Moses Mount Tour from Sharm elsheikh

Planning a trip to Egypt offers endless opportunities for adventure, culture, and awe-inspiring sights. One standout experience is the Moses Mount Tour from Sharm el Sheikh, a journey that promises both spiritual reflection and stunning scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, extensive reviews and detailed itineraries paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect from this overnight expedition.

What we love about this tour is how it combines a starlit desert drive, a timeless ascent, and a chance to witness a spectacular sunrise over the mountains. Plus, the visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery, one of the world’s oldest religious sites, adds a layer of historical intrigue. The affordable price of $34.87, inclusive of transportation and guides, makes this experience accessible for many travelers. That said, it’s a long night — around 12 to 14 hours — so it’s best suited for those comfortable with early mornings and overnight adventures.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing and physical effort involved. The climb includes about 750 steps to the summit, followed by a descent that can take 2 to 3 hours. Although the tour offers the option of riding a camel (costs around 20 Euros), the physical challenge and the early start are worth considering. This tour is perfect for travelers craving authentic, awe-inspiring moments combined with a touch of history — especially those who thrive on scenic sunrises and spiritual sites.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just under $35, it offers excellent value considering the sights and experience.
• Stunning Sunrise: Witnessing the sunrise from Mount Sinai is a highlight, offering incredible photo opportunities.
• Historic Site Visit: The stop at St. Catherine’s Monastery adds cultural depth to the trip.
• Long, But Rewarding Day: Expect a 12 to 14-hour journey, ideal for adventure lovers.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Tours are capped at 50 travelers, with a flexible pickup from your hotel.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides help make the ascent and exploration more meaningful.

What to Expect During the Tour

Pickup and Journey to Saint Catherine City

The adventure begins after sunset, around 8:00 PM, with a pickup from your hotel in Sharm el Sheikh or Dahab. This early evening start is perfect if you’re eager to avoid the daytime heat and enjoy a cooler desert night. The journey through the desert landscape takes approximately 3 hours by air-conditioned coach, providing a comfortable way to relax while en route.

Many reviews mention how smooth and punctual EgyptLand Excursions is with pickups, making the start of the trip stress-free. The drive itself offers a chance to get into the right mindset, as you leave behind the city lights and head into the dark, starry desert.

Arriving at Mount Sinai and the Climb

Arriving around 12:30 AM, the next step is to begin your ascent. You can opt to climb the Camel Path — a roughly 2-hour route — or ride a camel for about 20 Euros. The camel ride is a fun option, especially if you’re not keen on walking, but many experienced hikers prefer walking for the more immersive experience.

The climb involves approximately 750 steps to reach the summit, which some reviewers describe as physically demanding but absolutely worth the effort. One reviewer mentioned how guides are helpful and encouraging, making the steep climb more manageable. Expect to pause frequently to soak in the starlit desert views and catch your breath.

Watching the Sunrise

The climax of the tour is the spectacular sunrise from the top of Mount Sinai. As dawn breaks, you’ll experience an incredible display of light over rugged mountains and expansive desert valleys. Many travelers describe it as “breathtaking,” with some noting it’s a moment that stays with you long after the trip ends. Be sure to bring a camera or smartphone — you’ll want to capture those unforgettable colors.

Descent and Visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery

After sunrise, you’ll descend either via the same camel and steps route or a full set of 1,750 steps. This descent takes about 2 hours and offers different perspectives of the mountain and surrounding landscape. Once at the bottom, you’ll walk approximately 10 minutes to the historic St. Catherine’s Monastery.

Spending about an hour exploring the monastery, you’ll find an 11th-century mosque, an Orthodox Greek church, and relics of Saint Catherine. The monastery’s age — built in the 6th century — and its religious artifacts make it a fascinating stop for history buffs. Many reviews note the silence and spirituality of this place, making it a meaningful addition to your day.

Return to Sharm el Sheikh

The trip concludes with a bus ride back to your hotel, arriving around 1:30 PM. The timing allows you to rest after the long night, while also leaving the afternoon free for additional sightseeing or relaxation.

Transportation, Guides, and Overall Value

The air-conditioned vehicle and professional guide are significant value adds, especially considering the tour’s affordability. Guides are known to be friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, encouraging questions and sharing insights about the mountain, monastery, and local culture.

The tour’s price of $34.87 includes all fees and taxes related to the park entrance and guide services. There are no hidden costs, but you should budget for optional extras such as the camel ride or tips.

Comfort and Group Size

With a maximum of 50 travelers, the group size strikes a good balance — large enough for camaraderie but small enough to get personal attention from guides. The coaches are modern, comfortable, and equipped for a long night of traveling, ensuring you can rest on the way to and from Sinai.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This overnight adventure checks many boxes for those seeking a combination of adventure, history, and spectacular scenery. The price point is very attractive for such a comprehensive experience, especially given the inclusion of transportation, guides, and entrance fees.

If you enjoy sunrises, are interested in religious sites, or simply want a memorable story to tell, this tour is ideal. The long hours may be a challenge for some, but the climb’s physicality and the chance to see the stunning desert landscape bathed in dawn light make it worthwhile.

It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who value authentic experiences in Egypt and are looking for something that offers both a sense of accomplishment and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins around 8:00 PM, so you should be ready for collection at your hotel at that time.

How long does the whole trip last?
Expect to be out for approximately 12 to 14 hours, from pickup to return.

Is the climb difficult?
The climb involves about 750 steps and can be physically demanding, but guides are there to assist. You also have the option to ride a camel part of the way.

Can I see the sunrise from the top?
Yes, witnessing the sunrise from Mount Sinai is a major highlight, with many reviews describing it as breathtaking.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, all entrance fees, and the guide. Optional extras like the camel ride cost extra.

How do I get back to my hotel?
The bus returns you to your hotel around 1:30 PM, after the visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery.

Is there any age restriction?
Most travelers can participate, but physical ability and comfort with early mornings and climbing are considerations.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing for the night, sturdy shoes, a camera, and perhaps a flashlight for the climb.

To sum it up, the Moses Mount Tour from Sharm el Sheikh offers a compelling mix of adventure, history, and stunning natural beauty at an excellent price point. It’s perfect for travelers eager to experience a spiritual sunrise, explore ancient sites, and enjoy a memorable desert night under the stars. If you’re up for a long night and a rewarding climb, this is a journey you won’t forget.