Mount Moses and Saint Catherine's Monastery

Excursion program

• Hotel transfer in Sharm El Sheikh at approximately 21:00.
• The drive toward Dahab, with a short stop to rest and have a night snack.
• Continuing to the foot of the mountain in an organized convoy.
• A night climb up Mount Sinai with a local guide.
• Watching the sunrise at the summit, with time to rest and take photos.
• Descent to St. Catherine's Monastery.
• A tour of the parts of the monastery open to visitors.
• The return trip and arrival at the hotel at approximately 13:30 the next day.

Night Climb up Mount Sinai

The climb starts at night so that guests reach the summit before sunrise. The main path, about 7 km long, follows a mountain trail with a gradual climb in elevation.

The final stretch consists of approximately 750 stone steps. The full climb usually takes about three hours, though the actual time depends on the group's pace, the weather, and participants' fitness.

On the route, you must follow the guide at all times, stay on the trail, and be careful on rocky sections.

Sunrise at the Summit

After the night climb, the group watches the sunrise at the mountain's summit. The temperature at the top is noticeably lower than in Sharm El Sheikh, and strong winds are possible even in the warm season.

Bring warm layered clothing, a hat, and dry clothes to change into. A wool blanket can be rented at the summit, but its availability and price depend on local vendors.

Saint Catherine's Monastery

After the descent, the group visits St. Catherine's Monastery at the foot of the mountain. It's one of the oldest active Christian monasteries, with a history tied to early Christianity and the Sinai Peninsula.

The rooms open to visitors, the visiting order, and the tour length may change due to religious services, the monastery's schedule, and administrative requirements. You must follow the rules of conduct and wear modest, covered clothing.

What's Included in the Price

• Round-trip hotel transfer in comfortable transport.
• Travel in an organized convoy.
• A Russian-speaking guide.
• A local guide during the climb.
• Night climb up Mount Sinai.
• Visit to St. Catherine's Monastery according to its current schedule.

What is paid separately

• Camel ride to the start of the stone steps section — approximately $10–15.
• Wool blanket rental at the summit — approximately $3–5.
• Paid restrooms along the route — approximately 5–10 Egyptian pounds.
• Drinks, food, and snacks during stops.
• Photo and video services by local operators, if offered.

Additional services are provided by local vendors. Confirm the price before paying on site.

Documents for the Trip

• The original passport of each participant.
• A copy or photo of the passport.
• Valid travel insurance.

Documents may be checked by the tourist police when leaving Sharm El Sheikh and while the convoy is traveling. Without the original passport, participation may not be possible.

Physical Demands and Restrictions

The excursion involves a long night climb, a rocky path, and hundreds of steps. It's not suitable for people with serious heart, respiratory, joint, or spine conditions, or other issues incompatible with strenuous exertion.

This trip isn't recommended with young children. Before booking, honestly assess each participant's fitness level, and consult a doctor if in doubt.

Clothing and Footwear

• Comfortable closed shoes with a non-slip sole.
• A warm jacket or fleece.
• Long pants and layered clothing.
• A hat and gloves in the cold season.
• Modest, covered clothing for visiting the monastery.

Even in summer, it can be cold in the mountains at night. Beach shoes and open sandals aren't suitable for the route.

What to bring

• Your original passport and a copy of it.
• Travel insurance.
• Enough drinking water.
• A packed meal or light snack.
• Warm clothing and comfortable closed shoes.
• Cash in small bills.
• A small backpack and a charged phone.

Important Information

• Departure and return times are approximate and depend on the hotel, the convoy, and road conditions.
• The route may be adjusted due to weather, police requirements, and the monastery's schedule.
• The climb takes place at night with limited visibility — you must follow the guide's instructions.
• Food is not included in the base price, so prepare water and a snack in advance.
• Cold, strong winds, and sudden weather changes are possible at the summit.