Climb through Sinai night to reach Moses Mountain for sunrise, then descend to visit the 6th‑century St. Catherine’s Monastery and the Chapel of the Burning Bush. This guided overnight hike blends strenuous terrain with deep history — passport required.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave the light of the town behind and climb into a night that smells of cold rock and resinous shrubs. Under a headlamp the trail narrows; the Sinai rises like an ancient spine, each step taking you higher toward a pale horizon where the sunrise will arrive. By the time the sky bleeds color, you’re at the summit of Moses Mountain — wind pulling at your jacket, Sinai ridgelines engraved into the distance, the desert below quiet and immense.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
10–12 hours
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and endurance for a sustained ascent (5–6 hours) and steep rocky descents.
Wildlife
History
St. Catherine’s Monastery was constructed in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian and sits at the foot of Jebel Musa, long linked in tradition to Moses and pilgrimage.
Conservation
This fragile desert landscape is vulnerable to erosion and litter; stick to paths, pack out waste and respect monastery rules to protect cultural and natural heritage.
Reserve your spot on the Full-Day Hike Tour at St. Catherine's Monastery today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start late, bring a headlamp
The ascent begins in darkness to reach sunrise; a reliable headlamp with spare batteries is essential for safety on rocky, uneven trail sections.
Carry 2–3 liters of water
Desert air and physical exertion dehydrate quickly — plan for at least 2 liters, 3 if you’re prone to heavy sweating or it’s a warm season.
Layer for summit wind
Temperatures drop sharply at the peak—bring an insulating shell even if it’s warm at the trailhead.
Passport on hand
Monastery entry and local checkpoints require a passport; keep it accessible from the meeting point through the visit.
Sturdy hiking boots
Support and traction on steep granite steps and loose scree.
Headlamp with spare batteries
Needed for pre-dawn ascent and route finding in the dark.
2–3L hydration system
Sustains performance in dry desert air; electrolyte option recommended.
summer
Insulating jacket (fleece/down)
Summit temperatures and wind can be cold even after hot days.
winter