Day Tours

Memphis, Saqqara & Dahshur Private Cairo Day Trip

1 days$0/ per person

Discover Egypt's First Capital and the Pyramids That Came Before Giza Step beyond the famous Pyramids of Giza and explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Memphis, Saqqara and Dahshur on a private full-day tour from Cairo or Giza. This fascinating journey takes you through some of the most important stages in the development of ancient Egyptian civilization. Visit Memphis, the ancient capital of Egypt and home to the enormous reclining statue of Ramesses II. Continue to Saqqara, where you will discover the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser, widely regarded as one of the earliest monumental stone structures in Egypt. Then explore Dahshur, home to the remarkable Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid, which demonstrate the evolution of pyramid construction before the great pyramids of Giza. With a private Egyptologist and private air-conditioned vehicle, explore these ancient sites at your own pace and discover how Egyptian architects gradually transformed the royal tomb from a simple mastaba into the monumental pyramid.

Book Your Private Memphis, Saqqara & Dahshur Tour Go beyond the Great Pyramids and discover the extraordinary story behind their creation. Stand before the ancient monuments of Memphis, explore the revolutionary Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara, and discover the architectural experiments of Sneferu at Dahshur.

Tour Overview

Country

Egypt

Duration

1 days

Starts

Hotel

Ends

Hotel

Age Range

6 – 99

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Tour Guide

English speaking Guide

Hotel Rating

Meals Included

Optional Lunch

Tour Style

History & Adventure

Trip Type

Private

Guiding Style

Fully Guided

Tour Pace2/5

Physical Rating3/5

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

Ancient Egypt enthusiasts
History lovers & Archaeology enthusiasts
Families, Couples & Photographers
Architecture lovers & Students
Travelers who want more than the standard Giza experience
Visitors interested in the evolution of pyramid construction

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Tour Highlights

• Visit ancient Memphis, Egypt's historic capital • See the colossal reclining statue of Ramesses II • Discover the fascinating Memphis Open-Air Museum • Explore the ancient necropolis of Saqqara • Visit the famous Step Pyramid of Djoser • Learn how Imhotep transformed Egyptian architecture • See the ancient pyramid complex of King Djoser • Discover tombs and monuments from different periods of Egyptian history • Continue to Dahshur • See the unusual Bent Pyramid • Visit the impressive Red Pyramid • Learn how pyramid construction evolved before Giza • Enjoy a private Egyptologist throughout the tour • Travel comfortably in a private air-conditioned vehicle

Itinerary

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Memphis, Saqqara & Dahshur — How the Pyramid Was Invented
Tour OverviewTravel south of Cairo into the ancient necropolis landscape surrounding the former capital of Memphis. Your private Egyptologist will guide you through three extraordinary archaeological destinations: Memphis → Saqqara → Dahshur Together, these sites tell the story of the development of ancient Egyptian architecture and royal power over several centuries.
Tour Details• Duration: Full Day • Departure: Cairo or Giza • Destinations: Memphis, Saqqara & Dahshur • Tour Type: Private • Transportation: Private air-conditioned vehicle • Guide: Private English-speaking Egyptologist • Pickup: Cairo or Giza hotel • Meals: Optional lunch • Return: Cairo or Giza hotel • Suitable For: Couples, families, history lovers, photographers and archaeology enthusiasts
Detailed ItineraryMorning – Pickup from Cairo or Giza Your private driver and Egyptologist will meet you at your Cairo or Giza hotel. Depart in the morning for the ancient archaeological region south of Cairo. As you leave the modern city behind, your guide will introduce you to the history of ancient Memphis and explain how this region became one of the most important centers of Egyptian civilization. The tour begins at Memphis, followed by Saqqara and Dahshur.
MemphisDiscover Egypt's Ancient Capital Your first stop is Memphis, one of the most important cities in ancient Egyptian history. Memphis served as a major political and religious center for much of ancient Egypt and was closely associated with the god Ptah, an important creator deity and patron of craftsmen. The city's strategic position near the Nile and the entrance to the Nile Delta helped it become an important center of administration, trade and culture. Although much of ancient Memphis has disappeared or lies beneath the modern landscape, important monuments and statues remain at the archaeological site.
Memphis Open-Air MuseumExplore the open-air museum and archaeological remains of ancient Memphis. One of the site's most impressive attractions is the enormous colossal statue of Ramesses II. The statue depicts the powerful New Kingdom pharaoh lying on his back. Although the lower legs are missing, the enormous scale and craftsmanship of the monument provide an extraordinary impression of the artistic achievements of ancient Egyptian sculptors. Your Egyptologist will explain the significance of Ramesses II and his enormous building program throughout Egypt.
Ramesses II at MemphisMeet One of Egypt's Greatest Pharaohs Ramesses II, also known as Ramesses the Great, ruled Egypt for more than six decades and became one of the most famous pharaohs in Egyptian history. He commissioned temples, statues and monuments throughout Egypt. His name appears on monuments from the Nile Delta to Nubia. At Memphis, you will have an opportunity to see one of the impressive colossal representations associated with his reign. Your guide will explain the difference between the historical Ramesses II and the image of the idealized divine king presented in ancient Egyptian art.
The Alabaster Sphinx of MemphisDepending on current site access, explore the Alabaster Sphinx of Memphis, another important surviving monument. The sphinx combines the body of a lion with a human head and reflects the ancient Egyptian tradition of representing royal strength and divine authority. Your Egyptologist will explain how sphinx imagery evolved throughout Egyptian history and how it was used to symbolize protection and kingship.
SaqqaraThe Birthplace of the Step Pyramid Continue to Saqqara, one of Egypt's most important archaeological sites. Saqqara served as a vast necropolis for the ancient capital of Memphis. The area contains monuments and tombs dating across many periods of Egyptian history. The most famous monument at Saqqara is the Step Pyramid of Djoser, one of the most revolutionary structures in the history of ancient architecture.
Step Pyramid of DjoserA Revolution in Egyptian Architecture The Step Pyramid was built for Pharaoh Djoser during the 3rd Dynasty. It is generally considered the earliest large-scale stone pyramid in Egypt and represents a crucial stage in the development of pyramid architecture. Before the Step Pyramid, royal tombs were generally constructed as mastabas with flat roofs. The Step Pyramid transformed this concept by stacking several mastaba-like levels on top of one another. The result was one of the world's earliest monumental stone structures.
Imhotep – The Master ArchitectThe Step Pyramid is traditionally associated with Imhotep, an extraordinary figure who served as an important official and architect during Djoser's reign. Imhotep became famous not only as an architect but also in later Egyptian history as a figure associated with wisdom and medicine. Your Egyptologist will explain how the Step Pyramid complex reflects Imhotep's architectural innovation and why the monument represents such an important turning point in ancient Egyptian construction.
The Step Pyramid ComplexThe Step Pyramid was not simply a pyramid. It formed the centerpiece of a much larger ceremonial complex containing: • Courtyards • Chapels • Ceremonial structures • Temples • Processional areas • Underground chambers Your guide will explain how the complex was designed to support royal rituals and the king's transition into the afterlife.
Saqqara's Ancient TombsSaqqara contains numerous private tombs decorated with scenes showing daily life in ancient Egypt. Depending on current access and your selected entrance tickets, additional tombs may be visited. These tombs provide a different perspective from the monumental pyramids. Instead of focusing only on kings and pharaohs, their walls show agricultural activities, fishing, hunting, food preparation, crafts, musicians and other aspects of everyday Egyptian life.
Ancient Egyptian Daily LifeOne of the most fascinating aspects of Saqqara is the opportunity to see how ancient Egyptians represented ordinary activities. Your Egyptologist can explain scenes depicting: • Farming • Harvesting • Fishing • Hunting • Food production • Animal husbandry • Music • Dancing • Crafts • Religious rituals These scenes help demonstrate that Egyptian tombs were not only places of burial but also carefully designed environments intended to support the deceased in the afterlife.
DahshurDiscover the Evolution of the Pyramid Continue to Dahshur, a remarkable royal necropolis south of Saqqara. Dahshur is especially important because its pyramids demonstrate the evolution of pyramid construction. Two of the most famous pyramids here are: • The Bent Pyramid • The Red Pyramid Together, they provide an extraordinary insight into the architectural experiments that eventually led to the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Bent PyramidA Unique Royal Monument The Bent Pyramid was built for Pharaoh Sneferu, an important ruler of Egypt's 4th Dynasty. The pyramid gets its name from its unusual change in angle. The lower section has a steeper angle, while the upper section becomes noticeably shallower. The change appears to reflect an adjustment made during construction. Your Egyptologist will explain the theories surrounding the pyramid's unusual shape and why it is so important to understanding the development of pyramid construction.
Why Is the Bent Pyramid Bent?The unusual shape of the pyramid has fascinated archaeologists for generations. One widely discussed explanation is that the builders changed the angle during construction because of structural concerns. By reducing the angle, they may have helped stabilize the monument and reduce the pressure on its internal structure. The exact reasons remain a subject of archaeological discussion. This makes the Bent Pyramid particularly interesting because it provides evidence of ancient Egyptian architects experimenting with monumental construction techniques.
Red PyramidThe First True Smooth-Sided Pyramid Continue to the impressive Red Pyramid, also built for Pharaoh Sneferu. The Red Pyramid is generally regarded as one of the earliest successful true smooth-sided pyramids. Its name comes from the reddish color of the limestone used in its construction. The pyramid represents a major development in Egyptian architecture and provides an important link between the earlier experiments at Dahshur and the monumental pyramids later constructed at Giza.
Entering the Red PyramidSubject to current site regulations and ticket availability, visitors may be able to enter the Red Pyramid. The interior involves descending and ascending narrow passages and corridors. The experience provides a fascinating opportunity to see the internal architecture of an ancient pyramid. Visitors should be comfortable with enclosed spaces and some physical activity if they choose to enter.
From Saqqara to Dahshur to GizaUnderstanding the Evolution of the Pyramid One of the most valuable aspects of this tour is seeing the development of pyramid architecture in chronological context. Step Pyramid of Djoser An early monumental experiment with stacking levels to create a pyramid-shaped structure. Bent Pyramid A major architectural experiment showing a change in the pyramid's angle during construction. Red Pyramid An important example of a successful true smooth-sided pyramid. Pyramids of Giza The culmination of many generations of architectural experimentation. Your Egyptologist will connect these monuments together so that you can understand how ancient Egyptian architects gradually developed the techniques that made the pyramids of Giza possible.
Optional LunchAfter exploring Memphis, Saqqara and Dahshur, enjoy an optional lunch at a local Egyptian restaurant. Choose from traditional Egyptian, oriental, international or vegetarian dishes. Your guide can recommend a restaurant according to your preferences.
Optional ServicesEnhance your Memphis, Saqqara and Dahshur experience with: • Entrance inside the Red Pyramid • Additional Saqqara tombs • Serapeum entrance • Traditional Egyptian lunch • Guide in another language • Private vehicle upgrade • Professional photography assistance • Additional archaeological sites • Giza Pyramids extension
Return to Cairo or GizaAfter completing your sightseeing, relax in your private air-conditioned vehicle while returning to Cairo or Giza. Your driver will drop you off at your hotel or another agreed location.
Why Memphis, Saqqara & Dahshur Are ImportantThe Giza Pyramids are undoubtedly Egypt's most famous monuments, but the story of pyramid construction did not begin at Giza. Memphis, Saqqara and Dahshur allow you to explore the centuries of experimentation that preceded the Great Pyramid. The sites reveal the evolution of: • Royal architecture • Stone construction • Pyramid design • Funerary traditions • Religious symbolism • Royal power For travelers interested in understanding how the pyramids were developed, this tour provides essential historical context.
Suggested Tour ScheduleA typical schedule may look like: 07:30 — Hotel pickup 08:00 and the coach groups arrive around 10:00. Being ahead of them is worth more than any inclusion you can add. 08:15 — Saqqara: the Step Pyramid of Djoser 09:45 — The Serapeum of Saqqara 10:30 — Mastaba tombs: Mereruka, Ti, Kagemni 11:15 — Imhotep Museum 12:00 — Dahshur: the Bent Pyramid 13:00 — The Red Pyramid 14:00 — Lunch 15:15 — Memphis (Mit Rahina open-air museum) 45 minutes. Closes at 16:00 — this is the hard constraint on the whole day (Tripadvisor listing). 16:15 — Return to Cairo Hotel drop-off around 17:00–17:30.
Overnight:
Your Hotel-Nile Cruise
Meals:
Optional Lunch
Visit:
Memphis Saqqara Dahshur
Entrance Fees:
$40
Arrival flight for Day 1
Book to land in time for the first day of the tour.
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Additional Info

Cost & Entrance Fees

Saqqara Pyramids
EGP
600
US$
12
Saqqara Complex
EGP
1000
US$
21
Pyramid interior
EGP
280
US$
6
Serapeum
EGP
340
US$
7
South Tombs
EGP
300
US$
6
Dahshur site
EGP
200
US$
4
Memphis
EGP
200
US$
4

Guest Brief

NotesPrices may vary slightly depending on currency exchange rates and government policy changes. Children, students, and Egyptian/African nationals often receive discounted entrance fees. Some sites like Valley of the Kings charge extra for special tombs (e.g., Tutankhamun’s tomb) RecommendedVisit: Morning unless otherwise noted Best Season: October–April Summer Strategy: Start early and avoid peak midday heat Walking: Comfortable walking shoes recommended Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen recommended Water: Carry drinking water Photography: Follow site-specific photography rules Tickets: Based on current published Ministry rates USD: Approximate conversion only Accessibility: Tell your tour coordinator in advance about mobility requirements Changes: Opening hours and ticket prices may change without notice

Early start; roughly 2 to 2.5 hours total driving across three sites
Sun protection is essential — Saqqara and Dahshur are open desert with almost no shade
Sturdy closed shoes; the ground is sand, loose limestone chips and uneven steps
Bring a small torch for the tomb and pyramid interiors
Pyramid interiors: the Red Pyramid at Dahshur involves a long crouched descent in hot, unventilated air with a strong odour — please tell us in advance if this is a concern. The Step Pyramid passage is far gentler and is a good alternative
Not suitable for wheelchair users; guests with heart or respiratory conditions, serious claustrophobia or in late pregnancy should skip the interiors
Card payment is standard at all gates; carry small EGP notes for restrooms and tips
Mobile-phone photography is generally free; professional gear may incur a fee

Season October through April is ideal. May to September is workable only as an early-start product — leave at 07:00, finish Dahshur by 13:00, and accept that afternoon interiors in the Red Pyramid are genuinely unpleasant in high summer. Do not sell a midday start in July or August. Saqqara remains an active excavation site with new tombs announced most years, including three New Kingdom rock-cut tombs at the Bubasteion necropolis reported in July 2026 (Ahram Online). That is a live marketing hook worth refreshing in your listing copy each season — and occasionally a reason a zone is closed off, so check with your handler before departure.

Nights You Will Stay

Extended your tour stayIf you wish to enjoy more time at your destination, extending your hotel stay or add hotel in Luxor or Aswan is easy. Notify Us Early. Inform us so we can check availability and secure your room for the additional nights with extra payment.

Meals

Optional Egyptian LunchBetween your sightseeing, enjoy an optional lunch at a local restaurant. Choose from traditional Egyptian and oriental cuisine, international dishes or vegetarian options. Your guide can recommend a restaurant according to your preferences. You can sample traditional dishes such as: • Koshari • Grilled meats • Falafel • Egyptian salads • Fresh bread • Traditional desserts Vegetarian meals can also be arranged. Lunch is optional unless specifically included in your selected package

Included

Lunch: Optional as reques

What Makes This Tour Special?

Memphis, Saqqara & Dahshur vs. GizaGiza → Best known for: • Great Pyramid of Khufu • Pyramid of Khafre • Pyramid of Menkaure • Great Sphinx Saqqara → Best known for: • Step Pyramid of Djoser • Imhotep • Ancient tombs • Memphis necropolis Dahshur → Best known for: • Bent Pyramid • Red Pyramid • Pharaoh Sneferu • Evolution of pyramid construction Memphis → Best known for: • Ancient capital • Ramesses II monuments • Ptah • Colossal statues • Alabaster Sphinx Visiting all three areas gives you a much broader understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization than visiting Giza alone.

What's included & what's not

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Included (3/3)

Not included (0 added)

Pricing

Essentials

Group departure

Signature

Small group (max 8)

Luxury

Private Guide & Driver

Additional Extras

Sound and light show

in Egypt are night events held at famous historical sites like the Giza Pyramids, Karnak Temple, and Philae Island

A Nile River dinner cruise

in Egypt is a 2 to 3 hour evening excursion featuring an open buffet, live music, cultural performances belly dancing and Tanoura shows

An optional lunch buffet

Usually features local or traditional dishes, side items, and fruits, though specialized diets (like strict vegan or allergen-free)

Good To Know

What does this Memphis & Saqqara tour include?+

Private transport, a private guide, entrance fees for four sites, a camel ride, lunch, and hotel pickup/drop-off in Cairo.

What makes this different from other full-day tours from Cairo?+

It uniquely combines a camel ride at Giza with a visit to the open-air Memphis museum, unlike most tours that pair Giza with Saqqara or Dahshur and skip the camel ride. 

What sites or experiences does this tour cover?+

Visits to the Giza Pyramids, Great Sphinx, Valley Temple of Khafre, Saqqara Step Pyramid, Memphis Open-Air Museum, plus a camel ride and lunch at a local restaurant. 

How long is this tour and when does it start?+

Approximately 8 hours with morning pickup and late afternoon return; start time varies by hotel location. 

What should I wear when visiting the pyramids and Saqqara?+

Comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle; a light jacket for winter. 

Are entrance fees included? +

NO, fees for Giza Plateau, Great Sphinx, Saqqara Step Pyramid, and Memphis Museum, camel ride, pyramid interior access is extra.

What is the best time of year for this tour?+

November to February for cooler weather; early morning starts recommended in summer to avoid midday heat.

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About this tour

Additional information

Confirmation

You receive written confirmation by email once your booking is accepted, usually within 24 hours.

Documents

A valid passport with at least 6 months' validity is required. We advise on visas for Egypt and Jordan before travel.

Pick-up

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in the tour city is included; we confirm your exact pick-up time the evening before.

Group size

Private departures run for your party only. Small-group departures are capped so everyone hears the guide.

Accessibility

Some archaeological sites involve uneven ground, steps and heat. Tell us about mobility needs and we adapt the pace.

Children

Family friendly. Child rates and car seats are available on request; infants usually travel free.

What to bring

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, modest clothing for religious sites and cash for tips.

Insurance

Travel insurance covering medical care and cancellation is strongly recommended and is not included in the tour price.

Cancellation & refund policy

30 days or more before departure

100% refund

15 – 29 days before departure

50% refund

14 days or less before departure

No refund

• Cancellations must be sent in writing to explore@exploreplus.net; the date we receive your email is the cancellation date.
• Approved refunds are returned to the original payment method within 14 working days.
• Third-party costs already paid on your behalf (domestic flights, Nile cruise cabins, special-event tickets, visas) are non-refundable once issued.
• Date changes requested 15 days or more before departure are free of charge, subject to availability; inside 14 days they are treated as a cancellation.
• If we have to cancel your tour for reasons within our control, you receive a full refund or a free date change — your choice.

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