The Step Pyramid of Djoser is a staple on the Cairo travel intinerary. Saqqara lies just outside Cairo. The trip takes about 20 minutes by car. As I suggested before, hire a travel guide, as well as a driver, in order to get to the sites outside Cairo. Guides aren't expensive and they are certainly worth the extra money. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the sites, and guided us to a nice restaurant buffet and essence shop, although I am sure he got his share of the profits from our purchases. Many guides work with shop owners and restaurants to help increase clientele.
The Step Pyramid is Egypt's first pyramid, hence the oldest. It does not compare in size to the pyramids at Giza, nonetheless it stands tall and beautiful against the blue sky. It was the largest building of it's time now standing about 200 feet tall. The pyramid began as a flat burial ground, but by the end of Pharoah Djoser's reign the pyramid reached six tiers. Like most pyramids, the burial chamber is hidden to prevent theives from reaching the tombs. The chambers are hidden underground, however theives were able to prevail. All that is left of Pharaoh Djoser is his mummified left foot.
Our guide told us about the belief that if you make a wish and walk completely around the pyramid from a certain point, your wish will come true. I made my wish so I'm hoping for the best!
From journal Walk Like an Egyptian