St-Catherine Monastery & Moses Mountain From Sharm El Sheikh

Exploring the ancient St-Catherine Monastery and the iconic Moses Mountain from Sharm El Sheikh is an unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of this unique tour. With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and convenient hotel pickup, the tour offers an accessible way to discover these iconic sites. However, travelers should be prepared for additional costs and the challenging terrain of the Moses Mountain hike. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or an avid hiker, this tour promises to deliver an exceptional adventure that will leave you eager to learn more.

Key Points

Private guided tour from Sharm El Sheikh to St-Catherine Monastery and Moses Mountain, including entrance fees, transportation, and a local guide.
Tour provides hassle-free transfers and streamlined logistics, allowing visitors to focus on the sights during the adventure.
The hike up Moses Mountain includes a steep 750-stair climb, with camels available for the uphill walk at an additional cost.
Communication challenges may arise due to language barriers, and extra costs are involved for entry fees, rental items, and other expenses.
Tour not recommended for travelers with mobility issues, back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions due to the challenging terrain.

Tour Overview and Details

This private tour from Sharm El Sheikh to St-Catherine Monastery and Moses Mountain includes entrance fees, hotel pickup/drop-off, private transportation, a local guide, and bottled water, with prices starting from $160.00 that vary by group size.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, and you’ll receive confirmation at booking with infant seats available.

However, it’s not wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions.

Whether you choose to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup, your tour guide will be waiting with a sign, and the experience will end back at the original meeting point.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The tour guide will wait at the selected pickup point with a sign, allowing you to choose whether to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup.

Whichever option you prefer, you’ll be taken care of – the tour ends back at the original meeting point. This convenient arrangement ensures a smooth start and finish to your excursion.

Whether you opt to meet the guide directly or have them come to your hotel, you can look forward to a hassle-free transfer to and from the monastery and mountain.

The tour’s pickup and drop-off service streamlines the logistics, letting you focus on the incredible sights that await during your St-Catherine Monastery and Moses Mountain adventure.

Tour Experience and Recommendations

Travelers highly rate this tour, with an average rating of 4.5 from 12 reviews, praising the guides’ support and encouragement for first-time climbers.

The hike includes a steep 750-stair climb, though camels are available for a 7km uphill walk at an additional cost. Visitors should note that the peak can be quite cold and windy, so an evening hike may offer better visibility.

While the monastery opens at 9 AM, entry fees for various sites aren’t included in the tour price, so hikers should bring extra cash.

Some travelers have reported issues with communication due to language barriers, but overall, many found the tour transformative and well worth the effort.

Additional Costs and Considerations

Aside from the tour price, visitors should expect to pay additional fees for entry to the various sites within the monastery, which aren’t covered by the tour.

Hikers will also need to bring extra cash for drinks, restroom fees ($5 EGP), and rental items like blankets ($100 EGP).

Plus, some travelers have reported communication challenges due to language barriers with the drivers and guides.

Here are a few key additional costs to consider:

Monastery entry fees for various sites
Rental items such as blankets
Drinks and restroom fees

While the tour provides a comprehensive experience, being prepared for these extra expenses will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey up Mount Moses.

Feedback and Concerns

Overall, reviews of the St-Catherine Monastery and Moses Mountain tour have been highly positive, with many travelers highlighting the friendly staff and organized transfers.

However, some have expressed concerns, such as feeling rushed at various sites and persistent upselling for additional experiences.

Regrettably, one negative review reported a last-minute cancellation of the tour, leading the traveler to request a refund.

Despite these occasional issues, the majority of travelers found the tour transformative and well worth the effort.

While communication barriers with drivers and guides may pose challenges for some, the tour’s overall positive feedback suggests it provides a memorable and enriching experience for those exploring the religious and historical significance of the region.

Entrance Fees and Accessibility

In the ‘St-Catherine Monastery & Moses Mountain From Sharm El Sheikh’ tour, the entrance fees to the St-Catherine Monastery are included. However, additional costs may apply for exploring other sites within the complex.

Unfortunately, the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the steep staircase leading to the monastery and the uneven terrain of the hiking trails.

Here are a few key points to consider:

Entry fees for other sites in the monastery complex aren’t covered in the tour price.
Rental items like blankets can be obtained for an additional fee of around 100 EGP.
The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnancy, or serious medical conditions due to the steep hike and challenging terrain.

Camel Rides and Hiking Options

For travelers who don’t wish to tackle the steep 750-step climb, the tour offers the option to ride camels for a 7km uphill walk, which costs an additional 650 EGP per person. This camel ride can provide a more leisurely ascent to the peak and offers a unique cultural experience.

However, it’s important to note that the hike itself is considered a highlight of the tour, with guides providing support and encouragement to first-time climbers. Those who choose to hike will be rewarded with stunning views from the top of Moses Mountain, though the peak can be cold and windy, so dressing appropriately is advised.

Tour Confirmation and Cancellation

Travelers will receive confirmation of their booking at the time of reservation. The tour operator allows free cancellations up to 24 hours before the scheduled experience. This policy provides flexibility for those who may need to adjust their plans last-minute.

When booking the St-Catherine Monastery & Moses Mountain tour from Sharm El Sheikh, customers can expect:

Hassle-free pickup and drop-off at their hotel or a designated meeting point.
Infant seats available for those traveling with young children.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or certain medical conditions.

The straightforward booking and cancellation process ensures a smooth and stress-free experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit the Monasteries Without Joining a Tour?

Yes, visitors can explore the monasteries independently without joining a tour. However, a guided tour is recommended to gain insights into the history and cultural significance of these important religious sites.

How Long Does It Take to Reach the Summit of Mount Moses?

The hike to the summit of Mount Moses typically takes 2-3 hours of continuous climbing. The steep ascent covers 750 stairs, though some travelers opt to ride camels for part of the journey to the top.

What Should I Pack for the Tour to Be Prepared?

Pack layers of warm clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, snacks, and water to stay comfortable on the steep, high-altitude hike. Consider bringing a headlamp for early morning or evening climbs and extra cash for optional activities.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions at the Monastery?

Visitors to the St. Catherine’s Monastery should note that the monastery has strict dietary restrictions. Vegetarian and vegan options are typically available, but pork and alcohol are prohibited on the monastery grounds. It’s best to inquire about specific dietary requirements in advance.

Can I Extend My Stay at the Monastery for Personal Retreat?

Yes, visitors can typically extend their stay at the monastery for a personal retreat. However, accommodations and access may be limited, so it’s best to inquire about policies and availability directly with the monastery in advance.