Saint Catherine & Mount Sinai — Sunrise Above the Sacred Mountains | 2 Days
Hurghada · 2 days · 1 night · shared departure for 4–8 travelers · from €106 per person
About this departure
Journey from Cairo into the heart of South Sinai, where ancient spiritual traditions meet some of Egypt's most spectacular mountain landscapes. This two-day adventure takes you to Mount Sinai, traditionally believed to be where Moses received the Ten Commandments, and to the historic Saint Catherine's Monastery, one of the world's oldest continuously functioning Christian monasteries.
Travel through the Sinai desert to Saint Catherine, where you'll spend the night before beginning an unforgettable early-morning climb. Follow the mountain trails under a sky full of stars with a local Bedouin guide and reach the summit in time to watch the sunrise over the rugged peaks of Sinai.
After descending, discover the history and religious significance of Saint Catherine's Monastery, founded in the sixth century and home to centuries of Christian heritage. With accommodation, transport and a local mountain guide arranged, this short escape brings together adventure, nature and living history.
Day 1 — Cairo to Saint Catherine: Into the Sinai Mountains
Leave Cairo in the morning and travel east across the Sinai Peninsula, passing through desert landscapes and dramatic mountain scenery. As you approach Saint Catherine, the rugged granite peaks create a striking contrast with the city you've left behind.
Arrive in Saint Catherine in the afternoon and check in to your accommodation. Enjoy free time to relax, take in the peaceful mountain surroundings and prepare for the early-morning adventure.
After dinner, rest before the nighttime ascent of Mount Sinai.
Highlights: Scenic drive through Sinai · Arrival in Saint Catherine · Hotel check-in · Dinner and overnight stay
Day 2 — Mount Sinai Sunrise & Saint Catherine's Monastery
Your adventure begins in the early hours of the morning. Accompanied by a local Bedouin guide, follow the mountain trail beneath the stars towards the summit of Mount Sinai. The path winds through rocky landscapes before the final stone steps lead to the top.
Arrive before dawn and watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the surrounding mountains — a memorable moment at one of the region's most revered sites.
Descend the mountain and enjoy breakfast before visiting Saint Catherine's Monastery, built during the reign of Emperor Justinian in the sixth century. Learn about its extraordinary history and religious significance, then follow the monastery's permitted visitor route to discover its sacred landmarks, subject to opening conditions.
After the visit, begin the return journey across Sinai to Cairo, arriving in the evening.
Highlights: Guided Mount Sinai hike · Sunrise at the summit · Saint Catherine's Monastery · Burning Bush site · Return to Cairo
Upcoming departures
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Included
- An experience combining hiking, spirituality and cultural discovery
- One night of accommodation in Saint Catherine
- One breakfast and one dinner
- Local Bedouin mountain guide for the Mount Sinai hike
- Transportation to and from the mountain trailhead
- Coordination and assistance throughout the trip
- Monastery visit arrangements, subject to opening and access
Not included
- Lunches and additional beverages
- Optional camel ride on the mountain trail
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities and services not mentioned in the itinerary
Operated by Capital Travel Service, an Egyptian travel company licensed by the Ministry of Tourism and registered with ETAA. Licensed since 2011. Verified by Sawa.