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The Great Pyramid of Giza: An Ancient Wonder

Explore the Great Pyramid of Giza, an enduring symbol of ancient Egypt and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

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The Great Pyramid of Giza, the largest of the Giza pyramids and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, stands as a testament to ancient Egyptian ingenuity. Built for Pharaoh Khufu (c. 2589–2566 BC), it remains an iconic symbol of Egypt and a must-see for travelers.

A brief summary to The Great Pyramid of Giza

  • Al Haram, Al Haram, Nazlet El-Semman, Giza Governorate, EG
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially tour bus groups that arrive around 9 AM.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and sturdy shoes are essential for navigating the sandy terrain.
  • Stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
  • Purchase tickets from the official ticket counters to avoid scams.
  • Be prepared to bargain with local vendors if you plan to shop for souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Great Pyramid of Giza via public transport, take Line 1 of the Cairo Metro to the Giza station. From there, take a bus or taxi to the Giza Plateau, approximately 8 km away. Bus numbers 355 or 357 are available from Downtown Cairo. The bus fare is around 2-3$, but buses are mostly in Arabic, so check with the bus conductor once. A taxi from the Giza Metro station to the pyramids should cost around LE 30.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem offer a direct and convenient way to reach the Great Pyramid. A taxi ride from downtown Cairo to the Giza Pyramids typically takes 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around LE 70-80 for an Uber/Careem ride from Downtown Cairo to the pyramids. From Giza to the Great Pyramid by taxi will cost $1 and take 8 min.

  • Driving

    Driving to the Giza Pyramids from Cairo city center takes approximately 30-35 minutes. Head southwest on Champollion Road towards El-Shaikh Marouf, then take the Nile Corniche Road and follow route 75M to El-Malek Fouad in Nazlet El-Semman. Continue along Abou Al Hool Al Seiahi to the Pyramids of Giza. Parking is available near the Great Pyramid entrance, outside the Marriot Mena House hotel. Parking charges cost EGP 5 ($0.19) per hour.

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Discover more about The Great Pyramid of Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza pyramid complex bordering present-day Giza in Greater Cairo, Egypt. It is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one to remain largely intact. Construction of the pyramid is estimated to have been completed around 2560 BC, built as a tomb for the Fourth Dynasty Egyptian pharaoh Khufu. Originally standing at 146.5 meters (481 feet) tall, the Great Pyramid was the tallest man-made structure in the world for more than 3,800 years. Over time, erosion has reduced its height to approximately 138.8 meters (455 feet). The pyramid is composed of an estimated 2.3 million stone blocks, with most blocks weighing between 2.5 to 15 tons. The precision with which these blocks were cut and fitted together is a marvel of ancient engineering. Inside the Great Pyramid are several chambers and passageways, including the King's Chamber, the Queen's Chamber, and the Grand Gallery. These spaces offer insight into the pyramid's construction and purpose. While the exact methods used to build the pyramid remain a subject of debate, it is believed that the ancient Egyptians employed a combination of ramps, levers, and skilled labor to move and position the massive stone blocks. Visiting the Great Pyramid is an awe-inspiring experience, allowing travelers to connect with one of the most remarkable achievements in human history. The surrounding Giza Plateau also includes other pyramids, temples, and the Great Sphinx, providing a rich and immersive glimpse into ancient Egyptian civilization.

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