Saqqara Necropolis: Stepping Back into Ancient Egypt

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Explore Saqqara Necropolis: Uncover ancient Egyptian pyramids, tombs, and monuments at this vast historical burial ground near Cairo.

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Saqqara Necropolis

Explore Saqqara, an ancient burial ground and UNESCO World Heritage site just south of Cairo. Discover the Step Pyramid of Djoser, numerous tombs, and other monuments that offer a glimpse into Egypt's rich history and architectural evolution.

A brief summary to Saqqara Necropolis

V698+9PP, Badrshein, Giza Governorate, EG
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Saqqara Necropolis.

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat, especially during the warmer months.
Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking on uneven terrain and in the desert environment.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Check if the Pyramid of Djoser is open, as it has been closed for restoration in the past.

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Getting There

Taxi/Ride-Sharing

From Cairo or Giza, taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber/Careem) offer a direct route to Saqqara Necropolis. Simply enter 'Saqqara Necropolis, Badrshein' as your destination. The fare from central Cairo typically ranges from 150-300 EGP, depending on traffic. Negotiate the price beforehand or check the app for an estimated fare. Parking is available near the entrance of Saqqara Necropolis. A small parking fee may apply.
Public Transport

To reach Saqqara via public transport from Cairo, take the Metro to El Monib station (Line 2). From there, transfer to a microbus heading to El Badrasheen. Upon arriving in El Badrasheen, take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the Saqqara Necropolis, approximately 9 kilometers away. The microbus costs around LE10, and a tuk-tuk ride should cost around LE70-100. Be prepared for a journey of 1-1.5 hours.

Discover more about Saqqara Necropolis

Saqqara, located approximately 30 km (19 miles) south of Cairo, is an ancient necropolis stretching 7 km by 1.5 km, serving as the burial ground for the ancient Egyptian capital, Memphis. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases over 3,000 years of history, with structures dating back to the First Dynasty (c. 3050 BC) through the Ptolemaic and Roman periods.The most iconic structure at Saqqara is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the oldest complete stone building complex in the world. Built during the Third Dynasty (c. 2670 BC) by the architect Imhotep for Pharaoh Djoser, it represents a pivotal moment in ancient Egyptian architecture, marking the evolution from traditional mastaba tombs to pyramid structures. While the pyramid is currently closed to visitors, contemplating it from the outside remains a breathtaking sight.Saqqara is also home to other significant pyramids, including those of Unas and Teti, adorned with the oldest known Pyramid Texts. These texts, inscribed on the walls of the pyramid chambers, provide insights into ancient Egyptian funerary beliefs and spells for the pharaoh's afterlife.Beyond the pyramids, Saqqara boasts an array of mastaba tombs, offering a glimpse into the lives of nobles and high-ranking officials. The Tomb of Mereruka, with its 33 chambers, is one of the most elaborate, featuring intricate wall paintings and a life-like statue of the vizier. Other notable tombs include those of Kagemni, Ti, and the New Kingdom tombs of Horemheb and Maya.The Serapeum, a subterranean complex dedicated to the Apis Bulls, is another highlight of Saqqara. The massive granite sarcophagi, each weighing up to 60 tonnes, housed the mummified remains of these sacred animals.Saqqara is an active archaeological site, with new discoveries being made regularly. The Imhotep Museum, located on-site, displays artifacts from the necropolis, providing context and insights into its history and significance.