Farewell to the Pyramid of Giza’s glory: Thousands of tourists let down by the reality behind one of the Seven Wonders of the World

Egypt’s Giza Plateau, home to the iconic Pyramid of Giza—one of the last surviving Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—is undergoing a massive transformation. The decision comes after years of mounting concern over extreme tourist overcrowding, poor visitor experiences, and the deteriorating conditions surrounding the site. With nearly 17.5 million tourists recorded in 2024 and an ambitious target of 30 million by 2030, Egypt recognizes the urgent need to protect its historical treasures. Tourism accounts for approximately 10% of the country's GDP, generating around $6.6 billion, making it vital for the nation's economy. Now, the Egyptian government has introduced a comprehensive reorganization plan to balance heritage preservation, sustainable tourism, and visitor satisfaction.

Egypt remains one of the world’s most captivating destinations. It offers an unparalleled connection to ancient human history, boasting extraordinary monuments like the Pyramids of Giza and the Luxor temples. Beyond its ancient marvels, Egypt charms visitors with vibrant markets, the life-giving Nile River, and the renowned hospitality of its people. The blend of ancient history and modern culture creates an irresistible allure, drawing millions every year to experience its desert landscapes and monumental architecture.

The Giza Necropolis has long been the centerpiece of Egypt's tourism industry. However, the area around the pyramids has grown increasingly chaotic. An influx of tour guides, street vendors, aggressive resellers, tourist vehicles, and unregulated operators has created a crowded and often uncomfortable environment for visitors. What should be a breathtaking moment of wonder is frequently marred by overwhelming noise, aggressive selling tactics, and disorganization, risking the site's global reputation.

In response to these challenges, the Egyptian government has announced a comprehensive reorganization of the Giza Plateau. Key measures include:

Private investors, particularly Orascom Pyramids, are playing a pivotal role in financing and executing these enhancements, ensuring that the world’s last ancient wonder stays accessible and sustainable for future generations.

Growing dissatisfaction among tourists has been evident on social media platforms like Reddit, TikTok, and travel forums. Visitors have frequently cited harassment by vendors, scams, and chaotic conditions as major deterrents. Viral posts criticizing the environment around the pyramids have raised red flags for Egypt’s tourism industry. Given the importance of global reviews and word-of-mouth in today’s interconnected world, Egypt recognized that ignoring these complaints could severely harm its economy and reputation.

One of the major criticisms has been the treatment of animals used for tourist rides at Giza. For years, concerns about malnourished, injured, and mistreated camels, horses, and donkeys have been raised, with organizations like PETA bringing attention to the issue. In response, Egypt introduced an animal welfare initiative in 2024, aimed at improving the care of working animals and encouraging the use of electric buses within the necropolis as a more humane and sustainable alternative to traditional animal rides.

The facelift of the Giza Plateau represents much more than an aesthetic upgrade. Egypt is proactively adapting to the realities of modern tourism where social media can amplify every visitor experience, positive or negative. By reorganizing access, eliminating unethical practices, promoting sustainability, and prioritizing animal welfare, Egypt aims to preserve its priceless heritage while maintaining its status as a premier global tourist destination. In an era where tourism can shape a nation’s economy, Egypt’s bold steps reflect a forward-thinking strategy essential for safeguarding its cultural legacy.