8-Hour Memphis and Saqqara Tour from Cairo with Traditional Lunch

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Discover Memphis, the former capital of Old Kingdom Egypt, with the colossal statue of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx
• 02 Marvel at the Step Pyramid of Djoser, a landmark in the evolution of pyramid construction
• 03 Explore the tomb of Mereruka and the Pyramid of Teti at the Saqqara Necropolis
• 04 Savour a traditional Egyptian lunch at a local restaurant
• 05 Browse local gift shops for handcrafted souvenirs and traditional artifacts

Spend a full day exploring some of ancient Egypt's most important archaeological sites from Cairo. Travel to Memphis, the former capital of Old Kingdom Egypt, to see the colossal statue of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx, then continue to Saqqara to visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the tomb of Mereruka, and the Pyramid of Teti. Along the way, learn how these monuments shaped the evolution of pyramid construction and ancient burial architecture. The experience also includes a traditional Egyptian lunch and time to browse local gift shops for handcrafted souvenirs and traditional artifacts.

Travel to Memphis, the former capital of Old Kingdom Egypt, to see the colossal statue of Ramses II and the alabaster Sphinx, then continue to Saqqara to visit the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the tomb of Mereruka, and the Pyramid of Teti.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Hours

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Cairo, Saqqara, Memphis

Languages Arabic, Dutch, English

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Transfer to Ancient Memphis

• 7:00 AM - Your guide will greet you in your hotel lobby, holding a sign with the tour name.
• Begin your journey with a comfortable drive to the ancient city of Memphis.
• 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM - Explore the historic remains of Memphis, the capital of Old Kingdom Egypt, including:
  • the colossal statue of Ramses II
  • the alabaster Sphinx
• Your guide will provide detailed insights into the city's significance and its notable pharaohs.

2

Day 02

Explore the Saqqara Necropolis

• 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM - Take a short drive to the Saqqara Necropolis, an expansive burial ground famous for its pyramids and tombs.
• 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM - Enjoy a guided tour of Saqqara and explore the following places:
  • the Step Pyramid of Djoser
  • the tomb of Mereruka
  • the Pyramid of Teti
• Learn about the architectural innovations that shaped ancient Egyptian pyramid building, and explore the intricacies of the tombs and structures.

3

Day 03

Traditional Egyptian Lunch and Gift Shops

• 12:45 PM to 1:45 PM - Visit a nearby authentic Egyptian restaurant and enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring traditional dishes such as koshari, grilled meats, fresh salads, and local desserts, offering a true taste of Egyptian cuisine.
• 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM - Visit local gift shops to browse and purchase unique souvenirs, including handcrafted items and traditional artifacts. This stop allows you to take a piece of Egypt home with you.

4

Day 04

Return to Your Hotel

• 2:45 PM to 3:00 PM - Conclude the tour with a summary as you return to your hotel.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• Expert Egyptologist guide: guided tour of Memphis and Saqqara by a knowledgeable guide
• Transportation: comfortable transportation to and from your hotel
• Traditional Egyptian lunch: enjoy a meal at a local restaurant featuring authentic Egyptian cuisine
• Visit to local gift shops, offering an opportunity to browse and purchase unique souvenirs
• Small group experience: personalized experience with a small group size

What's Not Included

• Entry fees:
  • Memphis: 150 EGP per adult or non-Egyptian (can be booked online at EgyMonuments)
  • Saqqara: 450 EGP per adult for non-Egyptians (can also be booked online at EgyMonuments)
• Personal expenses: any personal purchases, including souvenirs at the gift shops
• Gratuities: tips for the guide and driver
• Drinks during lunch: unless specified otherwise, drinks are not included with lunch

What to bring

• Comfortable walking shoes: the terrain at Memphis and Saqqara can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
• Hat and sunglasses: protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Sunscreen: apply sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun, especially during the outdoor portions of the tour.
• Water bottle: stay hydrated throughout the day; it is advisable to bring a reusable water bottle.
• Camera: capture the stunning sights of Memphis, Saqqara, and the surrounding areas.
• Lightweight clothing: dress in comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather, and it is better to check the weather on the tour day.
• Cash or credit card: for entry fees, personal expenses, and tips. Most gift shops accept credit cards.
• Passport or ID.
• Personal medications.

Know before you go

• To make the most of your day, the tour begins at 7:00 AM. Please be ready in your hotel lobby at this time.
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking, sometimes on uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes and physical readiness are recommended.
• Egypt can be extremely hot during summer, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing, and bring sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle.
• Winters in Egypt are mild but can be cool, especially in the early morning and evening. Layered clothing is recommended to adjust to temperature changes throughout the day. A light jacket or sweater may be necessary for comfort.
• Staying hydrated is important. While water is provided during lunch, it is advisable to bring a personal water bottle.
• As you visit ancient sites and local communities, please dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
• Entry fees per adult to Memphis (150 EGP) and Saqqara (450 EGP) are not included in the tour price. These can be booked online in advance at EgyMonuments or paid at the sites.
• Photography is allowed at most sites, but some areas may have restrictions. It is best to ask your guide before taking pictures in certain locations.
• The visit to gift shops is optional. Prices may vary, and haggling is common practice in Egyptian markets.
• Please inform your guide of any medical conditions or dietary restrictions before the tour begins.
• Tips for your guide and driver are not included but are appreciated as a gesture of thanks for excellent service.
• The itinerary is flexible and may be adjusted slightly due to local conditions, but all key sites will be covered.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Cairo, Egypt

Tour start

Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.