Red Pyramid of Sneferu
Egypt's first true pyramid, the Red Pyramid offers a glimpse into ancient architectural genius with a challenging interior exploration.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, golden hour glow
Red Pyramid of Sneferu
Best Time
Less crowded, golden hour glow

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Egypt's first true pyramid, the Red Pyramid offers a glimpse into ancient architectural genius with a challenging interior exploration.
"A marvel of ancient engineering, it's Egypt’s first successful smooth-sided pyramid, less crowded than Giza."
🎯 Prepare for the Descent
The interior is steep & narrow. Wear comfy clothes & be ready for heat. :athletic_shoe:
🛡️ Navigate Vendor Offers
Be firm with persistent vendors. A guide offers education, not just protection. :bustsinsilhouette:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Red Pyramid's Perfect Form
Dahshur
Egypt's first true pyramid with straight sides, a testament to ancient architectural innovation.

Challenging Interior Passages
Inside the Red Pyramid
Descend a steep, narrow shaft and navigate cramped wooden stairs to reach the burial chamber.

Serene Desert Setting
Dahshur Necropolis
Experience the pyramids in a less crowded, tranquil desert landscape, offering a raw historical encounter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Red Pyramid's Interior
Beat the Crowds and Scammers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Prepare for the Descent
The interior is steep & narrow. Wear comfy clothes & be ready for heat.
:athletic_shoe:🛡️ Navigate Vendor Offers
Be firm with persistent vendors. A guide offers education, not just protection.
:bustsinsilhouette:📸 Capture the Sunset Glow
The red limestone glows beautifully at sunset. A truly unforgettable sight.
:camerawithflash:💧 Stay Hydrated
The interior can be hot and stuffy. Bring water, especially if you plan to explore inside.
:droplet:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Prepare for the Descent
The interior is steep & narrow. Wear comfy clothes & be ready for heat.
:athletic_shoe:🛡️ Navigate Vendor Offers
Be firm with persistent vendors. A guide offers education, not just protection.
:bustsinsilhouette:📸 Capture the Sunset Glow
The red limestone glows beautifully at sunset. A truly unforgettable sight.
:camerawithflash:💧 Stay Hydrated
The interior can be hot and stuffy. Bring water, especially if you plan to explore inside.
:droplet:💰 USD Preferred
Egypt is experiencing hyperinflation; US dollars are often preferred over Egyptian pounds.
:moneywithwings:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Red Pyramid for its perfect architectural form and its status as Egypt's first true pyramid. The less crowded atmosphere compared to Giza is a significant draw, offering a more serene experience. However, the interior passages are challenging, described as steep, narrow, hot, and stuffy, making it unsuitable for those with claustrophobia or mobility issues.
"Dahshur has two main attractions: the Red Pyramid and the Bent Pyramid. The internal passageways of both pyramids are quite challenging. They begin with a steep descent of several dozen meters, and narrow wooden stairs require you to crouch almost the entire way through. The interior is hot and stuffy, but the winding design and spacious chambers showcase the ingenuity of the ancient Egyptians.-2/1/25"
詹頤
"Really enjoyed it however, its not for the faint of heart - you have to first climb a flight of stairs after which, you gotta climb down a tight for about 5-10min. Inside is extremely stuffy but definitely interesting to visit"
Alicja Donakowska
"While driving along a quiet highway in South Cairo, I came across a view that stopped me in my tracks.
Rising ahead was the Red Pyramid, proud and perfectly shaped and just behind it, the uniquely angled Bent Pyramid.
On the opposite side of the road, across the open desert, stood the Step Pyramid of Saqqara, completing a surreal, wide-angle view of ancient history.
There’s a panoramic pull-off where you can stop your car without any disturbance.
No ticket booths, no crowds - just the still desert, the pyramids, and silence.
It felt cinematic and raw, like history revealing itself without asking for permission.
One of the most unexpectedly beautiful moments I’ve had in Egypt."
Arbustum Works
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Red Pyramid is located in Dahshur, about an hour's drive south of Cairo. You can hire a taxi or arrange a private tour. Many visitors combine a trip to the Red Pyramid with the Bent Pyramid and Saqqara.
While taxis are available, it's advisable to arrange transportation in advance, especially if you're not with a tour group. Some travelers mention drivers trying to overcharge or take you to other sites first.
Yes, the Red Pyramid is a popular day trip from Cairo. It's often combined with visits to the Bent Pyramid and the Step Pyramid of Saqqara for a comprehensive ancient Egyptian experience.
Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. Hiring a private car or joining a guided tour is generally the most convenient way to reach Dahshur.
The Red Pyramid and Bent Pyramid are located close to each other in Dahshur. If you have your own transport or a guide, it's a short drive. Walking between them is possible but can be hot and long in the desert.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a ticket is required to enter the Red Pyramid. The cost is typically included in broader site passes or can be purchased separately. It's always good to check current pricing upon arrival.
The Red Pyramid generally follows the standard opening hours for Egyptian archaeological sites, which are usually from 6 AM to 5 PM or 6 PM. It's best to confirm exact hours before your visit.
Entering the Red Pyramid involves a steep, narrow shaft and then cramped wooden stairs. It's physically demanding and not recommended for those with severe claustrophobia or mobility issues.
Yes, visitors can enter the Red Pyramid. The experience involves a challenging descent into the pyramid's core.
Photography rules can vary. While generally allowed, it's wise to be discreet and respect any posted signs or guide instructions. Avoid photographing security or military personnel.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a steep, narrow descending shaft followed by cramped wooden stairs. The chambers are simple but showcase impressive stonework. It can be hot and stuffy.
The interior passages are very narrow and steep, which can be challenging for individuals with claustrophobia. It's advisable to assess your comfort level before entering.
Exploring the interior can take about 30-60 minutes, depending on your pace and how long you spend inside the chambers. The descent and ascent are the most time-consuming parts.
Yes, guides are available for hire. While they can offer historical insights, be prepared for them to also be persistent in offering services.
The Red Pyramid is the first true pyramid with straight sides, while the Bent Pyramid has a distinct change in angle partway up. Both were built for Pharaoh Sneferu and offer unique insights into pyramid construction.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options directly at the Red Pyramid site are very limited. It's best to pack snacks and water or plan to eat before or after your visit in Cairo or a nearby town.
It's generally advisable not to bring food inside the pyramid to maintain the site's preservation. Water is usually permitted, but check local regulations.
For a wider selection of dining options, you'll need to return to Cairo. Consider trying local Egyptian cuisine at restaurants in the city center or near your accommodation.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior offers stunning views, especially with the desert landscape. The panoramic pull-off across the road provides a great wide-angle shot of the Red, Bent, and Step pyramids.
Photography inside the Red Pyramid may be restricted or require a separate permit. Always check for signage or ask your guide. Be mindful of others and avoid flash photography.
Late afternoon, especially during the golden hour before sunset, offers beautiful lighting as the red limestone glows. Early morning can also provide soft light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites in Egypt for security and preservation reasons. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless you have explicit authorization.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and water, as amenities at the site are limited. If you do decide to enter, ensure children are comfortable in confined spaces and can manage the physical demands. Alternatively, focus on the visual spectacle of the pyramids from the outside and perhaps combine the visit with a less physically demanding site.
💰 Budget Travelers
Be mindful of the advice regarding currency; having US dollars on hand might be beneficial due to exchange rates. Packing your own food and water is also a great way to save money, as on-site options are scarce.
🚶 Solo Adventurers
While guides can offer valuable historical context, solo travelers might prefer to explore at their own pace. Consider downloading offline maps and researching the site's history beforehand to enhance your independent journey. The less crowded nature of Dahshur can be a significant advantage for solo exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of Sneferu's Pyramids
Visitors can explore the interior of the Red Pyramid, which features a steep descending passage and chambers. This internal structure, while challenging to navigate due to its narrowness and incline, offers a glimpse into the methods used to construct these monumental tombs. The experience inside is often described as hot and cramped, requiring physical exertion.
Adjacent to the Red Pyramid is the Bent Pyramid, another of Sneferu's ambitious projects. Its unique shape, with a change in angle partway up, reflects an early attempt at creating a true pyramid that encountered structural challenges. Exploring both pyramids provides a fascinating comparative study of architectural evolution and the ingenuity of ancient Egyptian builders.
Navigating the Dahshur Site
When visiting, be prepared for persistent vendors and individuals offering unsolicited services. While some may seem helpful, they often expect payment. It's recommended to be firm and clear about your intentions, whether you choose to hire a guide or explore independently.
For photography, the panoramic pull-off across the road from the Red and Bent Pyramids is highly recommended. It offers a stunning, unobstructed view of multiple pyramids, creating a cinematic and raw historical perspective without the usual tourist hustle.
Insider Tips from Travelers
Regarding interactions with locals, be aware of potential scams. TikTok videos highlight instances of people trying to sell unofficial tickets or offer 'free' services that come with a price. While guides can enhance the educational aspect of your visit, be clear about your boundaries if you prefer to explore on your own.
For those interested in the broader context of Egyptian travel, some suggest that US dollars are often preferred due to hyperinflation in Egypt. This is a practical tip for managing expenses during your trip.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit