Ancient Egyptian capital on the Nile's west bank, known for the Great Pyramids. A major tourist destination with a history dating back to 4000 BC.
Giza, located on the west bank of the Nile River, is an Egyptian city known for its ancient monuments. Here, you can see the Great Pyramid, part of the Giza Pyramid Complex, and the Great Sphinx. As you walk through Giza's active streets, you'll experience contemporary Egyptian life, with local markets selling traditional foods and goods.
The Giza Pyramid Complex
The Giza Pyramid Complex includes three main pyramids: the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure. The Great Pyramid, built around 2560 BCE, is 146.5 meters tall and was the world's tallest man-made structure for over 3,800 years. You can walk around all three pyramids and enter some to see their internal chambers.
The Great Sphinx
The Great Sphinx, a massive limestone statue with a lion's body and human head, guards the eastern entrance to the Giza complex. It's 73 meters long and 20 meters high. Archaeologists believe it was carved during Pharaoh Khafre's reign. Despite centuries of exposure to desert winds, the Sphinx remains an impressive sight.
Visiting the Pyramids
To get to the Giza Pyramid Complex from central Cairo, take a taxi or use a ride-hailing service. The site is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM in winter and 7 AM to 7 PM in summer. Buy tickets at the main entrance gate. A guide can provide detailed information about the monuments' history and significance. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as you'll do a lot of walking in a desert environment.
Local Cuisine
After seeing the ancient monuments, try local Egyptian dishes. Koshary, a mix of rice, pasta, and lentils topped with tomato sauce and fried onions, is a popular street food. For a sit-down meal, go to one of the restaurants on Pyramids Road. Many serve traditional dishes like ful medames (fava beans) and ta'meya (Egyptian falafel).
Accommodation
While many visitors stay in central Cairo, Giza has several hotels with pyramid views. The Marriott Mena House and the Steigenberger Pyramids Cairo offer luxury rooms overlooking the pyramids. For cheaper options, look at guesthouses in the nearby Nazlet El Samman area.
Best Time to Visit
Visit Giza between October and April when the weather is milder. Summer months can be very hot, making it uncomfortable to walk around the sites. During Ramadan, some restaurants may have limited daytime hours.
Safety and Cultural Considerations
Giza is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure. Dress modestly, especially at religious sites. Locals often offer camel rides or souvenirs to tourists - if you're not interested, a polite but firm "no thank you" usually works.
