Visiting the Pyramids of Giza had always been on my dream list since I was a child, and standing there, admiring these ancient giants, was magical and unforgettable. Nothing quite prepares you for the moment you see them in person. They are massive, majestic, and inspiring – The only Wonder of the Ancient World still standing.
I am excited to share my experience and practical tips for making the most of your visit to the Pyramids of Giza.
Best Time to Visit the Pyramids of Giza
Our family trip to Egypt took place in late August. Not the ideal month to visit, due to the extreme heat, but it was the only time we had during the European school holidays.
We visited the Pyramids in the afternoon, which, to be honest, wasn’t the most comfortable time. The heat was intense, and the sun showed no mercy. If you can, I highly recommend planning your visit outside the peak summer months for a more enjoyable experience.
We booked our tour through the GetYourGuide app, which I’ve used on several trips and truly recommend, especially in places where getting around on your own isn’t easy. Our tour was nearly private, which made a huge difference. If you don’t speak Arabic (like me), having a guide helps with transport, logistics, and language barriers, making the whole visit feel safer and more relaxed.
Our visit to the Giza Complex started at the main entrance, near the Great Pyramid. We then moved to the back of the plateau for better views. We ended our visit via the exit near the majestic Sphinx.
Be Cautious
While having a guide was helpful, there were a few downsides to our particular experience. The tour felt rushed, and disappointingly, we didn’t get the chance to go inside the pyramids, something I had looked forward to. Although our guide assisted with logistics and language, he seemed more focused on upselling extras like camel rides and souvenir stops, which took away a bit from the wonder of simply taking in the site at our own pace.
Best Photo Spots and Tips
The best views of the pyramids of Giza aren’t right in front. Head to the back of the plateau, or off to the side, where the desert stretches out; that’s where the real magic happens. Whether you’re walking across the sand, posing on a camel, or just soaking it all in, those quiet desert views give you the most breathtaking photos and space to admire the majestic pyramids.
For better-looking photos, wear clothes in neutral tones like beige, black, white, or soft earth colours. These shades blend beautifully with the desert landscape and keep the focus on the pyramids of Giza, not on loud prints or bold patterns that can distract from the scene.
Be prepared for how the extreme heat can affect your gear. Even with today’s powerful smartphones and action cameras, Egypt’s summer temperatures can push devices to their limit. During my visit, the heat caused my phone and camera to overheat, shut down, and even produce distorted green-tinted photos. My quick fix? I placed my devices next to a cold water bottle for a few minutes to cool them down. It might sound odd, but it worked well enough to keep snapping!
What to Bring
When exploring the Pyramids, don’t leave without sunscreen, plenty of water, a hat or head covering, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. I highly recommend a wet scarf wrapped around your head to cool down. Under the scorching sun, it kept me cooler than any hat I’ve worn.
Even with a few minor setbacks, standing before the last remaining Wonder of the Ancient World was an unforgettable moment. It was a moment I’ll never forget, and one I think every traveller to Egypt should experience.