Sail the Red Sea on a unique Pharaonic-themed luxury cruiser
Relax in style on our comfortable, themed sun deck
An iconic silhouette inspired by Ancient Egyptian history
Immerse yourself in history with authentic Pharaonic costumes
Capture unique memories in traditional Egyptian dress
Feel like royalty on our specially designed throne deck
Witness the underwater world from our panoramic viewing deck
Elegant design meets modern luxury at every turn
Dive into the crystal clear waters for a snorkeling adventure
Enjoy refreshing drinks from our themed onboard bar
Night ascent of Mount Sinai (2,285 m) – 750 steps to the summit
Spectacular sunrise view over the Sinai Mountains
Visit St. Catherine’s Monastery – the world’s oldest working Christian monastery
See the iconic Burning Bush & Well of Moses
Optional camel ride available (extra, payable locally)
Hotel pickup & drop‑off from all Sharm El Sheikh hotels
🏔️ Embark on a spiritual and physical journey to the holy peak of Mount Sinai, where Moses is believed to have received the Ten Commandments. This overnight excursion from Sharm El Sheikh takes you deep into the Sinai Mountains for one of Egypt’s most profound experiences. You’ll begin with a late‑night transfer, arriving at St. Catherine around midnight. Under the guidance of a Bedouin mountain guide, you’ll ascend the 2,285‑meter peak, climbing the famous 750 penitential steps just in time to witness a breathtaking sunrise over the rugged desert peaks. After descending, you’ll explore the UNESCO‑listed St. Catherine’s Monastery, home to the Burning Bush, ancient icons, and a priceless collection of manuscripts. This is a moderate to challenging hike recommended for travelers in good physical condition – the reward is an unforgettable encounter with biblical history and natural wonder.
$50 adult (12+ years) | $30 child (4‑11 years) | Free for infants under 4
Duration: ~15‑17 hours | Pickup: 7:00‑8:00 PM (depending on hotel location) | Return: next day ~1:00‑2:00 PM
Complimentary hotel pickup & drop‑off from all Sharm El Sheikh resorts
National Park entrance fee ($10 per person) not included – paid locally in cash
Optional camel ride (approx. $20‑25, payable locally) – covers most of the way, final 750 steps on foot
Available: Sundays, Wednesdays & Fridays (St. Catherine’s Monastery visiting days)
🏔️ About Mount Sinai & St. Catherine’s Monastery
Mount Sinai, also known as Mount Horeb or Moses Mountain, rises 2,285 meters above the Red Sea coast. According to biblical tradition, it was here that the Prophet Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. The mountain has been a pilgrimage site for centuries, drawing travelers of all faiths to its summit. At its foot lies St. Catherine’s Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in the 6th century (between 548 and 565 AD) by Emperor Justinian I[reference:0]. The monastery is the oldest continuously operating Christian monastery in the world and houses an extraordinary collection of icons, manuscripts, and the legendary Burning Bush, from which God is said to have spoken to Moses[reference:1]. The library contains the second largest collection of early codices and manuscripts in the world, after the Vatican Library.
📅 Detailed Itinerary – A Night on the Sacred Mountain
7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Hotel Pickup
Your driver will pick you up from your Sharm El Sheikh hotel in an air‑conditioned vehicle. The scenic drive to St. Catherine takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, crossing the Sinai Desert[reference:2].
10:30 PM – 12:30 AM: Arrival at Moses Mountain Base
Arrive at the foot of Mount Sinai. You’ll be introduced to your Bedouin mountain guide, who will lead the overnight ascent. Briefing about the trail, safety, and timing for sunrise.
2:00 AM: Begin Night Ascent
Start climbing under the starry desert sky. The trail involves a winding dirt path for the first hour, followed by the famous 750 steps carved into the mountain (the “Penitential Steps”). The total ascent takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on your pace[reference:3][reference:4].
Optional Camel Ride
For those who prefer assistance, camels are available for hire at the base (approx. $20‑25, paid locally). The camel ride covers the lower portion of the trail, but the final 750 steps must be climbed on foot[reference:5].
5:00 AM – 6:00 AM: Summit Arrival & Sunrise
Reach the summit before dawn. Find a spot among the rocks and witness an awe‑inspiring sunrise as the sun paints the Sinai mountain range in shades of gold, orange, and pink. At the top, you’ll find a small Greek Orthodox chapel (the Holy Trinity Church)[reference:6]. Spend about 30‑45 minutes soaking in the panoramic views, taking photos, and reflecting in this sacred place.
7:00 AM: Descent
Begin the 2‑hour descent back to the base of the mountain. The downhill is easier on the knees but requires careful footing on the rocky steps. Upon arrival, rest and prepare for the monastery visit.
Breakfast at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a well‑earned breakfast at a restaurant near the monastery. Traditional Egyptian breakfast includes bread, cheese, eggs, and tea/coffee. (Breakfast is included.)
8:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Visit St. Catherine’s Monastery
Now it’s time to explore the historic monastery. Your guide will lead you through the main church (Church of the Transfiguration), the Chapel of the Burning Bush, the Well of Moses, and the icon gallery. The monastery is open from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM daily except Sundays and Fridays (and certain Christian holidays)[reference:7]. Visit highlights include:
- The Burning Bush – a descendant of the original bush where God spoke to Moses.
- The 6th‑century mosaic of the Transfiguration on the church apse.
- The Well of Moses – said to be where Moses met his future wife.
- The Monastery Library – housing over 3,000 illuminated manuscripts (the second largest collection after the Vatican).
11:30 AM: Departure from St. Catherine
After the monastery visit, you’ll drive back to Sharm El Sheikh, arriving at your hotel between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM.
Insider Tips: Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes or boots. Bring layers – the summit can be very cold (near freezing winter months), even in summer. Water and snacks are essential (carry a small backpack). A headlamp or flashlight is crucial for the night ascent. Pre‑order a breakfast box from your hotel the night before as we start early (though breakfast is included locally, extra snacks help). Consider taking the camel ride if you’re concerned about the steep sections.
✅ Included / ❌ Excluded
- Hotel pickup & drop‑off (Sharm El Sheikh)
- Air‑conditioned vehicle transfers
- English‑speaking Egyptologist guide
- Bedouin mountain guide for the ascent
- Entrance fees to St. Catherine’s Monastery
- Breakfast at a local restaurant
- Bottled water on the vehicle
- All taxes & service charges
- St. Catherine National Park entrance fee ($10 per person, paid locally)
- Optional camel ride (approx. $20‑25, payable locally)
- Drinks during breakfast
- Personal expenses & souvenirs
- Tipping (recommended but not mandatory)
- Pickup from Dahab / El Tor (extra $10 per person)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🏔️ Is the Mount Sinai trek difficult?
The hike is considered moderate to challenging. It involves 3 hours of uphill walking, including 750 stone steps near the top. Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, able to walk for extended periods, can complete it. The descent is easier. Those who are less confident can hire a camel for part of the ascent (the camel covers the lower trail, leaving only the final 750 steps on foot)[reference:8].
❄️ How cold does it get at the summit?
Very cold, especially before sunrise. Summer nights can still be chilly at 2,285 m (around 5‑10 °C / 40‑50 °F). In winter (November–February), temperatures can drop below freezing. Bring layers, a fleece, a windproof jacket, gloves, and a warm hat. Hand warmers are helpful[reference:9].
🐫 How does the camel ride work?
Camels are available for hire at the base of the mountain. A local handler will accompany you. The camel carries you up the lower/slower portion of the trail, dropping you at the start of the 750 steps. You then continue on foot to the summit. The same arrangement exists for the descent, though most guests walk down. The cost is approximately $20‑25, paid directly to the handler in cash[reference:10].
📅 When is the monastery open for visits?
St. Catherine’s Monastery is open from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM daily, except Sundays, Fridays, and certain Christian holidays (such as Easter, Pentecost, and various feast days). Tours are therefore scheduled on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to align with these visiting hours[reference:11][reference:12].
👕 What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, broken‑in hiking footwear (trainers/sneakers are acceptable but proper hiking shoes are better). Dress in moisture‑wicking layers. The monastery requires modest clothing – shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted. A scarf can be handy for women to cover shoulders if needed. Bring a small backpack for water, snacks, camera, and extra layers.
🎒 Do I need to bring my own water?
Bottled water is provided on the bus, and there are small kiosks along the hiking route (cash only). However, prices are higher on the mountain. Bring at least 1.5 liters per person in your daypack.
📜 Is entry to the Monastery Library included?
The main library requires a separate additional ticket (not included in general entrance), and access is often restricted. Standard monastery visits include the church, the Burning Bush chapel, the icon gallery, and the Well of Moses. Discuss with your guide if you have a strong interest in the manuscript collection.
🚐 What is the exact pickup time?
Pickup times vary between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM depending on your hotel location. You will receive confirmed timings via WhatsApp or email 24‑48 hours before the tour. Please be ready at your hotel lobby at the specified time.
💰 How much cash should I bring for extras?
We recommend carrying around $40‑50 in small Egyptian pounds or USD cash for: National Park entrance fee ($10), optional camel ride ($20‑25), snacks/drinks on the mountain, and gratuities ($5‑10). Credit cards are not accepted at the mountain base or monastery entrance.
Advance booking required – This tour operates only on Sundays, Wednesdays & Fridays to align with monastery hours. Book at least 48 hours in advance. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.
