Many visitors have never heard of Dahshur, yet it holds some of the most important pyramids in Egypt. It lies on the desert edge south of Cairo, and for much of its history was closed to the public. Today it can be visited with a guide and offers a calm contrast with Giza.
Why the Bent Pyramid bends
The lower part of the Bent Pyramid rises at a steep angle, and the upper part at a gentler one. Most Egyptologists think the builders changed the slope as the structure began to show signs of strain. Much of the original smooth casing still survives, so you can see how the finished surface was meant to look.
The Red Pyramid
Next door, the Red Pyramid was built with the lessons of its neighbour in mind. It has a lower, steadier angle and is usually described as the first successful true pyramid. Its limestone takes on a reddish tone in the early or late sun, which gives it its name.
Going inside
A long, steep passage leads down into the Red Pyramid, with chambers at the bottom whose roofs rise in stepped stone. The air is warm and the passage is low, so you walk bent over for a good part of it. It suits people who are fit and comfortable in small spaces. If in doubt, the outside is just as interesting, and your guide can explain the layout from the entrance.
- Allow about an hour at Dahshur if you go inside.
- Photography is easier from the desert side, away from the entrance.
- Leave your bag in the car, as space inside is tight.
Visiting from Cairo
Our private day starts at about eight and reaches Dahshur at around nine. From there you continue to Saqqara and Memphis, with lunch at a local restaurant, and are back at your hotel by mid-afternoon. Entrance tickets to Dahshur, Saqqara and Memphis are included, though entry inside the pyramids is not.
What to wear and bring
Wear closed shoes with a good grip, because the ground around the pyramids is sand and loose stone, and the ramp up to the Red Pyramid entrance is steep. Light trousers protect your knees in the low passage. Bring a hat, sunglasses and a small bottle of water, and leave anything bulky in the car. There is very little shade, and no cafe at the pyramids themselves.
When to go
Early morning is the best time, as the air is cooler and the light is soft on the limestone. In the hot months the passage inside the Red Pyramid is warm and close, so it is worth going in first thing. Your guide will show you where it is safe to stop and take photographs, so follow their advice on the day.
How it compares with Giza
Giza is the grand finale, with the largest pyramids, the Sphinx and plenty of people. Dahshur is the quiet rehearsal. You can stand at the foot of a pyramid with few others around, hear the wind, and see how the builders learned from their mistakes. Many travellers tell us they enjoyed it more because they could take their time. It pairs well with the Giza Plateau on a different day, or as part of the Saqqara and Memphis programme.
Open the trip page to see the full programme and choose your date.
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Dahshur: the Bent and Red Pyramids, and why they matter
What to see at Dahshur, why the Bent Pyramid bends, whether to go inside the Red Pyramid and how to visit from Cairo with a guide.