When you think of pyramids, do you only picture the grand structures of Giza in Egypt? You’re not alone. But here’s a surprise: Sudan, not Egypt, holds the record for the most pyramids in the world, with over 200 still standing.

In 2025, culturally curious travellers are looking beyond the obvious to explore deeper stories of civilisations past. This blog answers the big question: which country has the most pyramids? — and introduces you to destinations around the globe where ancient wonders await. From Sudan to Mexico, and even Southeast Asia, here’s your ultimate guide to exploring pyramids safely, meaningfully, and memorably.

Top Countries with the Most Pyramids

1. Sudan – Over 200 Pyramids

When asking which country has the most pyramids, Sudan tops the list with over 200 more than any other nation. These ancient structures, mainly located in Meroë, Nuri, and El-Kurru, were built by the Kushite kingdoms between 800 BCE and 350 CE. Though smaller than Egypt’s, the Nubian pyramids are highly significant and represent a deep cultural heritage of northeastern Africa.

Notable Sites: Meroë, Nuri, El-Kurru

Historical Background:

Sudan has more pyramids than any other country in the world, with around 200 known structures built by the ancient Kingdom of Kush between 800 BCE and 350 CE. These pyramids are smaller than Egypt’s but were used as royal tombs for Nubian kings and queens.

Modern Significance:

Meroë is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ongoing archaeological excavations.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: November to February
Visa Info: Indian travellers need a visa
Unique Experience: Camel rides to remote sites, climbable structures

2. Egypt – Approx. 138 Pyramids

One cannot ignore Egypt when discussing the country that has the most pyramids. With about 135 pyramids discovered, including the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt has long symbolised pyramid architecture. These massive stone tombs were built as final resting places for Pharaohs and have become global icons of ancient engineering and spirituality.

Notable Sites: Giza, Saqqara, Dahshur

Historical Background:

Home to the iconic Great Pyramid of Giza, Egypt’s pyramids served as tombs for pharaohs and are among the oldest man-made structures still standing. Built during the Old and Middle Kingdom periods, they symbolise ancient engineering marvels.

Modern Significance:

Egyptian pyramids are UNESCO-listed and heavily studied symbols of ancient civilisation.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: October to April
Visa Info: Easy tourist visa via Visa2Fly
Unique Experience: Sound & Light show at Giza, guided tours

3. Mexico – Over 30 Major Pyramids

Mexico deserves mention in any discussion about which country has the most pyramids. From the Mayan pyramids of Chichén Itzá and Calakmul to the Aztec pyramids of Tenochtitlan, Mexico offers a rich array of step pyramids. The Great Pyramid of Cholula, near Puebla, holds the record as the largest pyramid on Earth by volume.

Notable Sites: Chichén Itzá, Teotihuacán, Cholula, Tula

Historical Background:

Mexico boasts pyramids from the Maya, Aztec, and Toltec civilisations. The Great Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid by volume in the world. El Castillo in Chichén Itzá is another iconic step pyramid built for astronomical purposes.

Modern Significance:

These sites are part of UNESCO World Heritage and attract millions of visitors.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: November to March
Visa Info: Electronic travel authorisation for Indians
Unique Experience: Climbing the Pyramid of the Sun

4. Peru – Over 30 Pyramids

Peru often surprises with over 30 pyramid sites. While Machu Picchu steals the spotlight, pyramid complexes like Caral, Tucume, and Huaca del Sol reveal Peru's deep-rooted pyramid traditions, especially from the Moche and Norte Chico civilisations.

Notable Sites: Caral, Huaca del Sol, Tucume

Historical Background:

Pre-Incan civilisations like the Moche and Lambayeque built pyramid structures as early as 3000 BCE. Caral is one of the oldest known urban centres in the Americas.

Modern Significance:

Sites continue to be excavated, revealing insights into early Peruvian civilisations.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: May to September
Visa Info: No visa required for Indians (up to 90 days)
Unique Experience: Explore archaeological ruins with local guides

5. China – Estimated 38 Pyramids

China enters the debate on which country has the most pyramids with its massive burial mounds in Shaanxi province. These pyramidal tombs, including the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, reflect ancient Chinese beliefs about the afterlife. The elusive Great White Pyramid of Xi’an adds an air of mystery to China’s ancient legacy.

Notable Sites: Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, Maoling, Xi’an

Historical Background:

Chinese pyramids were mainly burial sites for emperors and aristocrats. Some structures, like the legendary White Pyramid near Xi’an, remain surrounded by mystery.

Modern Significance:

Sites such as the Terracotta Army are globally renowned.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
Visa Info: Indian travellers require a tourist visa
Unique Experience: 3D museum experiences, visit ancient burial mounds

6. Nigeria – 10 Discovered Pyramids

Few expect Nigeria in this list, but the Nsude Pyramids in Enugu State are a hidden gem. Built by the ancient Igbo people, these ten mud-brick pyramids held religious significance. Though small and lesser-known, they showcase Africa’s diverse pyramid-building traditions.

Notable Sites: Nsude Pyramids

Historical Background:

The Nsude Pyramids were built by the Igbo people in southeastern Nigeria. They are made of clay and mud and serve spiritual purposes.

Modern Significance:

Though less preserved, they are a significant part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: November to February
Visa Info: Visa required for Indians
Unique Experience: Cultural immersion with local communities

7. Niger – 2 Known Pyramids and a Sphinx

Niger makes a surprising entry in this list. Two pyramids and a sphinx-like statue have been discovered in its desert regions. While little archaeological work has been done, these structures hint at ancient civilisations yet to be fully understood.

Notable Sites: Zinder Region

Historical Background:

Niger’s pyramids are smaller and lesser-known but bear significant archaeological value. They are sometimes linked with Saharan trade routes and indigenous tribal cultures.

Modern Significance:

Still under-researched, these pyramids are valuable for historical mapping of early African civilisations.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: December to February
Visa Info: Indian travellers need a visa
Unique Experience: Visit remote heritage sites with a local guide

8. Guatemala – 6 Major Step Pyramids

If you're researching which country has the most pyramids, Guatemala is a strong contender thanks to the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. Located deep in the northern rainforest, Tikal features six towering step pyramids used for rituals, astronomy, and governance. Their preservation makes Guatemala a hotspot for pyramid tourism.

Notable Sites: Tikal

Historical Background:

Guatemala’s Tikal is one of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. Its massive stone pyramids were used for ceremonial purposes.

Modern Significance:

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a vital research centre for Maya studies.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: November to April
Visa Info: Visa-free for Indians up to 90 days
Unique Experience: Sunrise pyramid treks, jungle tours

9. Honduras – Maya Step Pyramids

When considering which country has the most pyramids, Honduras earns its place with the ancient city of Copán. Found near the Guatemalan border, Copán boasts step pyramids, hieroglyphic staircases, and altars that illustrate the grandeur of Mayan civilisation.

Notable Sites: Copan

Historical Background:

Copan was a powerful city-state of the Maya civilisation. Its pyramids and stelae depict intricate carvings and align with astronomical events.

Modern Significance:

An important UNESCO World Heritage Site for Maya heritage.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: November to March
Visa Info: Visa-free for Indians up to 90 days
Unique Experience: Explore ruins near the Guatemala border, birdwatching

10. Iraq – Ziggurats (Stepped Pyramids)

Iraq features prominently in ancient history and in any discussion on the country that has the most pyramids. The Ziggurat of Ur, dating back to 2100 BCE, is a prime example. Built by the Sumerians, these stepped temples were dedicated to gods and form the foundation of Middle Eastern architectural history.

Notable Sites: Ziggurat of Ur

Historical Background:

Built by the Sumerians around 2100 BCE, ziggurats were temple towers in ancient Mesopotamian cities.

Modern Significance:

Considered precursors to true pyramids, they hold immense archaeological value.

Traveller Tips:

Best Time to Visit: October to March
Visa Info: Travel advisories apply
Unique Experience: Visit Babylonian ruins, connect with local historians

Travel Tips for Pyramid Explorers

Respect local customs and sacred sites: avoid climbing unless allowed
Hire local guides to learn authentic stories and support communities
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from sunburn in arid regions
Wear sturdy shoes — many pyramid sites involve uneven terrain
Check accessibility if travelling with the elderly or children
Visa Help: Use Visa2Fly for fast, stress-free visa documentation for these destinations

FAQs

Q1: Which country has the most pyramids?

A: Sudan holds the record with over 200 pyramids, surpassing Egypt in count.

Q2: Are the Sudanese pyramids older than the Egyptian ones?

A: No, most Sudanese pyramids were built after Egypt’s Old Kingdom era, around 800 BCE.

Q3: Can tourists visit pyramids in Sudan or Peru?

A: Yes! Both countries welcome tourists and offer guided tours. Sudan is less crowded, offering a more serene experience.

Q4: Which pyramids are the tallest in the world?

A: The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt remains the tallest at 146 meters (original height), followed by the Pyramid of the Sun in Mexico.

Conclusion

Pyramids are more than just stone marvels — they’re living legacies of ancient civilisations. And while Egypt might be the most famous, Sudan holds the title for the most pyramids in the world. From the deserts of Africa to the jungles of Southeast Asia, your journey to the past starts here.

Whether you're a curious traveller, a history lover, or simply someone planning an unforgettable 2025 itinerary, let Visa2Fly take care of the paperwork while you focus on exploring the wonders of the ancient world.

Which Country Has the Most Pyramids? Top 9 Places