Audio Guide of the Step Pyramid of Djoser

The Step Pyramid of Djoser at Saqqara (part of ancient Memphis) is usually open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in winter and until 6:00 p.m. in summer, but it is always advisable to check the official site or with your tour operator. You can easily get there by hiring a taxi or a tour from Cairo or Giza. Saqqara is part of the Grand Egyptian Museum circuit, which makes access easy along with other archaeological areas.

Admission to the Saqqara archaeological area, which includes Djoser's Pyramid and other tombs, costs approximately 300 EGP (Egyptian pounds) for foreigners as of 2024. There may be additional fees for access to specific tombs such as Mereruka's or the Mastabas. Prices can vary, so we recommend checking the official website of Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities or up-to-date guides.

To have a good experience and explore the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the funerary complex and some nearby tombs in Saqqara, it is recommended to spend at least 2-3 hours. If you are interested in exploring in more detail or visiting several tombs, you may need a full half day.

The Step Pyramid of Djoser is monumentally important for being the first known large-scale stone structure in human history and the precursor of the smooth-sided pyramids. It was designed by the genius Imhotep for Pharaoh Djoser (Third Dynasty, c. 2670 BC) and marked a revolution in Egyptian funerary architecture. Its construction represented a milestone in the engineering and social organization of the time.

The best time to visit the Pyramid of Djoser and Saqqara is during the winter months (October to April), when temperatures are milder and more pleasant. During the day, I recommend going first thing in the morning (just after opening) or late in the afternoon to avoid the most intense heat and the largest crowds of tourists.

The Saqqara complex, and in particular the surroundings of the Step Pyramid, has uneven and sandy terrain that can make access difficult for people in wheelchairs or with reduced mobility. Although some walkways have been improved, the nature of the archaeological site means that it is not fully accessible. It is best to contact your tour operator or the site to find out the specific options available.

Memphis, the ancient capital, has several attractions. Very close to the Pyramid of Djoser, in Saqqara, you can visit the Serapeum, the Mastabas of Ti and Ptahhotep, and the Funerary Complex of Unas. A short distance from Memphis, you will also find the pyramids of Dahshur, with the Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, which are also fascinating to explore.

For an optimal visit, wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain, sun protection (hat, sunglasses and sunscreen), and plenty of water. It is also advisable to hire a certified local guide to understand the rich history of the place, or use an audio guide such as those offered by IAudioguia for a more immersive experience. Don't forget to bring an external battery for your phone and a camera, as the views are breathtaking.