Sonnenaufgang auf dem Berg Sinai + Katharinenkloster — Lotus Sharm
Climbing Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa) to watch the sunrise from its summit is one of the most spiritually moving experiences in the world. Sacred to Muslims, Christians, and Jews, this mountain stands 2,285 metres above sea level — believed to be where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Over 13 years, Lotus Sharm has guided thousands of travellers through the Mount Sinai & St. Catherine trip.
When does the trip start?
The trip departs from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh at around 11 PM, because the climb itself takes 3–4 hours and you must reach the summit before dawn. The return to your hotel is around 2 PM the next day. The hike is physically demanding but the reward is indescribable.
The three routes up the mountain
1. The Camel Path
The easier and longer route, takes 3–4 hours. Suitable for almost everyone. You can ride a camel for part of the way (extra EGP 200–300). 90% of Lotus Sharm guests use this path.
2. The Steps of Penitence
3,750 stone steps carved by ancient monks. Shorter (2 hours) but much harder. Only for the physically strong.
3. Mixed route
Up via the camel path, down via the steps — our Lotus Sharm recommendation.
St. Catherine Monastery
After descending, you visit St. Catherine's Monastery — the world's oldest continuously inhabited monastery (built in 565 AD). Highlights:
- The Burning Bush.
- A library with 4,500 ancient manuscripts.
- The famous Church of the Transfiguration.
- A museum with historical icons and manuscripts.
What to bring
- Warm jacket — at the summit it's 0–5 °C even in summer.
- Comfortable sports shoes (no sandals).
- Headlamp or torch (essential in the dark).
- Water (at least 2 litres).
- Snacks (biscuits, chocolate, dried fruit).
- Fully charged phone + power bank.
- Small change (monastery entrance).
- Camera — the sunrise is unmissable.
2026 prices
Price from lotussharm.com: USD 50 for foreigners / EGP 1,700 for Egyptians. Trip details. Includes: air-conditioned bus, local guide, monastery entrance. Not included: camel (optional), food.
Tips from our team
- Drink water regularly — the climb is demanding.
- Wear layers (peel them off climbing, pile them on at the summit).
- Photograph during the climb — the starry sky is breath-taking.
- Reach the summit 30 min before sunrise — to grab a good spot.
- Message Lotus Sharm via WhatsApp before booking to check the weather.
FAQ
Is it safe for children? Minimum age is 10, per Lotus Sharm policy. Read the family guide.
Suitable for older people? Yes, using the camel path.
Toilets on the mountain? Yes, at three rest stops on the camel path.
Read also
Book now: WhatsApp +20 109 076 7278 · Trip page · lotussharm.com