Visiting the Dahshur Pyramids in Egypt (Updated for 2026)
The Dahshur Necropolis, south of Cairo on the Nile’s West Bank, offers a quieter alternative to the crowded Giza Pyramids. This site features experimental structures from Egypt’s Old Kingdom (c. 2613–2589 BC), including the innovative Bent Pyramid and Red Pyramid built by Pharaoh Sneferu, plus the ruined Black Pyramid. Fewer tourists mean more space to explore these well-preserved ancient wonders.
The Pyramids of Dahshur
Bent Pyramid
Sneferu built this around 2600 BC as his second attempt after the collapsed Meidum Pyramid. Its unique shape comes from changing the angle midway—from 54° at the base to 43° higher up—to avoid instability.
Visitors can enter via a narrow northern tunnel to reach chambers (note: bats reside inside, and it’s hot, steep, and claustrophobic).
Nearby, a small Mortuary Temple and Satellite Pyramid (likely ritual, not burial) add to the site.
Red Pyramid
Sneferu’s third and largest pyramid here (also called the North Pyramid) stands as the world’s first successful smooth-sided pyramid, built entirely at a 43° angle. Its name derives from exposed red limestone after ancient removal of the white outer casing.
Entry to its chambers is allowed via a descending passage—similarly tight and warm.
Black Pyramid
Amenemhat III constructed this mudbrick pyramid in the Middle Kingdom (c. 1860–1814 BC), but poor location near the Nile, weak materials, and structural flaws caused rapid collapse. Now mostly ruins, it earns its name from the exposed dark core.
Practical Info for 2026
- Opening Hours — 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily (may shorten to 9:00 AM–3:00 PM during Ramadan, expected mid-February to mid-March 2026).
- Entrance Fee — Around 200 EGP for adults (includes Red and Bent Pyramids; student discounts available). No extra charges for interiors.
- How to Get There — About 45–60 minutes south of Cairo/Giza. Use Uber/Careem for round-trip (add a stop for waiting time; ~300–400 EGP total from downtown). Taxis work too—negotiate including wait time. Combine with Saqqara (10 km north) for a full day.
- Tips — Arrive early to beat heat and crowds. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking between pyramids. Interiors aren’t suitable for claustrophobia or mobility issues.
- Tours — Private or group options via Viator often include Dahshur with Saqqara/Memphis.
Dahshur provides a peaceful, authentic pyramid experience—ideal if Giza feels overwhelming. Pair it with nearby sites for an unforgettable ancient Egypt day!