Tuesday morning, 8 a.m. A small group of five or six creatives – still half asleep but buzzing with anticipation – was picked up at the Dahab Hostel in Cairo by a white minivan. It felt a bit like a school trip: Who gets the back seat? Who brought sunscreen? The energy was high. Finally, it was time for what we’d been looking forward to for days – a visit to the pyramids.
Even the drive was an adventure. Traffic in Cairo is chaotic – cars squeezing into seven lanes side by side, mopeds and pedestrians darting in between. Noisy, colourful, and wild. So it was nothing short of a miracle that our van was still gleaming white, without a scratch! Once we left the city centre behind, we passed through suburbs decorated with huge banners showing ancient pharaohs. And then, all of a sudden, they appeared – the pyramids. Towering above the rooftops, quiet and colossal, they looked like something from another world. One of those rare moments when you pause and realise: I’m seeing something far bigger than myself.
The entrance area, part of a newly built visitor centre, was modern and well organised – with a large car park, clean design, and surprisingly: card payments only. No cash accepted. Some of us weren’t prepared for that. We chose a basic site ticket without entering the Great Pyramid. Our friend Florin had recommended saving the interior visit for a less crowded site with more atmosphere.
In fact, the site was wonderfully uncrowded. The sun was out, but it wasn’t too hot yet. From the entrance, air-conditioned shuttles took us to various viewpoints. The first stop gave us a breathtaking view of the three great pyramids. Stray dogs were napping in the shade near wooden benches. Some in our group – unable to resist – bought overpriced coffee. Camels were waiting for riders, but we politely declined. We preferred to continue by shuttle and then on foot.
Standing at the foot of the pyramids, you finally grasp their size. The stone blocks are massive, and the ground is uneven – you need to watch your step. Some of our group walked up to the entrance, even without inner access tickets. A small side building with stone carvings and statues was also open – though only after a brief standoff with a fake "guide" who tried to stop us. Eventually, with patience and the correct tickets, we got in.
Of course, the site was full of vendors – scarves, souvenirs, camel photo ops. Some of our companions even ended up with traditional head coverings. And then, near the lower gate: the Sphinx. Smaller than expected, but no less powerful. That gaze – ancient and mysterious – commands quiet reverence.
By midday it had become quite hot, so we returned to the main gate. From there we continued on to the Red and Bent Pyramids – less crowded, but just as fascinating. Entry here was cheaper, and some of my travel companions even ventured inside. I tried – a few steps in – but the thought of all those stone masses above me was too much. I stayed outside, waiting in the shade and enjoying the moment.
By late afternoon, we were back in Cairo – filled with impressions, sand in our shoes, and joy in our hearts. One of the best day trips I’ve ever taken.
For anyone who wants to dig deeper into the history of these awe-inspiring monuments, I highly recommend the podcast The History of Egypt. You’ll learn who built the pyramids, how massive they really are – and why they still count as one of the wonders of the world.
