Go on a hiking adventure to discover Mount Sinai’s deep spiritual and historical significance, where Moses is believed to have received the Ten Commandments. Hike up at dawn with a local Bedouin guide, catch sunrise views from the summit, then explore the ancient St. Catherine Monastery, one of the oldest active monasteries in the world.
The experience includes lunch, local insight, and a peaceful journey through one of Egypt’s most meaningful desert landscapes, all organized from start to finish by Gazef.
- Uncover the secrets of Mount Sinai
- Hike the trails of St. Catherine
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Sharm El-Sheikh, Dahab, or Nuweibaa at around 6:30 AM. You'll drive for three hours to arrive at the ancient town of St. Catherine. Start with exploring the historic St. Catherine Monastery at the base of Mount Sinai, which stands at 2,285 meters above sea level. With our experienced, local bedouin guide, you'll hike up Moses Mountain. Enjoy the stunning views of the Sinai Peninsula from the summit. Refuel with lunch and tea served at the peak before heading back down.
P.S. The Monastery is closed on Fridays and Sundays.
- Uncover the secrets of Mount Sinai
- Hike the trails of St. Catherine
- Enjoy the stunning views
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai, also known as Jebel Musa, is a significant site in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. Revered in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, it is where Moses received the Ten Commandments, making it a key pilgrimage site. The biblical Mount Sinai is central to the story where Moses encountered God in the form of a burning bush.
In Jewish tradition, the journey from Egypt to the Promised Land culminated at the foot of the mountain, where Moses received divine commandments. Christians honor the mountain for its connection to Moses and the Old Testament. Muslims, referring to it as Jebel Musa, believe Moses received revelations from God here.
Visitors often embark on the Mount Sinai hike to experience its spiritual and historical significance, seeking to connect with its profound history and awe-inspiring beauty.
St. Catherine Monastery
Founded in the 6th century AD, St. Catherine Monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries still in use. Located at the foot of Mount Sinai, it was built to protect religious inhabitants from Bedouin tribes. Named after Saint Catherine of Alexandria, an early Christian martyr,
The monastery became a retreat for monks seeking solitude and spiritual reflection. It has since grown in importance, housing valuable religious relics, manuscripts, and icons. These treasures include the Codex Sinaiticus, a 4th-century Greek manuscript of the Christian Bible.
The monastery's architecture includes a well-preserved Byzantine basilica, defensive walls, and a fortified tower. Today, St. Catherine Monastery remains an active site, attracting pilgrims and tourists who come to explore its rich history, spiritual ambiance, and the legacy of Saint Catherine.
What is included in the tour
- All meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- All sightseeing tours and entrance fees as mentioned in the itinerary
- All transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle from/to Sharm ElSheikh, Dahab, or Nuweibaa
- Private local bedouin tour guide
- All service charges and taxes
What is NOT included in the tour
- Meals other than mentioned in above itinerary
- Beverages
- Optional activities / tours
- Personal expenses
- Tipping
We provide private cars for groups of up to 3 people, Hiace buses for groups of up to 10, and Coaster buses for groups of up to 19.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality.
In Egypt, the power supply is Type C and F, with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz. However, no electricity will be available throughout the day, so make sure to bring your power banks.
Expect limited or even no network coverage at all. Therefore, be prepared for periods of disconnection.
- Comfortable Clothing
- Comfortable Shoes
- Sun Protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Camera (if available)
- Power Bank (if available)
- Water Bottle
- Electrolytes (if available)
- Snacks (nuts, energy bars, fruit)
Tipping is an expected, though not compulsory, component of your tour program. While it's not mandatory, it's customary to tip around $5 per day per person for drivers. For other service providers, the amount is at your discretion, but an average of $5 USD is typical.
Remember, tipping directly benefits the local community. Although it may not be customary for you, it is an important source of income for those in the tourism industry. Giving a tip should be a seen as a formal 'thank you', and the action should in no way be awkward.
Q: How long does it take to climb Mount Sinai?
The hike typically takes about 3 hours up, depending on pace, and less on the descent.
Q: What should I wear for the Mount Sinai hike?
Comfortable, layered clothing, hiking shoes, sun protection, and warm gear for early
morning or winter hikes.
Q: Is St. Catherine Monastery open every day?
No, its closed on Fridays and Sundays for worship. Please plan accordingly.
Q: Do I need to be fit to complete the hike?
Basic physical fitness is recommended. Most healthy adults can complete the hike comfortably with breaks.
Q: What’s included in the tour?
Meals, transportation from Dahab/Sharm/Nuweibaa, local Bedouin guide, sightseeing, monastery entry, and taxes.
Meet Hussein, a genuine representation of Bedouin heritage and expertise. Rooted in a Bedouin family and living in Sinai, he brings extensive knowledge and experience to every journey. Enjoy his guidance as he leads you through landscapes he is deeply familiar with, approaching each trip with a profound passion and affection. His dedication shines as he shares his origins and takes you on a remarkable adventure through his beloved homeland.
