Full Description
Saqqara Dahshur Giza from Hurghada is a private day tour for travellers who want to see more than the famous Giza Pyramids. You follow the development of Egyptian pyramid building from Djoser’s Step Pyramid through Sneferu’s early smooth-sided pyramids to the Great Pyramid of Khufu.
The day starts early at your Red Sea hotel. You travel to the Cairo region in a private air-conditioned vehicle. A German- or English-speaking Egyptologist accompanies you through Saqqara, Dahshur and Giza.
Standard admission to the listed archaeological areas, lunch, water and cola during the transfers, and return transport to your hotel are included in the current programme.
Participants | Vehicle | Price per Person |
|---|---|---|
2 people | Private air-conditioned car | €160 |
3–5 people | Private air-conditioned minibus | €120 |
6–8 people | Private air-conditioned minibus | €95 |
Children aged 6–11: 50% according to the current booking system
Children aged 0–5: free according to the current booking system
Transfer supplement from Marsa Alam: €60 per person
Transfer supplement from El Quseir: €45 per person
Saqqara Dahshur Giza from Hurghada at a Glance
The currently published standard programme includes:
Private day tour
Approx. 17–18 hours total duration
Early hotel pickup
Private air-conditioned transfer
German- or English-speaking Egyptologist
Saqqara
Step Pyramid of Djoser
Dahshur
Bent Pyramid
Red Pyramid
Lunch
Giza Plateau
Great Pyramid of Khufu
Pyramid of Khafre
Pyramid of Menkaure
Great Sphinx
Entrance tickets for the confirmed standard programme
Water and cola during transfers
No planned shopping stops
Return transfer to your hotel
Why This Tour Shows More Than a Standard Giza Visit
Many Cairo day trips focus only on Giza.
This tour visits three archaeological areas that together show how Egyptian pyramid building changed over time.
You start with a stepped form at Saqqara.
In Dahshur, you then see how builders worked towards a true smooth-sided pyramid.
At Giza, you reach the monumental pyramids of the 4th Dynasty.
This makes the day especially useful if you want to understand how pyramid architecture developed over several generations.
Who Is This Pyramid Tour For?
The tour may suit you if you:
Want to see more than Giza alone
Are interested in the Old Kingdom
Enjoy architecture and archaeology
Prefer a private guide
Want to add Saqqara and Dahshur to Giza
Are comfortable with a long day trip
Want no planned shopping stops
If your main priority is the Giza Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum, a standard Cairo day trip may be more compact.
Why the Day Starts So Early
The drive from the Red Sea to the Cairo region is long.
To leave enough time for three archaeological areas, the current schedule starts at around 03:00.
This normally allows time for:
Early drive towards Cairo
Saqqara in the morning
Dahshur
Lunch
Giza in the afternoon
Return to the Red Sea
The order may change because of opening hours, traffic or operational conditions.
Around 03:00 – Hotel Pickup
You are collected from your confirmed hotel.
The current page lists pickups from:
Hurghada
El Gouna
Sahl Hasheesh
Makadi Bay
Soma Bay
Safaga
Marsa Alam
El Quseir
The exact pickup time depends on your hotel.
Early Drive Towards Cairo
You travel in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
The current programme includes a short break around halfway.
What Should You Bring for the Drive?
For the early start, useful items include:
Light jacket
Neck pillow if you want to sleep in the vehicle
Personal medication
Phone or headphones
Power bank
Water and cola during transfers are listed as included.
Saqqara – The Beginning of Pyramid Development
The first major sightseeing stop is Saqqara.
Saqqara was an important burial area connected with ancient Memphis.
The famous Step Pyramid of Djoser stands here.
Step Pyramid of Djoser
The Step Pyramid dates to the early 3rd Dynasty.
It looks very different from the later smooth-sided pyramids.
Its stepped form developed from stacked mastaba structures.
Imhotep
The complex is associated with Imhotep.
He is traditionally linked with the design of Djoser’s complex and an important stage in the development of monumental stone architecture.
Your Egyptologist explains why this site matters for the later history of pyramid building.
More Than One Pyramid
Saqqara is a large necropolis.
The wider area contains many:
Pyramids
Mastabas
Tombs
Temple areas
Archaeological structures
This day tour focuses on the Djoser complex according to the current standard programme.
Other special areas at Saqqara should only be treated as included when specifically confirmed.
Can You Go Inside the Step Pyramid?
Access to particular interior areas has its own ticket arrangements and depends on current opening rules.
Standard entry to the archaeological site does not automatically mean every interior space is included.
If going inside matters to you, confirm it before the tour.
Dahshur – From Experiment to Smooth-Sided Pyramid
After Saqqara, you continue to Dahshur.
This part of the day makes the architectural development especially easy to see.
Two pyramids built for King Sneferu stand here:
Bent Pyramid
Red Pyramid
Bent Pyramid
The Bent Pyramid is immediately recognisable because of its unusual shape.
Its angle changes partway up.
This gives the pyramid the bend that gives it its modern name.
Why Did the Angle Change?
The change is linked with structural concerns during construction.
For visitors, this is particularly interesting because one building shows that pyramid development was not a simple straight line.
Builders had to solve problems and adjust their methods.
Surviving Outer Casing
Large sections of the pale outer casing still remain on the Bent Pyramid.
This helps you imagine how different the pyramids originally looked.
Red Pyramid
A short distance away stands the Red Pyramid.
It was also built under Sneferu.
Its consistent smooth-sided shape marks another important step in pyramid development.
Why Is It Called the Red Pyramid?
The modern name comes from the reddish colour of the exposed stone.
It originally had a pale limestone outer casing as well.
Why Is the Red Pyramid Important?
Djoser’s Step Pyramid, the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid show a clear architectural progression.
That makes Dahshur an important part of this tour.
Without it, an important stage between Saqqara and Giza would be missing.
Going Inside the Red Pyramid
The Red Pyramid may be open for interior visits depending on current rules.
This should not automatically be treated as part of standard site entry.
If you want to go inside, confirm:
Current opening status
Required ticket
Physical requirements
Available time
How Physically Demanding Is the Interior?
Going inside a pyramid can be much harder than viewing it from outside.
You may need to manage:
Sloping passages
Low sections
Many steps
Tight spaces
Heat
If you have knee, back, breathing or claustrophobia concerns, it may be better to skip the interior.
Lunch
After Saqqara and Dahshur, lunch is planned at a selected local restaurant.
Lunch is part of the standard programme.
Drinks at the Restaurant
The current page specifically lists restaurant drinks as not included.
Water and cola during transfers are included.
Any extra drinks ordered at the restaurant should therefore be treated as a personal expense.
Dietary Requirements
If you:
Are vegetarian
Have allergies
Have food intolerances
tell the team before the tour.
Giza – The Great Pyramids
After lunch, you continue to the Giza Plateau.
Here stand the famous pyramids of:
Khufu
Khafre
Menkaure
Great Pyramid of Khufu
The Great Pyramid is the largest of the three main pyramids at Giza.
It is also the only surviving monument from the traditional Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Exterior Visit and Plateau Entry
Standard entry to the Giza Plateau forms part of the normal programme.
This allows you to visit the site and view the pyramids from outside.
Going Inside the Great Pyramid
Interior entry to the Great Pyramid is not automatically included in the standard price.
A separate ticket is required.
If this matters to you, mention it when making your enquiry.
Pyramid of Khafre
From some viewpoints, Khafre’s Pyramid can appear almost as large as Khufu’s.
It stands on slightly higher ground and still has visible remains of its original outer casing near the top.
Pyramid of Menkaure
Menkaure’s Pyramid is much smaller than the two neighbouring pyramids.
Together, the three form the main royal pyramid group at Giza.
Viewpoints on the Giza Plateau
Depending on current traffic and access arrangements, your driver may use different viewpoints around the plateau.
The actual stops depend on:
Current access rules
Traffic
Available time
Great Sphinx of Giza
The standard programme also includes the Great Sphinx.
The monumental figure has:
Lion’s body
Human head
and is generally associated with the pyramid complex of Khafre.
Valley Temple and Sphinx Area
The exact route through the Sphinx area depends on:
Access
Visitor numbers
Remaining time
Your Egyptologist explains the historical context during the visit.
Why the Saqqara – Dahshur – Giza Order Makes Sense
The route follows a clear architectural progression.
Saqqara
You see the stepped pyramid form.
Dahshur
You see the move towards the true smooth-sided pyramid.
Giza
You reach the monumental pyramids of the next generation.
This means the day is more than three separate photo stops.
The sites connect historically.
Return to the Red Sea
After Giza, the long return drive begins.
The current schedule gives an arrival in Hurghada at around 21:00.
With pickup at approximately 03:00, that is closer to an 18-hour day than the 16 hours shown in the page header.
Why the Return Time Is Only Approximate
Actual arrival depends on:
Traffic in Giza and Cairo
Traffic on the long-distance route
Time spent at the sites
Breaks
Your hotel location
It is better not to plan another fixed activity for the same evening.
Be Realistic About the Driving Time
This tour includes a lot in one day.
It also means spending many hours in the vehicle.
It may suit you if you want to understand the development of pyramid building without staying overnight in Cairo.
A 2-day Cairo tour may suit you better if you:
Want less driving in one day
Want to see more of Cairo
Do not want to drive back to the Red Sea immediately after Giza
Saqqara Dahshur Giza from Hurghada with Children
The current booking system lists:
Children aged 6–11: 50%
Children aged 0–5: free
For such a long day, price should not be the only consideration.
What Families Should Consider
The day includes:
Very early pickup
Long transfers
Several archaeological areas
Plenty of walking
Sun and heat
Evening return
For older children who enjoy pyramids and history, the tour can be very interesting.
For very young children, the long schedule can be tiring.
Child Seat
If you need a child seat, mention it clearly before booking.
Limited Mobility
The tour is not automatically fully accessible.
Things to consider include:
Sandy ground
Uneven paths
Longer walking distances
Getting in and out of the vehicle
Steps
Optional pyramid interiors
The private format can help with adapting breaks where practical.
More information about planning with limited mobility:
Wheelchair or Walking Aid
If you use a wheelchair or walking aid, explain in advance:
Whether the wheelchair folds
How far you can walk
Whether you can manage steps
Whether you need assistance getting into the vehicle
The team can then assess which areas are realistically accessible.
Pyramid Interiors and Claustrophobia
Pyramid interiors can be:
Narrow
Warm
Steep
Low
If you have strong claustrophobia, think carefully before choosing an interior visit.
You can still enjoy the full exterior visit without entering a pyramid.
Summer Heat
Saqqara, Dahshur and Giza are open archaeological areas with limited natural shade.
Summer temperatures can be very high.
Pay particular attention to:
Drinking enough
Sun hat
Sun cream
Lightweight clothing
Breaks
Winter
Winter mornings can feel noticeably cooler during the early drive.
A light jacket is useful.
Later in the day, conditions can still become sunny and warm.
What Should You Wear?
Recommended:
Comfortable sturdy shoes
Lightweight clothing
Sun hat
Sunglasses
Clothing that protects your shoulders from the sun
If you plan to enter a pyramid, shoes with good grip are particularly useful.
What to Bring
For Saqqara Dahshur Giza from Hurghada, we recommend:
Passport or required identification
Comfortable sturdy shoes
Sun cream
Sunglasses
Sun hat
Personal medication
Power bank
Phone or camera
Light jacket for the early drive
Some cash for restaurant drinks, tips and optional tickets
Photography
Camera and photography rules can vary between archaeological areas and interior spaces.
Follow the current instructions at each site.
Interior areas may have additional restrictions.
No Planned Shopping Stops
The tour is specifically offered without planned shopping stops.
The day therefore stays focused on:
Saqqara
Dahshur
Lunch
Giza
Sphinx
Why an Egyptologist Adds Value on This Tour
This tour is not only about individual monuments.
It follows architectural development across several generations.
An Egyptologist can explain:
Mastabas and step pyramids
Djoser’s complex
Sneferu’s pyramid projects
Changes in pyramid angles
Development of smooth-sided pyramids
Progress towards Giza
Purpose of pyramid complexes
More about the value of an Egyptologist:
Learn More About the Giza Pyramids
If you want to prepare for your Giza visit:
Alternative: Classic Cairo Tour
If you would rather see the Grand Egyptian Museum and more of Cairo instead of Saqqara and Dahshur, a standard Cairo tour may suit you better.
More about planning a pyramid trip from Hurghada:
Tips
Tips are not included in the price.
Your driver, Egyptologist and restaurant staff may all be involved during the day.
General guidance:
Included in the Price
According to the current product page:
Private hotel pickup
Return transfer to your hotel
Private air-conditioned car or minibus according to group size
Professional driver
German- or English-speaking Egyptologist
Entrance tickets for all sights in the confirmed standard programme
Saqqara
Step Pyramid of Djoser in the standard programme
Dahshur
Bent Pyramid
Red Pyramid
Giza Plateau
Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure
Great Sphinx
Lunch
Water and cola during transfers
Local taxes and service charges according to the booking
No planned shopping stops
Not Included in the Price
According to the current page:
Personal expenses
Tips
Drinks in the restaurant
Transfer supplement from Marsa Alam: €60 per person
Transfer supplement from El Quseir: €45 per person
Special interior visits or additional pyramid tickets unless clearly confirmed
Confirm Before Booking
Before your tour, confirm:
Hotel or resort
Exact pickup time
Approximate return time
Number of participants
Ages of children
Child seat if needed
Transfer supplement for more distant hotels
Whether you want to enter a pyramid
Which extra ticket is required
Current access rules at Saqqara
Current access rules at Dahshur
Current access rules at Giza
Dietary requirements
Mobility limitations
Enquire About Saqqara Dahshur Giza from Hurghada
If you want to follow the development of Egyptian pyramid building in a single day, you can enquire about Saqqara Dahshur Giza from Hurghada for your preferred date.
Tell us:
Hotel or resort
Travel date
Number of adults
Number and ages of children
Preferred language
Interest in pyramid interior visits
Dietary requirements
Mobility limitations
Pickup time, vehicle, optional tickets and the exact daily schedule can then be confirmed for your date.
