Mount Sinai Climb And St Catherine Monastery From Sharm El Sheikh

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing sunrise from the top of Mount Sinai or exploring one of the world’s oldest monasteries, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure. From the moment we first read about it, what caught our eye was the mix of spectacular views, cultural insight, and the opportunity to challenge yourself physically in a spectacular setting.

Three things we love about this tour are its inclusive transport, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see ancient religious sites in their historic glory. On the downside, the long hours and early start might not suit everyone, especially light sleepers or those with limited stamina.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers, history buffs, or those seeking a spiritual moment in a stunning landscape. If you’re prepared for a physically demanding hike and want a deep dive into Egypt’s most iconic site, this tour is likely to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

Early start and long hours require good stamina but reward you with a spectacular sunrise.
Guides and guides’ knowledge are highly praised — they enhance your understanding of the sites.
Transport arrangements are comfortable and round-trip, adding convenience to the experience.
Climbing options include walking or camels, so you can customize your ascent.
Visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery offers fascinating relics and religious history.
Weather and clothing are crucial — be prepared for cold at the summit and hot during the day.

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Departure from Sharm El Sheikh

The tour starts with hotel pickup around 9:30 pm, making it a late-night adventure. The transfer involves a 3-hour bus ride to Moses Mountain (Mount Sinai), which is quite comfortable thanks to air conditioning and modern coaches. Reviewers mention the journey is smooth, with some stops for bathroom breaks along the way, making the long drive tolerable.

However, if you’re arriving in Sharm on the same day, be ready for an early, physically demanding start. Travelers note that the ride can be tiring, but it’s part of the journey to one of Egypt’s most iconic sites.

The pickup time and transportation details mean you need to be prepared for a late night and early morning, so packing cozy clothes, snacks, and water is advised. Many reviews recommend bringing hot drinks in thermo cups to stay warm during the climb, especially since temperatures down at sea level are much milder than at the summit.

The Climb Up Mount Sinai

Climbing Mount Sinai begins at around 2 am, with the ascent taking approximately 3 hours. The route features a long path with 700 steps, which many find manageable but challenging, especially in the dark. Guides and Bedouin guides assist during the climb, offering local insights and support.

One reviewer mentions that camel rides are available for most of the journey (at your own expense), providing a lighter way to get part of the way up. However, the last 750 steps to the summit must be walked, and this part tests your stamina.

The climb is not steep, but the darkness, temperature, and length make it a test of endurance. Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ helpfulness and their knowledge of the mountain and stars. The handheld flashlight provided is a life-saver, although many find the moonlight enough to navigate the trail comfortably.

Watching the Sunrise from the Summit

Reaching the top at dawn is the highlight for most. The views are breathtaking, with the first light illuminating the mountaintop chapel and mosque, creating a surreal, almost spiritual scene. Several reviews describe the experience as “magical,” with some calling it a “must-do” for anyone visiting Egypt.

One reviewer vividly describes waiting in silence for the sunrise as “profound” and “ethereal,” noting that the tiny Orthodox Christian Church and the Mosque add to the spiritual atmosphere. The temperature at the summit can be freezing—some reviews mention 24 Fahrenheit—so layered clothing, gloves, and hats are essential.

Descending to St. Catherine’s Monastery

After soaking in the sunrise, you begin your descent. Many hikers opt to walk down in the daylight, which offers different perspectives of the mountain. The walk down is generally faster but still requires caution, especially given the uneven terrain.

Once at the bottom, your guide will meet you to visit St. Catherine’s Monastery. This 6th-century site is fascinating, housing ancient Christian art, relics, and the famous Burning Bush. Visitors praise the transfiguration church and the well of Prophet Moses, with many finding the visit deeply moving and historically significant.

Return Journey to Sharm El Sheikh

The journey back takes around 2 hours in an air-conditioned vehicle, with most travelers feeling exhausted but satisfied. Many reviews mention the comfort of the transport and the smooth return to their hotels.

What’s Included and What Not

The price of around $35 per person offers great value considering the included features: hotel pickup and drop-off, transport, the guides, and the flashlight. The entrance fee to Mount Sinai (about 10 EUR) is payable in cash on-site, which travelers should prepare for.

Extras like camel rides (most of the ascent) are at your own expense, which can add up but offers flexibility. Also, blankets can be hired at the summit (around LE 150), but reviews suggest they may not be the cleanest.

Transport and Logistics

The tour is designed for convenience and comfort. The round-trip transport from Sharm El Sheikh is air-conditioned and includes hotel pickup, making the whole experience hassle-free. The total duration is roughly 12 hours, including travel, climb, and sightseeing, so expect a long but rewarding day.

Most travelers find the timing appropriate for experiencing the spectacular sunrise and the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery, despite the early start and late return.

The Experience on the Ground

The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Many reviews highlight the Bedouin guides’ expertise during the climb, helping with navigation and cultural insights. They’re also helpful when it comes to tips about clothing, pacing, and safety.

You’ll need strong physical fitness—as some reviews mention, this is not a casual walk but a challenging trek. You should be prepared for cold at the top and hot during the day, so packing layers is crucial.

The Climbing Experience

Reviewers mention that the climb in the dark is manageable but tough, especially with 700 steps to reach the summit. The camels can carry you most of the way, but the final ascent is by foot. Those who have completed it describe it as “hard but worth it”.

The starry night sky and the silent ascent create a spiritual aura that many find deeply moving. It’s clear that timing your visit for the sunrise is the main draw, and the views are everything you’d hope for.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Dress warmly at the top—temperatures can be below freezing.
• Bring snacks and water; food options on the mountain are touristy and pricey.
• Camels are an option but at your own expense—plan accordingly.
• Wear sturdy shoes and layers to handle the temperature swings.
• If you’re prone to tiredness, consider hiring a blanket at the summit.
• The rest stops are basic, so toilet paper and extra supplies are wise.
• Tip heavily for guides and Bedouins—many reviews note the service is exceptional.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially at sunrise, but the experience remains peaceful and awe-inspiring.
• Set your alarm early and be ready for an adventure that tests your physical and mental stamina.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an authentic and memorable experience for those eager to combine adventure, history, and spirituality in Egypt. For active travelers, the challenge of ascending Mount Sinai for sunrise is an unbeatable highlight. The visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery adds a layer of cultural depth, making it a well-rounded journey.

The guides’ expertise, comfortable transportation, and beautiful vistas make the $35 price tag look very reasonable. Keep in mind that the long hours and early start aren’t for everyone, but if you’re ready for a physical challenge with lifelong memories, this tour is worth every effort.

In short, it’s perfect for those who value authentic experiences over luxury and want to stand on the same ground as biblical figures. Prepare well, bring your camera, and get ready for a truly magical morning high on Sinai.

FAQ

Do I need to be physically fit to do this tour?
Yes, the climb requires a good level of fitness. The trek is demanding, especially in the dark and cold, with around 3 hours to reach the summit.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour is physically strenuous and not recommended for very young children, older adults, or anyone with mobility issues. It’s best for those who are reasonably active.

What should I wear for the climb?
Layered clothing is essential. Expect cold temperatures at the top, so bring gloves, hats, and jackets. During the day, it can be warm, so light clothes and sun protection are advisable.

Can I ride a camel part of the way?
Yes, camels are available for most of the ascent (at your own expense). The final 750 steps to the summit must be walked.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately 12 hours, including transportation, climbing, sightseeing, and return.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. You should bring snacks and water, though you can buy basic refreshments on the mountain.

What is the cost of the entrance fee?
The entrance fee to Mount Sinai is about 10 EUR per person, payable in cash on-site.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviewers praise the guides’ helpfulness, local insights, and their ability to make the climb safe and informative.

What about the monastery visit?
It’s a brief visit, about an hour, but you’ll see key sites like the Burning Bush and the transfiguration church. Many find it spiritually moving.

Is this tour good value for money?
Absolutely. For just $35, you get transport, guiding, and access to two significant sites, plus the unforgettable experience of the sunrise from Sinai.

In summary, if you’re after a physically challenging, historically rich, and visually stunning experience, this Mount Sinai and St. Catherine Monastery tour offers an excellent way to make your Egypt trip truly memorable. Just make sure to pack the right clothes, bring plenty of water, and prepare for an adventure that will likely stay with you forever.