2-day Private Hiking and Camping Trip on Mount Sinai

A Heartfelt Look at the 2-Day Private Hiking and Camping Trip on Mount Sinai

If you’re craving an adventure that combines spiritual history, stunning nature, and a touch of camping under the stars, this 2-day private tour on Mount Sinai might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally tackled this journey, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of a truly memorable experience.

What stands out most is the expert guidance from knowledgeable local guides, the spectacular views from the summit, and the authentic Bedouin dinner that adds a cultural flavor. However, one thing to consider is that you’ll need a moderate level of physical fitness, especially for the climb. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, are comfortable with some physical exertion, and want a meaningful way to connect with Egypt’s ancient past.

Key Points

• Stunning sunrise views from the summit make the early wake-up worthwhile.
• Expert local guides enhance the experience with their knowledge and attentiveness.
• The camping under the stars provides a rare chance to sleep in one of the world’s most historic and scenic places.
• Price at around $195 per person offers good value considering the included meals, guide, and overnight camping.
• Limited transportation included means you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to Saint Catherine.
• This tour is appropriate for those with moderate physical fitness; the climb is not overly technical but does require stamina.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting and Departure

The adventure kicks off at Saint Catherine’s Monastery at 9:30 am, a site steeped in Christian, Jewish, and Muslim history. The meeting point is easy to locate with nearby public transportation, making it accessible if you’re coming from nearby cities like Sharm El-Sheikh or Dahab. The tour is exclusive to your group, providing a personalized touch that larger tours often lack.

Day 1: The Climb and Exploring

Once everyone has gathered, your professional local guide, often accompanied by friendly, knowledgeable guides like Ahmed (who gets rave reviews for his attentive and personalized approach), will lead you through the route up Mount Sinai. The climb involves visiting all the ancient churches on the mountain, which adds layers of historical and spiritual significance to your trek.

Reviewers have mentioned how guides like Ahmed go above and beyond to ensure everyone, regardless of fitness level, feels comfortable. One reviewer shared how Ahmed “tinkered with the itinerary to match my preferences” and kept pace with unfit travelers, making the climb accessible and enjoyable for all.

The Ascent and Views

Reaching the second-highest peak in Egypt at 2,258 meters above sea level is a rewarding achievement. The views from the top are often described as breathtaking, with expansive vistas of the surrounding Sinai desert. The ascent typically takes a few hours, often with the option to take either the traditional trail or a more manageable route, depending on your fitness level and preference.

Visiting the Historic Churches

On the way up, you’ll explore ancient churches nestled along the mountain, such as Saint Catherine’s Monastery’s surrounding structures and the revered sites associated with Prophet Moses and Elijah. These sites are more than just photo stops; they’re steeped in stories and religious significance.

Camping Under the Stars

After descending, the focus shifts to the camping experience. Your group will set up in a designated camping area, where you’ll be provided with a blanket, mattress, and dinner cooked by Bedouins. As one reviewer noted, the Bedouin dinner adds a warm, authentic touch to the journey, making you feel like a guest in their traditional lifestyle.

The night sky here is unspoiled, and sleeping under the stars becomes a highlight for many. You’ll wake up early the next morning to watch the sunrise — a moment that many describe as unforgettable.

The Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up after breakfast, which includes soft drinks and a chance to reflect on the experience. The guide will escort you back down to the starting point, and the overall journey typically lasts around 2 days, making it an ideal short escape into history and nature.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Dinner cooked by Bedouins, a chance to taste traditional flavors
• Breakfast with soft drinks, perfect for fueling the early morning ascent
• Blanket and mattress for comfortable sleeping in the camping area
• A professional local guide, whose expertise and friendliness elevate the experience

Not Included:

• Transportation to and from Saint Catherine, which travelers will need to arrange themselves
• Reserve entry tickets, so be prepared to purchase these separately if required
• Sleeping bag or tent, so bring your own if you prefer extra warmth or privacy

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive and authentic experience, a few practical points can help you prepare better:

• Moderate physical fitness is recommended. The climb is doable for most but involves some stamina.
• Weather conditions can vary; pack layers, especially if visiting in cooler months.
• Book in advance — the tour averages 23 days in advance, and availability can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Transportation is not included, so plan your transfer to Saint Catherine accordingly.
• Consider bringing a personal sleeping bag or renting one if you prefer extra warmth, since it’s not included in the package.

Authenticity and Value

This tour provides a unique opportunity to connect with the history and natural beauty of Mount Sinai without the distraction of large crowds. The small-group, private setting ensures a more personalized experience, allowing your guide to tailor the journey to your pace and interests.

The quality of the guide was a recurring theme in reviews, with many emphasizing how guides like Ahmed made the climb both educational and enjoyable. The inclusion of traditional Bedouin dinner and overnight camping adds cultural depth and makes this experience stand out from more generic tours.

At approximately $195 per person, this trip offers good value considering the overnight camping, guided ascent, meals, and the priceless experience of watching a sunrise from the mountain’s summit. It’s a well-rounded package, especially for those seeking a spiritual or historical pilgrimage combined with adventure.

Final Thoughts: Who is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a traveler who loves a mix of history, nature, and authentic local experiences, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want guided support but still crave a sense of adventure and solitude under the stars.

Travelers with moderate fitness levels will find this climb accessible, and the personalized guidance ensures a supportive environment for all. If you’re looking for a way to step outside the typical tourist trail and truly experience Mount Sinai’s majesty, this private camping and hiking tour offers a meaningful, memorable journey.

For anyone eager to witness a spectacular sunrise, explore ancient churches, and sleep beneath a blanket of stars in one of the world’s most historic places, this trip hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation to Saint Catherine included?
No, transportation to and from Saint Catherine city is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transfer, but the tour starts at a flat, accessible location near Saint Catherine’s Monastery.

What should I bring?
You should bring a sleeping bag or tent if you prefer extra warmth, though blankets and mattresses are provided. Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking shoes, and any personal items you may need for the climb.

How fit do I need to be?
A moderate fitness level is recommended. The climb requires stamina but isn’t overly technical, and guides are attentive to different pace needs.

What meals are included?
Dinner cooked by Bedouins and breakfast with soft drinks are included. Dinner is authentic, and breakfast offers a good boost before the climb.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Last-minute cancellations will not be refunded.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour is best suited for those who are physically capable of a mountain climb. Elderly travelers or children with health concerns should assess their fitness level before booking.

What is the best time of year to go?
Weather conditions are a consideration; it’s best to avoid extreme heat in summer or cold in winter. The exact best time depends on local climate, but generally, cooler months are preferable.

How long does the climb take?
The ascent usually takes a few hours, with time for sightseeing and visiting churches along the way. The entire experience spans about two days, including camping and sunrise viewing.

In summary, this private hiking and camping tour on Mount Sinai offers a blend of adventure, history, and culture that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual journey or simply an unforgettable outdoor experience, it promises not just a climb but a memorable story to tell.