St-Catherine Monastery & Moses Mountain From Sharm El Sheikh

Exploring the ancient St. Catherine Monastery and scaling the revered Mount Sinai from Sharm El Sheikh makes for an unforgettable adventure. This private tour whisks travelers on a scenic 3-hour drive, followed by an exhilarating camel ride and a challenging hike to the mountain’s peak. With a knowledgeable local guide in tow, visitors can enjoy the rich history and religious significance of these iconic sites. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a culture enthusiast, this tour offers an opportunity to witness some of Egypt’s most breathtaking landscapes and uncover the captivating stories that have unfolded on this hallowed ground.

Good To Know

• This tour offers a private excursion from Sharm El Sheikh to the St-Catherine Monastery and Moses Mountain, with flexible pickup options and a knowledgeable local guide.
• The tour includes a camel ride and a challenging 750-stair climb to the peak of Moses Mountain, providing breathtaking views and amenities like a tea shop and blanket rentals.
• Travelers should be aware of additional costs, such as entry fees and potential sales tactics from guides, and assess their physical abilities before booking this tour.
• Early arrival is recommended to avoid crowds and waiting at the monastery, and security checkpoints and a valid passport are required for entry.
• While the tour generally receives positive reviews for its organization and guide expertise, some travelers have reported issues with last-minute cancellations and refund difficulties.

Tour Overview

The tour is titled "St-Catherine Monastery & Moses Mountain" and takes place in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.

It has 12 reviews and an overall rating of 4.5 stars. Prices start from $160.00 per person, varying by group size.

This is a private tour, with hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance fees, transportation, a local guide, bottled water, and tipping included.

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours each way from Sharm El Sheikh.

Accessibility is limited, as it’s not wheelchair-friendly and not recommended for some medical conditions.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Pickup options allow travelers to select a preferred pickup point or request a pickup.

The tour guide will hold a sign with the company name at the designated pickup location, making identification easy.

Once the tour concludes, the activity ends back at the original meeting point.

Confirmation of the tour details, including pickup arrangements, is provided at the time of booking.

The tour operator offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Accessibility and Recommendations

Is the St-Catherine Monastery & Moses Mountain tour suitable for all travelers? Not entirely. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though infant seats are available.

Health advisories caution against travelers with back problems, pregnant women, and those with heart conditions or serious medical issues. However, most travelers can participate in the experience.

The tour involves a 7 km uphill camel ride ($650 EGP per person) and a 750-stair climb to the peak. Facilities at the top include a tea shop, blanket rentals ($100 EGP), and an outhouse ($5 EGP).

Travelers should come prepared with necessary items and be mindful of their physical abilities before booking the tour.

Tour Experience and Highlights

The tour requires a 3-hour drive from Sharm El Sheikh to reach the St-Catherine Monastery and Moses Mountain.

Travelers take a 7 km uphill camel ride ($650 EGP each) before climbing 750 stairs to the peak. At the top, a tea shop and blanket rentals ($100 EGP) are available, along with an outhouse (fee of $5 EGP, bring your own toilet paper).

The monastery opens at 9 AM, and some travelers arrive early to avoid waiting. Security checkpoints and a passport are required.

Highlights include breathtaking views, especially during night hikes, though some report additional costs and inconsistent English-speaking guides.

Traveler Feedback

Many travelers praised the knowledgeable guides and well-organized transfers, highlighting the breathtaking views, especially during night hikes.

However, some issues were noted:

1. Lack of English-speaking guides in certain cases
2. Additional costs for entry fees that weren’t always clear upfront
3. Persistent sales tactics from guides that some found intrusive
4. Instances of last-minute cancellations and difficulties in receiving refunds

Getting to the Monastery

Travelers embark on a 3-hour drive from Sharm El Sheikh to reach the St-Catherine Monastery. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, with the guide holding a sign at the designated meeting point.

Once at the monastery, visitors must pass through multiple security checkpoints and present their passports. The monastery opens at 9 AM, so some travelers arrive early and wait to enter.

During the visit, travelers can explore the grounds, take in the stunning views, and visit the tea shop, where they can rent blankets and use the outhouse facilities for a small fee.

Climbing Mount Sinai

After visiting the St. Catherine Monastery, the next leg of the journey involves climbing Mount Sinai, also known as Mount Moses. The climb can be a challenging but rewarding experience.

Here’s what to expect:

1. The trek is approximately 7 km uphill, and visitors can choose to ride camels for an additional fee of 650 EGP.

2. Once at the base, there’s a 750-stair climb to reach the peak.

3. Amenities at the peak include a tea shop, blanket rentals for 100 EGP, and an outhouse for a 5 EGP fee.

4. Visitors should note that the monastery opens at 9 AM, and early arrival is recommended to avoid crowds.

Exploring the Monastery

The St. Catherine Monastery is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into the rich history and religious significance of the site.

Travelers can explore the monastery, which opens at 9 AM, but some report arriving early and waiting. Security measures are in place, and a passport is required.

Inside, visitors can admire the stunning architecture and religious artifacts, seeing the spiritual atmosphere.

While the experience is generally positive, some travelers have noted additional costs for entry fees and persistent sales tactics from guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Weather Like During the Tour?

The weather can vary greatly depending on the season. Daytime temperatures are typically hot and sunny, while nighttime temperatures may drop significantly, especially at higher elevations. Travelers should dress in layers and bring sun protection.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no specific age restrictions for this tour. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with serious health conditions or limited mobility, as the climb up Mount Sinai can be strenuous. Children under 12 may need assistance.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks for the Hike?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks for the hike. The tour overview doesn’t mention any restrictions on bringing personal snacks or beverages. However, bottled water is provided as part of the tour inclusions.

How Challenging Is the Descent From Mount Sinai?

The descent from Mount Sinai can be quite challenging. It’s a steep, 7km downhill walk, often requiring extra caution and care. Bringing proper footwear is essential to manage the descent safely and comfortably.

Are There Any Opportunities to Purchase Souvenirs at the Monastery?

Visitors have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs at the St. Catherine’s Monastery. There are shops within the monastery complex that sell local handicrafts, religious items, and other keepsakes for travelers to browse and buy.

The Sum Up

The St-Catherine Monastery & Moses Mountain tour from Sharm El Sheikh offers an unforgettable experience, blending stunning natural landscapes with rich historical insights. Travelers embark on a scenic drive, enjoy a camel ride, and tackle the challenging climb to the peak of Moses Mountain. With flexible policies and the chance to explore the stunning monastery, this tour caters to adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.