Departure
Your exciting adventure will begin at 9:30 PM, when our private transportation service will pick you up from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. You will then embark on a journey of approximately two and a half hours towards Saint Catherine Monastery.
Arrival in Sinai
Upon arriving in the Mount Sinai area, you will begin your ascent of Mount Moses at 2:00 AM. Mount Moses, also known as Mount Sinai, is one of the most important sacred sites in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It is believed to be the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments, making it a particularly spiritual location.
Climbing Mount Sinai
You will start your adventure by climbing Mount Moses, which rises about 2,285 meters (7,497 feet). The journey takes approximately 5 hours to reach the summit. There are two paths to climb the mountain:
- Steps of Penitence: Comprising 3,750 steps, this is the most direct route, suitable for fitter climbers. This path was carved by a penitent monk in the Middle Ages and includes memorial stations such as the Door of Confession and Moses' Spring, adding a spiritual dimension and a rich historical experience. You will have the opportunity to reflect on the surrounding nature and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
- Longer Route: This path is easier and can be traversed on foot or by camel, though some walking is required at the end to reach the summit. This route is ideal for families or those looking for a more relaxed experience. Both paths offer the chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Sinai's mountains, with unique rock formations and rare plants.
Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise view that offers a panoramic vista encompassing the Gulf of Aqaba and the mountains of Africa and Saudi Arabia. You can capture stunning photos of the surrounding landscape and share these moments with your friends and family.
Visit to Saint Catherine Monastery
After you come down from Mount Sinai, you will visit Saint Catherine Monastery, which was established by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 527 AD. This monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries still active today and is located near the top of Mount Moses, where many believe Moses received the Ten Commandments. It’s named after Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a 4th-century martyr celebrated for her strong faith
The monastery houses a remarkable collection of Greek Orthodox icons and ancient manuscripts, and it is home to more than 20 monks. The monastery's library features a rare collection of ancient manuscripts and is considered second in importance only to the Vatican Library. You will have the opportunity to explore the monastery's impressive landmarks, including the church and basilica that houses the mosaic of the "Transfiguration" and the library, which is among the most significant in the world. You can enjoy a guided tour with one of the monks, who will explain the history and spiritual significance of the monastery.
The Burning Bush
Don’t forget to visit the Burning Bush, a historical site believed to be where Moses encountered God in the burning flame. Located near Saint Catherine Monastery, this site is considered an important spiritual landmark. The area is surrounded by tranquility and peace, making the visit a unique spiritual experience.
Activities Available in Saint Catherine
You can visit the surrounding Bedouin villages to experience their hospitality and local cuisine, providing insight into traditional lifestyles and the culture of the area. These activities are a wonderful addition to your experience, allowing you to learn about Bedouin customs and see how people live in this enchanting place.
Options for activities include camel rides in the surrounding mountains or enjoying a nature walk. Visitors can relish the beauty of the stunning landscapes and the serenity offered by this spiritual location.
Return to Sharm El Sheikh
After completing your visit to the monastery , you will begin your journey back to Sharm El Sheikh. You will have the opportunity during the return trip to reflect on the amazing experiences you’ve had and share memories of this journey with your friends.
