Khafre's Pyramid

Khafre's Pyramid is the second-largest of the three great pyramids of Giza, built for the pharaoh Khafre (Chephren) around 2570 BC. Though slightly smaller than the Great Pyramid of his father Khufu, it appears taller because it stands on higher bedrock, and it has one unmistakable feature: a cap of the original smooth limestone casing still clinging to its summit, giving a tantalising glimpse of how all the pyramids once gleamed, encased in polished white stone. Khafre's pyramid complex is also the most complete, including the famous Great Sphinx, which is thought to bear Khafre's face and guards the approach, along with the well-preserved Valley Temple of massive granite blocks.

Visitors can enter the pyramid's interior passages and burial chamber (a separate ticket, and not for the claustrophobic). It's an awe-inspiring part of any Giza visit. Go early to beat the heat and crowds, combine it with the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid, and consider a guide to bring the site to life.

Don't miss

• The surviving limestone casing at its summit
• The second-largest Giza pyramid
• The associated Great Sphinx
• The well-preserved granite Valley Temple
• Interior passages and burial chamber (separate ticket)

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Khafre's Pyramid

Cheapest way inPrivate Tour in Pyramids of Giza with Lunch and Camel Ride4.9★ · 45 travelers~5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Best full dayPrivate tour: GIza Pyramids, Memphis City & Sakkara Pyramid4.8★ · 648 travelers~9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$95 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleThe Pyramids of giza5★ · 67 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →

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Know before you go

• Look for the original limestone casing still capping the summit.
• Entering the interior needs a separate ticket, not for the claustrophobic.
• The Great Sphinx is part of Khafre's complex, see them together.
• Go early to beat the desert heat and the crowds.

A bit of history

Built around 2570 BC for the Fourth Dynasty pharaoh Khafre, this is the second pyramid of Giza. Its complex, including the Sphinx and the granite Valley Temple, is the best preserved of the three, and the surviving limestone casing at its apex shows the smooth finish the pyramids originally had.