Soleb Temple
The best preserved Egyptian temple in Sudan, built by Amenhotep III on the Nile.
Updated 13 September 2026
Soleb was built by Amenhotep III in the fourteenth century BC and is the finest surviving Egyptian temple in Sudan: a sandstone building with columns still standing, reliefs including scenes of the king's jubilee, and a plan that recalls the great temples of Thebes. Its sister temple at Sedeinga was built for his wife Tiye. Soleb stands close to the river with palms behind it and very few visitors.
Highlights
- The standing columns - the sandstone shafts still upright in the hypostyle.
- The jubilee reliefs - the carved scenes of Amenhotep III's festival.
- The Theban plan - a temple built on the model of the great Egyptian sanctuaries.
- The river setting - the temple close to the Nile with palms behind.
When to go
November to February is the cool season. Early morning and late afternoon give the best light on the reliefs. March to May is extremely hot.
Practical notes
There is no shade or interpretation at the site. Reliefs are weathered and need low light to read. Travel in Sudan requires arrangements made well in advance.
Nearby
Sedeinga is north, and Sai Island is beyond it.
What to pack for Soleb Temple
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Modest clothing - Shoulders and knees covered - the single most common requirement. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A scarf or shawl - To cover the head or shoulders on entry; women especially at mosques. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
