Review: Sharm El Sheikh, Mount Sinai & St. Catherine’s Tour

Okay, so you’re considering a trip from Sharm El Sheikh to Mount Sinai and St. Catherine’s Monastery? That is understandable. It’s almost definitely one of those things that sticks in your memory for quite some time. I mean, think about it – a night climb up a biblically significant mountain to witness the sunrise, followed by a exploration of one of the oldest working monasteries on earth. But is it, like, really worth the early wake-up call and the physical challenge? Let’s break it down so you can see. This, arguably, is what you’d really like to know. I have laid it all out so that there are no surprises.

What to anticipate From The Tour

So, first things first, a really early start. Most tours will pick you up from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh somewhere between 8 PM and 10 PM, as a matter of fact. Be prepared for a few hours on a bus or minivan; it tends to be about a two- to three-hour drive to the base of Mount Sinai, it seems. Once you reach the area at the bottom, you’ll possibly grab some water and meet your Bedouin guide who will take you for most of the journey up the mountain. Arguably, that journey will be much more interesting than you think.

Climbing Mount Sinai, in a way, isn’t exactly a walk in the park. It is broken into two distinct sections, sort of. The first portion is more of a gradual slope and winding path, what some would see as easily manageable for pretty much anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Still, it’s in the dark, so, that, combined with the altitude, can make it feel a bit tougher. You might consider using a walking stick; those can be rented at the base. After some period of walking – around two-thirds of the way up, some would say – you’ll get to a spot, more or less, called the “750 Steps of Repentance.” Those, they are quite steep, and you have to clamber over some fairly large rocks. Basically, they do give your legs a workout, right? But don’t get discouraged; I’ve seen people of varying ages make it. It can be really emotional for many.

Reaching the summit, usually, takes somewhere between two and three hours, which provides enough time to set up camp before sunrise. Up there, and this is an understatement, it can be super chilly, especially during winter months. Dressing in layers is necessary: hats, gloves, warm jackets – that sort of thing is essential for an easier time, at the end of the day. After the sun peeks above the horizon, and I mean after it *really* peeks, the views can be incredible. Seeing the desert landscape bathed in the glow of the dawn really makes you feel like you have accomplished something unique and worth seeing. After snapping your pictures and soaking it all in (give yourself 30 minutes), you begin the descent, as you’ll want to arrive with your guide and have ample time to see St. Catherine’s Monastery. Some actually love the trip down, it gives a different feeling looking at where you’ve walked at night now during the day. Also it can still be cool depending on the time of the year so bringing plenty of layers remains vital.

St. Catherine’s Monastery: a place Lost to Time?

So, after descending Mount Sinai, the next thing on the itinerary will be St. Catherine’s Monastery, you will see. Often, and it’s usually most convenient, it’s just at the foot of the mountain, sort of. That place has an extremely impressive history: Founded in the 6th century, supposedly, it’s considered one of the oldest working Christian monasteries *anywhere*. Actually, it feels like stepping back in time, you know?

Usually, the monastery opens around 9 AM, but opening times may change, of course. This should be anticipated if going on days of services for Orthodox holidays, truly. When visiting, just remember to dress modestly; meaning covered shoulders and knees. For many, this visit has a deep spiritual meaning, actually, and in certain respects is the reason they came. Remember to show patience as this will make your visit even more smooth.

Within the walls, clearly, you’ll find a load of really impressive religious icons, historic manuscripts, and mosaics, right. Its library is supposedly second only to the Vatican’s when considering the value and age of texts it contains. One of the most discussed things tends to be the Burning Bush, apparently, which Moses saw in the Bible, growing on the grounds. Most would tell you that no visit is quite complete without seeing it, more or less. This location and religious connection adds to what draws many religious faithful to visit this remarkable and somewhat unique structure. Take a moment to realize what this must of been like thousands of years before, you know? The historical significance makes visiting a wonderful experience.

Is the Tour Physically demanding?

Yeah, I’d probably say that, it is, a bit. Even if you are in good condition it might test you in many respects. The nighttime climb, just a bit, can be quite tiring, and I mean you are likely to find that. Remember to add into the account less sleep as the wake-up call is typically around 8PM. The 750 Steps are also steep in addition to uneven terrain. So, that said, tons of different fitness levels can still accomplish the task with patience and proper preparation.

For those with heart problems, trouble breathing, or some other kind of significant medical condition, you need to seek your physician prior to even thinking about this particular journey. If your physician gives the green light it’s wise to adjust your pacing and listen directly to your body at the time. Additionally, you are welcome to hire a camel for a portion of the ascent, but even that, some would say, might not be ideally suitable if you have a back problem. It is all the more essential to be aware of your body prior to, during and in advance. This will hopefully insure that there is minimal complications at all stages of the visit. In summary, respect the climb and give your body the treatment it deserves.

Things to contemplate Before Booking the tour

Here are a few things to consider when organizing your excursion so it hopefully goes well, you will find.

Pick your tour operator well: It really does pay to do your diligence and choose a well-reviewed, respectable company that meets required basic safety regulations. Checking that out online first shouldn’t be glossed over or seen as something unimportant. Have a read so there is much more piece of mind.
What’s Included? : Look closely, it’s nearly imperative, at what a tour is actually selling. Like, will it have things such as hotel transfers, guide services, entrance charges for the monastery, as well as, potentially, breakfast. Clearly, the tour price tends to change on exactly what they’re going to include, to tell you the truth.
The very best time for this trip: If I may be so bold to make a recommendation. The weather’s far more favorable during springtime and in the autumn when the temperature is really mild during the day and cooler by night. Still, no matter which month you go, be sure to dress accordingly.
Pack well: Don’t forget your comfortable shoes made for walking and warm clothes to wear up high, and a flashlight for the darkness as well, right. A good, dependable camera is an absolute must to capture it all if those are essential moments to your travels, like your photos are a top priority. Finally, don’t forget any important prescriptions along with some basic first aid stuff so small things will not annoy you too much, apparently.

In summary, is that Tour worth Doing?

Right then, this excursion from Sharm El Sheikh toward Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine’s Monastery absolutely is a fantastic experience if that is what you really would want to have. For many, reaching that peak at daybreak gives a profound spiritual feeling; similarly to a fantastic sense related with their own personal growth; while also observing a old monastery presents a glimpse way, way back towards antiquity unlike hardly any other area globally. Absolutely you will likely be asked physically (though not overwhelmingly), be prepared for less sleeping plus potential cooler temperature extremes yet witnessing just what lies ahead creates a one-of-a-kind worthwhile Egyptian exploration really well worth bearing almost everything you do get during. Do some homework choosing whom has trustworthy assistance; don’t forget layers regarding dress for all scenarios & appreciate what surrounds all over so which any worries that might show-up should remain minimal or absent too.