Museums #5 in Giza

The Great Pyramid of Giza

4.7 · 31,779 reviews
Awe-inspiring and physically intense
The Great Pyramid of Giza, Al Haram, Nazlet El-Semman, Al Haram, Giza Governorate 3512201, Egypt
Interesting facts
1

The pyramid's four faces are oriented almost perfectly to the true cardinal points of the compass.

2

The internal temperature of the pyramid remains constant at approximately 20 degrees Celsius year-round.

3

The mortar used between the limestone blocks is of unknown composition and remains stronger than the stone itself.

4

The pyramid was originally accessed via a hidden swivel door system located on the north face.

5

The pyramid's weight is estimated at roughly 6 million tons.

6

Mathematical constants Pi and Phi appear to be incorporated into the pyramid's proportions, though scholars debate if this was intentional.

7

The structure sits on a natural limestone hill which was integrated into the building design to provide a stable foundation.

Overview

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the oldest and largest of the three pyramids in the Giza Necropolis, built as a tomb for the Pharaoh Khufu during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom. Standing at an original height of 146.6 meters, it remained the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3,800 years. The structure is composed of approximately 2.3 million limestone and granite blocks, with some stones weighing up to 80 tons. Internally, the pyramid features the King's Chamber, the Queen's Chamber, and the Grand Gallery, an ascending corridor of corbelled masonry. Unlike typical Egyptian tombs, it contains internal shafts that align with specific constellations. It was originally encased in highly polished white Tura limestone that reflected sunlight. The pyramid is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World to remain largely intact. It is situated on the Giza Plateau, serving as the focal point of a larger funerary complex including mortuary temples and subsidiary pyramids.

Photo spot

The Panorama Point located on the desert plateau provides an elevated vantage for capturing all three major pyramids in one frame.

Insider tips

Bring a high-quality flashlight for navigating the low-ceiling, dimly lit internal passageways.

Hydrate well before entering, as the internal chambers lack ventilation and become very warm.

Consider visiting the Solar Boat Museum site nearby to understand the funerary context of the tomb.

What to avoid

Do not accept unsolicited offers for 'official' guided tours or camel rides from individuals near the entrance; use only licensed personnel at designated gates.

Etiquette

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended out of cultural respect; climbing the exterior of the pyramid is strictly prohibited by law.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in winter; the temperature is mild and crowds are significantly smaller before midday tour buses arrive.
Address
The Great Pyramid of Giza, Al Haram, Nazlet El-Semman, Al Haram, Giza Governorate 3512201, Egypt
29.979, 31.134
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsKing's Chamber, Grand Gallery, and the Subterranean Chamber

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in winter; the temperature is mild and crowds are significantly smaller before midday tour buses arrive..

The Panorama Point located on the desert plateau provides an elevated vantage for capturing all three major pyramids in one frame.

Close by you'll find Giza Necropolis, Great Sphinx of Giza, The Grand Egyptian Museum.