Pyramids of Giza Entrances | Gates, Exits & Getting There
The Entrances to Pyramids of Giza
Once you have your tickets, head to one of the two entrances to the Pyramids of Giza complex. One is next to the Great Pyramid, near the Marriott Mena House hotel. The second is further down from the pyramids in front of the Sphinx.
Which Entrance Should I Use?
Pyramids of Giza - Great Pyramid Entrance
- Where: Located on the north side near the Great Pyramid, off Al Haram Road, this one is near the Marriott Mena House hotel.
- Entrance: A large opening of 1.7 m height and 1.1 m wide, made from limestone casing.
- Best for: Tour buses, solo tourists, and if you are arriving by taxi or Uber
- Wait time: It usually takes about 40-50 minutes to enter the site from this entrance. On crowded days, more.
- Close to: Grand Gallery and King’s Chamber in the Great Pyramid
- Pro tip: Use this entrance if you want easier access to the Panoramic point. It is a walk, but less than the other entrance.
Pyramids of Giza - Sphinx Entrance
- Where: Located on the east side of the Pyramids of Giza, this entrance is in front of the Sphinx. Look for Pizza Hut!
- Entrance: The opening is about 1.1 meters high and 0.8 meters wide.
- Best for: Entry to the Sound & Light Show, usually less crowded than the Great Pyramid Entrance. It’s also a different perspective to the usual one if you are interested in photography.
- Wait time: 30-40 minutes at peak time.
- Close to: The Sphinx and the Queen’s chamber
- Pro tip: Getting to the Great Pyramid, the panoramic spot and other monuments is an uphill climb of up to 3 kms. Use the other entrance to minimize the uphill walk.
Book Tickets to Visit the Pyramids of Giza
Getting There
By Metro: Cheapest
The cheapest way to get to the Pyramids of Giza is by metro. The Giza Metro station is located on Line 2 of the Cairo Metro. The station is about 8 kilometers from the Pyramids of Giza. The journey takes about 15 minutes.
By Taxi: Most Comfortable & Easy
A taxi is a more expensive option, but it is also more convenient. Taxis are readily available in Cairo. The journey from central Cairo to the Pyramids of Giza takes about 30 minutes. Uber is the easier way to get there, but make sure you have a local number and know Arabic numbers as the plates are in Arabic.
By Tour Bus: Most Convenient
There are a number of tour companies that offer tours to the Pyramids of Giza. This is the most expensive option, but it is also the most convenient. The tour bus will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Pyramids of Giza. The tour will also include a guide who will explain the history of the pyramids.
By Foot: Perfect for Sightseeing
It is also possible to walk to the Pyramids of Giza from central Cairo. This is the most challenging option, but it is also the most rewarding. The walk takes about 2 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pyramids of Giza Entrances
- There are two entrances to the Pyramids of Giza complex.
- Great Pyramid Entrance: This one is north of the Giza plateau, next to the Great Pyramid. It can be reached from Al Haram Road near the Marriott Mena House Hotel. This is used mostly by tourists.
- Sphinx Entrance: The second entrance is to the east of the Giza plateau, in front of the Sphinx. This is also the entrance for the Sound & Light Show, and there are numerous shops and restaurants near this entrance, including Pizza Hut.
The closing time of the Pyramids of Giza varies between 4 PM and 5 PM depending on the time of the year.
Yes, tourists can enter the Pyramids, but access can be limited and depends on the conservation and preservation efforts at the time of your visit. Also, additional tickets are usually required to enter the pyramids themselves.
The Pyramids of Giza tickets start at EGP 200 per person for adults, and EGP 100 for children and students. You can book your tickets here.
Despite many theories and legends, no secret entrances have been officially confirmed. There is ongoing exploration and research, with new tunnels and chambers sometimes discovered, but these are not typically accessible to the public. If you happen to discover any, email us on support@headout.com
Generally, it is safe to enter the pyramids. However, be prepared for narrow passageways, steep inclines, and hot, humid conditions. Those with claustrophobia or mobility issues may find it difficult.
Inside the Pyramids, you can see ancient burial chambers, passageways, and some hieroglyphics. The Great Pyramid of Giza has three known chambers: the King's Chamber, the Queen's Chamber, and the Subterranean Chamber.
Yes, there are certain rules to protect the Pyramids. For instance, touching the walls, flash photography, and bringing food or drinks inside are usually prohibited.
It takes at least 4-6 hours to explore the Pyramids of Giza in their entirety. If you’re a history buff, then leave about two days to go through it all.
