Most travellers know the three great pyramids of Giza — but few realise Egypt is home to at least 118 confirmed pyramids, with some estimates running as high as 130 or more as satellite surveys and excavations continue to reveal previously buried structures. Spread across more than 40 kilometres of desert, from Abu Rawash in the north to the Fayoum region in the south, Egypt’s pyramid-building tradition spans nearly 1,500 years of history.
Giza: The Icons
The Giza Plateau holds the most famous pyramids in the world — the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Khafre, and the Pyramid of Menkaure — along with several smaller queens’ pyramids nearby. Read our full Giza Pyramids guide →
Saqqara: Where It All Began
Home to the Step Pyramid of Djoser, designed by the legendary architect Imhotep around 2650 BC — the world’s earliest monumental stone structure, and the direct ancestor of Giza’s pyramids. Saqqara also holds the tombs of Unas and Teti, and the mysterious underground Serapeum. Read our full Saqqara guide →
Dahshur: Where the True Pyramid Was Perfected
Just south of Saqqara, Dahshur holds the Bent Pyramid — Sneferu’s first attempt at a true smooth-sided pyramid, forced to change angle mid-construction — and the Red Pyramid, the world’s first successful true pyramid, and the direct architectural ancestor of Giza’s Great Pyramid.
Abu Sir
A cluster of 5th Dynasty pyramids, including those of Sahure, Neferirkare, and Nyuserre, along with the nearby Sun Temple of Nyuserre at Abu Ghurab.
Meidum
The Meidum Pyramid began as a step pyramid before being converted into a true pyramid — a fascinating, partially-collapsed structure that offers real insight into pyramid engineering evolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many pyramids are in Egypt?
At least 118 pyramids have been confirmed by archaeologists, with some estimates running as high as 130 or more as new discoveries continue through satellite imaging and excavation.
Can you visit pyramids other than Giza?
Yes — Saqqara, Dahshur, Abu Sir, and Meidum are all open to visitors, and offer a quieter, deeper look at pyramid-building history with far fewer crowds than Giza.
Which is the oldest pyramid in Egypt?
The Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara, built around 2650 BC, is generally considered the oldest monumental stone pyramid in Egypt.
