Review: A Private Trip to Saint Catherine’s Monastery From Sharm El Sheikh

Dreaming of something truly unforgettable, eh? If so, consider this: You’ve got the Egyptian sun warming your face there in Sharm El Sheikh. Then you’ve got that itch, that curiosity. Well, Saint Catherine’s Monastery, so incredibly ancient and sitting at the foot of Mount Sinai, it might be the very answer. A private tour? Might just be your golden ticket for getting the most from such a special location. Okay, let’s explore the adventure!

Is a Private Tour the Best Way To Get There?

First things first, Saint Catherine’s isn’t exactly next door. So, we are talking about a pretty big chunk of your day, quite possibly involving an early wake-up call, especially if you want to get the most out of seeing things and avoid roasting in the midday sun. A private tour seems attractive, you know, mainly as it should promise comfort plus control over, like, your schedule and itinerary. Okay, so a regular tour? It could easily herd you around with loads of other people, which, while it can be fun, you just might lose some of the super special feelings and, of course, have to stick very strictly to a pretty inflexible plan.

Is that a luxury? Possibly. Should it give you more time, like, for exploring and really appreciating this unbelievable monastery at your own speed? Quite likely. Are there crowds? Basically, you might bypass them and just soak it all in without feeling rushed. Plus, your very own guide! You can just ask question after question and go deep into the history, a little story or two, and all that wonderful culture that oozes from every stone. Just a thought, maybe.

What Should I Actually Expect On the Day?

The plan will, in some respects, probably look something like this: Early start. This may well involve you being dragged out of bed, while it is still dark to make the most of the day, you see. Is that tough? Possibly. Worth it when the sun starts rising over the Sinai, lighting up that unreal landscape? Oh yeah. The drive itself, as a matter of fact, it’s quite a bit, maybe several hours, the time whizzing by as the desert views unfold, you know? It is an unreal scene.

Okay, the Monastery! When you actually arrive, prepare yourself. The location has a certain presence. People have been finding spiritual solace here for over a thousand years, you know. How incredible is that? Will your guide explain absolutely everything about the history, basically focusing upon why Saint Catherine is held in such high regard and tell you all kinds of exciting stories along the way? Probably. Seeing the Burning Bush, or at least, where it’s believed to have grown. And checking out the unbelievable collection of old religious writings and artwork? It just might stay with you forever.

A Little Heads-Up on Planning and Respect

Alright, so maybe bear these small things in mind: Decent clothes really are crucial when you visit a location like this. Arms covered? As a matter of fact, shoulders covered? As a matter of fact, Knees too. Basically, dress modestly out of respect, you see. Do they usually lend you something if you don’t have the right clothes? You know, sometimes. It is better not to risk it. So maybe check ahead to save any stress when you arrive. Plus, some areas may not be open, or photography is not allowed, basically while prayers occur. Your guide really will fill you in on any sensitive info.

Comfort while wandering around is, arguably, key. And it gets rather warm! Footwear? We are talking comfy shoes, okay? Hydration really is not just advisable, it should be considered mandatory, honestly. That desert sun has real power, you see. Bringing your own snacks for energy just in case you get peckish between stops? Good plan. So, will refreshments be offered during your tour? Maybe ask the question beforehand to clarify.

What Are the Other Things Worth Considering?

Besides the monastery, if the timings all line up, your guide might take you, in a way, to other special spots nearby. Mount Sinai could be one, you know. If you are seriously fit and eager, you can climb that. Do you get rewarded with unreal views from the top? Oh my word, yes! Very often you can see local Bedouin settlements too. Glimpses into a totally separate culture, which just shows you yet another aspect of life in this special region. Are those typically add-ons with an extra fee? Very, very often. Be sure to discuss it with your tour operator. It might make things more complete, as such.

What about all the practical things? Book a well known tour provider, would be my advice. How much experience do they have sorting out Saint Catherine tours? A fairly important point. Read every last review before booking anything, right? Seriously beneficial. Checking, specifically, the small print when it comes to cancelations and what exactly is and isn’t included can really avoid upsets as you go. Discuss absolutely everything with the company before you give any money.

My Personal Conclusion: Should you do this tour?

At the end of the day, a private tour to Saint Catherine’s Monastery is probably much more than merely a “trip.” It could become a really special experience. You can escape, learn loads, be wowed. Getting there comfortably, going at your speed, a guide only for you – you might just see this remarkable monastery in a manner other tourists can only ever dream about.