Saint Anthony Monastery Trip from Hurghada

Taking a day to explore Egypt’s spiritual heritage can be a truly enriching experience, especially when it involves visiting the world’s oldest Coptic Orthodox monastery. While many travelers opt for the bustling beaches and lively city tours of Hurghada, this trip offers a peaceful retreat into history and spirituality.

From the comfort of air-conditioned transportation to the fascinating stories shared by monks, this tour provides a balanced mixture of culture, history, and scenic desert landscapes. It’s particularly compelling for those interested in religious sites, ancient monasteries, or simply seeking a break from the coast’s usual attractions.

Three things we love about this experience include the chance to visit the oldest church in the world, the opportunity to climb up to the cave where Saint Anthony lived (an optional but memorable step), and the included visits to both St. Anthony and St. Paul Monasteries—each offering unique insights into monastic life.

One possible drawback? The long drive of approximately three hours each way might feel tiring for some, especially if you prefer shorter or more relaxed excursions. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore Egypt’s religious history rather than those looking for a quick sightseeing trip.

This trip would appeal most to history buffs, spiritual seekers, or those wanting a meaningful cultural experience beyond Hurghada’s beaches.

Key Points

• Authentic visits to Egypt’s oldest monastery and St. Paul Monastery
• Includes a local monk guide who explains monastic life and liturgy
• Optional cave visit provides a chance to walk in Saint Anthony’s footsteps
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and air conditioning
• Good value for the price considering the full-day itinerary and inclusions
• Long travel times mean a full day out of the hotel, so plan accordingly

A Deep Dive into the Saint Anthony Monastery Experience

Starting with Comfort: Hotel Pickup and Transportation

What sets this tour apart is the convenience of hotel pickup from anywhere in Hurghada. An air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away for about three hours towards the monastery, which is nestled deep in the desert. During the drive, your guide shares snippets about Egypt’s religious history, making the journey as educational as the destination.

The ride is generally straightforward, though the drive duration does mean committing a significant chunk of time to travel. For those who prefer shorter excursions, this might be a little hefty, but the scenic desert views and the anticipation of visiting ancient sites make it worthwhile.

Arrival at the Monastery: First Impressions

Upon arrival, the atmosphere changes instantly—calm, reverent, and steeped in history. The St. Anthony Monastery (Deir Mar Antonios) is renowned as the oldest monastery in the world, dating back to the 4th century. Its structure is simple yet powerful, with ancient stone walls and a tranquil garden that invites reflection.

A monk from the monastery joins the group to explain the daily routines, the number of monks living there, and the liturgical practices of the Coptic Orthodox church. His insights help visitors appreciate what goes on behind the monastery’s walls—fostering a deeper understanding of monastic life that many travelers find enlightening.

Exploring the Old Church and Water Creek

Inside, you’ll explore the original church, which is not only a religious site but also a piece of living history. The quiet of the space, combined with the monk’s explanations, makes for a peaceful and contemplative experience.

The nearby water creek, which originates from the mountain, adds a natural touch to the site, showing how water sustains the monastery and symbolizes life in this desert setting. Reviews mention a “serene atmosphere”, making it a perfect spot for reflection.

Climbing to Saint Anthony’s Cave

One of the tour’s highlights is the optional climb up the mountain to Saint Anthony’s cave, where the saint lived in solitude. The ascent takes about an hour, with some steep steps and uneven terrain, so good footwear is recommended.

Visitors find the climb rewarding—not just for the physical activity but for the awe-inspiring views and the chance to imagine Saint Anthony’s solitary life. Many reviewers highlight that this part is “a unique connection to history”, though it’s not suitable for everyone depending on fitness levels.

Visiting St. Paul Monastery

Next, the trip continues about 50 kilometers to the St. Paul Monastery, another pivotal site in Egypt’s Christian history. Your guide provides background on Saint Paul, who is believed to have retreated here for prayer and reflection.

The monastery offers a different ambiance—more secluded and equally steeped in spiritual significance. As the guide contacts a monk on-site, visitors get to learn about the monastic routines and see the simple, humble dwellings. It’s a quiet space that feels away from the modern world, perfect for those interested in religious history.

Lunch Break and Return Journey

To break up the day, a lunch stop is arranged roughly halfway back to Hurghada. While the meal isn’t included in the package, the guide arranges a local restaurant where you can enjoy Egyptian cuisine and two bottles of water per person.

The return drive offers more time for reflection or to review the day’s highlights, and the overall experience wraps up with your hotel drop-off, typically after around 10 hours.

What You’ll Get for the Price

At $169.31 per person, this tour provides a full day of culture with several key benefits:

• Visits to two significant monasteries, including the oldest in the world
• Guided explanations by a knowledgeable monk, enriching the experience
• Optional access to Saint Anthony’s cave, a memorable pilgrimage site
• Transportation, hotel pickup, and drop-off
• A traditional lunch en route (cost not included)

While the ticket prices cover the sites and guide, meals and personal expenses are extra, so budget accordingly. The inclusion of two bottles of water per person is considerate, especially given the desert climate.

Authenticity and Insider Perspective

Based on reviews, visitors often comment on how the monk adds depth to the tour, explaining the roles and routines of the monks and giving context to the liturgy of Coptic churches. One reviewer mentions that the guide’s explanations “really brought the site to life,” turning a simple sightseeing trip into a meaningful cultural experience.

Some travelers note the long transfer times but agree that the peaceful surroundings and historical insights more than compensate. Others appreciate the opportunity to walk in Saint Anthony’s footsteps, especially when climbing up to his cave—described as “an unforgettable moment”.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, as the steps can be uneven
• Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially during outdoor parts of the tour
• Prepare for a long day—pack a small bag with essentials
• Confirm your pickup details beforehand to avoid confusion
• Consider bringing some cash for souvenirs or additional drinks at the restaurant

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This trip strikes a good balance between cultural depth and scenic beauty. It’s most suitable for travelers intrigued by Egypt’s Christian history, looking for an authentic religious experience, or simply wanting a peaceful break from Hurghada’s beach scene.

The guided explanations by a monk add an educational element that’s hard to find elsewhere, making the visit more meaningful. The opportunity to climb into Saint Anthony’s cave offers a tangible connection to history that many find touching.

However, the long travel times and physical activity involved may not suit everyone. If you’re after a quick, light sightseeing tour, this might feel a bit demanding. But if you’re willing to dedicate a day to exploring Egypt’s spiritual landmarks, this tour offers a genuine, well-rounded experience.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided explanations, entrance tickets to the monasteries, and a lunch stop with two bottles of water per person.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the lunch itself is paid separately, and drinks during lunch, souvenirs, and personal expenses are not included.

How long is the drive from Hurghada to the monasteries?
The drive takes approximately 3 hours each way, making it a full-day excursion.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour involves some walking and climbing, especially up to Saint Anthony’s cave, so it may be best for children over a certain age and those comfortable with walking long distances and uneven terrain.

Can I visit the cave of Saint Anthony?
Yes, the climb to the cave is optional and involves about an hour of walking on steps to reach it.

What is the main focus of the guide’s explanations?
The guide will explain about the history of the monasteries, the daily routines of the monks, and the liturgy of the Coptic Orthodox church, providing cultural and religious context.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, enhancing the personalized feel.

How do I book the tour?
Bookings are made through the provider Sjptours Hurghada, with confirmation received at the time of booking.

What should I wear?
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is respectful for visiting religious sites. Comfortable footwear is essential, especially for climbing.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before may not be refunded.

This Saint Anthony Monastery trip from Hurghada offers a unique glimpse into Egypt’s Christian heritage, combining history, spirituality, and scenic desert landscapes. It’s a meaningful day out for those eager to connect with ancient traditions, with the added convenience of hotel pickup and guided insights ensuring a smooth and enriching experience.