Cairo attractions

 Most people immediately think of the Giza Pyramids when they think about Cairo Attractions Egypt and the pyramids. Nonetheless, most people are unaware that these are not the only or even the earliest pyramids in Egypt.

The Great Sphinx next door and the sheer enormity of the Giza Pyramids are two aspects that contribute to their allure. But not far from the Giza Plateau is the Saqqara Necropolis, which is home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser and one of Cairo's attractions, the world's oldest pyramid and, incidentally, the world's oldest complete stone edifice, as well as an amazing collection of smaller pyramids and tombs from the Old Kingdom and the New Kingdom.

Cairo attractions

The Old Kingdom capital of Ancient Egypt, Memphis, had the royal necropolis known as Saqqara (sometimes written Sakkara). The Step Pyramid of Djoser (also known as Zoser), together with numerous lesser pyramids, tombs, and other ancient Egyptian structures, are among the necropolis's remnants. Saqqara is still a working archaeological dig site, with practically yearly discoveries outside of the necropolis that is designated for tourist viewing.

• Is it worthwhile to visit Saqqara when in Cairo?

The Step Pyramid of Djoser, which dates back to ancient Egypt, is regarded as the model for the smooth-sided pyramids of Giza (you can see more of that evolution with the Bent Pyramid of Dahshur)

In fact, there is more to see in Saqqara than on the Giza Plateau thanks to its numerous pyramids, mastaba tombs, Serapeum, etc. so enjoy The best Cairo attractions with Plan Egypt Tours.

Saqqara is only a short distance perhaps an hour from Downtown Cairo. If you don't want to travel alone, Plan Egypt Tours can easily put up a pretty pleasant half-day trip that includes the Dahshur Pyramids and possibly the remains of Memphis.

Compared to the Giza Pyramids, Saqqara is far more tranquil and empty.

•     What to see in Saqqara?

As previously mentioned, Saqqara is divided into a tourist destination that is open to the public and an active excavation site. For obvious reasons, you won't be allowed to investigate the dig site.

Local insider tip: Not all of the following are regularly accessible to the general public; occasionally, they are closed for maintenance or are in rotation. Unfortunately, you have to actually be there to find out what's open and what isn't.

The important locations in the necropolis are as follows, and you can get to them all by car within a short distance, or you can walk there but watch out for the sand and sun:

• The Best way to get Saqqara

Making arrangements with a local tour company to be picked up and driven to Saqqara is the easiest and most convenient method to get there. You may even add on any additional attractions you'd like, such as the Dahshur Pyramids or Memphis. You may hold a single large Pyramids day and incorporate the Giza Pyramids as well.

• General local advice when traveling to Saqqara:

- There is a lot to see in your Cairo attractions, as you can probably see by now, so if you want to see everything and go inside every tomb, it will take you at least half a day. You'll need to condense your time at Saqqara if you wish to go as part of a longer tour that includes the Giza Pyramids, Saqqara, and Dahshur.

- Bring your own water because there are no eateries or cafes there (there are a few touts selling water & sodas but for exorbitant touristic prices)

- If you are sensitive to the sun, bring sunscreen and a hat because the sun is powerful.

- Saqqara is a fantastic location to be able to see the remaining pyramid fields in the distance: Pyramids in Giza, Dahsur, and Abu Sir

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