Leave Sharm el Sheikh at night and climb Mount Sinai to watch sunrise from the summit, then visit the 6th‑century St. Catherine Monastery. This guided overnight excursion pairs a demanding pre-dawn hike with UNESCO-listed history and stark desert panoramas.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A desert night widens as the minivan leaves Sharm el Sheikh; headlights cut lanes of shadow through Sinai scrub and basalt. By 1:00 a.m. the group disembarks to a moonlit trail and begins the climb—stone steps and worn goat paths that angle up into cold, oxygen-thin air. The summit sits at roughly 2,285 meters; expect a steady 600–800 m of ascent depending on your starting point. Climbers pause along the route to look up: a cathedral of stars and a horizon that will peel away into copper at sunrise.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to sustain steady uphill walking for several hours, comfortable with night hiking and uneven stone steps.
Wildlife
History
The Monastery of Saint Catherine dates to the 6th century under Emperor Justinian and stands near the site traditionally associated with Moses’ Burning Bush; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Conservation
Water is scarce—carry what you need and avoid leaving waste; stick to trails to prevent erosion and respect restricted areas inside the monastery.
Reserve your spot on the Mount Sinai Sunrise & St. Catherine monastery from Sharm el Sheikh today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start pre-dawn with a guide
Climbing begins around 01:00–02:00; a local guide knows the route, pace and safest crossings for the steepest sections.
Bring layered insulation
Summit winds drop temperatures; fleece or down and a windproof shell keep you warm during the sunrise stop.
Use a reliable headlamp
Sections of the trail are unlit and uneven—hands-free light improves footing and makes early breaks safer.
Hydrate and pace yourself
Carry at least 1–2 liters and walk at a steady pace; altitude and desert dryness increase dehydration risk.
Headlamp with spare batteries
Essential for the pre-dawn ascent and uneven trail sections.
Sturdy hiking boots
Good ankle support and traction for stone steps and loose scree.
Warm layers and windproof shell
Summit temperatures can be well below those at base; layers trap heat and block wind.
fall
1–2L water and electrolyte packets
Desert air and exertion dehydrate quickly—plan for limited water stops.
summer