Sharm El Sheikh : St Catherine Monastery
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Set out on an unforgettable hiking adventure from Sharm el Sheikh to the majestic summit of Mount Sinai, rising 7,497 feet (2,285 meters). Start your climb before dawn to witness a stunning sunrise, illuminating the mountaintop chapel and mosque in the first light. After your descent, explore the historic St. Catherine’s Monastery, believed to be the site where Moses encountered the Burning Bush, with origins dating back to the 6th century.
This all-inclusive tour ensures a seamless experience with round-trip transfers from Sharm El Sheikh, ideal for travelers with limited time in Egypt. For an extra touch, you can opt for a camel ride along part of the route. The tour also offers the chance to admire ancient Christian art and relics at the world’s oldest continuously operating monastery, with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included.
Available options
Sharm El Sheikh : St Catherine Monastery
Pickup included
What's included
Mousses Mountain
Air-conditioned vehicle
St. Catherine Monastery
Hotel Pick-up & Drop-off
Bedouin guide while climbing the mountain
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your mountain ascent begins at 2:00 am, with a three-hour climb to reach an elevation of 2,285 meters, accompanied by one of our experienced guides. You can choose a well-marked trail featuring 700 steps that will lead you to the summit just in time to witness a breathtaking sunrise. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. If the climb feels too demanding, a camel ride is available to take you partway, dropping you off at the start of the 700 steps. After watching the sunrise, you’ll descend the mountain and return to Sharm El Sheikh by vehicle.
2
Stop 2
Your mountain ascent begins at 2:00 am, with a three-hour climb to reach an elevation of 2,285 meters, accompanied by one of our experienced guides. You can choose a well-marked trail featuring 700 steps that will lead you to the summit just in time to witness a breathtaking sunrise. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. If the climb feels too demanding, a camel ride is available to take you partway, dropping you off at the start of the 700 steps. After watching the sunrise, you’ll descend the mountain and return to Sharm El Sheikh by vehicle.
What's not included
Governmental fee 5€ per person
Food & Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
RU
EN
IT
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The transfer time is already included in the total duration
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
