Pyramids of Giza Guide: What to See on a Day Trip from Hurghada

The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still standing. Built around 4,500 years ago, it was the tallest structure made by humans for thousands of years. Seeing it in person is on almost everyone's list — and you can do it in a day from Hurghada on a Cairo trip by plane or by coach.

What you'll see on the plateau

• The Great Pyramid of Khufu — originally around 146 metres tall, made of millions of limestone blocks.
• The Pyramid of Khafre — it looks taller because it stands on higher ground and keeps some casing stones at the top.
• The Pyramid of Menkaure — the smallest of the three, with smaller queens' pyramids beside it.
• The panoramic viewpoint — the classic photo of all the pyramids in a row.
• The Great Sphinx and Valley Temple — the Sphinx guards the causeway to Khafre's pyramid.

Going inside a pyramid

Entry into a pyramid needs an extra ticket bought on the day. The passages are narrow, steep and warm, and there's nothing painted inside — the experience is about the space and the history. Skip it if you're claustrophobic.

Camels, horses and vendors

The plateau is busy with camel and horse owners, and sellers of souvenirs. Agree any price clearly before you start, don't hand over your camera to strangers, and choose animals that look healthy. A polite, firm 'la, shukran' (no, thank you) works. Your guide will help.

Combine it with the Grand Egyptian Museum

The Grand Egyptian Museum is right next to the plateau, making it the perfect pairing. Read our GEM guide and compare travel options in Hurghada to Cairo: bus vs plane.

Frequently asked questions