Pyramids of Giza review by our experts

For travelers to Egypt, visiting the famous pyramids at Giza is rightfully at the top of the sightseeing list. This is one of the world's iconic sights, and the Great Pyramid is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that remains today.

Giza was used as a royal graveyard from the 4th dynasty. There are three major pyramids here, the largest – known as the Great Pyramid – was built for the pharaoh Khufu, called Cheops by the Greeks.

Each side or of the Great Pyramid measures 750 feet at the base, and with the original, smooth, limestone outer casing intact, the pyramid would have measured nearly 500 feet high, making it the tallest building in the world for more than four thousand years. Over 2 million blocks were used in its construction, each weighing an average of two and a half tons.

It is possible to go inside two of the pyramids – but if you want to do this, you should get to Giza early, as a limited number of tickets are available and these sell out early, especially in peak tourist season. The atmosphere is very close as you edge single file along the humid passageway. After a few minutes you will reach the King’s Chamber, which once housed the sarcophagus where the mummified remains lay – the rooms are empty now. It’s a great experience, but can be claustrophobic, and is not recommended for anyone who is uncomfortable in enclosed spaces.

A popular activity at Giza is a camel ride, which is a real highlight for many. Clomping around in the desert on the back of a camel (the “ship of the desert”) is a magical experience. It is important to agree on a price before you climb on; how much you pay will depend on your bargaining skills and whether you want a quick photo opportunity or an hour-long tour. Camels are tall creatures, and those with a fear of heights, or small children, may get a bit nervous. As you would expect at somewhere this famous, there are a multitude of hawkers and would-be guides eager to earn a crust. Their persistence can become annoying, even to seasoned travelers.

Many visitors are surprised at the proximity of the pyramids to Cairo. Giza is just a short way from the city center, on the western bank of the Nile. Egypt buffs may also want to visit the step pyramid at Saqqara – a forerunner to the more famous, true pyramids at Giza – or any other of the numerous burial sites in the vicinity.