2-Day Trip to Sinai Mountain and St. Catherine
Overview
Hiking is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating activities to enjoy on your Egypt day tours! With our Egypt shore excursions, you now have the opportunity to embark on a thrilling 2-day adventure to explore the iconic Mount Sinai and the renowned St. Catherine's Monastery.
This captivating tour will take you on a journey to the Sinai Peninsula, a region rich in religious and historical significance, revered by followers of the three Abrahamic faiths - Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Your knowledgeable Cairo Top Tours guide will lead you on an expedition to climb Mount Sinai, one of the highest peaks in Egypt, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding highlands and the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.
During your adventure, you'll have the chance to visit the basilica and the renowned "Burning Bush," the very place where God spoke to Moses. Delve into the fascinating history of how Saint Catherine spread Christianity to the public, as you immerse yourself in the captivating cultural and historical heritage of this sacred region.
After your insightful exploration of St. Catherine's Monastery, you'll have a short break before concluding your tour. As you prepare to depart, consider extending the magic of your journey by relaxing at one of the luxurious Sharm El-Sheikh hotels, where you can fully savor the richness of your Egyptian adventure.
Egypt is a truly remarkable destination, offering an abundance of fascinating sights and experiences. From the iconic El-Hussein Mosque to the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, this captivating country attracts visitors from across the globe, eager to immerse themselves in its captivating history and vibrant culture.
Hiking is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating activities to enjoy on your Egypt day tours! With our Egypt shore excursions, you now have the opportunity to embark on a thrilling 2-day adventure to explore the iconic Mount Sinai and the renowned St. Catherine's Monastery.
This captivating tour will take you on a journey to the Sinai Peninsula, a region rich in religious and historical significance, revered by followers of the three Abrahamic faiths - Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Your knowledgeable Cairo Top Tours guide will lead you on an expedition to climb Mount Sinai, one of the highest peaks in Egypt, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding highlands and the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea.
During your adventure, you'll have the chance to visit the basilica and the renowned "Burning Bush," the very place where God spoke to Moses. Delve into the fascinating history of how Saint Catherine spread Christianity to the public, as you immerse yourself in the captivating cultural and historical heritage of this sacred region.
After your insightful exploration of St. Catherine's Monastery, you'll have a short break before concluding your tour. As you prepare to depart, consider extending the magic of your journey by relaxing at one of the luxurious Sharm El-Sheikh hotels, where you can fully savor the richness of your Egyptian adventure.
Egypt is a truly remarkable destination, offering an abundance of fascinating sights and experiences. From the iconic El-Hussein Mosque to the awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza, this captivating country attracts visitors from across the globe, eager to immerse themselves in its captivating history and vibrant culture.
Inclusion
- Transportation from your hotel in Cairo to the South Sinai governorate and back.
- Transfers to the St. Catherine area in modern air-conditioned vehicles provided by Cairo Top Tours.
- One night's accommodation in Saint Catherine on a half-board basis.
- Tickets and entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary during your Overnight Trip to Sinai.
- An Egyptologist tour guide for your Egypt Day Tours.
- Bottled water and a soft drink for your 2-day trip to Mount Sinai.
- Local Bedouin guide to assist with the climb up Mount Sinai.
- All taxes applicable to your Cairo day tours are included.
Exclusion
- Any extras not mentioned in our itinerary for the Mount Sinai Overnight trip to climb the mountain and visit St. Catherine’s monastery.
- Tipping is not included in the Cairo tour prices but is appreciated by drivers and staff if you feel the service has been good.
- Prices are valid during Christmas, New Year tours, and Egypt Easter tours.
Itinerary
Our knowledgeable Egyptologist guide will greet you in the morning and accompany you on a private tour with Cairo Top Tours, kicking off one of the most historically significant excursions from Cairo. Following in the footsteps of the Israelites during the biblical Exodus, you'll be transported by a modern vehicle from your hotel in Cairo. The journey to the amazing overnight destination of Mount Sinai is approximately 6 to 7 hours, taking you through the Ahmed Hamdi Tunnel in the Suez Governorate and under the Suez Canal.
Along the way, we'll make a stop for a toilet break, allowing you to stretch your legs, grab a refreshment, and take a brief respite. We'll also visit Moses' Wells, where, according to tradition, Moses split the rock to provide water for the Israelites. Your guide will discuss the probable routes the Israelites may have taken during the biblical Exodus when the sea parted for Moses and the Pharaoh (most likely Ramses II or Merenptah) drowned.
Upon arrival, we'll ensure a smooth check-in at your hotel in St. Catherine, where you can relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure. Dinner will be served at the hotel, after which you can prepare for the early morning ascent of Mount Sinai the following day.
Meals: Dinner
We'll start your day bright and early with a 1:00 AM pickup. Before heading out, the hotel will provide tea and coffee in the lobby to help you fuel up. From there, you'll be transferred to the starting point of your Mount Sinai ascent, accompanied by a local Bedouin guide. Get ready for an adventurous and spiritual journey as you climb the sacred mountain, following in the footsteps of countless hermits before you. Along the way, you'll find huts where you can purchase a hot beverage or rent a blanket if the weather turns chilly. As you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the mountain.
After your descent, you'll return to the hotel for a well-deserved breakfast. Then, you'll meet your expert tour guide to explore the historical Monastery of Saint Catherine, the oldest Christian diocese in the world, dating back to the 6th century. Inside the monastery, you'll see the Burning Bush, surrounded by a chapel built by Queen Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine, as well as the Church of Transfiguration, constructed by Emperor Justinian.
The monastery also houses the second-largest Christian library in the world, after the Vatican's. Your guide will also show you the on-site mosque, which was never used, as it was not properly oriented towards the holy Kaaba in Mecca. Along the way, you'll stop to see the rock where the Israelites planted the golden calf, and the tomb of Aaron, the younger brother of Moses.
After this comprehensive tour, you'll be transferred back to Cairo, concluding your unforgettable overnight adventure at Mount Sinai.
Meals: Breakfast
Price
| Number of Persons | Prices |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $415 Per Person |
| 2 - 3 Persons | $300 Per Person |
| 4 - 6 Persons | $270 Per Person |
| 7 - 10 Persons | $230 Per Person |
Start from : $230
Check Availability
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Egypt is a significant nation with numerous must-see attractions. It is best to join a guided multi-day tour if you want to see all of the highlights, including Sinai Mountain and St. Catherine’s. By doing this, you can be sure that you won't miss any of this fascinating nation's top attractions.
Cairo Top Tours aims to stand out from its competitors by creating amazing experiences that are flexible, valuable, and provide excellent service. They make it easy for people to explore the Nile River and discover new and exciting things that ignite a lifelong passion for travel.
A two-day tour of Sinai Mountain and St. Catherine's offers a unique and spiritual journey through one of Egypt's most sacred regions. Here are the must-visit tourist attractions for such a tour:
Day 1: Sinai Mountain and the St. Catherine Area
Morning:
Start Early: Begin your tour early in the morning to catch the sunrise from Sinai Mountain. This spiritual and natural spectacle is a highlight of the trip. The ascent takes a few hours, and it's advisable to go with a guide.
Sinai Mountain Summit: Reach the summit of Sinai Mountain (Mount Sinai) in time for sunrise. Take in the breathtaking views and the spiritual atmosphere that has attracted pilgrims and travelers for centuries. Explore the small chapel, Chapel of St. Catherine, at the summit.
Breakfast:
3. Descend and Breakfast: Descend the mountain, and enjoy a well-deserved breakfast at the base.
Late Morning/Early Afternoon:
4. St. Catherine's Monastery: Visit St. Catherine's Monastery, one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the monastery's historic treasures, including the Burning Bush and the ancient manuscripts in the library.
Lunch:
5. Lunch in the Area: Have lunch in the nearby area or at your accommodation.
Afternoon:
6. Optional Activities: Depending on your interests and time, you can choose to explore the surroundings, go for a hike, or simply relax.
Day 2: Optional Activities and Return to Cairo
Morning:
7. Optional Activities: Consider additional activities such as visiting the nearby Colored Canyon or taking a jeep safari through the desert for more natural beauty and adventure.
Lunch:
8. Lunch: Enjoy a local lunch or lunch at your accommodation.
Afternoon:
9. Return to Cairo: Depart from the St. Catherine area and return to Cairo. The journey typically takes several hours.
Yes, many Cairo day tours include food and lunch options, but it depends on the specific tour package and the tour operator you choose. Here are some common scenarios:
All-Inclusive Tours: Some day tours in Cairo are all-inclusive, which means they include not only guided sightseeing but also meals, including breakfast and lunch. These tours typically specify the restaurants or venues where you'll dine, and the cost of meals is factored into the tour price.
Optional Lunch: In other cases, tours may offer an optional lunch add-on. This gives you the flexibility to choose whether or not you'd like to have lunch as part of your tour. If you opt for the meal, the tour operator will typically arrange for you to dine at a local restaurant or eatery during the tour.
Lunch on Your Own: Some tours may not include meals at all. In such cases, you'll have the freedom to explore local eateries and choose where and what you'd like to eat during your free time or breaks in the tour itinerary.
A visit to the Sinai Mountain and St. Catherine's Monastery in the Sinai Peninsula offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region and significant religious and historical sites. Here are the key attractions you can visit during a tour of Sinai Mountain and St. Catherine's:
Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa): This sacred mountain is a significant pilgrimage site for Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Visitors can climb the mountain to witness a breathtaking sunrise or sunset. The trek to the summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.
St. Catherine's Monastery (Santa Katarina): This historic Greek Orthodox Christian monastery is one of the oldest working monasteries in the world. It houses a remarkable collection of religious art, manuscripts, and icons. The Burning Bush, a Christian holy site, is located within the monastery grounds.
The Burning Bush: According to tradition, this is the site where Moses encountered the Burning Bush and received the Ten Commandments. It is located within the confines of St. Catherine's Monastery.
Elijah's Basin: A nearby basin known as "Makhrakah" is said to be the place where the prophet Elijah rested on his journey to Mount Horeb (another name for Sinai Mountain).
Mount St. Catherine: This is the highest peak in the region, and some visitors choose to hike to its summit. The views from here are equally stunning.
Moses' Spring: This is a historic spring said to be the source of water for Moses and the Israelites during their time in the wilderness.
Religious Icons and Artifacts: Inside St. Catherine's Monastery, you can see a wide range of religious icons, ancient manuscripts, and artifacts. The library at the monastery is renowned for its collection of ancient texts.
Natural Scenery: The entire region of the Sinai Peninsula is known for its dramatic desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and unique flora and fauna. Exploring the natural beauty of the area is an attraction in itself.
Saint Catherine's Monastery, also known as the Sacred Monastery of the God-Trodden Mount Sinai, is a historic and significant religious site in Egypt's Sinai Peninsula. It has several primary purposes and roles:
Spiritual and Religious Center
Historical and cultural heritage
Monastic Life.
protection and preservation.
Pilgrimage Destination.
education and scholarships.
Interfaith Dialogue.
Tourism.
The best tourist activities on Sinai Mountain include hiking, camel rides, valley kayaking, and enjoying breathtaking views.
Typically, two-day tours to Mount Sinai and St. Catherine's Monastery include local guides or the services of guides who provide information about the local history and culture of the area. These guides explain important historical places, provide facts and cultural information about Mount Sinai, St. Catherine's Monastery, temples and other religious sites to visit.
Guides usually provide visitors with information about the origins and history of the place, local traditions and customs, and the importance of historical and religious monuments that visitors pass during the tour.
Mount Sinai is a mountain located on the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. The main peak of Mount Sinai, Mount Catherine, is approximately 2,285 meters above sea level, and is the highest peak in Egypt.
This area holds an important cultural and religious position for several reasons:
Religious Significance to Christianity: The Sinai Mountains are home to the Monastery of St. Catherine, one of the oldest monasteries in the world still operating. St. Catherine's Monastery is considered a holy place in Christianity and is the site of the ancient Bible printing site "Synaptics", one of the oldest preserved copies of the Bible.
Religious importance to Islam and Judaism: Historically, Mount Sinai is also an important place for the Islamic and Jewish religions.
Natural and cultural importance: The Mount Sinai region has magnificent terrain and stunning landscapes, making it a popular destination for tourism and exploration, where tourists and adventurers climb the mountains and enjoy stunning views of the desert and valleys.
Climbing Mount Sinai is a great adventure activity, but you should know that it requires good preparation and good physical ability. If the trip includes climbing Mount Sinai, it is best to check the trip details and difficulty level.
The difficulty of climbing Mount Sinai depends on the method you choose and the route you take. The most popular climbing route is the Musalla Musalla route, which takes about 2-4 hours to ascend, and is most accessible at night.
It's recommended to bring comfortable clothes and shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a camera. Warm clothing is also essential as temperatures can drop at night, especially on Sinai Mountain.
A 2-day tour to Sinai Mountain and St. Catherine's is a popular excursion that takes visitors to the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt to explore the majestic Sinai Mountain range and visit the historic St. Catherine's Monastery. The tour typically includes transportation, accommodation, guided hikes or treks in the mountains, a visit to St. Catherine's Monastery, and opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
It's a good idea to protect your arms with long sleeve T-shirts; you can turn up the collar of a trekking shirt to cover your neck. During the winter, shirts should be worn over the base layer as mid-layers, and the base layer should be a decent, snug-fitting synthetic thermal. In the winter, the Sinai may get extremely cold, especially in the mountains.
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