MOSES MOUNTAIN "MOUNT SINAI" & ST.CATHERINE NIGHT TRIP

Moses Mountain “Mount Sinai” & St. Catherine Night Trip from Sharm El Sheikh

Discover the unforgettable Moses Mountain (Mount Sinai) & St. Catherine night trip from Sharm El Sheikh. Hike to the summit of Jabal Musa, the mountain where Prophet Moses received the Ten Commandments from God, and explore the 6th-century St. Catherine Monastery, one of Christianity’s most sacred sites.

A Journey into Faith, History, and Adventure

A night trip to Moses Mountain, also known as Mount Sinai or Jabal Musa, is more than just a tour—it’s a spiritual pilgrimage, a cultural journey, and an adventurous hike all rolled into one. Rising majestically in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, Mount Sinai is the sacred mountain where, according to biblical tradition, Prophet Moses received the Ten Commandments from God.

From the bustling Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh, thousands of visitors each year embark on this night excursion to witness the breathtaking sunrise from the summit of Mount Sinai and to visit the iconic St. Catherine Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 6th century.

This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the Moses Mountain & St. Catherine night trip from Sharm El Sheikh—its religious significance, history, the hiking experience, practical tips, and why it remains one of the most important tours in Sharm El Sheikh.

The Religious Significance of Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai, or Jebel Musa, holds immense religious significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.

• For Jews, it is the sacred mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God, marking the foundation of biblical law.

• For Christians, it symbolizes the covenant between God and His people, with many pilgrims climbing the mountain to feel spiritually closer to their faith.

• For Muslims, Mount Sinai is also revered as the mountain where Allah spoke to Prophet Musa (Moses), making it an essential place of pilgrimage.

Standing on the summit of Mount Sinai during sunrise is not only a breathtaking natural experience but also a deeply spiritual one, where visitors often pause to reflect, meditate, and pray.

St. Catherine’s Monastery: A 6th-Century Marvel

Nestled at the base of Mount Sinai lies the world-famous St. Catherine’s Monastery, built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian I.

This remarkable site is considered one of the oldest continuously functioning Christian monasteries in the world. It is home to:

• The Chapel of the Burning Bush, where it is believed God spoke to Moses through the bush that burned without being consumed.

• A priceless collection of ancient manuscripts, icons, and religious art, second only to the Vatican.

• Fortified walls that have protected monks, pilgrims, and treasures for centuries.

Visiting St. Catherine Monastery after your climb gives the night trip not only an adventurous element but also a cultural and historical depth unmatched by other excursions in Sharm El Sheikh.

The Night Climb: From Darkness to Sunrise at the Summit

The most thrilling part of the Moses Mountain night trip is the hike itself.

• Departure from Sharm El Sheikh: The journey starts late in the evening with a drive of around 3 hours across the desert landscape.

• Arrival at St. Catherine area: Here, local Bedouin guides meet the group and lead the way up the mountain.

• The Climb: The ascent takes about 2–3 hours, depending on your pace. There are two routes—the Camel Path (a longer but easier trail) and the Steps of Repentance (a steeper, more challenging path with 3,750 stone steps).

• The Summit of Mount Sinai: Reaching the peak just before dawn is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. As the first rays of sunlight break over the rugged Sinai mountains, the view is breathtaking and unforgettable.

Many describe the experience as both physically demanding and spiritually rewarding—a chance to retrace the steps of Prophet Moses and feel the awe of this sacred landscape.

Moses Mountain “Mount Sinai” & St. Catherine Night Trip from Sharm El Sheikh

Moses Mountain also known as "Mount Sinai" and the Monastery of St. Catherine night trip from Sharm El Sheikh. Mount Moses (Mount Sinai) also known as Mount Horeb or Gabal Musa, is a mountain in the middle of South Sinai Peninsula of Egypt which is considered a holy site by the Ibrahimic religions.

Mount Sinai is mentioned many times in the Book of Exodus and other books of the Bible, and the Quran. According to Jewish, Christian, and Islamic tradition, the biblical Mount Sinai was the place where Moses received the Ten Commandments.

About 230 km from the city of Sharm El Sheikh, and named after Prophet Moses, the length of Mount Moses is 2285 meters.

chance to visit one of the oldest churches in the middle east (St. Catherine Monastery)

Moses Mountain "Mount Sinai" program

pick up from Hotels in Sharm El Sheikh
We will pick you up from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh at 20:00 by a modern air-conditioned vehicle to drive to St. Catherine area which will take about 3 Hours included a rest stop "15 Minutes".

Climbing Mount Sinai "Moses Mountain"
Reach the foot of the Mountain where our Tour Guide will show you around then start climbing the Mountain around midnight.

The most popular excursion in St Catherine's is to climb Mount Sinai you must be reasonably fit and prepared, We will provide you a torch, We also recommend a Sensible and comfortable walking shoes, Some warm clothes will be needed when you get to the summit In winter you will need lots of warm clothes.

You can go two thirds of the way up the mountain by camel, but the last third  must be done by foot "700 steps"

Make use if you can of the blanket hire at the summit as this provides income for local families and enjoy stunning views. There are also a few tea and snack stops on the way. "optional"

By now you are here at one of the highest points in Egypt around 2,285 meters above sea level to enjoy amazing view of Sun rising over the magnificent Mountains around.

Saint Catherine's Monastery
Descending from the Mountain. we will head to St. Catherine's Monastery which is Greek Orthodox and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest working Christian monastery in the world .

It is one of the oldest tourist sights in South Sinai, built around 550AD, famous burning bush of Moses and also the Greek Orthodox Monastery and a large collection of artifacts, icons and historical manuscripts.

The monastery has strict opening and closing times, the hours are 8:45 am – 11:45 am  (Closed Fridays and Sundays and during Coptic religious holidays)

You will be offered a snack

Back to Sharm El Sheikh
you will leave for Sharm El Sheikh, and arrive in Sharm at about 14:00.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Clothing: Wear comfortable layers, as nights can be very cold, while mornings warm up quickly.
• Footwear: Hiking boots or sturdy trainers are essential for the rocky paths.
• Flashlight or headlamp: The climb happens at night, so bring your own light source.
• Water and snacks: There are small kiosks run by Bedouins on the way.
• Fitness level: The climb is moderately challenging, so be prepared for physical activity.
• Respect: Remember the religious significance of the place—dress modestly and behave respectfully.

Why Choose the Night Trip from Sharm El Sheikh?

1. Cooler temperatures: Climbing at night avoids the intense heat of the desert sun.

2. Breathtaking sunrise: The sunrise from the summit of Mount Sinai is one of the most beautiful in the world.

3. Religious and cultural depth: The combination of the mountain and the 6th-century monastery makes it a journey of faith, history, and culture.

4. Adventure and challenge: Hiking in the dark under the stars is a thrilling experience.

You can also choose from these tours available in Sharm el Sheikh:

Quad Desert Safari: Explore the desert dunes on a quad bike and experience an exciting adventure among breathtaking landscapes.
Snorkeling at Ras Mohammed National Park: Discover the extraordinary coral reef and rich marine life of the Red Sea in one of the most beautiful natural reserves in Egypt.
Boat Trip to Ras Mohamed & White Island: Spend a day at sea snorkeling, swimming and relaxing on a beautiful island surrounded by crystal clear waters.
Sunset Dinner Cruise: Experience a romantic evening on a boat, enjoying a delicious dinner with a view of the sunset.
Visit to St. Catherine's Monastery: Immerse yourself in the history and spirituality of one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in the world, located at the foot of Mount Sinai.
Scuba Submarine: Discover the charm of the underwater world with a guided dive in the best spots of the Red Sea.