Experience the Pyramid of Giza

When considering a trip to North Africa, take a visit to one of its best destination’s -the Pyramids of Giza. They were built more than 5,000 years ago. The pyramids are located just outside Cairo in Egypt. It is one of the world’s oldest tourist attractions and the only surviving member of the Seven Wonders of the World. There are in fact three main pyramids in Giza; the Greatest Pyramid of Khufu (or Cheops), The Pyramid of Kafhre, and the smaller Pyramid of MenKaura. The pyramids are tombs to different Kings of Egypt. In front of the pyramids lies the Sphinx or Abu al-Hol in Arabic, “Father of Terror.” Carved from a single block of stone, this enormous cat-like sculpture has mesmerized millions of visitors.

Giza’s three pyramids and the Sphinx were thought to have been constructed in the fourth dynasty of Egypt’s Old Kingdom, the first great civilization on earth. In spite of the debate about how the pyramids at Giza were built, most are in agreement that it was not by aliens. Some believe that approximately 20,000 laborers were used and approximately 2 million blocks of stone, each weighing 2.5 tons, just to build the Pyramid of Khufu.

To get around the pyramids is rather easy, you can walk, take a horse and buggy or a camel rid. A couple tips on the camel ride: Bargain hard before you get on the camel; don’t take a photo of the camel unless you are prepared to pay; if you are feeling harassed then grab your nearest Antiquity Policemen to help you out; then enjoy the ride, it is a once in a lifetime experience and worth a few bucks.

You also have the option of going inside the pyramids, but it is not the best choice for those that are claustrophobic. The climbs are very steep and narrow so your knees have to be in good shape. You have to get a separated ticket to enter each pyramid and they are limited to 300 per day so get there early.

Source: About.com