March 31 – Giza and the Pyramids

March 31, 2022 – Giza, the Pyramids, and the Sphinx
Breakfast was at 6:30am so that we could leave for Giza at 7:30am.
The Pyramids are actually in Cairo. As we drove up it was strange to look out over buildings and suddenly see the top of a pyramid. First we went to the Great Pyramid built by King Cheops. It is amazing that without modern equipment that it was built. The base is square and the sides slopes at 50°51’. To build it all four sides had to meet at the top. The stones are about 5’ high. Each was cut for a specific place.
We walked around the pyramid and we could see the next pyramid behind it. This one was built for the son of Cheops who was the next ruler of Egypt.
Some of our group went into the interior of the Great Pyramid. It was not recommended for people with knee or hip problems, claustrophobia, or breathing problems. Therefore, I skipped it. Once we got back together we had a group picture taken with the Great Pyramid in the background.
We drove to a view point where we could see all three pyramids in a row. It was hazy. While there, our Tour Director Ramey arranged camel rides for the 3 people who wanted to try it. Next stop was the Sphinx for more picture taking.
We went to a “day resort” for a buffet lunch and then continued on to the Saqqara Pyramid Complex. King Zoser had the first burial pyramid built here for himself. It is the Step Pyramid. We got to go inside and look down the deep shaft where he was buried 4800 years ago.
We had dinner on a boat moored on the Nile. It was the typical Egyptian mezze ( small dishes) followed by a large plate of beef, chicken, vegetables, and rice. It was too much food.
Tomorrow is our last day in Cairo. We will visit churches and a mosque. The blog for tomorrow may be delayed a day since we need to get up at 3:30am t9 fly t o Luxor on Saturday.