Gharb Soheil Nubian Village
Gharb Soheil is a living Nubian village on the West Bank of the Nile, south of Aswan town. Entry is free (you pay only for transport), and the motorboat from the Corniche takes about 45 minutes through the First Cataract.
On the West Bank of the Nile, facing Soheil Island near the First Cataract, lies the Nubian village of Gharb Soheil ("West Soheil"). Its houses are painted vivid blue, yellow and pink and decorated with Nubian motifs.
The Nubians are the people of the Nile valley south of Aswan, with languages, music and building traditions of their own. Lake Nasser swallowed many of their villages, and Gharb Soheil is now one of the most accessible places to get a sense of their culture.
People come to share tea or a meal in a family home, have henna painted, browse crafts and spices, or stay overnight in one of the small guesthouses. Some households keep baby crocodiles, a Nubian custom.
What to see
- Painted Nubian houses with domed roofs
- Tea or lunch in a Nubian home
- Henna, crafts and spice stalls
- The boat trip past the islands of the First Cataract
Visiting
- Getting there: motorboat from the Aswan Corniche (about 45 minutes, through the cataract), or by road over the old dam
- Best time: afternoon, staying on for sunset
- Respect: people live here, so ask before you photograph anyone
- Nearby: Aswan Corniche, Elephantine Island, Nubia Museum
Getting there
Coordinates: 24.0577, 32.8602
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Gharb Soheil from Aswan?
By motorboat from the Aswan Corniche, about 45 minutes through the cataract, or by road over the old dam.
Do you pay to enter the Nubian village?
No, you only pay for the boat or car. In the village you can pay for tea, a meal, henna, crafts and spices.
When is the best time to visit Gharb Soheil?
In the afternoon, staying for sunset. Visiting the Nubia Museum beforehand makes the trip far more rewarding.