The pyramids are hard to describe because they have been written about a million times...suffice it to say that despite their hype and your high expectations, they will stun you and take your breath away. For three years I lived where I could see them on the way home from work, and it never failed to amaze me. Driving up to the site you can see them towering over the surrounding farms, and if you ignore the freeway you're on, you can imagine things haven't changed much in 4500 years. I never got used to them--they were awe-inspiring every single time.
That said, the actual trip can be a bit much if you're not prepared. The site swarms with hawkers peddling camel rides, drinks and cheap Phara
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That said, the actual trip can be a bit much if you're not prepared. The site swarms with hawkers peddling camel rides, drinks and cheap Pharaonic trinkits. Get there early or late (they usually open around 8am and close at 5 or 6 depending on the time of year) and you will avoid the worst of the hawkers and the masses of tourists. If you want to ride a camel, check the official rate on the board at the entrance, and don't pay more than that. If you don't want what they're offering, say "La shokran" (no thank you) and then ignore them.
Admission to the site is LE20 (about USD4) and LE10 for camera use. Not bad for the last remaining wonder of the world. However, bringing a video camera costs a fortune--decide how badly you want the video. It is another LE20 for entrance to the Solar Barque Museum (which is worth it), and if you want to go inside the Great Pyramid, you have to get into a separate line and pay another fee. The pyramid itself usually opens only at about noon.
If you go prepared for the hassles and avoid the peak hours, it will be a great experience.
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