Named after Sokar, the necropolis god, it has been a sacred resting place for over 3,000 years, offering a fascinating historical narrative that spans multiple eras of Egyptian civilisation.
While the pyramids of Giza may appear more striking from the outside, and are better known world wide, Saqqara holds a unique allure – most notably its intact burial chambers and the oldest depictions of pyramid texts ever found in Egypt. Recent discoveries, such as newly opened tombs and the Imhotep Museum, further enhance its appeal to history enthusiasts.
Designed by our Egypt experts for the discerning traveller, this journey offers a thoughtfully curated historical experience as part of your luxury holiday to Egypt.
Visit Saqqara: the ancient necropolis
Saqqara houses pyramids from influential rulers of the Fifth and Sixth Dynasties including the Pyramid of Unas, which contains the earliest known burial chamber adorned with pyramid texts (inscriptions designed to guide the deceased through the afterlife). In addition to royal burials, Saqqara is rich with tombs of high-ranking officials, decorated with exquisite carvings and scenes that depict daily life, rituals, and ceremonies of ancient Egypt.
Exclusive private tours with expert Egyptologists
With a private Egyptologist as your guide, explore the world’s oldest step pyramid, designed for Pharaoh Djoser by the renowned architect Imhotep. Discover newly excavated tombs adorned with intricate artwork and inscriptions that reveal fascinating aspects of ancient Egyptian life and religious practices. Stroll through passageways lined with hieroglyphs that recount the stories of past dynasties.
"Whether you prefer a sunrise visit to witness the desert landscape bathed in golden light or a moonlit tour for a more atmospheric experience, every aspect of your journey will be tailored to your personal preferences."
Hidden gems and lesser-known wonders
Gain privileged access to sites rarely visited by others, starting with the Tomb of Mehu, celebrated for its exceptionally well-preserved wall reliefs that offer a vivid glimpse into ancient Egyptian life.
Continue to the Serapeum, a vast underground necropolis where sacred Apis Bulls (revered as earthly manifestations of the god Ptah) were interred through elaborate rituals spanning from the Eighteenth Dynasty to the Ptolemaic period.
You can also explore New Kingdom tombs, including that of Horemheb, a military commander who rose to the throne. Although he ultimately chose to be buried in the Valley of the Kings, his earlier tomb in Saqqara reveals remarkable examples of New Kingdom architecture and art.
Saqqara further reflects Egypt’s Christian past with the remains of the Monastery of Apa Jeremiah, an active religious site until the eighth century AD.
The Dahshur Pyramids: a step back in time
Your Egyptologist will later accompany you to Dahshur, located at the southern end of Cairo and an extension of Saqqara. This site opened to tourists in 1996 and is home to some of Egypt’s oldest and most remarkable pyramids.
Among the highlights is the Bent Pyramid, one of the best-preserved due to its intact casing stones. Its unusual shape is the result of three distinct architectural alterations during construction, which have fascinated scholars and visitors for centuries.
Another highlight is the Red Pyramid, built by Pharaoh Sneferu, father of Cheops (of the Great Pyramid at Giza). Known for its reddish limestone core, this pyramid stands as Egypt’s first successful smooth-sided pyramid and the fourth tallest ever built. Together, the pyramids of Dahshur represent the transition from the step-pyramid design at Saqqara to the sleek, smooth-sided pyramids of Giza.
Bespoke luxury, designed for you
Whether you prefer a sunrise visit to witness the desert landscape bathed in golden light or a moonlit tour for a more atmospheric experience, every aspect of your journey will be tailored to your personal preferences.
Enjoy seamless luxury transfers, perhaps opt for a gourmet picnic in the tranquil desert surroundings, or an exclusive evening event among the ancient ruins—complete with traditional music and refined hospitality.
A tailor-made journey through history
Travelling with the Explorations Company, Saqqara transforms from a historical site into an immersive, tailor-made journey through Egypt’s past. For those seeking exclusivity, historical depth and unparalleled access on your luxury tour of Egypt, this bespoke experience offers and extraordinary connection to one of the world’s most fascinating ancient destinations.
