Saint Catherine’s Monastery And Dahab Day Tour – Sharm El Sheikh

Discovering the Wonders of the Saint Catherine’s Monastery and Dahab from Sharm el Sheikh

Taking a trip from Sharm el Sheikh to visit Saint Catherine’s Monastery and Dahab offers a compelling mix of history, spirituality, and local charm. While this tour isn’t perfect, it provides a valuable glimpse into Egypt’s deeper layers beyond the usual resorts.

Our favorite aspects include the fascinating history of the monastery, the knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience, and the affordable price that makes it accessible. However, travelers should note that transportation comfort and visit durations can vary, with some reviews pointing out tight schedules or less-than-ideal travel conditions.

If you’re someone eager for cultural insight, enjoy scenic drives, and don’t mind a long day on the road, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who want a budget-friendly way to see one of the world’s oldest monasteries and experience a bit of local Egyptian life.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit one of the oldest Christian monasteries with priceless icons and religious artifacts.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Sharif are praised for their friendliness and insight, making your visit more meaningful.
• Scenic Journey: The drive through desert landscapes and mountains adds a special touch to the day.
• Affordable Price Point: At $35 per person, it’s a good value for a full-day experience.
• Long Travel Time: Expect a 3-hour transfer each way, which can be tiring but also offers time to enjoy desert views.
• Mixed Reviews on Comfort: Some guests mention cramped transport and limited time at the monastery, so manage your expectations accordingly.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Sharm El Sheikh

The tour kicks off early, with a pick-up from your hotel after breakfast around 6:00 am. The early start ensures you beat the midday heat and make the most of your day. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a must considering the desert heat, but some reviews note that the comfort level in transport isn’t luxury—think more “cozy” than “plush.”

Stop 1: Drive to Saint Catherine’s Monastery

The 3-hour transfer from Sharm el Sheikh is an opportunity to enjoy desert scenery and mountains. The journey is quite lengthy, but the views are part of the experience, reminding you of Egypt’s expansive landscape. Some travelers found the ride uncomfortable, describing the seats as hard and cramped, and note the driver’s speed as a concern—so if safe driving is a priority, keep that in mind.

Stop 2: Visiting Saint Catherine’s Monastery

The highlight of the trip is the monastery itself. Recognized as the oldest active Christian monastery in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s an awe-inspiring place. The walls contain religious relics, icons by artists like Angelos and Michael Damaskinos, and a museum with icons and relics of immense value.

Tour guides like Sharif are appreciated for making the complex accessible. Reviewers mention that he was very knowledgeable, making the visit both informative and engaging. You’ll see the Burning Bush site and explore the churches and icon collections, though some note that the time allocated is fairly limited—around two hours—so you might feel rushed.

An interesting tidbit from reviews is that the path to the monastery is steep but well-maintained, accessible with a bit of patience, or a taxi if walking isn’t ideal. The interior experience is solemn and awe-inspiring; however, photography inside is usually prohibited, so no snapshots in the main church.

Stop 3: Dahab for Lunch and Shopping

Post-monastery, the tour heads to Dahab, about a 3-hour trip. This laid-back town is famed for its bohemian vibe and lively markets. The stop offers a chance to check out local shops, enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, and take in the relaxed atmosphere.

Guests who have visited mention that Dahab feels like a different world—less touristy than Sharm and filled with authentic Egyptian charm. The town is perfect for a quick stroll, buying souvenirs, or simply soaking in the sea breeze. One reviewer describes it as the Flower Power City at the Red Sea, emphasizing its colorful, easygoing vibe.

Return to Sharm El Sheikh

The drive back takes about two hours. Some reviews mention discomfort on the way home, with cramped seats and a child wailing, but most agree that the overall experience was worth the effort. The return trip is shorter, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

The Value and Practical Aspects

For $35, this tour offers a solid introduction to Egypt’s Christian heritage and local culture. While it includes hotel pickup, lunch, and a guided tour, some extras like entrance fees to the monastery are paid separately (around 10 EUR). The price is quite reasonable, especially given that the tour spans roughly 10 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and a meal.

The guides, like Sharif, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which significantly enhances the experience. However, transport conditions and limited time at the monastery are common complaints, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more luxurious travel, this might not be the tour for you.

It’s important to note that the long hours in the minivan and the potential discomfort can be a challenge for some travelers. But the scenic desert drive and the opportunity to see a UNESCO World Heritage site make it worthwhile for many.

Authenticity and Cultural Highlights

Being able to walk through Saint Catherine’s Monastery and see the icons, relics, and the Burning Bush is a rare chance to connect with early Christianity. Several reviews mention that guides like Sharif made the storytelling lively and accessible, which is crucial when visiting a site that can otherwise feel overwhelming.

The museum’s icons, especially those by Angelos and Damaskinos, are considered some of the most significant works of the 15th and 16th centuries. Reviewers describe the church decorations as impressive, though some wish they had more time to explore the museum in depth.

Visiting Dahab afterward adds a touch of modern Egyptian culture, contrasting the ancient monastery with the lively, local town. The lunch, often described as delicious and plentiful, helps break up the long day and offers a taste of local cuisine.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is ideal if you’re interested in history and culture and want to see a site that few other tours include. It suits travelers who are comfortable with long travel days and can handle some discomfort in transport.

If you’re on a budget, this tour offers excellent value—covering transport, guide, and meal—making it an easy way to tick off an important historical site. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or luxury travel, you might want to consider alternatives.

Those looking for authentic local experiences and don’t mind a bit of a crowd or rush will find this trip rewarding. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the essence of Egypt’s religious history without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation comfortable on this tour? The vehicle is air-conditioned, but some guests mention that seats are hard and cramped, and not very luxurious.

How long is the drive from Sharm el Sheikh? It’s approximately three hours each way, providing scenic desert views but also making the day quite lengthy.

What’s included and what’s extra? The tour price covers pickup, guide, and lunch. Entrance to Saint Catherine’s National Park costs about 10 EUR and is paid separately in cash.

How much time do I get at the monastery? Expect around two hours, which some reviewers find a bit tight, especially given the site’s size and significance.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly? The walk to the monastery involves a steep path, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues. The long drive and early start may also affect elderly travelers or children.

Can I take photos inside the monastery? Typically, photography inside the church and museum is not allowed, so plan to enjoy the sights without camera distractions.

Would you recommend this tour? Yes, especially if you’re interested in religious history, culture, and enjoying a cost-effective day trip; just be prepared for some travel discomfort and a busy schedule.

Final Word

This Saint Catherine’s Monastery and Dahab day tour from Sharm el Sheikh offers a meaningful peek into Egypt’s Christian heritage and vibrant local scene. Its value for money, guided insights, and stunning surroundings make it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.

While the trip isn’t designed for those craving luxury or a leisurely pace, it excels at providing authentic cultural exposure and memorable landscapes. It’s especially suited for adventurous travelers eager to explore beyond the beaches, who are comfortable with long hours and a bit of travel roughness.

Overall, if your goal is to connect with Egypt’s spiritual roots and experience a different side of Sinai—this tour delivers plenty of opportunities to do just that.