The Giza Pyramids are undoubtedly one of the Middle East's main travel destinations. There are four places to visit when you arrive: the Great Pyramid (the Khufu Pyramid or Cheops), the Kafre Pyramid (or Chephren), the Menkaure Pyramid (or Mykerinos) and the Sphinx.
Visiting the pyramids, though, is more than just seeing them, taking a few images, and going away. Make sure that you don't miss the best parts when you go. or you can book a Nile Cruise If you book a tour or fly alone, here's what you need to see:
- Eastern Cemetery The Giza Eastern Cemetery is located to the east of the pyramids. Although it may not be as impressive as the great pyramids you've seen before, it's still worth a look!
This area includes the tombstones (called mastabas) containing the fathers, sisters, and most important officials of Khufu. To be buried here was considered a huge honor. Prince Ankh-haf belongs to the largest of the mastabas and is situated in the cemetery's northeast corner.
A mastaba is an ancient Egyptian dynasty rectangular tomb with sloping sides and a flat roof. They range in height from 17 to 20 feet and include an underground burial chamber with rooms above where the offerings could be kept by family members and worshippers.
- Camel Rides Next to the Sphinx parking lot are the village stables. Not only can you see horses and camels regularly used for transportation in this area, but you can also book a ride on one of them. They are kept in great condition, they provide gentle rides, and they come with the area's excellent guides. Go around sunset for the pyramid's best views.
Taking a camel ride around the pyramids might seem a little cliché, but it's one thing you won't regret! Avoid taking a camel ride or wandering around the pyramids from someone on the roadside. Camels can be aggressive so choose a trustworthy camel ride outfit, particularly if they are not safe and well-fed.
- Solar Boat Museum Not only were the legendary architects of ancient Egyptians, but they were also travelers. When the Great Pyramid's east and south sides were excavated in 1954, five deep cavities holding ships were found by archeologists.
Sadly, the Solar Barque now on display at the museum was split into thousands of pieces because it was offered up after the death of the kings. Teams have been working together to build the cedar-wood vessel for several years. Today, the museum's 4,500-year-old ship is on display.
- Sound and Light Show Book tickets to the spectacular sound and light show before flying to Giza. Here a brightly illuminated Sphynx tells the story of the pyramids and the ancients who constructed them by capturing sound.
Then lights were projected throughout the ancient buildings, including laser hieroglyphs used to highlight the story as would have been the ancient Egyptians. For an impressive grand finale, brightly colored lights are splashed across the houses!
- Western Cemetery Located on the western side of the Great Pyramid, Giza's Western Cemetery is a little less remarkable as it contains no royalty. Rather, it houses royal house staff members and high-ranking officials, a significant custom in ancient Egyptian culture.
Senedjemib-Inti's Tomb is a favorite spot for visitors. There are large columns at the entrance which are coated in hieroglyphics. The colors and patterns are stunning and have an endless background.