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Nuri Pyramids
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Nuri is a monumental royal necropolis on the eastern bank of the Nile, which became the most important burial site of the Kushite kings after El-Kurru. It houses over 20 pyramids of kings and more than 50 tombs of queens and princesses. The most significant pyramid belongs to Taharqa, arguably the most powerful pharaoh of the 25th Dynasty, whose structure, with a base side of about 51 meters, is the largest of all Nubian pyramids. The architecture of the Nuri pyramids is steeper than that of their Egyptian models, and they were mostly built from local sandstone. Beneath the pyramids are multi-room burial chambers, often carved deep into the rock. A major problem for archaeology today is the rising groundwater level, which has flooded many of the underground chambers. Despite these challenges, Nuri remains an impressive testimony to Kushite power and their desire for eternity. The site is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and has a majestic sight in the middle of the desert.
- Location: Sudan
- Top sights: Nuri Pyramids · stepped pyramid of Taharqa
- Nearby: Karima (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 22 | 25 | 29 | 33 | 35 | 35 | 36 | 35 | 31 | 25 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Nuri Pyramids are an open-air archaeological site located in the remote desert of northern Sudan. Visitors can walk freely among the pyramids and tombs on the surface, though access inside the burial chambers is generally not permitted for preservation reasons.
Typical hours
As a remote archaeological site, the pyramids are typically accessible during daylight hours from sunrise to sunset. There are no fixed opening hours; it's best to arrange access via a local guide or tour operator in advance.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use across the entire site, including the pyramids and tombs. Tripods and drones may require special permission from local authorities, and visitors should respect any restricted areas that are clearly marked.
Time needed
Plan at least one to two hours to explore the main pyramid field and read the informational signs. More time is needed if you wish to walk to the more distant tombs or take detailed photographs.
Combine with
Combine a visit to Nuri with the nearby pyramids of El-Kurru and Jebel Barkal for a full Nubian archaeology tour. Most visitors base themselves in Karima or Dongola, which also have museums and markets worth exploring.
Getting there
The site is located about 20 kilometers north of Karima, reachable by 4x4 vehicle on sandy desert tracks. Hiring a local guide with a jeep is the most reliable way to get there, as public transport is not available.
Insider tip
Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert heat is intense with no shade. Start your visit early in the morning to avoid the midday sun and to capture the best light for photography.
Geography
Facts
- Taharqa's pyramid was originally about 40 to 50 meters high.
- Nuri served as a royal cemetery for approximately 300 years.
- Thousands of shabti figures were found in Taharqa's burial chambers.
- The pyramids were provided with an outer casing of smooth sandstone.
- Royal burials in Nuri began around 664 BC with Taharqa.
- Archaeologists today use diving equipment to explore the flooded tombs.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Nuri Pyramids (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are the pyramids freely accessible?
Yes, one can walk around the pyramids.
Can one climb them?
No, climbing is prohibited for monument protection reasons.
When is the light best for photos?
At sunrise or shortly before sunset.
Are there parking spaces there?
Yes, there are sandy areas nearby to park vehicles.
How many pyramids are there?
There are over 60 pyramids in this necropolis area.
Nuri Pyramids: where is it located?
Nuri Pyramids is located in Sudan.
Nuri Pyramids: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nuri Pyramids, stepped pyramid of Taharqa.
Nuri Pyramids: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Nuri Pyramids: why is it worth visiting?
Nuri is a monumental royal necropolis on the eastern bank of the Nile, which became the most important burial site of the Kushite kings after El-Kurru.
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History & landmarks
Amun Temple of Jebel Barkal
A massive temple complex at the foot of the sacred Jebel Barkal mountain, serving as the spiritual center of the ancient Kingdom of Kush.
El-Kurru Necropolis
One of the oldest burial sites of the Nubian kings, where pharaohs of the 25th Egyptian Dynasty, including King Piye, were laid to rest.
Old Dongola Cathedral Ruins
The impressive ruins of ancient churches and monasteries in the capital of the medieval Christian Kingdom of Makuria.
Western Deffufa of Kerma
A massive and mysterious mud-brick structure that served as the main temple of the ancient Kerma civilization.
Sesibi Temple
The remains of an ancient Egyptian temple complex, originally founded by Akhenaten for the solar cult of Aten.
Soleb Temple
One of the best-preserved Egyptian temples in Sudan, built by Amenhotep III and dedicated to the god Amun-Re.
More places
Pyramids of Nuri
An ancient necropolis with steep pyramids, where many Nubian kings were buried.
Ghazali Monastery
A highly well-preserved medieval Christian monastery in the Wadi Abu Dom region.
El Kurru
A royal cemetery of the Kushite rulers with pyramids and painted underground burial chambers.
Old Dongola
The capital of the medieval Christian Nubian kingdom of Makuria.
Banganarti
A major archaeological site featuring the remains of an important medieval pilgrimage church.
Kawa
An ancient city on the Nile with temples dedicated to the Egyptian god Amun.
Western Deffufa
The massive center of the ancient city of Kerma, consisting of mud bricks and temple structures.
Tombos
An ancient quarry at the Third Cataract of the Nile with inscriptions and an unfinished statue.