St.Catherines Monastery and Dahab City Tour From Sharm El Sheikh

Exploring Sinai’s Treasures: Saint Catherine Monastery and Dahab Tour Review

If you’re looking for a day that combines history, culture, and beachside relaxation, the St. Catherine Monastery and Dahab City tour from Sharm El Sheikh offers an engaging mix. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-organized trip that’s particularly appealing to history buffs and adventure lovers alike.

What we love about this tour:

• The chance to visit one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, a UNESCO site with a fascinating mix of spiritual and historical significance
• The opportunity to explore Dahab, a laid-back hub known for its vibrant markets and relaxed Red Sea atmosphere
• The inclusion of qualified guides and comfortable transportation, making the day both educational and easy

One consideration: The tour involves quite a long day of travel—around 12 hours—so it’s best suited for those with good stamina and a keen interest in Egypt’s cultural sights.

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting to combine a touch of history with leisure, and who appreciate well-structured group tours that provide local insights without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Historical Significance: Visit the world’s oldest working Christian monastery, built around the Burning Bush site.
• Authentic Experience: Qualified Egyptologist guides enrich your understanding of religious and cultural history.
• Value for Money: At under $50, this trip offers access to UNESCO sites, local cuisine, and scenic drives.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pickup make logistics straightforward.
• Balanced Itinerary: Equal time spent at Saint Catherine and Dahab—perfect for history lovers and beachgoers.
• Limited Extras: Entry fees to the monastery and Mount Moses are not included, so some cash is required.

The Journey into Sinai’s Heart

Starting early from your Sharm El Sheikh hotel (around 6:00 am), this tour is designed for those eager to maximize their sightseeing hours. The drive into the Sinai Peninsula itself offers a scenic glimpse of desert landscapes—travellers have mentioned enjoying the peaceful, quiet vistas, sometimes with a snack or two, as a prelude to the day’s highlights.

Visiting Saint Catherine Monastery: A Living Testament to Faith and History

Arriving at Saint Catherine, you’ll step into what is arguably one of Christianity’s most enduring sites. Built around the legendary Burning Bush, the monastery has been a place of worship for over 1,500 years. The walls are surprisingly well-preserved, and the site’s combination of religious artifacts, icons—including works attributed to angels and 16th-century masters like Michael Damaskinos—and ancient architecture make it a captivating stop.

A notable highlight, based on reviews, is the museum of Saint Catherine with its icons and religious relics. Visitors often remark on the tranquility and spiritual ambiance, with many appreciating the chance to see sacred art that’s hundreds of years old.

There’s a modest entrance fee (10 USD for the monastery and Mount Moses area) that’s paid in cash, so packing some small bills is wise. The guide generally shares interesting stories about the site’s history, adding depth to the visit.

Dahab: The Red Sea’s Chill Out Zone

Post monastery exploration, the tour heads to Dahab, a town famous for its relaxed vibe and bustling markets. Here, you can stroll through the streets, browse local shops, and soak in the seaside atmosphere. The reviews mention enjoying the local restaurant lunch, which provides a taste of Egyptian cuisine amid a scenic setting.

Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to wander at their own pace, soaking in views of the Red Sea and the desert landscape. Dahab’s laid-back environment is a stark contrast to the historical weight of Saint Catherine, making this a well-rounded day.

Practical Details and Logistics

Transport is a key feature of this tour—an air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride, especially given the long hours involved. The hotel pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, so you don’t need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads.

The tour duration is approximately 12 hours, making it a full day commitment. You’ll start early, around 6:00 am, which means an early wake-up but also the chance to take advantage of the cooler morning hours.

Group sizes are limited to 15 travelers, fostering a more personal experience and easier interaction with guides. The guide’s knowledge is frequently praised, with one reviewer mentioning a guide’s exceptional storytelling that brought the monastery’s history alive.

Cost and Value

At around $47 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the sites visited and the included transportation and lunch. Entrance to Saint Catherine is not included in the price, with a small fee payable in cash, but the overall package remains budget-friendly and comprehensive.

What’s Not Included

• Drinks (aside from lunch)
• Entrance fees to Saint Catherine and Mount Moses (about $10)
• Any personal extras or souvenirs

Travelers should budget a bit extra for these, but overall, the tour’s price remains competitive for what you get.

Authentic Experiences from Fellow Travelers

Reviewers consistently mention the professionalism of the guides, with one saying, “Khalid, our driver, is really lovely and very thoughtful,” which adds a personal touch to the experience. Others highlight the spectacular views and the serenity of Saint Catherine, describing it as “an experience to see the monastery” that’s both quiet and awe-inspiring.

Bringing snacks was recommended by a reviewer, who enjoyed seeing the desert landscapes, emphasizing that some small preparations can enhance the day. The balance of historical exploration and leisure in Dahab seems to resonate well, with many appreciating the blend of learning and relaxing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, spiritual travelers, and those eager to see iconic Egyptian landmarks without the hassle of independent planning. It’s also suited for adventurers who enjoy long scenic drives and exploring diverse environments—from ancient monasteries to seaside towns.

However, it’s best for those comfortable with early mornings and long days, as the entire experience runs around 12 hours. If you’re craving a quick city tour or a relaxing beach day without the travel, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

The St. Catherine Monastery and Dahab City tour from Sharm El Sheikh offers a compelling mix of cultural depth and laid-back beach culture, all wrapped into one reasonably priced package. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and access to UNESCO-listed sites makes it a worthwhile choice for those interested in Egypt’s spiritual and scenic highlights.

It’s well-suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and are ready for a full day’s adventure. Whether you’re captivated by ancient religious sites or want to unwind in Dahab’s relaxed atmosphere, this tour provides a memorable way to see some of Sinai’s best.

For anyone seeking a meaningful, well-organized day trip that balances history, culture, and seaside fun—this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start?

The tour begins at 6:00 am with hotel pickup.

• How long does the tour last?

The entire experience is approximately 12 hours.

• Is transportation included?

Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup and drop-off is provided.

• Do I need to pay entrance fees?

Yes, entry to Saint Catherine and Mount Moses areas costs about $10 per person, paid in cash.

• What is included in the price?

The price covers transportation, a qualified guide, lunch, and visiting Saint Catherine and Dahab.

• Are drinks or extra expenses covered?

No, drinks and personal extras are not included.

• Can I participate if I’m not traveling with a group?

The tour is designed for groups of up to 15 travelers, but individual bookings are common and welcomed.

• Is this tour suitable for children?

Most travelers can participate, but consider the long day and walking involved.

• What should I bring?

Bring cash for entrance fees, snacks, water, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.

• What if the weather is bad?

The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

This detailed look at the St. Catherine Monastery and Dahab City tour highlights its value for history buffs and beach lovers alike. With knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and authentic sites, it’s an experience worth considering for your Sinai adventure.