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Inside Egypt offers a private Great Pyramid of Giza tour designed for travelers who want rare access, expert guidance, and a luxury experience beyond standard visits. Led by a licensed Egyptologist, this small-group tour (up to 20 guests) takes you inside the Great Pyramid and the Sphinx enclosure in the early morning, before the site opens to the public.
What’s Included in a Luxury Giza Tour?
How Is This Different From Standard Tours?
Most visitors see only the exterior of the Great Pyramid and join large public groups. With Inside Egypt, you:
This exclusive Giza tour is designed for travelers who want a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the Great Pyramid like nobody else. No crowds. No noise. Just you, the Sphinx, and chambers most people never step inside.
The Pyramids of Giza were built during Egypt’s 4th Dynasty (circa 2600–2500 BC) as monumental tombs for Pharaohs Khufu (Cheops), Khafre, and Menkaure. The Great Pyramid of Khufu, originally clad in white Tura limestone, stood as the tallest structure in the ancient world and remains the last surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. Each pyramid complex included mortuary temples, satellite pyramids for queens, and mastabas for nobles. While Khufu’s pyramid holds the famous King’s Chamber, Khafre’s retains its limestone cap, and Menkaure’s once bore pink Aswan granite. Today, visitors can explore inner chambers, burial vaults, and the iconic Sphinx enclosure nearby. You can visit them as part of our exclusive 8-day Egypt Tour.
Key Highlights of Each Pyramid
Khufu (Cheops): The Great Pyramid, with King’s Chamber, Grand Gallery, and satellite pyramids.
Khafre (Chephren): Appears taller due to elevated ground, notable for its preserved limestone casing.
Menkaure (Mykerinos): Smallest pyramid, originally clad in Aswan granite, containing a decorated sarcophagus (lost at sea in the 19th century).
Surroundings: Mastaba tombs of royal officials, the Sphinx temple complex, and views stretching to Saqqara and Abusir on clear days.
Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops) Explained in Detail
Stunning, greatest, and controversial - these are just a few epithets that describe the Great Pyramid of Giza, build by pharaoh Cheops (2604-2581 BC), the first of the world's ancient wonders. Once upon a time the pyramid shone from afar, because the smooth white limestone walls reflected the sunlight. Unfortunately, the limestone veneer was looted and used to build new buildings in the city. However, it has yet to be discovered what happened to the pyramidion - the pyramid crowning the building.
Here is what you need to remember:
From the Grand Gallery you can then go to the King's Chamber. The King’s Chamber inside the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops) served as the pharaoh’s burial chamber. Unlike richly decorated later tombs, its design is raw and simple, reflecting the Old Kingdom’s focus on monumentality and symbolism over ornamentation.
- The first, on the left, was built for Khufu’s mother, with artifacts now displayed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.
- The other two pyramids belonged to his wives.
Pyramid of Khafre (Chephren)
The Pyramid of Khafre (2572-2546 BC) draws attention from the very first moment - its tip is still covered with a limestone veneer. At first it seems taller than its predecessor, the Great Pyramid. It is only an illusion. In fact, it is several meters lower, but it was built on a small hill.
Pyramid of Menkaure (Mykerinos)
The Mykerinos Pyramid (2539-2511 BC), the smallest of the royal buildings in Giza, was also the least lucky. Muhammad Ali liked her beautiful veneer of pink Aswan grant, and decided to use it to build an arsenal in Alexandria. Seven centuries earlier, one of Sultan Saladin's sons, wanting to find the entrance to the pyramid, made a hole in its wall. The British officer Howard Vyse (1784-1853) enlarged the opening. Only the latter managed to find the entrance to the pyramid (slightly below the tear). A granite sarcophagus decorated with motifs from the palace facade was found in the burial chamber. Unfortunately, the ship that carried him sank during his transportation to Great Britain.
The construction of these monumental structures has fascinated historians for centuries. For an in-depth exploration of how the Pyramids of Giza were built, visit National Geographic's detailed article.
Get full access to these amazing sites and be treated like a true VIP. Come and join us, you'll have an unforgettable time! Book your luxury Egypt tour today!
Inside Egypt offers seven different Egypt tour packages, which include the tour of Giza Pyramids and Sphinx. Given their proximity, most of our programs will cover the pyramids and Cairo in the same period of time.
17 Days of Enchantment: Long Nile Cruise Through Egypt
Embark on an extraordinary 17-day journey through Egypt, where luxury meets history on a mesmerizing Nile cruise. Each day unveils the wonders of ancient civilization as we navigate from the bustling streets of Cairo to the serene waters of the Nile. Experience iconic sites such as the mystifying Step Pyramid of Saqqara, the monumental Great Pyramid of Khufu, and the Sphinx. Your adventure continues as you sail from Cairo to Beni Suef, delving into the hidden gems of Tuna el-Gebel and Abydos. Enrich your understanding of Egypt’s storied past with visits to the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Edfu Temple. Finalize your epic quest in Aswan with explorations of the breathtaking Abu Simbel and Philae Temple, before returning to Cairo to uncover more of its ancient legends. The tour costs $6,995 (USD) per person in a twin/double room, based on two travelers. If you would like to have a room for yourself, the single supplement is $3,285 (USD).
Siwa Oasis: A Luxurious 15-Day Expedition
Indulge in the allure of ancient Egypt on our 15-day luxury tour, a harmonious blend of elegance, exploration, and cultural depth. Experience the mystique of Siwa Oasis, complemented by enriching stops in Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor, and Aswan—all within a cozy small group. From the grandeur of the Giza Plateau to the intricate wonders of the Grand Egyptian Museum, and the evocative Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa to the bibliophile’s paradise, Bibliotheca Alexandrina, every moment is a discovery. Recharge amidst the tranquility of Siwa’s freshwater lakes and soothing hot springs. Sail down the majestic Nile, wandering through Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple, and the royal resting place of the Valley of the Kings. The tour costs $7,155 (USD) per person in a twin/double room, based on two travelers. If you would like to have a room for yourself, the single supplement is $2,995 (USD).
Our 14 Days in Egypt Tour takes you to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Pyramid plateau in Giza to Dahshur with a private tour, where you will get to see more than the King's Chamber. Visit Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis, Historic Cairo, and the Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae and Wadi Al Hitan (Whale Valley) in Fayoum. Our Around Egypt in 14-days tour also includes a 7-day cruise on the Nile, a visit to the Egyptian Museum and National Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Cairo, a trip to Alexandria, as well as a visit to a Nubian village. The tour costs $6,895 (USD) per person in a twin/double room, based on two travelers. If you would like to have a room for yourself, the single supplement is $2,575 (USD).
Dahabiya Nile Cruise
Experience Egypt on an exclusive 12-day Dahabiya Cruise for just 18 guests. Begin in Cairo with VIP access to the Great Pyramid, Sphinx, and the Grand Egyptian Museum, then sail from Luxor to Aswan aboard a graceful Dahabiya. Enjoy intimate luxury, personalized service, and serene Nile views as you explore the Valley of the Kings, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Abu Simbel with your expert Egyptologist guide. The price of the tour is $8,855 USD per person based on double occupancy. For guests wishing to have a private room, a single supplement of $4,555 USD applies.
Our 10-Day Tour of Egypt takes you to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Pyramid plateau in Giza to Dahshur with a private tour. Visit Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis, Historic Cairo, and the Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae. Our Exploring Egypt tour also includes a 4-day cruise on the Nile on the Luxor - Aswan route and a visit to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The Exploring Egypt tour costs $6,385 (USD) per person in a twin/double room, based on two travelers. If you travel alone and you want to stay in a single room, the supplement is $2,195 (USD).
Our 8-Day Egypt Tour takes you to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Pyramid plateau in Giza to Saqqara, with an inside tour of the Pyramid of Giza. Visit Ancient Thebes with its Necropolis, Historic Cairo, and the Nubian Monuments from Abu Simbel to Philae. The Golden Highlights of Egypt tour also includes a 3-day Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor and a visit to the Egyptian Museum and the Museum of Egyptian Civilization in Cairo. Our Golden Highlights of Egypt Tour costs $5,495 (USD) per person in a twin/double room, based on two travelers. If you want to have a room for yourself during this tour, the single supplement is $1,995 (USD).
Eclipse Over Egypt: An Enchanting 7-Day Journey
Prepare for an awe-inspiring adventure as you witness the rare total solar eclipse of 2027 in the enchanting backdrop of Luxor. Our 7-day expedition offers the ultimate celestial experience, with the longest eclipse duration hitting a breathtaking 6 minutes and 23 seconds on August 2, 2027. Revel in the ancient mysteries of the Giza Plateau, explore the majestic Sphinx and Great Pyramid, and wander through the sacred grounds of Karnak and Luxor temples. Venture into the mystical Valley of Kings and Queens, and conclude your experience with a historic finale at Cairo’s Citadel of Salah Din and the bustling El-Khalili Bazaar. Immerse yourself in a blend of ancient history and celestial wonders, complete with first-class accommodations and personalized cultural excursions across Egypt’s stunning landscapes. The tour costs $11,895 (USD) per person in a twin/double room, based on two travelers. If you would like to have a room for yourself, the single supplement is $5,785 (USD).
Yes. Inside Egypt handles all ticketing for you, including entrance to the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Sphinx enclosure, and other major sites listed in your itinerary. Through our long-standing cooperation with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, we secure special permissions that grant private access to areas normally closed to the public, such as the Queen’s Chamber, the Subterranean Chamber, and standing directly between the paws of the Sphinx.
All required Giza Pyramid tickets and entrance fees are included in your tour package price, ensuring a hassle-free, VIP experience. Guests do not need to purchase tickets separately—everything is arranged in advance for a seamless visit.
Yes. Inside Egypt guests enjoy exclusive, early-morning access to the Great Pyramid of Khufu before the Giza Plateau opens to the public. This privilege, usually reserved for heads of state and royalty, allows you to explore the pyramid without crowds.
Recognized for its universal value, the Giza Plateau is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Memphis and its Necropolis – the Pyramid Fields from Giza to Dahshur.”
During the tour, a licensed Egyptologist guide leads you through the interior, explaining the history, construction techniques, and symbolism of each chamber. Unlike standard tours, you’ll see not only the King’s Chamber but also the Queen’s Chamber and the Subterranean Chamber - areas normally closed to the public, opened especially for Inside Egypt guests by the Director General of the Giza Plateau.
Your VIP experience also includes private access to the Great Sphinx enclosure. While most visitors view the Sphinx from afar, you’ll stand directly in front of this colossal monument, close enough to see its paws up close.
This rare access transforms the Pyramid of Giza interior tour into a once-in-a-lifetime experience available only through Inside Egypt.
For official visitor information, including opening hours and guidelines, visit the Ministry of Antiquities' page on the Giza Plateau.
Here are some of the chambers and key features that visitors can expect to see inside the Great Pyramid:
Entrance and Ascending Passage: The trip to the Giza Pyramid begins at the entrance on the pyramid's north side. Visitors will navigate the Ascending Passage, a long, narrow corridor that leads to the Grand Gallery.
Grand Gallery: The Grand Gallery is a remarkable feature of the Great Pyramid. It is a towering corridor with a height of about 28 feet (8.5 meters) and a length of approximately 150 feet (46 meters). The walls are intricately constructed with corbelled blocks, creating a visually stunning architectural display.
Queen's Chamber: Located on the east side of the pyramid, the Queen's Chamber is a smaller chamber that was likely intended for symbolic purposes rather than for an actual queen. Visitors can explore this chamber and observe its unique architectural elements, including the granite sarcophagus.
King's Chamber: The King's Chamber is one of the most significant chambers in the Great Pyramid. It is larger than the Queen's Chamber and contains a granite sarcophagus. The chamber's walls are made of polished limestone, and its ceiling features massive granite blocks arranged in a corbelled pattern. The purpose of the King's Chamber remains debated among historians and archaeologists.
Subterranean Chamber:This chamber is located beneath the pyramid and features a rough-hewn appearance. This chamber is believed to have been unfinished, as the builders likely abandoned construction plans for it.
Visitors to the Giza Pyramid may only find a few artifacts within the Great Pyramid itself, as most of them have been moved to museums. However, the granite sarcophagi found in the King's and Queen's Chambers are significant examples of the artifacts associated with the pyramid's construction, and they can both be seen up close.
Your Giza Pyramid tour is led by licensed Egyptologists and archaeologists who combine deep academic expertise with engaging storytelling. Unlike general guides, they explain the construction, symbolism, and secrets of the Great Pyramid, the Sphinx, and the wider necropolis in ways that are interactive, memorable, and easy to understand. With Inside Egypt, you experience the pyramids through the eyes of experts who bring ancient history vividly to life.
The Giza tour starts in the early hours - between 6 and 7 am. when the Giza plateau is closed to other visitors, as our guests can take part in the Pyramid of Giza inside tour. During this time, guests will visit three chambers in the pyramid with the Giza travel guide. In addition to the King's Chamber, they also enter the Queen's Chamber and the Subterranean Chamber, which are normally closed to visitors.
Following the Great Pyramid of Giza tour, from 7 to 8 a.m. there is a tour of the Great Sphinx.
At 08:30 a.m, you will move on to the public visit to the enchanting Sphinx Valley, home to an exquisite small temple nestled adjacent to the resplendent Khufu. Next, we return to the Great Pyramid and look at it from the outside with the guide and explore its surroundings. Then we will visit the Pyramids of Khafre and Menkaure from the outside.
Later on our VIP tour, we will go to the viewpoint from where you can take a picture with the three pyramids in the background. This exclusive view from here is breathtaking.
Lunch is served at the Nine Pyramids Lounge restaurant between 11:30 and 12 noon on the Giza Pyramid tour. It's lunch with an amazing view in a unique setting, with the Giza necropolis in the background.
Our Great Pyramid of Giza tour is unique, and by taking part in the exclusive Inside Egypt tour, you will have the best possible experience and be treated as a VIP throughout your trip.
Yes, you will get to spend time in the Giza necropolis on a private tour, Giza Pyramids and Sphinx - venture inside the Great Pyramid, visiting the King's chamber. There are two other chambers that Inside Egypt guests can see that are closed to the public.
That's not all! You will be accompanied by our knowledgeable tour guide for the Giza Pyramid, who will share with you the most interesting facts about the pyramids and the Great Sphinx, the latter of which you will get up close to the Great Sphinx. Inside Egypt, VIP guests are given access to the Sphinx's enclosure, giving you and our other VIPs the perfect opportunity for a selfie with the most famous statue of all time.
When visiting the Giza Necropolis, it's important to dress appropriately for the weather, respect cultural sensitivities, and prioritize comfort during the tour. Here are some recommendations for attire, accessories, and footwear to help make your visit as comfortable as possible:
Egypt is hot, especially during the summer months, so choose lightweight and loose-fitting clothes that allow air circulation and help keep you cool during your tour of the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Out of respect for the local culture and religious customs, it's advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothing. Women may consider wearing long skirts or loose pants and covering their shoulders with a shawl or scarf.
Remember to wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap to protect your face and neck from the sun's rays when you visit the Great Pyramid of Giza. Additionally, apply sunscreen on any exposed skin to prevent sunburn.
Your visit to the Great Pyramid of Giza involves a lot of walking and exploring, so it's essential to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes with good support. Opt for sneakers or sturdy sandals that can handle uneven terrain.
Protect your eyes from the sun at all times during your trip to the Giza Necropolis by wearing sunglasses with UV protection.
Carrying a lightweight scarf or shawl can serve multiple purposes on our tour. It can provide additional sun protection, and can cover your head or shoulders if needed for cultural reasons.
Bring a small backpack or shoulder bag. A small bag can be useful for carrying essentials such as water, snacks, a camera, and personal belongings.
It's important to stay hydrated throughout the day even as you tour inside the Pyramid of Giza. Carry a water bottle and drink plenty of fluids throughout your tour.
Yes! If you prefer exploring historic Cairo and Egypt at your own pace, you can book a private tour with Inside Egypt. Our private Giza Pyramid tour lets you experience the Giza necropolis with your personal, experienced guide, without the constraints of a group schedule.
Why choose a private tour?
While our private tours may cost a bit more, the personalized experience, comfort, and exclusive access make it well worth it.
Book now to secure your private Giza Pyramid tour and enjoy a truly unforgettable experience in Egypt.