Journey from the Red Sea to the rugged heart of Sinai to witness the oldest working monastery and the majestic sunrise where history and faith converge.
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Hand-picked experiences loved by thousands of travelers
Visit the world's oldest working Orthodox monastery and UNESCO site at the foot of Mount Sinai.
Climb Moses Mountain at night to witness a breathtaking sunrise followed by a monastery tour.
Witness the first light from Egypt’s high peaks and visit the historic site of the Burning Bush.
Experience a true desert adventure with a night climb to the 2,285-meter summit of Mount Sinai.
Enjoy a private journey to the UNESCO-listed St. Catherine’s Monastery and the Well of Moses.
Embark on a nighttime ascent of Mount Sinai and explore the historic landmarks of the Holy Valley.
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime overnight adventure from Sharm to the legendary Mount Sinai.
Hike through the night with local guides to see a stunning sunrise and explore a 6th-century site.
Journey through the night for a sunrise panorama at the summit of the iconic Moses Mountain.
Discover ancient Christian art and visit the site where Moses received the Ten Commandments.
All the details about your upcoming adventure in one place
A journey to St. Catherine's Monastery from Sharm El Sheikh is more than just a tour; it is a pilgrimage into the depths of human history and spirituality. Located at the base of Mount Sinai, where tradition holds that Moses received the Ten Commandments, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery in the world. Visitors can explore the 6th-century Church of the Transfiguration, view the legendary 'Burning Bush,' and admire a collection of ancient icons and manuscripts that rival the Vatican's. Most travelers combine this visit with a midnight ascent of Mount Sinai to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the jagged peaks of the High Sinai Wilderness before descending to explore the monastery's sacred grounds.
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From budget-friendly sunrise hikes to premium private tours, we've hand-picked the best options for every traveler
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Enjoy peace of mind with instant confirmation and flexible cancellation policies on almost all tours
Our partners employ experienced Bedouin guides who know every trail and historical secret of the mountains
October to April (avoiding the extreme summer heat)
Layered clothing (it is very cold at the summit but warm during the day)|Sturdy hiking boots or sneakers with good grip|Modest attire for the monastery (long pants/skirts and covered shoulders)|A warm hat and gloves for the sunrise hike
Built by Emperor Justinian I between 548 and 565 AD, the monastery has never been destroyed or conquered in its 1,500-year history.
A tripod is essential for night shots of the stars; use a wide-angle lens for the summit views and a fast prime lens for the dim monastery interior.
Most tours offer a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Real experiences from real travelers
The night hike was challenging but seeing the sunrise from the top of Mount Sinai was the highlight of my Egypt trip. Our guide was amazing!
The monastery is like a time capsule. Seeing the Burning Bush and the ancient library felt like stepping back 1,500 years. Highly recommend the private tour for more time.
Be warned: it is FREEZING at the summit in winter. I wore three layers and still rented a blanket. The monastery itself is spectacular and peaceful.
Booked through the platform and everything went smoothly. The bus was comfortable and the driver was very professional through the mountain passes.
Even as a non-religious person, the energy at the summit and inside the monastery walls is incredible. A must-do from Sharm.
For less than $50, this was an incredible 15-hour adventure. The hike is long but the Bedouin tea at the rest stops kept us going.
The 6th-century architecture is mind-blowing. Our guide explained the history of the icons so well. Don't skip this!
Hiking under the stars and then exploring the UNESCO site was the perfect contrast. Very well managed tour.
Everything you need to know for your journey
The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours each way through the scenic Sinai desert.
The hike is moderately difficult. It takes about 2.5 hours to reach the summit. The 'Camel Path' is a gradual slope, but the final 750 'Steps of Penitence' are steep and requires decent fitness.
Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees. Wraps are often provided at the entrance if your clothing is too short.
Yes, there are basic eco-toilets at the Bedouin rest huts along the hiking trail and near the monastery entrance.
Yes, camels are available for hire to take you about 2/3 of the way up the mountain. You will still need to walk the final 750 steps to the summit.
Sunrise hike tours usually depart Sharm between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM. Day-only monastery tours depart around 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM.
No, the monastery has limited hours (usually 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM) and is closed on Fridays, Sundays, and major religious holidays. Always check the schedule before booking.
Most nationalities can visit Sinai with the free 'Sinai Only' stamp received at Sharm airport, but check current Egyptian visa regulations based on your passport.
Yes, the route from Sharm to St. Catherine is well-traveled and protected by numerous security checkpoints. It is a major tourism corridor in Egypt.
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