Your journey starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Sharm ElSheikh, Dahab, or Nuweibaa, followed by a three-hour drive to the ancient town of St. Catherine. Following breakfast, you'll explore the St. Catherine Monastery at the foot of Mount Sinai, standing majestically at 2,285 meters above sea level. With an experienced local guide, commence the hike up Moses Mountain, where you'll reach the summit for breathtaking views of the Sinai Peninsula. Refuel with lunch and tea served at the peak before descending, marking the end of the day.

P.S. The Monastery is closed on Fridays and Sundays.

Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai, also known as Jebel Musa or Moses Mountain, holds significant historical and religious importance. It is situated in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. The mountain is revered by several major Abrahamic religions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. According to biblical accounts, Mount Sinai is the place where Moses, an iconic figure in these religions, received the Ten Commandments from God. The story is central to the religious narratives of Judaism and Christianity, making the mountain a pilgrimage site for centuries. In Jewish tradition, the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to the Promised Land culminated at Mount Sinai. It was here that God revealed Himself to Moses in the form of a burning bush and gave him the divine commandments. The event is described in the biblical books of Exodus and Deuteronomy.In Christianity, Mount Sinai holds importance due to its association with Moses and the Old Testament events. Additionally, in the New Testament, Saint Paul references Mount Sinai as an allegory in his Epistle to the Galatians, linking it to the Mosaic Law. For Muslims, the mountain is known as Jebel Musa (Mountain of Moses) and is believed to be the place where Moses received revelations from God. The story of Moses' encounter with God on the mountain is also present in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. Throughout history, Mount Sinai has been a site of pilgrimage, attracting devout believers seeking spiritual connection and enlightenment. Visitors often embark on the challenging trek to the summit to experience the awe-inspiring beauty and to feel the historical and religious significance of the place.

St. Catherine Monastery

Founded in the 6th century AD, St. Catherine Monastery, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monasteries in the world. It is named after Saint Catherine of Alexandria, an early Christian martyr who is believed to have been tortured and executed for her faith in the early 4th century. Its construction was commissioned to protect the area and its religious inhabitants from invading Bedouin tribes. St. Catherine Monastery became a haven for monks seeking solitude and spiritual contemplation. Over the centuries, it grew in prominence and became a repository for invaluable religious relics, manuscripts, and icons. The monastery houses a vast collection of religious artifacts, including ancient manuscripts in various languages, illuminated Bibles, and historical documents. One of the most famous treasures of the monastery is the Codex Sinaiticus, a 4th-century Greek manuscript of the Christian Bible, regarded as one of the most important biblical texts in existence. In addition to its historical and religious significance, the monastery's architecture is noteworthy. It features a well-preserved Byzantine basilica, an imposing defensive wall, and a fortified tower. The fortress-like structure was essential for safeguarding the precious religious relics and for providing security to the resident monks during turbulent times. Today, St. Catherine Monastery remains an active Christian religious site, inhabited by a small community of Greek Orthodox monks. It continues to attract pilgrims and tourists from around the world, seeking to explore its rich history, experience its spiritual ambiance, and pay homage to the legacy of Saint Catherine and the long-standing traditions of Christianity in the region.

FAQs

Where is Mount Sinai located? Mount Sinai is located in the southern part of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt

How high is Mount Sinai? Mount Sinai is 2,285 meters, or about 7,497 feet, high

What is the history of St. Catherine Monastery? St. Catherine Monastery was founded in the 6th century AD and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monasteries in the world. It houses a significant collection of religious manuscripts and icons, and continues to be a place of worship and pilgrimage.

Why is Mount Sinai considered a holy place? Mount Sinai is considered a holy place because it is believed to be the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. This event is significant in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam

Is it safe to climb Mount Sinai? Yes, generally it is safe to climb Mount Sinai. However, like any hiking or trekking activity, there are risks involved. It is always recommended to climb with a guide and to follow any safety guidelines or instructions given.

How can I reach St. Catherine Monastery and Mount Sinai from different parts of Egypt? The most common starting points are from the cities of Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, or Nuweibaa, from which you can arrange for a private vehicle or join a tour group. It's about a three-hour drive to St. Catherine from these cities.

How long does it take to climb Mount Sinai? The climb can take around 3 hours depending on your pace. The descent usually takes less time.

What kind of physical condition do I need to be in to climb Mount Sinai? While the climb might be a bit challenging, people of most fitness levels can complete it. However, it's best if you're in good health and accustomed to regular physical activity.

What should I wear for the climb up Mount Sinai? It's recommended to wear comfortable, layered clothing to adjust to the changing temperatures. Sturdy footwear, such as hiking boots, is also important due to the rocky terrain. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also advisable for sun protection.

Can I climb Mount Sinai at any time of the year? Yes, Mount Sinai can be climbed at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is during the cooler months from October to April.

Is St. Catherine Monastery open for visitors daily? No, St. Catherine Monastery is not open daily for visitors. It follows the practices of the Greek Orthodox Church and is closed on Fridays and Sundays for worship and rest.

What is included in the tour of Mount Sinai and St. Catherine Monastery? The tour typically includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Sharm El Sheikh, Dahab, or Nuweibaa. You will be transported in a private vehicle to the ancient town of St. Catherine. The tour includes a delightful breakfast before starting the hike. An experienced local guide will lead you on your ascent of Mount Sinai, ensuring your safety and answering any questions you may have about the area. After reaching the summit and experiencing the spiritual and natural beauty of the place, you will be treated to a light lunch and tea at the top of the mountain. Finally, the guide will lead you back down to the base of the mountain. The entire experience is designed to be both a physical adventure and a spiritual journey, immersing you in the history and religious significance of this sacred site.