Climb Mount Sinai for a pre-dawn summit and overnight visit to the ancient St. Catherine Monastery. This 2-day guided trip from Cairo pairs a strenuous, spiritual ascent with one of the Sinai’s most famous sunrise views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The desert wind bites as the van eases up the Sinai foothills and the cluster of flat-roofed buildings around St. Catherine appears like a human anchor in a sea of stone. You arrive before midnight, sleep a few hours, then set out in the blue-black air with headlamp cones cutting through the dark—local guides lead the way as the trail narrows and the mountain takes on a silhouette that dares you to climb.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (overnight; summit ascent 3–5 hours each way depending on route and pace)
Fitness Level
Travelers should have moderate cardiovascular fitness and be comfortable on steep uneven stone steps for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
St. Catherine Monastery traces its roots to early Christian pilgrimage in the 4th century and was formally founded in the 6th century; it houses one of the oldest continuously operating monastic communities and early Byzantine artifacts.
Conservation
The area sits within the St. Catherine Protectorate—entry fees support conservation; stay on marked trails, avoid removing plants or stones, and minimize water waste in this arid environment.
Reserve your spot on the Overnight at St. Catherine Monastery & Mt Sinai today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start at Midnight for Sunrise
Most groups leave around midnight to reach the summit before dawn—bring a reliable headlamp and allow extra time for slower walkers.
Dress in Warm Layers
Temperatures drop dramatically before dawn at 2,285 m—fleece and a wind shell are useful even in warmer months.
Carry Enough Water
Desert air dries you quickly; bring 1–2 liters for the climb and more if you’re prone to heavy sweating.
Respect Monastery Rules
The monastery requires modest dress and quiet in chapels; photography may be restricted in some areas.
Headlamp with spare batteries
Hands-free lighting is mandatory for the pre-dawn ascent and descent.
Insulating layers and wind shell
Cold, windy conditions at the summit require warm mid-layers and a protective outer layer.
winter
Sturdy hiking shoes
Good traction on uneven stone steps and loose scree keeps you steady on the climb.
1–2 liters water and snacks
Hydration and compact energy like nuts or bars maintain pace on the steep ascent.
summer