While it’s one of the more cliche things to do in Egypt, renting (and riding) a camel at the pyramids of Giza is something you’ll always remember.
There are several options you can choose from when renting a camel.
The first step happens before you even arrive in Giza from Cairo. For instance, if you show up in a black and white taxi, you’re likely to pay more.
Instead, arrive to Giza on a bus or a yellow taxi. The buses leave around every 20 minutes from Cairo and the airport, and the yellow taxis are cheaper.
You also have the option of booking a pre-arranged tour of Egypt through different travel companies that include a camel ride in the budget — just be aware this is easily the most expensive option when it comes down to it.
Other companies offer pyramid and camel-riding focused tours only, these usually include transportation from Cairo, hours of camel riding, and a tour guide.
These tours often cost around US$80-100, which is a decent price, plus you won’t have to worry about haggling once you get there. Don’t be afraid to negotiate this down even further though.
But by far the cheapest option is just to show up by yourself and haggle with a camel rental agency.
Just remember that even though you can save money this way, you have an easier chance of getting ripped off as well, so be ready to bargain.
Don’t pay more than 30 to 50 Egyptian pounds for the camel ride (US$5-8), even though many people will try to charge you 100 Egyptian pounds and up. If you paid that much, you got ripped off.
Also, make sure before you get on the camel that the cost you bargained for includes the price of getting off the camel as well. Some people will try to charge you a fee just to get off.
Finally, don’t let anybody put costumes on you or take your picture, this is just a way for them to charge you extra.
With these few tips, you’ll avoid scams, rent a camel for a bargain price, and have a great experience at the pyramids.
