Climb 750 stone steps in the night to stand on Mount Sinai at sunrise, then visit the 6th-century St. Catherine’s Monastery. This full-day trip from Sharm El Sheikh mixes strenuous early-hours hiking with deep historical context.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You set out before midnight, the desert around Sharm El Sheikh folding into a slate-black silence as the transfer winds across the Sinai plain. The bus drops you at the base of Moses Mountain and a line of headlamps threads up 750 stone steps—each one a steady bite toward the summit at 2,285 meters. The night air pushes against you; the wind dares you forward. After two to three hours the horizon begins to soften and the sun pulls color across a spine of ragged peaks.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12–14 hours (door-to-door)
Fitness Level
Good aerobic baseline recommended; comfortable with 2–3 hours of steady uphill walking and stone steps.
Wildlife
History
St. Catherine’s Monastery was expanded under Byzantine rule in the 6th century and has been an active Christian pilgrimage site for over 1,400 years.
Conservation
The Sinai landscape is fragile—stay on established paths, pack out waste, and use local guides to support community-based tourism.
Reserve your spot on the Sharm El Sheikh: Mount Sinai Sunrise Hike & Monastery Visit today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a bright headlamp
The ascent starts in darkness; a reliable headlamp keeps your hands free and your route clear.
Layer up for summit winds
Temperatures drop sharply at 2,285 m—carry an insulating shell and hat for the sunrise stop.
Hydrate before you go
Drink water before the hike and carry 1.5–2 L; options to refill are limited en route.
Respect monastery etiquette
Wear modest clothing and speak quietly inside St. Catherine’s Monastery to honor its religious function.
Headlamp with spare batteries
Illuminates the pre-dawn ascent and keeps hands free on uneven steps.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction on stone steps and loose scree during descent.
Insulating jacket (down or synthetic)
Summit winds and early-morning temperatures can be biting even in warm months.
winter
1.5–2 L water reservoir
Adequate hydration for several hours of exertion in a dry, high-desert environment.
summer