The Great Sphinx of Giza: Unravel the Mysteries of Egypt’s Guardian of Stone

Claim to Fame

With the body of a lion and the face of a pharaoh, the Great Sphinx of Giza is the oldest monumental sculpture in the world—an iconic symbol of ancient Egypt's power, wisdom, and enduring mystery.

📌 Navigating Great Sphinx of Giza : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Admission Fee: Admission fees vary; it is advisable to check current prices online prior to visiting.
How Long to Visit: A visit to the Great Sphinx typically lasts about 1 to 2 hours, depending on interest and crowd size.
Washrooms: Washrooms are located at the entrance of the Giza Plateau, available for visitor use.
Hours of Operation: The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours in peak tourist seasons.
Important Information: Visitors should dress modestly, stay hydrated, and be prepared for hot weather, especially during summer months.
Handicap Accessible: The site is partially handicap accessible, with pathways leading to viewing areas, but some sections may be challenging.
Pets: Pets are not allowed on the premises to preserve the archaeological site.
Guided Tours: Guided tours are available and provide in-depth information about the Sphinx and surrounding monuments.
Restaurant or Cafe: There are no restaurants directly at the Sphinx, but several cafes and eateries are located nearby.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is available, offering souvenirs, books, and Egyptian-themed items.
Parking: Parking is available at the Giza Plateau, with designated areas for visitors.
Family Friendly: The Great Sphinx of Giza is family friendly, with educational opportunities for children and ample space to explore.
Photography: Photography is permitted, but tripods and professional equipment may require special permission.
WIFI: Free Wi-Fi is not available on-site, but some nearby cafes may offer internet access.
Picnic Area: There is no designated picnic area at the site; visitors are advised to eat in nearby cafes.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Great Sphinx of Giza

Situated just east of the Pyramid of Khafre on the Giza Plateau, the Great Sphinx of Giza is a towering limestone statue carved directly from bedrock. Measuring over 73 meters (240 feet) in length and 20 meters (66 feet) tall, the Sphinx is believed to have been built around 2500 BCE. Its exact origins, purpose, and even the identity of the face it bears remain subjects of scholarly debate and fascination. Visitors flock to stand before this ancient guardian, whose enigmatic expression has gazed over the desert for nearly 4,500 years.

What to Expect

The Sphinx stands in a sunken enclosure beside the causeway leading to the Pyramid of Khafre. From the main viewing platform, you can admire its scale and craftsmanship, framed by the pyramids behind. The statue’s face, believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre, has been weathered by millennia of wind and sand. Its missing nose and ceremonial beard add to its mystique. Visitors cannot walk directly up to the Sphinx but can view it clearly from multiple angles, especially near the Valley Temple and designated photo zones.

Background and Cultural Context

Most Egyptologists agree the Sphinx was built during the reign of Pharaoh Khafre (~2558–2532 BCE), making it part of his larger pyramid complex. The fusion of lion and man symbolized royal authority and divine protection. The monument was buried in sand for much of its history and has undergone various restoration efforts, including by Pharaoh Thutmose IV, who left behind the famous Dream Stele between its paws. Today, the Sphinx remains a powerful icon of Egypt and a focus of archaeological and spiritual speculation.

Best Time to Visit

The early morning (8–10 AM) offers the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds. Late afternoon (4–6 PM) also provides warm, dramatic light and views of the pyramids at sunset. The dry season (November–April) is ideal for comfortable exploration. Avoid mid-day in summer due to intense heat and limited shade.

How to Get There

The Great Sphinx is part of the Giza Pyramid Complex, located ~13 km southwest of Cairo. Access it via the main Giza Plateau entrance or the Sphinx gate near the Mena House Hotel. Transportation options include taxi, Uber, guided tours, or tour buses. Entry is included with general admission to the site. The Sphinx viewing area is wheelchair accessible with assistance, though terrain near the pyramid base is uneven.

Photo Opportunities

Head-on shot of the Sphinx with the Pyramid of Khafre directly behind
Side profile highlighting the missing nose and eroded features
Panoramic view from the Sphinx Temple toward the entire complex
Golden-hour silhouettes with the Sphinx and pyramids against the sunset
Iconic “kissing the Sphinx” or scale illusion poses from the nearby platform

Travel Tips

Hire a licensed Egyptologist guide to better understand the Sphinx’s history and symbolism.
Bring sun protection and water—there is minimal shade near the Sphinx enclosure.
Respect the barriers—climbing or approaching the Sphinx is strictly prohibited.
Pair your visit with the Valley Temple, which lies adjacent and is often included in walking tours.
Consider a night visit during the Pyramids Sound and Light Show, where the Sphinx is dramatically illuminated.

FAQs

Can I walk up to the Sphinx?
No—access is restricted to designated viewing areas to protect the monument. You’ll still get excellent close-range views.

Is the Sphinx part of the main pyramid ticket?
Yes—general admission to the Giza Plateau includes access to the Sphinx and its viewing platforms.

Why is the Sphinx missing its nose?
The nose was destroyed long ago—possibly by erosion, vandalism, or deliberate defacement. The exact cause remains uncertain.

Final Thoughts

The Great Sphinx of Giza stands as one of the most captivating symbols of ancient Egypt—a monument that invites wonder, awe, and endless interpretation. Its sheer presence, timeless gaze, and architectural mystery make it a must-see for any visitor to the land of the pharaohs. Whether you're tracing history, seeking beauty, or standing in silence before its majesty, the Sphinx never fails to inspire.

Things To Do near Great Sphinx of Giza

Pyramids of Giza

The Distance from Great Sphinx of Giza to Pyramids of Giza is 0.8 Kilometer(s) / 0.5 Mile(s)

Egyptian Museum in Cairo

The Distance from Great Sphinx of Giza to Egyptian Museum in Cairo is 19.6 Kilometer(s) / 12.2 Mile(s)

📘 Egypt Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Egypt operates on Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC +2. The country currently does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Weather: Egypt has a hot desert climate, with very little rainfall and high temperatures, especially in summer. Cairo averages 35–40°C (95–104°F) in July, while winters are milder with daytime temperatures around 18–22°C (64–72°F). Coastal areas like Alexandria are more temperate.

Population: Egypt has a population of approximately 110 million people, making it the most populous country in the Arab world. Cairo is the capital and largest city, home to over 20 million residents in its metro area.

Size: Egypt covers about 1 million square kilometers (386,000 square miles), most of which is desert. The Nile River runs through the country and supports the vast majority of the population and agriculture.

Language: Arabic is the official language of Egypt. English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among professionals, while French is also used in some sectors.

Currency: The official currency is the Egyptian Pound (EGP). Cash is still the dominant form of payment, especially in local markets, but credit cards are accepted in hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger shops.

Safety: Egypt is generally safe for tourists, especially in well-traveled areas like Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Visitors should remain alert, follow travel advisories, and avoid protests or politically sensitive areas.

Tipping: Tipping, known locally as “baksheesh,” is expected in many service situations. Small tips for drivers, hotel staff, and tour guides are appreciated, and 10–15% is standard in restaurants.

Electricity and Plugs: Egypt uses 220V electricity at 50Hz. Plug types C and F are common. Travelers from countries using other plug types should bring an adapter.

Water: Tap water in Egypt is not considered safe for drinking. Bottled water is widely available and recommended for drinking and brushing teeth.

Annual Visitors: Egypt receives around 13 million international tourists annually. Top attractions include the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, Luxor Temple, and the Valley of the Kings.

Visa Requirements: Most travelers to Egypt need a visa. Citizens of many countries can obtain an eVisa online or a visa on arrival at major airports. A valid passport is required.

Health & Vaccinations: Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine shots like tetanus and measles. For extended or rural travel, hepatitis B and rabies vaccines may be advised.

Transportation: Transportation options include domestic flights, trains, buses, and taxis. Uber operates in major cities. Intercity trains and Nile River cruises are popular ways to explore Egypt.

Food: Egyptian cuisine features dishes like koshari, falafel (ta’ameya), grilled meats, and fresh pita bread. Street food is abundant and often inexpensive.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Egyptian culture emphasizes hospitality and respect. Modest dress is recommended, particularly at religious sites. Public displays of affection should be avoided.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in hotels and some cafés, though speeds can vary. Mobile data is affordable and reliable with local SIM cards from providers like Vodafone or Orange.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in major cities are adequate, but private clinics are preferred for tourists and can be expensive without insurance.

Did You Know? - Facts About Great Sphinx of Giza

The Great Sphinx is aligned with celestial bodies, featuring a precise orientation towards the rising sun, which reflects the ancient Egyptians' sophisticated understanding of astronomy and their deep spiritual beliefs.

Surrounding the Sphinx, several temples and tombs reveal that it was part of a larger funerary complex, underscoring its significance as both a guardian and a symbol of royal power in ancient Egypt.

The Great Sphinx of Giza, carved from limestone, stands at 66 feet high and stretches 240 feet long, making it one of the largest and oldest monumental sculptures in the world, believed to date back to the reign of Pharaoh Khafre around 2500 BC.

The Sphinx has undergone significant restoration efforts throughout its history, particularly in the 20th century, to combat erosion and damage caused by wind and sand, as well as by human activity.

Its enigmatic face is often attributed to either Khafre, the pharaoh it is thought to represent, or to a later figure who may have altered the sculpture to fit their own likeness, adding another layer of mystery to its history.