Visit the Pyramid of Menkaure

























































What to expect at the Pyramid of Menkaure

Separate entry ticket required

Interior entry isn’t included in the standard Giza Plateau ticket; purchase an add-on at the venue.

Steep, narrow passage

Descend through a low, angled corridor; you may need to crouch.

Granite-lined antechamber

First chamber with sculpted false-door motifs typical of Old Kingdom funerary architecture.

Burial chamber

Deep within lies the granite-lined room where Menkaure’s sarcophagus once rested (now lost at sea).

Cooler but humid interior

Dim lighting, stone walls, and a still, warm atmosphere with limited ventilation.

Minimal displays

No carvings or treasures remain inside—what you see is the authentic ancient structure itself.

Physical effort

The descent and climb back up can be strenuous; not ideal for those with mobility issues or claustrophobia.

Why visit the Pyramid of Menkaure

Built by Pharaoh Menkaure

The pyramid was built around 2510 BC by Pharaoh Menkaure.

Smallest main pyramid

It is the smallest of the three main Giza pyramids, making it less crowded and more intimate to explore.

Limestone and red granite

The pyramid was constructed with limestone and features a striking Aswan red-granite casing.

Part of UNESCO Necropolis

Menkaure’s Pyramid is part of the UNESCO-listed Giza Necropolis.

Mortuary and Queen’s Pyramids

The site includes mortuary temple ruins and three smaller “Queen’s Pyramids” nearby.

Great photo opportunities

Visitors can capture stunning photos with Khafre and Khufu pyramids in the background.

How to visit the Pyramid of Menkaure

Opening hours: 7am to 5pm (last entry 4pm)

  • Exterior viewing: 30 to 45 minutes for photos and walking around the base.
  • Interior visit: Add 15 to 20 minutes for descending and exploring inside (separate ticket).
  • Combined visit: Allow at least 2 to 3 hours if you plan to visit all main pyramids and the Sphinx in one trip.
  • Extra time: Factor in queues, security checks, and time to browse small on-site shops.
  • Season: October – to April offers pleasant weather (20–26 °C / 68–78 °F) and clearer skies.
  • Time of day: Early morning (8–10am) has fewer crowds and softer light for photos.
  • Weekdays: Saturday–Thursday tends to be quieter than Fridays and public holidays.
  • Special tip: Sunset views from the plateau offer striking silhouettes of all three pyramids.
  • Situated at the southern end of the Giza Plateau, about 13 km (8 mi) from central Cairo.
  • Located within the UNESCO-listed Giza Necropolis alongside Khufu and Khafre pyramids.
  • The Queen’s Pyramids and Menkaure’s mortuary temple are right next to it for easy exploration.
  • By taxi/ride-share: Around 30–45 minutes from downtown Cairo depending on traffic.
  • By metro & bus: Take Cairo Metro to Giza station and a local bus or taxi to the Plateau entrance.
  • By tour bus: Many organized tours include transport plus a guide to all major pyramids.
  • Inside the Giza Complex: Shuttle buses, carriages, camels, or walking paths connect each pyramid.

Story behind Menkaure’s Pyramid

Built by Pharaoh Menkaure

The Pyramid of Menkaure was constructed around 2510 BC by Pharaoh Menkaure, who was the grandson of Khufu and the son of Khafre.

Purpose and significance

The pyramid was built as Menkaure’s tomb and reflects the funerary practices and royal power of the Old Kingdom.

Construction materials

The pyramid was made with limestone and red granite, highlighting a distinct architectural style compared to the other Giza pyramids.

Burial chamber

The interior originally housed Menkaure’s basalt sarcophagus, which is now lost, along with symbolic antechambers.

Queen’s Pyramids & Mortuary Temple

Three smaller pyramids were built for queens, and a mortuary temple nearby was used for rituals.

Cultural legacy

Although it is the smallest of the main Giza pyramids, Menkaure’s pyramid is historically important and forms part of the UNESCO-listed Giza Necropolis.

Inside the Pyramid of Menkaure

Interior access

  • Entry inside is allowed but requires a separate ticket from the standard Giza Complex ticket.
  • Tickets can be purchased on-site at the main entrance.

What you’ll see inside

  • A descending corridor leading deep underground.
  • A granite-lined antechamber with false-door motifs typical of Old Kingdom design.
  • The main burial chamber where Menkaure’s basalt sarcophagus once stood (now missing).

Atmosphere & experience

  • Narrow and steep passageways with low ceilings.
  • Dim lighting and a warm, humid interior with limited ventilation.
  • A raw, undecorated space showing authentic ancient construction.

Accessibility

  • Steep slopes and cramped spaces make it physically demanding.
  • Not recommended for visitors with mobility issues or claustrophobia.

Interesting Facts about the Pyramid of Menkaure

  • Red granite symbolism: The red granite used in the lower courses was likely chosen to symbolize royal power and eternity.
  • Archaeological finds nearby: Excavations around Menkaure have uncovered statues, offering tables, and ritual remnants, providing insight into Old Kingdom funerary practices.
  • Unfinished outer casing: Much of Menkaure’s outer casing was never fully completed, exposing the underlying core blocks.
  • Astronomical alignment: The pyramid is believed to be aligned with Orion’s Belt, reflecting ancient Egyptian cosmology.
  • Unique burial chamber: The interior features a granite-lined burial chamber with a simpler yet significant layout compared to Khufu’s pyramid.

  • More Pyramids of Giza Facts >

Things to do around the Pyramid of Menkaure

Explore other Pyramids

Visit Khufu and Khafre pyramids along with Menkaure for a complete Giza experience and walk around the complex and explore the Sphinx and Valley Temples nearby.

Inside the Pyramid Experience

Camel rides

Enjoy a camel ride around the Giza Plateau and capture stunning views of all three pyramids.

Camel Rides Around the Giza Complex

Quad biking & desert adventures

Ride a quad bike or ATV through the desert and combine it with pyramid sightseeing for an action-packed day.

Quad Biking Tour of the Pyramids

Sound & Light show

Attend the evening show at the Giza Plateau to see the pyramids illuminated while discovering their stories through dramatic lighting and narration.

Giza Sound & Light Show

Guided tours

Take a full-day trip from Cairo to explore the pyramids, the Sphinx, and the Egyptian Museum, with expert guides, transportation, and photo stops included.

Half Day Giza Pyramids & Sphinx Tour Guided Tour

Visitor tips for the Pyramid of Menkaure

  • Book online in advance: Always purchase tickets online to avoid scams and ensure a smooth entry.
  • Inside pyramid tickets required:  A separate ticket is needed to explore the interior of Menkaure; you can book this at the venue.
  • Bring essentials:  Wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and carry water for walking around the plateau.
  • Best time to visit:  Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and heat.
  • Plan for other attractions: Since Menkaure is part of the Giza complex, allocate time to visit Khufu, Khafre, and the Sphinx.

Best places to visit around the Pyramid of Menkaure

The Great Sphinx

See the iconic Sphinx statue, symbolizing ancient Egyptian power and mystery, located near the Giza Plateau.

Pyramid of Khafre

Explore the second-largest pyramid at Giza, including its mortuary temple and causeway.

Pyramid of Khufu

Discover the largest pyramid, also known as the Great Pyramid of Giza, with access to the surrounding temples.

Egyptian Museum of Antiquities

Visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities in Cairo to see thousands of ancient artifacts and mummies.

Khan El-Khalili Bazaar (Old Bazaar)

Explore the vibrant traditional market near the Giza Complex, full of souvenirs, crafts, and local flavors.

Full-Day Guided Tour of Giza Pyramids, Egyptian Museum & Khan El-Khalili Bazaar

Solar Boat Museum

Discover the ancient Khufu solar boat, carefully reconstructed and preserved for visitors to learn about funerary traditions.

Other ways to explore Giza

Guided Pyramid tours

Join expert guides to explore Menkaure, Khafre, and Khufu in detail. Learn history, architecture, and legends.

Full-Day Tour of Giza, Sphinx, Saqqara & Memphis

Nile Dinner Cruise

Experience dining on the Nile with views of Cairo’s skyline, live shows, and an open buffet. Combine with Giza tours for a full-day experience.

Luxury Nile Dinner Cruise

Full-day Giza & Cairo tours

Explore the entire Giza Plateau along with Cairo highlights like the Egyptian Museum. Perfect for first-time visitors.

Giza Pyramids, Museum & Bazaar Guided Tour with Female Guide & Hotel Transfers

Pyramid combo tickets

Explore the Giza Plateau and the Grand Egyptian Museum or other nearby attractions with combo ticket.

Pyramids of Giza + Grand Egyptian Museum Skip-the-Line Tickets

Frequently Asked Questions about the Pyramid of Menkaure

Can I go inside the Pyramid of Menkaure?

Yes, interior access is available with a separate ticket in addition to the Giza Complex entry. You can purchase the ticket directly at the venue. Expect narrow corridors, steep passages, and limited ventilation.

How long should I spend at Menkaure?

Visiting the pyramid itself typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. Combine with Khufu, Khafre, and the Sphinx for a 2 to 3 hour full Giza Complex visit.

Are guided tours available?

Yes, expert guides offer tours that include Menkaure, Khafre, Khufu, and the Sphinx. Private or small-group tours are available.

Is photography allowed inside?

Photography is generally allowed outside and in certain interior areas, but flash may be restricted to preserve the structure.

What should I bring?

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended.

When did Menkaure build this pyramid?

The Pyramid of Menkaure was built under the supervision of Pharaoh Menkaure around 2490 to 2472 BC. This pyramid was constructed to house the tomb and treasures of Pharaoh Menkaure. Ancient Egyptians believed that these pyramids would help their pharaohs continue their journeys into the afterlife.

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