Overnight Sunrise Tour to Mount Sinai from Sharm El Sheikh

Planning a trip to Egypt and looking to add a spiritual and adventurous touch? The Overnight Sunrise Tour to Mount Sinai from Sharm El Sheikh is a popular choice for travelers eager to witness one of the most iconic sunrises in the region. This tour offers a chance to climb the legendary mountain with a Bedouin guide, visit the historic Saint Catherine’s Monastery, and enjoy comfortable round-trip transfers—all in one full day of exploration.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the challenging hike promises a physically rewarding adventure for those prepared. Second, the spectacular sunrise viewing at the summit offers unforgettable photo opportunities and a sense of achievement. Third, the visit to the UNESCO-listed Saint Catherine’s Monastery provides a tangible link to religious history. While the overall value is good, it’s important to consider the early start and the physical effort involved. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, are physically fit, and have an interest in religious and cultural sights.

Key Points

• Early start with pickup at 8:30 pm, making for a long but memorable night.
• Hiking experience includes a 3-hour trek to the summit, suitable for those with good fitness.
• St. Catherine’s Monastery offers a glimpse into ancient Christian history at about 1,585 meters above sea level.
• Hassle-free transfer from and back to your Sharm El Sheikh hotel simplifies logistics.
• Cost-effective at just $63 per person, including guide and transport.
• Reviews highlight good value, but some negative feedback on timing and organization.

If you’re in Sharm El Sheikh and craving a mix of adventure, history, and breathtaking views, this overnight tour ticks many boxes. We’ve not done it ourselves but have collected insights from many travelers who have. The experience is characterized by an early night start, a strenuous hike, and a sunrise that’s well worth the effort.

Three things we really like about this tour are the chance to see a sunrise from the top of Mount Sinai, the safety and comfort of hotel transfers, and the opportunity to explore Saint Catherine’s Monastery afterward. These elements combine to give a full-day experience packed with culture, challenge, and spectacular scenery. Of course, it’s not without its downsides—mainly the early wake-up and physical demand—so it’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of a challenge.

Who should consider this tour? If you’re physically fit, love outdoor adventures, and want to tick off a bucket list destination with historical significance, this trip offers excellent value. Those with limited mobility or who prefer relaxing sightseeing might find the early start and steep climb a bit much.

The Itinerary: A Breakdown of the Journey

Stop 1: Mount Sinai – The Climb and Sunrise

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup around 8:30 pm, followed by a roughly 3-hour drive from Sharm El Sheikh. The transfer is comfortable but note that it’s a collective bus, not a private vehicle, which means it might be a bit crowded. Once you arrive at the base of Mount Sinai, you’ll meet your Bedouin guide, who will accompany you during the climb.

The ascent is about 3 hours long, involving a combination of a well-worn path and informal switchbacks. The trail is steep and demanding, especially in the middle of the night when it’s dark and chilly. Reviewers note that the trek is suitable for those in good physical condition; a few mention bringing plenty of water and wearing layered clothing. The guide’s local knowledge is invaluable, offering tips on the best spots to rest and how to pace yourself.

Reaching the summit in time for sunrise is the goal, and it’s a moment that most say lives up to its reputation. The panoramic views of the Sinai Desert bathed in early morning light create a truly unforgettable scene. Many travelers comment on the peacefulness of watching the sun crest the horizon after a night of physical exertion.

Stop 2: Saint Catherines Monastery – A Touch of History

After descending (which can be just as challenging as the ascent), the tour continues with a visit to Saint Catherine’s Monastery, located at the foot of Mount Sinai. The monastery is an active religious site and a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a history spanning back to the 6th century.

The visit lasts around an hour, during which you’ll have the chance to see the monastery’s ancient library housing over 6,000 manuscripts and its iconic architecture. Travelers recommend dressing conservatively when visiting and note that the monastery is closed during certain holidays or pandemics, so it’s worth checking the schedule beforehand.

Many guests appreciate the opportunity to walk among the monks, witnessing daily worship routines. As one review highlights, this site is a convergence point for Islam, Christianity, and Judaism, making it a meaningful stop for those interested in interfaith history.

Transportation and Practicalities: What Travelers Need to Know

The round-trip transfer from Sharm El Sheikh is included in the $63 price, which is a significant advantage. It removes the hassle of figuring out transport logistics and means you can focus on the experience. The journey is approximately 3 hours each way, so expect a late-night/early-morning start and a long day overall.

The tour is operated by Deluxe Travel, known for its professional service, but reviews suggest that punctuality can sometimes be an issue. One reviewer expressed frustration about delays and poor coordination, so it’s wise to set expectations accordingly. The guide at Mount Sinai is a Bedouin, adding local flavor and insights, though some travelers note that the organization could improve.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, and a Bedouin guide at Mount Sinai. Not included are food, drinks, and tips. Since the tour involves a strenuous hike, bringing snacks and water is advised. Some travelers mention that they missed lunch due to timing issues, so packing a small snack is a smart idea.

Timing and Preparation

The tour starts at 8:30 pm, so prepare for a late night. Dress warmly—layers are key because temperatures at the top can be quite cold during the night. Carry sturdy shoes suitable for rocky, uneven terrain. The weather can influence the experience—poor weather might lead to cancellations or a different experience, but refunds are offered if that happens.

Real Experiences from Travelers

One traveler summed up, “The climb was tough but worth every step for the sunrise views,” highlighting the physical challenge paired with rewarding scenery. Others appreciated the value, with one reviewer stating, “It’s a great deal for just $63—seeing the sunrise from the top is priceless.”

However, not everyone had a perfect experience. A single review pointed out delays and poor coordination, emphasizing the importance of patience and flexibility. But even in those cases, most agreed that the sights and the overall experience made up for minor organizational hiccups.

The Value of This Tour

At $63 per person, including transfers and a guide, this tour packs in a lot—an early start, a challenging hike, stunning vistas, and a historical site. While some reviews mention organizational issues, the overall consensus is that it offers excellent value. The combination of physical activity and culture makes this a compelling choice for active travelers.

It’s also a very practical option: hassle-free logistics, guided support, and the chance to see one of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks under the glow of sunrise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for fit and adventurous travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you enjoy hiking and are prepared for a physical challenge, you’ll love the sense of accomplishment at the summit. History buffs and those interested in religious sites will find the visit to Saint Catherine’s Monastery a meaningful addition.

However, if you prefer leisurely mornings or have limited mobility, this might not suit you. The early departure, cold night hike, and strenuous climb require a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure. Also, consider the timing and organization—patience can be key when dealing with delays.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a memorable blend of adventure, history, and stunning natural beauty. The experience of watching the sunrise from Mount Sinai is truly breathtaking and makes the early start worthwhile. The inclusion of a guided hike and visit to one of the world’s oldest monasteries adds depth to the journey, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

The value for money is hard to beat, especially considering the logistics are handled for you. For travelers who love outdoor activities, are interested in religious history, and don’t mind an early wake-up call, this tour is a solid choice.

The main caveat is the organizational aspect—timing and punctuality could improve—but most guests find that the awe-inspiring views and cultural insights outweigh these issues. Pack appropriately, bring water, and prepare for a memorable night under the stars.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 8:30 pm, so be ready for a late night.

How long is the drive to Mount Sinai?
The transfer takes approximately 3 hours each way, making it a long but comfortable journey.

Is the hike suitable for everyone?
The trek is about 3 hours and involves steep sections, so good physical fitness is recommended. The terrain can be rocky and uneven.

What should I wear?
Dress in warm, layered clothing due to cold temperatures at the summit during the night. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for hiking.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks and water is advised, especially since some reviews mention missed meals.

Can I visit Saint Catherine’s Monastery after the hike?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to the monastery, which is an active religious site with a long history.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; cancellations are possible, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Due to the physical demands and late-night start, it’s better suited for adults and physically fit travelers.

How do reviews rate this experience?
The tour has a 4.5-star rating based on 11 reviews, with many appreciating the value and views, though some noted organizational delays.

To sum it up, the Overnight Sunrise Tour to Mount Sinai from Sharm El Sheikh is a captivating mix of adventure and history, ideal for active travelers seeking a memorable night under the stars. While it requires some physical effort and patience, the reward of witnessing a sunrise from one of Egypt’s most revered peaks makes it well worth considering.