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New Entrance to the Pyramids of Giza (Great Gate): How to Avoid Scams When Visiting
Visiting the Giza Pyramids is amazing, but many tourists fall victim to common Giza Pyramid scams. The newly built entrance (The Great Gate) makes visiting Giza easy but I was still scammed!
Egypt is taking steps to facilitate visits to the Pyramids through a new entrance (The Great Gate) and free hop-on, hop-off buses that make visiting easier, more organized, and less stressful.
Despite the new Entrance to the Great Pyramids of Egypt (The Great Gate), I was still scammed! I am telling you everything you need to know about the Great Gate entrance and how to find it, so that you can avoid common scams when visiting the pyramids.
How I Got Scammed in Giza
Finding the new entrance to the Giza Pyramid Complex turned out to be harder than expected. Even Google Maps couldn’t pinpoint the exact location. While exploring Cairo and Giza, I mostly relied on ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem to get around.
When I asked an Uber driver to take me to the Great Gate, he instead stopped to introduce me to his “friend,” who supposedly could take me inside the pyramids. I refused to leave the car and insisted on going to the official entrance. They tried to convince me that the Great Gate was very far away and difficult to reach, but I stayed put.
Eventually, the driver took me to the old ticket office and repeatedly insisted that it was the correct entrance. The place looked outdated and clearly wasn’t the Great Gate, so I told him firmly that he knew exactly where the real entrance was and needed to take me there immediately.
Suddenly, he knew the way. Within minutes, we were heading to the actual entrance. It was a clear reminder that this kind of scam is something travelers should be aware of.
Be Careful: Many Drivers Still Take Tourists to the Old Entrance
One thing we quickly noticed when visiting the Giza Pyramid Complex is that many Uber or taxi drivers automatically drive to the old entrance.
When this happens, you’ll immediately notice signs that something is wrong:
- The area looks old, crowded, and chaotic
- There are many people trying to approach tourists
- Vendors and unofficial guides may pressure you
Some drivers even claim that the new entrance is very far away or difficult to reach.
In reality, it’s not that far at all.
If your driver tries to take you to the old gate, stay in the car and insist on going to the Great Gate entrance.
What the New Great Gate Experience Is Like
Entering through the Great Gate makes a huge difference.
The area is:
- Spacious
- Organized
- Much calmer
Tickets are sold at official counters with clear, fixed prices, which greatly reduces the chances of being overcharged.
Once inside the complex, there is also a very convenient transportation system.
Free Hop-On Hop-Off Buses Around the Pyramids
One of the best features of the new entrance is the free hop-on, hop-off shuttle buses.
These buses take visitors to the major landmarks inside the pyramid complex, including:
The pyramids viewpoints
Main pyramid areas
The Great Sphinx of Giza
If you enter from the Great Gate, keep in mind that the Sphinx will be one of the last stops, since it sits on the opposite side of the site.
This transport system makes exploring the huge archaeological area much easier, especially under the harsh Egyptian sun.
Common Scams to Avoid at the Pyramids
Even with the new entrance, you may still encounter people trying to take advantage of tourists.
Here are some common scams to watch out for.
1. The “Photo Trick.”
Someone might approach you and offer to take a photo for free.
Afterward, they may ask for money or pressure you for a tip.
If you want a photo, it’s better to ask another tourist or someone from the official staff.
2. The “You’re Going the Wrong Way” Trick
Another common tactic is when someone tells you:
“You’re going the wrong way. I’ll show you the correct path.”
They may then expect a tip or payment for guiding you.
In most cases, you are not going the wrong way.
3. Unofficial Guides
Some people present themselves as guides but are not licensed.
Only trust guides who are clearly official staff working at the site.
Tips for a Smooth Visit to the Giza Pyramids
To make the most of your visit, follow these simple tips:
Use the Great Gate entrance
Buy tickets only at official ticket counters
Use the free shuttle buses to move around the site
Avoid accepting help from strangers offering directions
Ask only official staff if you need assistance
These small steps can save you a lot of stress and help you enjoy the experience.
This post is all about the new Great Gate entrance (the new entrace) at the Giza Pyramids, including how to avoid scams, where to enter, and essential tips for a smooth and safe visit
