Colossal Statue of Ramses II Sakkara: A 5-Hour Tour Review

Thinking about taking a quick trip to see the Colossal Statue of Ramses II in Sakkara? A 5-hour tour might be just what you need! It can be a whirlwind adventure filled with ancient history and incredible sights. So, let’s take a closer look at what you might expect, what to keep in mind, and whether or not this experience might be for you.

What the Tour Typically Includes

Often, these short tours usually focus on the highlights to make the most of your time. You will very likely have transportation provided, so no need to stress about trying to figure out local buses or hiring a taxi. You’ll usually get picked up from your hotel in Cairo or Giza, which can be really convenient. Guides tend to be part of these tours, and I’d say that’s very important! Having someone who can explain the history, answer your questions, plus point out little details you might otherwise miss can totally make your experience richer.

At the actual site, the spotlight is, of course, on the Colossal Statue of Ramses II. You may also get the chance to check out other cool stuff nearby, such as the Sakkara necropolis and maybe even some tombs. Keep in mind that with the shorter duration, you probably won’t have time for really in-depth explorations of every single site, and that is absolutely OK. The tours are, typically, structured to give you an excellent overview. Make sure that any tour you think about includes entrance fees. Very often, these are included, yet it is still worth making absolutely sure before booking!

Getting There and Back

Getting to Sakkara from Cairo or Giza is more or less part of the whole adventure! It’s approximately a 30–45 minute drive, depending on traffic (which, let’s be honest, can be intense in Cairo!). You could, of course, attempt to do it on your own using taxis or ride-sharing apps, but a lot of people opt for the organized tours because they offer air-conditioned vehicles, and so, it can really take a load off of you.

With the guided tours, the drive is usually made worthwhile. Often, the guides provide background info about the areas you’re driving through or discuss Egyptian history. I guess that really enhances the whole experience. The route sometimes even offers cool views of the countryside. That way you get a bit of a feel for daily life outside the city center. After you’ve had your fill of history and ancient wonders, you’re whisked back to your hotel. Plus, you will not have to worry about getting lost, or anything like that. This arrangement gives you time to relax. Also, to think about what you’ve seen during your adventure.

What You’ll Actually See

The main event, like I said, is the Colossal Statue of Ramses II. And let me tell you, that thing is huge! Seeing it in person really gives you a sense of how powerful Ramses II was way back when. It’s very striking. Besides that giant statue, you can also stroll around the Sakkara necropolis. This ancient burial ground has tons of tombs and monuments, that are really quite old. The Step Pyramid of Djoser is also something of a must-see!

Now, given the short time, most tours focus on the key highlights. A few tours might include a quick visit to the nearby city of Memphis, which was once Egypt’s capital. Just check your tour schedule ahead of time so, that you can sort of manage your expectations. Remember to take your camera because you are going to want to document everything! Very likely, there are views all around you that are absolutely worth saving.

Is This Tour Right for You?

Now, if you’re super into detailed explorations and you really want to see every nook and cranny, that maybe a quick 5-hour tour won’t give you quite enough time. But if you are sort of short on time, or you just want a taste of ancient Egypt without committing a whole day, I believe this can be a stellar option. This particular tour really works for a quick getaway if you’re on a business trip with only an afternoon available, or maybe if you’re fitting in a lot of different things into your vacation.

For families with kids, a shorter tour can also be a brilliant idea! Very young children often don’t have the patience for hours and hours of sightseeing, plus it really helps keep them engaged. So, think about what you hope to get out of the trip. If seeing those magnificent sights is important to you and you aren’t stressed out about spending every possible minute there, a short tour is a great decision.

Tips and Recommendations

• Wear comfortable shoes: You will probably do a bit of walking!
• Stay hydrated: Egypt can get really toasty, especially in the summer, so take a water bottle with you.
• Dress respectfully: Even though Egypt is quite used to tourists, it’s really more considerate to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. So maybe shoulders and knees covered are a good idea.
• Sunscreen, always: No matter the season, that Egyptian sun can be super intense.
• Bring some cash: If you want to tip your guide or grab a souvenir, having local currency with you is going to be very convenient.

You may be asked to pose in photographs with locals or people working at the site, but they expect a small tip. Be friendly and polite but decline, if that doesn’t suit you!