The Complete Travel Guide to the Sphinx of Giza in Egypt
Explorers and travelers coming to Egypt for a trip will surely have the Great Sphinx of Giza on their list as an absolute must-see. You must have seen this iconic limestone statue in movies and pictures.
If you fantasize about Egyptian culture, you know that it is not just a marvel of ancient engineering but a symbol of Egypt’s rich history and enduring legacy. So, if you are packing your bags to travel to Egypt to see the Great Sphinx of Giza, read this travel guide to make your Egyptian trip and save yourself time and unnecessary stress.
What Is the Great Sphinx?
The Great Sphinx of Giza is a colossal limestone statue representing the Pharaoh Khafre. The pyramid is said to be carved out from a single limestone piece and stands facing the rising sun. Its exact purpose remains a topic of debate among historians, but it is widely regarded as a guardian of the pyramids.
How to Reach the Sphinx (for International Travelers)
International travelers who wish to travel to Egypt are required to hold an Egyptian tourist visa. Luckily, the online Egypt visa services have made it much easier and hassle-free for travelers to obtain an Egyptian tourist visa.
Today, there are certain countries that are allowed to obtain an Egypt e-Visa. You should check if your country’s name is there in the list of eligible countries for the Egypt e-Visa and opt for the Egypt visa online. To visit Egypt for activities that fall under tourism, like visiting tourist sites like the Great Sphinx of Giza, you must get yourself an Egypt tourist e-Visa.
Authorized Entry Ports for Egypt e-Visa Holders
Airports
- Alexandria Borg El Arab Airport
- Hurghada International Airport
- Luxor International Airport
- Cairo International Airport
- Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
Seaports
- Port Said Port
- Alexandria Port
Land Border Crossings
- Taba Border Crossing (from Israel)
- Rafah Border Crossing (for limited access)
Once you are in Egypt, you can hire local taxis, book from online ride-sharing apps like Uber, or join a guided tour. If you have landed in Cairo, expect 30 to 40 minutes from central Cairo to reach there. If you are using public transport, take Metro Line 1 to the El Giza station, then a microbus or local bus to the Sphinx area.
Stay aware of the current entry ports for Egypt e-Visa holders to avoid any confusion.
Best Time to Visit Sphinx of Giza
- Morning (5:00 AM – 8:00 AM): Enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Experience the golden hour light, perfect for photography.
Avoid midday visits, as the sun can be intense, and the site tends to be more crowded.
Tickets and Fees
Entrance to the Sphinx is included in the general ticket for the Giza Pyramid Complex and costs somewhere around EGP 700. Additional fees apply for accessing specific areas like the pyramids’ interiors or the Solar Boat Museum.
We advise purchasing tickets at the entrance and considering multi-attraction passes for a comprehensive experience.
Exploring the Sphinx Area
While at the Sphinx:
Dream Stele: Between the Sphinx’s paws, you will find the Dream Stele. This structure tells the story of how the pharaoh claimed divine right to the throne after a dream involving the Sphinx .
Panoramic Views: Climb to the Panoramic You will know why it is a point for breathtaking views of the Sphinx and the pyramids once you climb there.
Camel Rides: You can make your Giza trip more fun when you take a camel ride around the site. Always agree on a price beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
Photography Tips at the Sphinx of Giza
- Golden Hour: The best light for photos is during early morning or late afternoon.
- Tripods: Not permitted without a special permit.
- Vantage Points: The Panoramic Point offers an excellent view of the Sphinx and the pyramids together.
Dining Options Nearby
- On-Site: There’s a buffet restaurant near the Sphinx that serves meals with a view. Do not miss the ice cream stand nearby .
- Nearby: Restaurants like Khufu’s Restaurant and El-Dar Darak are within a short distance and offer a variety of cuisines .
Shopping and Souvenirs
Vendors around the Sphinx sell souvenirs such as papyrus paintings, statues, and jewelry. When you shop, know that bargaining with the shopkeeper is always an option. However, travelers must be cautious of aggressive sales tactics and always agree on a price before purchasing.
Additional Tips
Hydration: The temperature at Giza, as you may also be aware, is hot, especially at noon. Do not forget to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Sun Protection: You should apply sunscreen, especially if you are coming from a cold region and are not used to intense sunlight. Wear hats and glasses (you will look like a real explorer).
Respect Local Customs: When you are at the Giza, be aware of the rules there. If you are confused, you can hire a guide that will help you understand the history of the place and the rules there.
Avoid Scams: Where hiring guides can help you make your trip to the Sphinx faster and more understanding, be wary of unsolicited offers for guides or services.
Where to Stay
To stay around the Sphinx of Giza, you have pretty options, like JAZ Pyramids Resort, which is 5 KM away; Hotel SEQUOIA Pyramids View, which is approximately 1 km away; and Solima pyramids inn 500 m away.
Some hotels even provide free access to the Sound and Light Show if you book a room with a view.
Sound and Light Show for Cultural Experiences
Sound and Light Show: Held in the evenings, this show is special as it shows the history of ancient Egypt with the Sphinx and pyramids as the backdrop. You can purchase tickets for this sound and light show at the entrance.
Pharaonic Village: This is a living museum that is located nearby, and it offers reenactments of ancient Egyptian life. You will surely get a deeper understanding of the civilization.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I enter the Sphinx?
No, the interior of the Sphinx is not open to the public. When you purchase a standard ticket, you are only allowed to explore the surrounding areas of the pyramids.
- Are there any legends associated with the Sphinx?
In history, numerous myths surrounding the Sphinx are debated. This includes stories of hidden chambers and treasures beneath the statue.
- Is there another Sphinx like it?
While the Great Sphinx is the most famous, there are other sphinx statues in Egypt, including those at Luxor and Abu Simbel.
- How much time is enough to spend at the Sphinx?
You can spend a good 1 to 2 hours at the site. During this time, you can explore, click photographs and have fun.
- What basic amenities are there at the site?
Basic amenities such as restrooms and snack vendors are available near the entrance. However, if you wish for more extensive services, you can travel to nearby areas in Giza or Cairo.
The Bottom Line
So you can visit Egypt hassle-free if you are an eligible citizen for the Egypt e-Visa. Just make sure of the duration of your stay and the number of visits you would make in Egypt so you can fill out the Egypt e-Visa application form for the right Egypt e-Visa type.