Private Tour Saint Catherine Monastery with Lunch–Sharm El Sheikh
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour stands out for offering exclusive, in-depth access to one of Christianity’s most important heritage sites. Unlike standard visits, it provides a comfortable private transfer and guided insights into the monastery’s treasures — from ancient manuscripts to religious icons. The serene setting at the foot of Mount Sinai makes it a perfect experience for travelers seeking culture, history, and a sense of spiritual connection. It’s an exceptional opportunity to explore a UNESCO World Heritage site and experience the timeless beauty of the Sinai desert in one full-day trip.
Available options
Private Tour Saint Catherine Monastery with Lunch–Sharm El Sheikh
Pickup included
What's included
Water & Juice
Enjoy the Natural View
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Private Hotel Pick up & Drop off
Visit St. Catherine Monastery
Professional Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Your day begins with a private pickup from your hotel and a drive to Saint Catherine Monastery, located approximately 230 km from Sharm El Sheikh. The monastery is situated at the base of Moses Mountain, also known as the Sinai Mountains. Named after Saint Catherine in the early 11th century, the monastery honors the Christian martyr from Alexandria.
Afterward, you'll continue your tour with a visit to Mount Sinai, also called Jabal Musa. This 2,285-meter (7,497 ft) mountain is located in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt, near the city of Saint Catherine. It's surrounded by higher peaks, including Mount Catherine, which stands at 2,629 meters (8,625 ft) – the highest peak in Egypt. After exploring, you'll be driven back to your hotel.
What's not included
Mandatory Governmental Fees Ten € per person paid in cash on Spot
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
RU
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Sharm el Sheikh
Sharm el Sheikh is a vibrant coastal city on the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, renowned for its stunning Red Sea coastline, vibrant coral reefs, and luxurious resorts. It's a premier destination for diving, snorkeling, and relaxation, offering a mix of adventure and tranquility.
Top Attractions
Ras Mohammed National Park
A stunning national park known for its pristine coral reefs, diverse marine life, and breathtaking landscapes.
Nature
Full day
EGP 300-500 (including boat trips and entrance fees)
Naama Bay
A lively bay with beautiful beaches, water sports, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Beach
Half day or evening
Free to explore, activities vary in cost
Sharm Old Market
A bustling market with a mix of traditional and modern shops, offering a variety of goods from spices to souvenirs.
Shopping
1-2 hours
Budget to moderate
Saint Catherine's Monastery
One of the oldest working monasteries in the world, located at the base of Mount Sinai, known for its religious significance and historical artifacts.
Historical
Full day
Free entry, donations welcome
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grilled Seafood
Freshly caught seafood grilled to perfection, often served with garlic sauce and lemon.
Dinner
Contains fish/shellfish
Koshari
A traditional Egyptian dish made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, and pasta, topped with spicy tomato sauce and garlic vinegar.
Lunch
Vegetarian
Falafel
Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.
Snack
Vegetarian, Vegan
Fresh Fruit Juices
Freshly squeezed juices made from local fruits like mango, guava, and pomegranate.
Drink
Vegan, Gluten-free
Popular Activities
Diving
Snorkeling
Windsurfing
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Visiting Saint Catherine's Monastery
Best Time to Visit
March to May, October to November
This is the most pleasant time to visit, with warm but not extreme temperatures and ideal conditions for water activities.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: English, Russian, German
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Egyptian Pound (EGP)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sharm el Sheikh is generally safe for tourists, with a strong police presence in tourist areas. However, petty crime and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators
- • Negotiate prices in advance
- • Keep valuables secure
Getting there
By air
- Sharm El Sheikh International Airport • 12 km from city center
By bus
Downtown Terminal, Naama Bay Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and frequent, but can be crowded. Routes cover most major areas and resorts.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Careem
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Naama Bay
Ras Um El Sid
Sharm Old Market
Day trips
Dahab
80 km • Full day
A laid-back coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, diving spots, and relaxed atmosphere.
Tiran Island
30 km • Full day
A small island known for its incredible coral reefs and diverse marine life, perfect for diving and snorkeling.
Mount Sinai
120 km • Overnight or full day
A sacred mountain known for its religious significance and stunning sunrise views.
Festivals
Sharm El Sheikh International Diving Festival • June
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Book diving and snorkeling trips in advance, especially during peak season
- Visit Ras Mohammed National Park for the best diving and snorkeling experiences
- Explore the Old Market for authentic souvenirs and local flavors
- Try traditional Egyptian dishes like koshari and grilled seafood
- Experience a Bedouin village visit for a unique cultural experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
