Mount Sinai Sunrise & St. Catherine monastery from Sharm el Sheikh

Exploring the Wonders of Mount Sinai and St. Catherine Monastery from Sharm el Sheikh

If you’re heading to Egypt and craving a mix of breathtaking scenery, spiritual significance, and ancient history, the Mount Sinai Sunrise & St. Catherine Monastery tour offers a compelling option. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a well-organized adventure that balances adventure, culture, and value.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the spectacular sunrise views from Mount Sinai promise a memorable start to your morning. Second, the guided climb with an experienced Bedouin guide ensures you get the best route and insights. Third, the visit to one of the oldest monasteries in the world adds a layer of historical and religious intrigue. However, a possible limitation is the early start time and long hours of travel, which might not suit everyone’s pace or stamina. This trip is perfect for those who love hiking, history buffs, or travelers eager for a unique spiritual experience.

Key Points

• Early morning start: Climb Mount Sinai at 01:00 am to catch the sunrise, making for a memorable but long night.
• All-inclusive price: At $55 per person, the tour includes transport, entrance fees, a guide, and bottled water, offering good value.
• Small group setting: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with attentive guides.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable Bedouin guides lead the climb, sharing local insights and helping navigate the route.
• Visit to a UNESCO World Heritage Site: The ancient St. Catherine’s Monastery adds cultural depth to your day.
• Part of a full 12-hour experience: From pickup to return, the tour is designed for a hassle-free day with organized logistics.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Pick-up and Transportation

The journey begins with convenient hotel pick-up from Sharm el Sheikh, with air-conditioned transfers that ensure comfort during the approximately 12-hour round trip. Given the early start, expect to be picked up around 7 pm the night before, with some travelers mentioning the journey takes about 23 hours including stops. The long travel time is a key point to consider—this isn’t a quick excursion but a full-day commitment.

Climbing Mount Sinai

The highlight for many is the climb up Mount Sinai, starting at around 1:00 am. The climb is usually guided by a local Bedouin guide, who knows the route well and ensures safety and navigation, especially in the dark. Reviewers like Brad mention, “Please be sure to bring good shoes, flashlight, sunscreen, and a light jacket.” The trek takes roughly 3 hours, with some sections steep and rocky, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What adds to the magic is the stargazing while waiting for the sunrise. The desert sky at that hour is often clear, offering a stunning display of stars, which many describe as a highlight. The ascent is accessible for most hikers, but the physical effort and altitude (Mount Sinai stands at 2,285 meters) mean it’s not suited to everyone.

Watching the Sunrise

As dawn approaches, the anticipation builds. Reviewers like Joshua rave about the experience: “The trip felt very safe and adventurous, and the hike was accessible for most hikers.” The sunrise over the rugged landscape is truly a spectacle, with hues of orange and pink illuminating the Sinai mountains, creating one of those unforgettable travel moments.

Descending and Visiting St. Catherine’s Monastery

After sunrise, the descent is usually quicker and easier, taking around an hour. Then, the group heads to the famous St. Catherine’s Monastery. Located at 1570 meters elevation, this monastery is one of the oldest Christian sites, dating back to the 6th century. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and believed to be the place where Moses saw the burning bush.

The visit lasts about an hour, with the opportunity to explore the grounds and see the historic icons and religious artifacts. Reviewers like Bernd mention that the impressive monastery is a must-see, even if it was closed for some during holidays, which can be disappointing but is beyond the tour’s control.

Return to Sharm el Sheikh

By noon, the group begins the return journey, completing the full-day experience. While the long travel hours might seem daunting, many reviewers find the value well worth it. Leila describes the trip as “an unforgettable experience,” highlighting the smooth logistics and the memorable sights.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour starts late in the evening, so you’ll need to pack accordingly—think warm clothes for the climb, sturdy hiking shoes, and a flashlight.
• Group size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, there’s enough space for personalized attention from guides and an intimate atmosphere.
• Cost: At $55, the price covers transportation, entrance fees, the guide, and bottled water, which is quite reasonable given the comprehensive nature of the experience.
• Limitations: No camel ride is included, and tips are not provided, so budget extra if you plan to tip or try a camel ride. The tour is non-refundable, so be sure of your commitment.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Brad mentions the importance of good shoes, sunscreen, and a flashlight, emphasizing the preparation needed for a successful climb. Joshua appreciated the friendly and trustworthy guides—Tariq and Muhammed—who made the adventure feel safe and fun, even for less experienced hikers.

Bernd’s feedback about the beautiful scenery was tempered by the monastery being closed for holidays, and he noted that guide explanations could be more detailed, which is a good tip for travelers who want a richer historical context.

Leila’s review from a French traveler highlights how smooth the logistics felt, including police escort and private shuttle, making the long day manageable.

The Sum Up

This tour is a solid choice for travelers looking for a blend of adventure, spirituality, and history all in one day. The early start and long drive are balanced by the awe-inspiring sunrise, the opportunity to explore one of the world’s oldest monasteries, and the chance to hike with knowledgeable guides. The small group size enhances the experience, ensuring you’re well looked after.

It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a long day and early hours, and who want to deepen their understanding of Egypt’s religious and cultural heritage. If you’re after a memorable, meaningful, and well-organized trip, this tour offers genuine value.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pick-up is generally around 7 pm, with the climb beginning around 1:00 am, so you should be prepared for a late evening and early morning.

How long does the entire trip last?
The full experience takes approximately 12 hours, including transportation, climbing, visiting the monastery, and returning to Sharm el Sheikh.

Is physical fitness important?
Yes, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended because of the 3-hour climb and uneven terrain.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included; you should bring snacks or plan to eat after the tour.

Can I do the climb without a guide?
No, the tour includes a Bedouin guide during the climb for safety and navigation.

Is the entrance to St. Catherine’s Monastery included?
Yes, the entrance fee is included in the $55 price.

What should I bring?
Good hiking shoes, a flashlight, sunscreen or protective clothing, a light jacket, and plenty of water.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, a maximum of 15 travelers, promoting a more personal experience.

This trip offers a mix of adventure, culture, and awe-inspiring views. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler, it’s a journey worth considering for a truly memorable part of your Egypt adventure.