Giza Pyramids

Cairo's most popular attraction, the Giza Pyramids draw thousands of visitors every year. As one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, these pyramids have stood the test of time, remaining intact for roughly 4,500 years. You'll find three primary pyramids, the best known being the Great Pyramid of Cheops. This is the burial place of the Fourth Dynasty pharaoh Khufu, who reigned between 2589 and 2566 B.C. Khafra, Khufu's son, lies entombed in the nearby Pyramid of Chephren. The third structure, the Pyramid of Mycerinus, stands as the smallest of the Giza Pyramids and was constructed by Khafra's successor to the throne, Menkaure. Resting atop the Giza Plateau, the Sphinx, a massive iconic statue with the head of a man and the body of a lion, also deserves your attention.

You are welcome to explore the pyramids and the Sphinx's maze of tunnels. However, one TripAdvisor user warns that a journey to the depths of the pyramids isn't for everyone: "If you are remotely claustrophobic, do not go down to the tombs. […] It can be intimidating for the faint of heart, and there is no easy way out." Other travelers also warn of heavy crowds (especially during the winter months) and very persistent souvenir vendors.

Located south of central Cairo, the Giza Pyramids can be reached by Metro or taxi. You can visit the Giza Pyramids every day, although hours of operation vary depending on the day and season. General admission to the site costs 60 EGP (about $10 USD), and each pyramid charges extra to tour the tunnels. Entry to the Great Pyramid of Cheops is 100 EGP (approximately $16.50 USD); just note that in order to preserve the Great Pyramid's tunnels, only 300 visitors are allowed to enter each day. The Pyramid of Chephren costs 30 EGP (around $5 USD); the Pyramid of Mycerinus costs 25 EGP (roughly $4 USD); and entry to the Sphinx is included with your general admission. For more information, visit the Egypt Tourism Authority's website.