders of the Sphinx likewise used astrological symbolism in designing their monumental sculpture. The geological findings discussed above indicate that the Sphinx seems to have been sculpted sometime before 10,000 BC, and this period coincides with the Age of Leo the Lion, which lasted from 10,970 to 8810 BC.

Further support for this vast age of the sphinx comes from a surprising sky-ground correlation proven by sophisticated computer programs such as Skyglobe 3.6. These computer programs are able to generate precise pictures of any portion of the night sky as seen from different places on earth at any time in the distant past or future. Graham Hancock explains in Heaven's Mirror that, "computer simulations show that in 10,500 BC the constellation of Leo housed the sun on the spring equinox - i.e. an hour before dawn in that epoch Leo would have reclined due east along the horizon in the place where the sun would soon rise. This means that the lion-bodied Sphinx, with its due-east orientation, would have gazed directly on that morning at the one constellation in the sky that might reasonably be regarded as its own celestial counterpart."

The foregoing discussion means that the monumental sculpture of the Sphinx may have existed at a time when (according to prevailing archaeological theory) there were no civilizations on earth and humans had not yet evolved beyond hunter-gatherer lifestyles. This matter is so radical that scholarly reticence in acknowledging it is understandable. If the Sphinx is indeed this old then contemporary assumptions regarding the development of civilization must be entirely reworked and the mystifying question of Plato's Atlantis should be given very serious consideration.

Readers interested in this matter, certainly as fascinating as the mystery of the Great Pyramid, are encouraged to consult the following books:

• The Traveler's Key to Ancient Egypt ; by John Anthony West
• Serpent in the Sky ; by John Anthony West
• Fingerprints of the Gods ; by Graham Hancock
• Heaven's Mirror ; by Graham Hancock
• The Message of the Sphinx ; by Robert Bauval and Graham Hancock
• Voyages of the Pyramid Builders ; by Robert Schoch
• Gods of Eden ; by Andrew Collins

For additional information:

The Great Sphinx Facts Page

http://www.sacred-destinations.com/egypt/giza-sphinx

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The Pyramids and the Great Sphinx of Egypt

For many, Egypt’s pyramids and the Great Sphinx represent the ultimate travel bucket list item. Shrouded in mystery and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the pyramids are synonymous with Egypt. Likewise, their human-headed, lion-bodied neighbor is one of the first landmarks that comes to mind when you think about the Land of the Pharaohs.

Did the pyramids and the Great Sphinx live up to the hype I created over the years? Here is an overview of what we saw, what we learned, and what we thought about our day visiting Giza’s famous sites—and how you can make the most of your visit!

The Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

The pyramids of Giza are among the oldest manmade buildings in existence. Built around 2500 BC, they are located just to the south of bustling Cairo and about five miles (nine kilometers) west of the Nile River; today, like all those centuries ago, 95 percent of Egypt’s population lives close to the Nile. The pyramids are built on the Giza Plateau, and while most people know of the three largest pyramids—including the Great Pyramid—there are six other structures that are part of the complex and were built around the same time. Construction likely took close to 100 years, which meant five different pharaohs oversaw the work and between 15,000 and 40,000 workers were actively engaged on the project at any given time.

Astronomy played a big role in Ancient Egypt, and the pyramids of Giza may also be rooted in a somewhat religious worship of the sky. Each of the three pyramids—Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure—are precisely oriented to the north, south, east, and west, as if the workers had used a compass to position them. The three pyramids are also closely aligned to the three stars that are found in the Orion constellation, specifically in his belt. Orion is linked to the Egyptian god Osiris, the god of the afterlife and rebirth, which may tie into the purpose of the pyramid complex.

The pyramids of Giza are interesting in comparison to other structures found throughout the country. While pyramids were often used as tombs for Egypt’s kings and queens, no tombs, mummies, or human remains were found in Giza’s pyramid complex. Additionally, the interior is almost devoid of hieroglyphics that decorate tombs in Luxor , Aswan , and other locations in Egypt. Some theories suggest the tombs were raided centuries ago, and the bodies and valuables were removed at that time, and others note that the pyramids were once encased in limestone that bore hieroglyphics but have long since been removed. With well over 4,000 years between their initial construction and today’s theories, these mysteries may remain for quite some time.

Beyond the pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure are six additional pyramids. Three of them are known as the Queen’s Pyramids, which belonged to Khufu’s mother, Khafre’s mother, and Khufu’s wife. The others served as temples or tombs. The pyramid complex also includes two extensive cemeteries to the east and west of the Pyramid of Khufu where a number of royalty were buried.

Although the Sphinx looms large even next to the enormous pyramids just a few hundred yards away, the questions about how and why it came into existence feel even bigger. The most widely believed theory suggests the Sphinx was built at the same time as the pyramids and boasts the face of Pharaoh Khafre. Many other theories exist, though, with some stating the face might be Khufu’s instead and some suggesting the head isn’t intended to be human but rather a dog or Anubis, which was the Egyptian god of the dead.

At one point the Sphinx had both a nose and a beard, but today both are missing. Although a favorite theory proposes that Napoleon’s army shot a cannonball into the Sphinx’s nose (a theory that has been disproven thanks to noseless descriptions that predate Napoleon’s time in Egypt), a more accepted theory recounts how the nose was destroyed in the 1370s by an Egyptian who was dismayed by people bringing offerings to the Sphinx and worshiping as if it might be a god. There may be some truth to that idea; the Sphinx has the body of a lion, which is connected to sun worship and the Leo constellation.

While it isn’t possible to approach the Dream Stele to see it up close, it is clearly visible from any viewing platform where you can see the Sphinx.

The Step Pyramid of Memphis

Not far from Giza in the Ancient Egyptian capital of Memphis is the ancient burial ground Saqqara (or Sakkara). Among some of the oldest tombs in the country is the oldest pyramid of record in Egypt: the Pyramid of Djoser, or the Step Pyramid. Built in the 27th century BC, it’s about 2,000 years older than they pyramids of Giza. The pyramid was truly innovative for its time, and it was the first Egyptian pyramid that used mastabas in this way. Mastaba translates to eternal house in Ancient Egyptian, and they were typically rectangular structures with flat roofs composed of mud. The Step Pyramid, which is made of stone, layered six mastabas on top of one another with the smallest mastaba on top. The significance of this structure is clear: with multiple “eternal houses,” Pharaoh Djoser constructed his path to eternal rebirth and a reunion with the sun god Ra.

Knowing that step pyramids can be found throughout the world—including places we’ve visited like Chichen Itza in Mexico and Borobudur in Indonesia—it was especially impressive for us to see the oldest of these constructions with our own eyes.

Visiting the Pyramids and the Sphinx: Tips for Your Visit

► prepare for the weather.

Our visit took place on an extremely warm day in Giza, when temperatures soared over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). We each took two bottles of water and drank most of them; don’t underestimate how dehydrated you can become after just a short time in sunny, hot weather! We both wore long, breathable pants and short-sleeved shirts as well, which kept us fairly comfortable and reasonably well protected from the sun. Sun screen and a hat are also must-haves when you prepare to spend any amount of time outside exploring.

► Expect crowds, but not tourists

Egypt has been struggling to rebuild its tourist numbers since the 2011 revolution, but we were surprised by the low number of travelers we saw at what is arguably the most popular tourist attraction in the country. Still, we were often surrounded by people, most typically men thrusting souvenirs in our direction or begging us to buy something from them. This occasionally impacted our experience because it was hard to stand quietly and immerse ourselves in the grandeur of the moment when we were constantly being offered products to purchase. Saying “no” was enough for most of the sales force, but some were more persistent and would walk along with us for quite a way in hopes we could be swayed to buy something.

► Consider- and reconsider- a carriage ride

► You’ll only need a few hours

The pyramids and the Sphinx are incredible, but they are primarily appreciated from the outside and don’t require a whole lot of time. We spent about two hours in Giza and another hour at the Step Pyramid, and that felt like enough time for us. We did not go inside any of the structures; there is an extra fee to enter the Great Pyramid, and our guide dissuaded us from entering because there isn’t much to see (something we don’t mind missing, as the Valley of the Kings in Luxor satisfied everything we wanted out of that type of experience). It is possible to enter one of the Queen’s Pyramids as part of the admission fee, but the entrance is very small and very steep. It requires you to crouch down and walk backwards down a narrow ladder-type tunnel , and when we investigated it we discovered many nails sticking out of the wood. We decided to skip it. You may want to do the same.

► There are two entrances

► Consider a guide

While we typically prefer to visit sites on our own, we used a guided service throughout our visit to Israel , Jordan, and Egypt. This meant we didn’t need to worry about transportation, and we were able to benefit from some information and explanation about what we were seeing. Guides can be arranged in advance- either before you arrive in Egypt or through most hotels- and it’s possible to find a qualified guide right at the entrance. If your plans will take you to both Giza and the Step Pyramid in Memphis you may want to consider a half day or full day tour.

Where to Stay

While most visitors find a hotel in Cairo, we stayed at the Barceló in Giza. Overall, we were satisfied with our stay there; we had a nice, spacious room and felt comfortable and safe while we were there. Giza, like Cairo, is noisy, and we listened to traffic outside our window for both of the nights we were there, but we were otherwise happy with all aspects of our stay. The big buffet breakfast spread was great before a full day of exploring, and we really enjoyed our dinner at the hotel restaurant. The lounge on the top floor of the hotel had some great views of the city as well. One of the surprises we encountered was the Aten Bazar, a gift shop, which offered the best quality souvenirs we found in Giza at really competitive prices. We were equally happy to meet its owner, a great guy with tons of historical knowledge about his homeland. We enjoyed our conversation with him and are thrilled to have some great souvenirs in our home to remember our trip.

More Information: Booking.com/Barcelo-Pyramids-Cairo

Are you looking for more places to stay near the Pyramids and Sphinx? Cairo has plenty of hotel options for your trip. Here are some deals to consider.

Enjoy the Pyramids and the Sphinx!

Visiting the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx was an unbelievable experience and one we won’t forget. To stand before these huge structures and think about the manpower and planning they required, long before modern technology could assist, is baffling and humbling. If seeing the pyramids and the Sphinx are on your bucket list—or if you are ready to immerse yourself in an incredible culture—this will be the vacation of a lifetime. Let us know if Giza is in your travel plans, and let us know about the tips you have to share!

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