Every pyramid in Egypt descends from the Step Pyramid of Djoser. Designed by the architect Imhotep around 2670 BC, it stacks six diminishing platforms to a height of about 60 metres — the first time anyone had built on such a scale in stone. Seeing it before Dahshur shows exactly what Sneferu’s builders were trying to improve.
Saqqara was the main burial ground of the ancient capital, Memphis, for three thousand years. Beyond Djoser’s complex lie pyramids of later kings, exquisitely painted mastaba tombs of officials, and the underground galleries of the Serapeum. It is one of the richest archaeological sites in Egypt.
Top things to do
Walk through Djoser’s complex
Enter via the colonnaded entrance hall and emerge into the great courtyard beneath the Step Pyramid — a stage for the king’s eternal jubilee.
See the painted mastabas
Tombs such as those of Mereruka, Kagemni and Princess Idut are covered in lively reliefs of daily life — fishing, farming, hippos and crocodiles.
Descend into the Serapeum
Vast underground galleries hold colossal granite sarcophagi for the sacred Apis bulls. (Extra ticket may be required.)
Visit the Pyramid of Unas
Its burial chamber is inscribed with the Pyramid Texts, the oldest religious writings in the world (opening varies).
How to get there
- Saqqara lies about 10 km (15–20 minutes) north of Dahshur and about 30 km (45–60 minutes) south of central Cairo.
- Almost every Dahshur tour includes Saqqara, making the pair the natural core of a “south of Cairo” day.
- Saqqara has a separate, more expensive ticket than Dahshur, and some tombs need additional tickets.
- Allow at least 2 hours; history lovers could spend a whole day here.
- Visit Saqqara first and Dahshur second to follow the story of the pyramid in the right order.
Best tours that include Saqqara & the Step Pyramid
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to visit Saqqara & the Step Pyramid — with transport from Cairo or Giza and a guide who brings the stones to life:
Day trip · Entry fees included from US$53 Cairo: Saqqara, Memphis & Dahshur Day Trip with Lunch
- All entry fees included — no card juggling at the gates
- Step Pyramid of Djoser, Red & Bent Pyramids, Memphis
Best for: Travellers who want everything included and no surprises
Day trip · Best value from US$42 Giza Pyramids, Memphis & Sakkara with Optional Dahshur & Felucca
- Pick the sites you want — add Dahshur as an option
- Private guide and air-conditioned transport
Best for: Budget-conscious travellers with one day in Cairo
Guided day trip from US$99 Cairo: Djoser, Bent Pyramid & Memphis Day Trip
- The Step Pyramid of Djoser — the world’s oldest large stone building
- The Bent Pyramid and its famous change of angle
Best for: History lovers and architecture buffs
Small group · Bestseller from US$73 From Cairo: Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, Saqqara & Memphis Tour
- One of Cairo’s best-reviewed tours — 3,600+ reviews
- Giza pyramids, Sphinx, Saqqara and Memphis
Best for: Pairing with a separate Dahshur visit
