Full-Day Tour Mount Sinai Hike and St Catharine’s Monastery

Exploring Sinai’s Spiritual and Natural Wonders: A Complete Review of the Mount Sinai Hike and St. Catherine’s Monastery Tour

Planning a trip to Egypt and looking for an experience that combines breathtaking scenery with a touch of history? The Full-Day Tour of Mount Sinai and St. Catherine’s Monastery might just be what you need. This comprehensive day trip from Sharm el Sheikh promises early mornings, spectacular views, and a chance to walk through one of the most historically significant sites in the region—all for around $45 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the promise of witnessing a stunning sunrise over Mount Sinai is genuinely compelling. We also appreciate that it offers an accessible hike with an option for a camel ride, making it suitable for a range of fitness levels. Plus, the visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery, one of the oldest continually inhabited monasteries in Egypt, adds a deep cultural layer to the adventure. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the early start time—around 8:30 pm for pickup—which could be a challenge if you’re not a night owl.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a rich, full-day experience that balances natural beauty and historical exploration. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a memorable sunrise, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Early start with pickup from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh around 8:30 pm
• Includes visits to both St. Catherine’s Monastery and Mount Sinai with a hike and optional camel ride
• Professional guides and all entrance fees included for a hassle-free experience
• Opportunity to see the sunrise from Mount Sinai, one of the highlights
• Flexible options: hike or opt for a camel ride up the mountain
• Good value for money considering the full-day itinerary and included sights

What to Expect from This Sinai Adventure

The Itinerary: A Detailed Breakdown

Starting off in the evening, you’ll be picked up by an air-conditioned minibus from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh. This roughly three-hour drive to St. Catherine’s National Park is your first real taste of Egyptian desert scenery—vast, quiet, and strangely mesmerizing under the night sky. The tour includes free entrance to the park, so you can relax knowing there are no hidden costs here.

St. Catherine’s Monastery is your first stop after arriving around midnight. This UNESCO-listed site has been functioning since Byzantine times and is home to a fascinating collection of frescoes, icons, manuscripts, and a mosque and church complex. It’s a rare chance to step into a place that’s been continuously inhabited for over a thousand years. One reviewer mentioned the experience of seeing the burning bush and the ancient manuscripts, which truly highlights how special this site is.

The next phase is the climb up Mount Sinai, which can take around 6 hours total, including rest stops. The highlight? Watching the sunrise over the mountains, which is often described as a mesmerizing and almost spiritual moment. The tour offers two options: hiking on foot or riding a camel, with the latter being a favored choice for those less inclined to strenuous activity. One traveler shared that they loved the views of the Sinai desert from the mountain’s peak, emphasizing how breathtaking the scenery is.

After soaking in the views and perhaps taking countless photos, you’ll descend and head back to Sharm el Sheikh, arriving around mid-morning or early afternoon. The return journey is a good time to relax, reflect, and enjoy some of the scenery you might have missed in the dark.

The Highlights: Why This Tour Works

Stunning Sunrise Views: Watching the first light crack over Sinai’s peaks is often described as unforgettable. Many travelers, including those who’ve reviewed this tour, mention that the spectacle is worth waking up early for. One reviewer specifically enjoyed the panoramic views of the eastern desert from the summit.

Rich Cultural Experience: Visiting St. Catherine’s Monastery offers a glimpse into a place that has seen Christianity, Judaism, and Islam intertwined over centuries. The opportunity to see ancient icons and manuscripts enhances the tour’s cultural depth.

Flexibility and Accessibility: With options to hike or ride camels, this tour is designed to accommodate different fitness levels and preferences. The inclusion of a certified guide and a Bedouin guide ensures you’re supported throughout the hike, which can be quite demanding for some.

Good Value for Money: For just $45, you get hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, a guide, and the chance to witness two iconic Sinai sites. The tour is generally well-priced compared to private excursions, especially considering the full-day commitment and included experiences.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Prepare for an early start: The pickup begins at 8:30 pm, so plan accordingly. A good night’s sleep beforehand will make the early morning more manageable.
• Dress appropriately: It can be cold on Mount Sinai, especially at dawn, so bring layers. Comfortable footwear is a must for the hike.
• Bring water and snacks: The tour provides bottled water and soft drinks, but carrying some extra snacks can help sustain energy during the hike.
• Opt for the camel ride if you prefer: It’s generally less taxing than hiking and adds a fun element to the ascent.
• Be aware of physical fitness requirements: While the tour is accessible for most, the hike does require moderate fitness.

What Past Travelers Say

One reviewer, Juan M., praised the beauty of the experience but pointed out logistical hiccups, like a delayed hotel pickup and language barriers. Still, he described the climb as “incredible” and “soul-enriching”. Such honest feedback hints that while the experience is rewarding, travelers should be prepared for some organizational quirks.

Another point of insight was the appreciation for good value, with many noting that for the price, the tour offers a comprehensive look at Sinai’s highlights, especially for those on a budget.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Sinai at sunrise without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you’re interested in a combination of history, natural beauty, and culture. Families with children, given the moderate physical requirements, and older travelers who prefer options like camel rides, will find it accessible.

Keep in mind that the early start and long hours may be tiring for some, but the payoff—breathtaking views and a sense of connection to Egypt’s spiritual sites—makes it worthwhile.

The Sum Up

The Mount Sinai Hike and St. Catherine’s Monastery Tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed opportunity to experience some of Egypt’s most iconic sights. The chance to witness a sunrise from the mountain’s peak, combined with the historical richness of the monastery, provides a meaningful, memorable day. While logistical hiccups might occur, the overall experience is authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching.

This tour is best suited for those seeking an affordable but profound adventure, with enough flexibility to cater to different fitness levels and preferences. If you’re ready for an early start, love stunning vistas, and want a taste of Sinai’s history, this trip could be just the thing.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins around 8:30 pm from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh. The actual trip to Mount Sinai starts shortly after and involves an early morning ascent.

Is the hike difficult?
The tour involves a moderate hike, but options include riding a camel, making it accessible for various fitness levels. The hike can take several hours, so some stamina is recommended.

Can I opt for just the monastery visit?
The tour is designed as a full-day experience, with the monastery included as one of the key stops. The itinerary is structured around the combined visit.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is best, as it can be cold at the summit during sunrise. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the hike.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but bottled water and soft drinks are provided. You may want to bring snacks for energy.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels, especially with the option to ride camels instead of hiking.

How long does the entire trip last?
The total duration is approximately 14 to 15 hours, including transportation, visits, and the hike.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The experience requires good weather; cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, with the option for a different date or a full refund.

Whether you’re chasing a memorable sunrise, eager to explore ancient sites, or seeking a balanced mix of adventure and culture, this tour offers a compelling way to see Sinai. Just remember to pack your patience—and your camera!