Private Full-Day Tour of Monasteries St Paul and St Antonius

Discover the spiritual and historical treasures of Egypt’s earliest Christian sites on a private full-day tour of Monasteries St. Paul and St. Antonius. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone seeking serenity in ancient sacred sites, this experience offers a fascinating glimpse into Egypt’s Christian heritage.

Three things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the well-preserved monastery architecture and frescoes, the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable guides, and the stunning desert views from the hilltop monasteries. However, a possible consideration is that the long travel time (around 3.5 hours each way) might be tiring for some.

This tour suits travelers with an interest in history, religion, or those looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience outside the typical Hurghada beach scene. It’s ideal for those willing to spend a full day exploring remote, sacred sites with a private guide for a more personalized touch.

Key Points

• Authentic visits to Egypt’s oldest Christian monasteries
• Expert guides providing insightful historical stories
• Spectacular desert landscapes and mountain views
• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation included
• Long travel duration but manageable with proper planning
• Limited amenities at some sites but plenty of cultural value

Exploring Egypt’s Monastic Heritage: The Full-Day Tour of St. Paul and St. Antonius

If you’re craving a journey that combines history, spirituality, and striking scenery, this private tour from Hurghada to Ras Gharib offers just that. While the trip itself is a lengthy 8 to 10 hours, the experience of stepping into places that date back over a millennium makes every minute worthwhile.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour features air-conditioned transportation with all landing and facility fees covered, making the logistics smooth and comfortable. The tour is private, so only your group will participate, which means you get personalized attention and can ask your guide plenty of questions.

Pricing at around $111.84 per person offers good value for a full-day visit to two significant religious sites. Keep in mind that there are optional surcharges — €5 from Makadi hotels and €10 from Safaga — if you’re staying outside Hurghada itself.

The Itinerary: A Journey Through Time and Faith

Stop 1: St. Paul’s Monastery

Your adventure begins with a trip to St. Paul’s Monastery, built over the cave where Saint Paul, a 4th-century Christian hermit, once lived. The legend of ravens bringing him bread and lions digging his grave adds an air of mysticism that visitors love to hear.

Within the monastery, you’ll find a crypt beneath the tomb—a captivating space decorated with vivid frescoes. Reviewers mention that the crypt is decorated with colorful wall art and houses sacred objects like ancient manuscripts and a well in the middle of the desert, which feels like stepping into a biblical scene.

The overall experience at St. Paul’s is often described as serene and atmospheric, with some noting the simplicity of the site enhances its spiritual charm. Expect about an hour here, with entry included.

Stop 2: St. Anthony’s Monastery (Deir Mar Antonios)

A short drive from St. Paul’s takes you to the legendary St. Anthony’s Monastery, built at the foot of Antonius Mountain. The climb up to the cave where Saint Antonius once lived involves approximately 1,000 steps. Visitors often comment on how challenging but rewarding the ascent is, especially when reaching the top and taking in the panoramic mountain and desert views.

The monastery was founded shortly after St. Antonius’s death in 356 AD, making it a crucial site in Christian monastic history. It’s a fully functioning monastery, with monks tending to gardens and maintaining the site. Visitors can explore scriptures and ancient drawings inside, giving a tangible sense of monastic life from centuries ago.

Reviewers who’ve made the climb praise the peaceful atmosphere and spectacular vistas. Expect to spend around 2 hours here, allowing enough time for exploration and reflection.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable guides make all the difference. Reviewers consistently mention how guides shared stories and insights that brought the sites to life, making history accessible and engaging. The well-curated commentary about the legends, architecture, and monastic life provides context that enhances the visit.

The scenery is another highlight. The monasteries are positioned on hills amid stark, untouched desert landscapes, with views that make the early start (6 am) worthwhile. Travelers have appreciated the photos and videos they captured from the viewpoints, which looked almost prehistoric.

However, the long drive can be a drawback for some, especially if you’re used to more relaxed sightseeing. The journey is roughly 3.5 hours each way, and there are no other pick-ups along the route, so patience and good planning are key.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Prepare for a early start at 6 am to make the most of the day. The drive is long, but the reward is the serenity of these ancient sites.
• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for climbing stairs and exploring uneven terrain at the monasteries.
• Since lunch isn’t included, consider packing snacks or a light meal to keep your energy up.
• Be ready for limited amenities at some sites — bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Given the private nature of the tour, you can customize some aspects, such as spending more time at your favorite site or asking your guide for additional stories.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, spiritual seekers, and those interested in Egypt’s Christian monastic traditions. It suits travelers who enjoy long scenic drives and are comfortable with a full-day outing. The tour is designed for moderate physical fitness levels — climbing stairs and walking around the sites is involved, but not overly strenuous.

It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a more authentic and less touristy experience, away from the busy city and beach resorts. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, educational day trip with meaningful cultural insights, this tour ticks those boxes.

The Sum Up

This private full-day tour from Hurghada offers a rare chance to see Egypt’s oldest Christian monasteries, steeped in legend and history. The combination of expert guides, stunning desert views, and access to well-preserved religious sites provides a meaningful and visually striking experience.

While the long travel time might be a consideration, the serenity, history, and authenticity of this journey compensate for the hours on the road. The tour’s value lies in the chance to connect deeply with Egypt’s spiritual past in an intimate setting.

If you’re a traveler eager to explore beyond the beaches and learn about ancient monastic life, this trip is a thoughtful and rewarding choice. The peaceful atmospheres, awe-inspiring vistas, and stories from your guide will likely stay with you long after you leave the site.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 am, allowing plenty of daylight for sightseeing and to beat the worst of the desert heat.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended. Expect to climb stairs and walk around the sites, but it isn’t overly strenuous.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, landing, and facility fees at both monasteries.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so it’s advisable to bring some snacks or plan to buy food locally.

Can I customize the trip?
It’s a private tour, so you can ask your guide to spend more or less time at each site, within reason.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, modest clothing and sturdy shoes are best, as some areas involve climbing stairs and walking on uneven ground.

Is there an option to pick up from Makadi or Safaga?
Yes, there’s a surcharge of €5 from Makadi hotels and €10 from Safaga.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While there’s no age restriction specified, children should be prepared for a long day and some climbing; supervision is advised.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this tour matches your travel style and curiosity about Egypt’s Christian monastic roots. Whether you’re seeking peaceful reflection or fascinating history, the monasteries of St. Paul and St. Antonius promise a meaningful escape into the past.