From April 2025, the entrances visitors have been using for decades are now closed and there is a new gate further west, and further from the pyramids and the Sphinx. It is now on the Fayoum Highway, southwest of the pyramids.
The Great Gate is the new entrance and visitor centre, where you can find exhibitions, rest areas, and bathroom facilities.
Once you purchase your tickets from machines or the counter, you board electric hop-on hop-off buses. Stations also have bathrooms. The shuttle system has five lines, with the main one (red line) taking visitors to the Panorama, Pyramid of Menkaure, Khafre’s Pyramid, and the Sphinx.
Previously visitors could enter by either the gate near Marriott Menna House or the Sphinx Gate by car. Private cars and tour buses will no longer be allowed on the plateau. The Sphinx Gate will be an exit though as of now, visitors on foot can still enter through this gate. The easiest is to buy your ticket online first.
This change has been controversial, with camel and horse owners protesting prior to the opening of the Great Gate. They now have to confine their operations and offerings within designated and comparatively isolated areas.
This project to restructure one of the world’s most famous destinations is said to have cost $30million. Other features include paved walkways, surveillance cameras, cafés, and souvenir shops.
As of now, it appears to be a work-in-progress with the camel and horse ride vendors. Many visitors did not like their aggressive sales tactics. I went to Giza with friends in 2015, one of whom was Jordanian and he actually did have to deal with this. Treatment of the horses and camels on the Giza Plateau and in tourism in Egypt (and other countries) is a grave issue. A 2019 Peta investigation turned up very disturbing evidence. While exploring the Giza Plateau on horseback was an amazing experience, it’s not something I’d do now.
Make your Cairo trip memorable – stay with a view of the pyramids, like at Marriott Mena House.
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Unforgettable Adventure from Cairo
Siwa Oasis is dunes, palms, salt springs, and not as well known as the pyramids in Egypt. Once an important religious site, Siwa Oasis is where the Temple of the Oracle of Amun is located. Alexander the Great came here to affirm his right to rule Egypt.
It just may be the natural landscapes in this more remote part of Egypt that will be your favourite memories.
The 4-day Siwa Oasis tour description: “Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Siwa Oasis with a 4-day, 3-night adventure from Cairo. Discover ancient ruins like the Mountain of the Dead, relax in the therapeutic salt lakes, and witness stunning sunsets at Lake Fatnas. Explore the historic Shali Fortress and unwind at Cleopatra’s Spring. This tour blends relaxation and cultural immersion, offering a private, personalized journey through one of Egypt’s most tranquil and unique destinations. Perfect for those seeking both adventure and peace in a remote oasis.”
