A cheap transportation option to pyramids
In order to get to the pyramids at Giza, probably the most affordable method of transportation from the heart of Cairo is on the buses that run from Midan Tahrir, the central square in Cairo. It is simple to find the buses that will take you.
An easy way to get to the pyramids
The simplest method is to take a taxi. Be warned, as in many other countries, make sure you agree a sensible price with the driver before you depart. It might be worth while enquiring with a local as to what the trip on average should cost. Don’t forget that your hotel might offer a bus/tour package and that may be the best and easiest method, particularly if you are not the daring kind.
Travel options for the seasoned Traveller
For the tourist wishing to experience the region on a more traditional mode of transport, you will find camel and horseback services dotted around the city. Nothing surpasses exploring ancient Egyptian historic sites from atop a four-legged beast. Some people recommend horses over camels as camels can be somewhat problematic at times, especially if you have long hair, which I found out. But that, as they say, is another story.
See how I had envisioned my first camel ride, what can I say, I'm a romantic at heart:
When you arrive at the pyramids, you will no most likely be surrounded by tour guides and sellers of cheap tourist items, often children. Be resolute if you don’t intend to purchase then politely say no and move on. They will follow but will loose interest when the next coach load appear. You can always ask your hotel staff or a local ahead of time what the honest price should be for one of several possible tours prior to arriving or, indeed like I did, arrange a tour beforehand. You will find likely to be many who wish to separate you from your well earned money. Don’t forget that these guys, no matter how small or smiley, are hard seasoned professional sales men. Bartering is part of the culture so give it a go. It’s a great way of interacting with the locals. No one will be offended if you drive a tough bargain. If you’re not interested show no interest and keep walking.
Did you know? As of 2008 there are 138 pyramids discovered in Egypt. Most of these were built as tombs for the country's Pharoahs (Kings) and their consorts (Queens) during the Old and the Middle Kingdom periods (c.2630BC - c.1814 BC). The largest pyramid is the Pyramid of Khufu (also known as the "Great Pyramid" or the "Pyramid of Cheops"). See inside the Great Pyramid of Giza:There is also the somewhat smaller Pyramid of Khafre (or Kephren) and the relatively modest-sized Pyramid of Menkaure (or Mykerinus). There is also a number of smaller satellite edifices known as "Queen's pyramids"; and of course the Great Sphinx. Have I whetted your appetite? Yes? Great! Then see this video about the secrets of the pyramids at Giza. If not, then move on down!
Sound and Light Show
There's not much that I can say that those on Trip Advisor haven't and I quote:
"My boyfriend and I went to the Sound and Light show January 2010 and I wouldn't recommend people schedule this into the itineraries. If the seats add have been more comfortable we would both have gone to sleep. Definitely not worth the entry price." AMarilyn, Mebourne, Australia"Great show . I felt like I was living with the ancient Egyptians during building the pyramids ,watch them and live with the kings and queens of ancient times." Denskot, Mexico City
Summary: It's like Marmite; you either love it or hate it. Here a short clip of the Sound and Light Show, Giza, Egypt. Make up your own mind.
If after that clip you are busting to see the show you can then see more, much more, at the Sound and Light Show website.
