I just wanted to share a video we made about our experience at the Great Pyramid complex in Giza Egypt. Despite what everyone will tell you, you can definitely visit the pyramids without a guide, but be very aware of all the scams that you can encounter on your own.

#1 Get your own ticket at the entrance counter. Lots of people will try to get a ticket for you in hopes that you will let them be your guide. “Let” is probably the wrong word, they will force you to have them as a guide. We got in line to buy our ticket and felt so pressured that we stepped out of line until we were finally left alone. The ticket counter sales man actually had our backs as well and told the guides to leave us alone.

#2 When you enter through the security gates at the entrance to the pyramids grounds, give your ticket to the man at the turn-style ONLY! Many want-to-be tour guides tried to take our tickets from us in an “official” capacity. They want you to allow them to be your guide and they know you need that ticket to enter the Spinx area or the pyramids, so controlling your ticket means they control you. One man tried to physically rip Jives’ ticket out of his hand, so be aware and maybe tuck your ticket away for safe keeping once you enter.

#3 If you want to ride a camel, that is your choice, but be very firm about what prices you negotiate. One camel handler tried sooooo hard to get us on his camel or to take a picture of his camel that we bother were injured by his tight unrelenting grip. Be aware, if you take a photo of a camel or with one, you WILL be expected to pay a tip to the owner. If you hand your camera over to take a photo, also be prepared to pay to get the camera back.

#4 You are certainly allowed to take photos of the pyramids and video of the exteriors. One guard told us that “our camera had been captured” because we were trying to take a photo of the exterior of the pyramids. I assume he was just trying to get a hold of our camera to demand money for it’s return. Later on that same guard tried to lure us to a “secret photo spot” obviously in hopes of a tip. Be careful if you decided to be lead to a “tourist photo spot” or the like.

#5 Obviously bring a lot of water. The pyramid grounds are vast and HOT HOT HOT in the direct sun. Don’t be afraid to take a break and remember to step back a little and take it all in, your at the freakin’ pyramids!

#6 People will be pretty unrelenting in offering you rides whether it be on a camel or in a horse cart. If you choice to decline, be polite. Being kind goes a long way.