Read More: The Great Pyramids of Giza: A Traveler’s Ultimate Guide

Everything has a starting point, and in the case of the pyramids, Saqqarah is the cradle of all the Pyramids in Egypt! 

Sitting at the south of the Pyramids of Giza, Saqqarah is the place where the story of the last standing ancient world wonder -the Great Pyramid of Giza – began, driving hundreds of thousands of visitors to Egypt every year.

If you’re planning a trip to Egypt, Saqqarah should be at the top of your list. 

Why? Because this vast necropolis is home to the Saqqarah step pyramid, the world’s first pyramid, stunning tombs, and recently uncovered artifacts that will blow your mind. 

In the following lines, we’ll give you a closer look at all that you need to know about 

Why Saqqarah is a Must-Visit

Actually, we can’t cover all the reasons that could drive you to visit Saqqarah because each visitor tells us a different reason! 

But in general, we can state a few headlines that could give you a general idea of what you’ll see.

1. See The Step Pyramid of Djoser, the Birthplace of Pyramid Construction

The Djoser Pyramid isn’t just another ancient structure, it was the starting point of all the pyramids in history. 

The pyramid was built around 4,700 years ago and was designed by the genius architect and high priest Imhotep. 

He made the Djoser Pyramid becomes a unique turning point in ancient Egyptian engineering, transforming it from the traditional style of burial practices for the future pharaohs.

Before Imhotep’s innovation, Egyptian rulers were buried in regular mastabas, flat rectangular tombs made of mudbrick. 

But Imhotep took this concept a bit further by stacking six mastabas on top of each other, thus, it got the name of “Step Pyramid”.

Unlike the pyramids of Giza, the Step Pyramid features only six distinct steps, resembling a staircase to the heavens and reflecting the Egyptians’ evolving spiritual beliefs and their way for immortality. 

Who Was King Djoser?

King Netjerykhet, aka King Djoser, has ruled Egypt during the Third Dynasty (c.2667–2648 BC), and his reign marked the transition from simple mudbrick tombs to monumental stone structures. 

Djoser was also known for stabilizing Egypt politically and economically, allowing large-scale architectural projects like the Step Pyramid to flourish.

The Step Pyramid features are:

• Height: Originally 203 feet tall.

• Constructed using limestone, opening the gates to a new technique that refined the later pyramids rather than mud bricks.

• The Burial Chamber, which is located deep beneath the Djoser pyramid, sealed off by a 91.8 feets deep vertical shaft to ensure that Djoser’s body remains undisturbed.

• Complex Layout: Surrounding the pyramid is a 37-acre funerary complex that includes courtyards, temples, and over 400 underground chambers for Djoser’s afterlife journey.

This brilliant work by Imhotep not only resulted in a groundbreaking design, but also laid the foundation for future pyramids, inspiring the construction of futural pyramids like the Great Pyramid of Giza centuries later.

The Saqqarah Step Pyramid Complex

The Saqqarah Step Pyramid was part of a massive ceremonial complex surrounded by a 10.5-meter-high limestone wall stretching over 1.6 kilometers that included:

• The South Court, which was mostly used for religious rituals and features a large curved stone marking King Djoser’s connection to the gods.

• The Serdab Chamber, which is a small structure housing a statue of Djoser, allowing his spirit to observe the rituals performed in his honor.

• The Heb-Sed Court, which is a space where the pharaoh would symbolically “renew” his power, reinforcing his eternal reign.

Restoration and Current Condition

Due to many reasons like earthquakes, natural erosion, and neglect, the Step Pyramid suffered many deformations. 

However, recent restoration efforts have stabilized its structure, and in 2020, it was officially reopened for visitors after years of conservation work.

Today, you can explore the complex, including interior passageways and the underground chambers.

2. Less Crowded

Most travelers come to see the Pyramids of Giza, thus, you’ll find it packed with tourists and vendors. 

Saqqarah offers a quieter, more immersive experience. Not only can you visit just the step pyramid, but you can also explore ancient tombs, walk through open desert landscapes, and truly feel the authenticity of Saqqarah without the constant bustle of crowds.

If you want an authentic, raw experience of ancient Egypt, Saqqarah is the place to be.

3. Enter Saqqarah Necropolis and the Serapeum of Saqqara 

At Saqqarah resides a massive necropolis and the serapeum of Saqqara which are the burial ground for the rulers of Egypt’s first capital: Memphis. 

Here’s what you’ll find:

• The Pyramid of Unas which is known for its Pyramid Texts, which are the oldest religious writings ever discovered. The Pyramid was built in the 24th century BCE. 

It was the first pyramid to focus more on spiritual significance than size, marking a shift in ancient Egyptian funerary practices. 

Unlike its grander, the pyramid’s outer structure has crumbled over time, but without any effect, the interior remains remarkably well-preserved, with hieroglyph-covered walls and starry ceilings revealing intricate spells and prayers that later shaped the Book of the Dead. 

The complex also includes a causeway adorned with exquisite reliefs and the tombs of nobles, adding layers to its historical importance. 

Recent archaeological finds continue to uncover new insights, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Unlike the crowded pyramids of Giza, Unas offers a quieter, more intimate experience, allowing visitors to truly connect with Egypt’s ancient past. 

If you visit Saqqarah, don’t miss this hidden gem—it’s where the afterlife journey truly began.

• The Serapeum of Saqqara, one of the most unique underground burial sites, dedicated to sacred Apis bulls, with its gigantic sarcophagus which construction remain a secret till this day.

This vast underground complex served as the burial place for the sacred Apis bulls, which were revered as incarnations of the god Ptah. 

Dating back to the reign of Amenhotep III in the 14th century BCE, it consists of a network of tunnels housing massive granite sarcophagi, each weighing up to 80 tons, designed to hold the mummified remains of these divine bulls. 

The scale and precision of the Serapeum of Saqqara’s construction will leave you as it left archaeologists in awe, raising questions about the methods used to transport and position such enormous stone coffins. 

Unlike other tombs, the Serapeum of Saqqara takes you deep into the religious and cultic practices of ancient Egypt, showcasing the deep spiritual connection between gods, animals, and the pharaohs. Despite centuries of looting, hieroglyphic inscriptions and wall carvings remain, offering valuable historical insights. 

• Tombs of Nobles, which is decorated with detailed carvings and paintings, speaking of the daily life in ancient Egypt.

From that, we can see that each corner of Saqqarah tells a story.

4. A Short & Easy Trip from Cairo and Giza

Getting to Saqqarah is incredibly easy as it’s only a 45-minute drive from Cairo, making it a perfect half-day or full-day trip. 

And from Giza, it takes about 20 minutes, making it a great choice after the Pyramids of Giza trip.

Djoser Pyramid inside

The Djoser Pyramid inside is as impressive as the outside, but what lies beneath? 

Imagine yourself walking into a maze rather than walking on a straightforward path like the Pyramids of Giza. 

Behind the huge walls, the Djoser Pyramid inside is an entirely different underground world that consists of a network of corridors, galleries, and chambers in order to keep King Djoser’s body away from thieves, with a unique style that also speaks of how the ancient Egyptians envisioned the afterlife.

Deep at 92 feet below the surface resides the Burial chamber that we mentioned earlier. 

And even though it was sealed in the pink granite stones, grave robbers eventually were able to break in, but thankfully, archaeologists found fragments of King Djoser’s mummy, marking Djoser’s Pyramid as the oldest known royal burial.

Blue-Tiled Chambers 

Each of our guests who has been inside the blue-tiled chambers at Saqqarah Step pyramid expressed it as a magical experience due to the blue-green glow that enlightens the chambers. 

These faience tiles resemble the reed-mat walls of a royal palace, symbolizing renewal and eternal life and saying that the Djoser Pyramid inside isn’t just a royal tomb, but a place of eternal splendor for the king.

Secret Storerooms 

During the excavation processes, archaeologists found over 40,000 stones deep inside the Djoser Pyramid, and they weren’t normal ones but were inscribed with the names of kings from dynasties earlier than King Djoser. 

These stones can be viewed as a way that Djoser used to preserve the history of the kings before him. 

This also showed that the Djoser Pyramid inside wasn’t only a royal tomb but a time capsule that takes you to Egypt’s past.

The False Doors: Pathways to the Afterlife

Finally, you’ll notice many false doors, which weren’t for human use but worked as a pathway to the afterlife for the king’s spirit or Ka, as in the ancient Egyptian language, which means the life force. 

Saqqarah Ticket Prices

Among the reasons that drive you to visit the Saqqarah Step Pyramid is the cheap ticket price, which is set as follows by the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiques as of 2025 in USD and EGP:

Saqqarah Opening Hours

8 am – 5 pm (in summer) / 8 am – 4 pm (in winter)

How to visit Saqqarah?

It’s advisable to book your transfers with a professional tour operator like Magic Carpet Travel as they will handle everything for you, including permits and entry clearances, as well as provide you an experienced tour guide that will make your trip even more fascinating as you’ll see all the wall inscriptions and history comes alive through his/her storytelling.

Book any of our Saqqarah tours now at a discount of up to 20%

Who built the Step Pyramid at Saqqarah?

Pharaoh Djoser’s chief architect, Imhotep, designed and built the Step Pyramid.

Who built the pyramid of Saqqarah?

The Step Pyramid at Saqqarah was built by Pharaoh Djoser, with Imhotep as its architect.

How far is Saqqarah from Cairo?

Saqqarah is about 30 km (19 miles) south of Cairo.

How far is Saqqarah from Giza?

Saqqarah is approximately 20 km (12 miles) south of the Giza Pyramids.

What is special about Saqqara?

Saqqarah is home to Egypt’s oldest pyramid, the Step Pyramid of Djoser, and a vast necropolis with tombs spanning thousands of years.

How much is the ticket for Saqqara?

Ticket prices vary but generally range from $4 to $20 for foreigners, depending on access levels.

Is Saqqarah worth visiting?

Absolutely! Saqqarah offers stunning pyramids, rich history, and fewer crowds than Giza.

How long to spend at Saqqarah?

A visit typically takes 2–4 hours, depending on how much you explore.

Is Saqqarah older than Giza?

Yes, the Step Pyramid of Djoser (built around 2630 BCE) predates the Giza pyramids.

What does Saqqarah mean in Arabic?

The name “Saqqarah” is believed to be derived from “Sokar,” an ancient Egyptian god of the dead.

How old is the pyramid at Saqqarah?

The Step Pyramid of Djoser is over 4,600 years old, dating back to the 27th century BCE.

What was recently discovered in Saqqarah?

Recent discoveries include sealed tombs, well-preserved mummies, and the “Book of the Dead” scrolls.

Can you go inside the Saqqarah pyramid?

Yes, parts of the Step Pyramid of Djoser are open for visitors after recent restorations.

Is it worth going inside the pyramids?

Yes! Exploring inside offers a rare glimpse into ancient burial chambers and architectural wonders.

What is unique about Saqqarah?

Saqqarah is Egypt’s oldest royal burial site, featuring pyramids, temples, and tombs from different dynasties.

Can you go in the Step Pyramid?

Yes, visitors can enter parts of the Step Pyramid after its 2020 restoration.

What to do in Saqqarah?

Visit the Step Pyramid, explore tombs like the Tomb of Mereruka, and see the Serapeum of Saqqara.

Is Saqqarah the same as Giza?

No, Saqqarah is a separate necropolis south of Giza, known for its older pyramids and tombs.