Where to stay in Giza

See

The pyramids and associated sites are on the plateau 8 km west of Giza downtown. You'll see them looming up as you approach along Al-Haram Road. You can enter the complex by the main gate at the western terminus of that road. You'll then progress anti-clockwise through the site, eventually to exit near the Sphinx. Alternativelly, you can buy a ticket and enter near the Sphinx; however, in that case, you'll walk up the hill. Both entrances can also be used as exits. Ignore the nay-sayers who say this place is not worth the bother: it definitely is. It's spacious and absorbs the crowds (which are greater on Friday when Egyptians come to visit on droves.)

• the main entrance
• Eastern entrance
• Great Pyramid of Giza
• Queens' Pyramids and Nobles' Tombs
• Pyramid of Khafre
• Pyramid of Menkaure
• Great Sphinx of Giza
• Grand Egyptian Museum

Do

Before you get on the back of a camel or horse, have a look at how they treat their animals. You might change your mind. If you anyway decide to take the offer of one of the horsemen or camel guys, make sure you discuss the price and where you go first. Ask to confirm it covers two people/two horses. Negotiate the price you want. At the end of the trip, when you get back to where you had agreed, get off the horse/camel, hand the man the agreed money and walk away. They will try to come up with all sorts of scams to get more money out of you. If you are happy and wish to give a tip, do it because you choose. Don't feel pressured into giving extra. Just walk away. They won't follow you.

• Cairo Horse Riding School
• FB Stables
• Pyramids Sound and Light Show
• Giza Zoo
• Mena House Oberoi Golf Course
• Orman Botanical Garden
• Pharaonic Village

Eat

Western fast food options are located opposite the main ticket gates to the Pyramid enclosure, Pizza Hut and KFC included, so you can munch on a Tower burger and sip on a Coke in air-conditioned comfort whilst gazing on the more than 4,000-year-old Sphinx across the road. Many may prefer a more authentic experience, although the novelty of the situation could be interesting.

Drink

Since Egypt is a Muslim country, alcohol is not generally permitted. It will generally only be served in hotels. You might find more options in Gezira neighborhood.

Stay safe

Climbing the Pyramids is dangerous and strictly illegal. It adds to wear and tear on the structure, and any stumble is likely to prove fatal. Also, it's hard gritty work and not nearly as cool as you'd imagined, so don't think about it. The Giza Pyramids, being the main tourist attraction in Egypt, attract millions of tourists each year. They likewise attract a large number of the most determined opportunists for miles around.