Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Sinai trek? keyboard_arrow_down

A Sinai trek is a hiking and camping journey through the beautiful desert and mountain trails of Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. It can range from one-day hikes to multi-day adventures, offering a mix of nature, culture, and solitude.

Where can I find a reliable Sinai trekking guide? keyboard_arrow_down

You can find a reliable Sinai trekking guide through a trusted hiking groups like Sinai Hikes. A local guide ensures safety, shares unique stories, and helps you explore hidden parts of the mountains.

What is Mount Sinai trekking like? keyboard_arrow_down

Mount Sinai trekking is one of the best experiences in the Sinai mountains with the Bedouins. It combines breathtaking mountain views, rich cultural history, and a visit to one of the most spiritual places in the world. The hike takes around 2–3 hours up and about 2 hours down, depending on your fitness level.

How difficult is the Mount Sinai hike? keyboard_arrow_down

Mount Sinai is considered a moderate hike. It doesn’t require any technical climbing skills, but it does involve a long uphill trek of nearly 5 kilometers, especially the final stretch 750 steep “Steps of Repentance” carved into the rock that lead all the way to the summit.

Is hiking in Sinai Trails Mountains difficult? keyboard_arrow_down

The Sinai Trail Mountains offers a variety of difficulty levels, from easy trails suitable for beginners, such as those in the Sinai Wadis and Mount Sinai, to intermediate trails in the Saint Catherine Trail. There are also more challenging trails between the high mountains trails. You can choose a trail based on your preferences and experience level.

Is hiking Egypt trails is worth it? keyboard_arrow_down

Hiking Egypt Trails is worth it. It gives you the opportunity to walk through pristine nature of breathtaking beauty, while also allowing you to explore the culture of each path, meeting different Bedouin tribes along the way and living with them for several days.

What are the best hiking Egypt packages available? keyboard_arrow_down

Sinai Hikes offer the best hiking Egypt packages. They provide a variety of options, including hiking in Egypt Highland Trails with a visit to Saint Catherine Monastery, Sinai desert trek with St Catherine hike, and combining both Mount Sinai and Mount Catherine hikes. These packages can be customised based on your personal interests and fitness level, ensuring a tailored experience.

What should I bring for a trek to St. Catherine? keyboard_arrow_down

For a trek to St. Catherine bring the following items: a duffel bag, hiking shoes, hiking backpack, trekking poles, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, camping tent, hiking pants, a thermal clothes, a warm jacket, a headlamp, hiking shorts, sandals or slippers, warm clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, a battery charger, a first aid kit, a hat, passport, and extra money.

What is the best time to visit St. Catherine in Egypt? keyboard_arrow_down

The best time to visit St. Catherine for trekking and hiking is during spring and fall. However, if you enjoy contemplation and solitude, the summer can also be very enjoyable. For those who prefer cold weather and snowfall, winter is the ideal time. In other words, you can choose the right season based on your personal preferences.

What are trekking packages in Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

Trekking packages in Sinai offer guided tours on St. Catherine's Trail, the Sinai Highlands Mountains Trails, and Sinai Desert trails. These packages include Bedouin guides, camel guides, meals, camping sites, and transportation, ensuring safety and a memorable, authentic experience.

Is trekking in Sinai, Egypt suitable for beginners? keyboard_arrow_down

There are many trails in Sinai, Egypt, where beginners can practice trekking, such as Wadi Jebal, Wadi Itlah, and Wadi El-Ferie' on the St. Catherine Trail, as well as Mount Sinai, Mount Catherine, and Mount Bab El-Donya on the Sinai highlands.

What is the best treks in Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

The best Sinai treks are St. Catherine's Trail, the Sinai Highlands Trail, and the Sinai Desert trails, all considered among the most beautiful hiking routes in the Sinai mountains of Egypt. Additionally, these trails were historically inhabited by Bedouin tribes and traversed by pilgrims journeying from Egypt to the Arabian Peninsula, offering a fascinating and authentic experience.

Are there guided tours or Bedouin escorts available for the hike, and what does the experience include? keyboard_arrow_down

Guided tours in Sinai, Egypt, with Bedouin trekking companions are available and always include a guide, camel guides, three meals a day, camels to carry luggage between the parks and camping grounds, trip registration, and internal transfers.

What should I pack and prepare for hiking to the highest peak in Egypt? keyboard_arrow_down

For hiking to the highest peak in Egypt, you should pack a battery charger, energy bars, nuts and snacks, extra cash, a head torch, a hiking day-pack (20-30 liters), waterproof hiking pants, hiking poles, hiking shoes, a first aid kit, your passport, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a thermal shirt, and a waterproof warm jacket. In winter, add fleece liners, thermal gloves, and winter boots if you're hiking in colder months.

What are the key highlights and views from the summit of Mount St. Catherine? keyboard_arrow_down

Highlights of Mount St. Catherine include views of the Gulf of Suez in the Red Sea if the weather is clear, as well as the lights of Sharm El Sheikh and Tor-Sinai at night. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sinai Mountains and the Red Sea Mountains, and catch sight of the Mount Ahmar of Mount Moses and Mount Umm Shomar.

What is the difficulty level of the Mt Catherine hike, and what level of fitness is required? keyboard_arrow_down

The difficulty of Mount St. Catherine hike is considered moderate to challenging, and it requires good physical fitness. Hikers should be able to walk in the mountains for 8 to 10 hours.

What is the dress code for Mount Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

Dress code for Mount Sinai it is preferable to wear comfortable hiking clothes and carry a warm layer for the top of the mountain, as the temperature often drops there. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a backpack for water and snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, a power bank, a sun hat, and a flashlight. If you are hiking in winter, you must bring a jacket, winter clothes, a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf

How hard is it to get into Mount Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

Mount Sinai is considered to be of moderate difficulty, but if you are an experienced hiker, you can book with Sinai Hikes, and they will choose a route that suits your fitness level to help you enjoy Mount Sinai and the churches areas around it.

Is it allowed to climb Mount Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

Yes, it is allowed to climb Mount Sinai, but you must have a Bedouin guide from the Jabaliya tribe with you.

Can you hike to the top of Mount Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

You can hike to the top of Mount Sinai, where you will reach the mosque, the church, and the cave of Prophet Moses, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges, whether at sunrise or sunset. You can also spend the night with the Bedouins at the coffee shop there.

How long does it take to hike Mount Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

The hike to Mount Sinai takes about 2.5 hours to ascend and 1.5 to 2 hours to descend with regular walking. The time may vary from person to person depending on the number of rest stops and the physical fitness of each hiker

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Egypt? keyboard_arrow_down

The best time to hike in Egypt is during the spring and autumn for mountain hikes, and in October, November, February, and March for desert hikes, whether in the Sinai Desert or the Western Desert. Spring is considered the best time overall because it is when some water is present, and the winter rains have nourished the landscape.

Are there local guides or trekking companies specializing in Sinai Desert expeditions? keyboard_arrow_down

There are local Bedouins, local operators, and trekking companies. It is preferable to book with local Bedouins or operators from the area where you will be trekking. Each region of Sinai is home to different Bedouin tribes, and these locals know the desert and mountain trails exceptionally well. Their trips are simple and authentic, reflecting their traditional lifestyle.

What unique experiences can I expect during a Sinai trek? keyboard_arrow_down

During your Sinai trek, you will enjoy unique experiences, such as exploring the Bedouin tribes that have inhabited Sinai for centuries, experiencing their hospitality, and discovering their handicrafts. You will also encounter unique natural herbs that the Bedouins use to treat ailments. Additionally, you may spot wild animals such as the hyrax, ibex, fox, and various bird species.

What should I pack and prepare for a multi-day trek in the Sinai Desert? keyboard_arrow_down

For a multi-day trek in the Sinai Desert, bring the following items: a duffel bag, hiking shoes, hiking backpack, trekking poles, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, camping tent, hiking pants, thermal shirt, warm jacket, hood or hat, headlamp, hiking shorts, sandals or slippers, warm clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, battery charger, first aid kit, hat, passport, and extra money.

What are the most iconic routes for trekking in the Sinai Desert, and how challenging are they? keyboard_arrow_down

The best routes for trekking in the Sinai Desert are Ras Shitan to Bir Safra, Jebel El Guna to Mount Sinai, Wadi El-Kid to Mount Catherine, and the Saint Catherine trail to Serabit El-Khad. Most of the trails in the Sinai Desert are of moderate to challenging difficulty.

What cultural and natural highlights can I experience while hiking in Egypt? keyboard_arrow_down

While hiking in Egypt, you will enjoy the pristine nature and the Bedouin culture of the Sinai tribes around Saint Catherine's Monastery, the Sinai Mountain trails with the Jabaliya tribe, the Serabit El-Khadim Temple, Umm Bujma with the Aliqat tribe, the Khodra Oasis, Jabal Al-Makhroum with the Mazina tribe, Wadi El-Washwash, and the Colored Canyon with the Tarabin tribe.

How do I prepare for hiking in Egypt's unique terrains, like deserts and mountains? keyboard_arrow_down

To prepare for hiking in Egypt’s deserts and mountains, pack lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and a hat for the desert, and warm layers, sturdy shoes, and trekking poles for the mountains. Choose good camping gear and book your hike with experienced local guides. Don’t forget a first aid kit, rain gear, snacks, insect repellent, and other emergency essentials to stay safe in tough conditions.

What are the best hiking trails in Egypt for beginners and experienced hikers? keyboard_arrow_down

The best hiking trails in Egypt for beginners include some of the Saint Catherine trails, such as Wadi Itlah, Wadi Gebal, Mount Sinai, Mount Abbas. In Cairo, there’s Wadi Degla, and in Dahab, the Blue Hole to Ras Abu Galum. In the Sinai Desert, try Khodra Oasis trails. For experienced hikers, there are the Saint Catherine trail, Sinai Desert treks.

Can I join a hiking group if I’m traveling alone? keyboard_arrow_down

Absolutely! Our hiking groups are perfect for solo travelers as it’s a great way to make friends and venture at an affordable price.

Is it better to hike in a group or alone? keyboard_arrow_down

It all comes down to your criteria and what you’re looking for. Do you want to meet like-minded travelers and travel on a budget? Or do you want to explore at your own pace and customize your own itinerary? Either way, there’s no better way to hike, and we’re happy to offer you the best of both worlds. 

What happens if I get tired or need help during the hike? keyboard_arrow_down

We leave no man behind – our group hikes are designed for everyone to enjoy the experience without feeling pressured. Our guides will always be there to assist you and make sure the entire group sticks together, making sure no one is left behind.

How fit do I need to be to join a hiking group? keyboard_arrow_down

We have hikes that cater to all skill levels. Many hikes are beginner-friendly, as well as more advanced ones – it all depends on the itinerary and trails covered. So, it’s important to make sure you read the hike’s description and difficulty level before booking.

How big is the hiking group? keyboard_arrow_down

Typically, our groups consist of 10 to 15 people each, which we have found to be the optimal number for both effective camp management and good social interactions among hikers. However, during shoulder seasons, like early Winter and Summer, it's common to see smaller groups, often ranging from 5 to 8 people.

What is a hiking group, and why should you join one in Sinai or Egypt? keyboard_arrow_down

Join a hiking group. let you meet the like-minded hikers and let you reduce the cost of the hike, sharing with them the old experience and enjoying the amazing landscape and the breathtaking scenery with them, like Mount Catherine, Mount El-Bannat, Wadi Gebal, the White Canyon, and the Colored Canyon, and let you create new friends and relationships with hikers from different places.

How could I find a reliable hiking group in Egypt? keyboard_arrow_down

Hiking groups on social media or on websites like Sinai Hikes make it quite simple to locate a reliable hiking group in Egypt. There are hikers who hike together occasionally; look for good leaders and guides, a well-marked trail, a well-thought-out plan, and good evaluations.

What should I bring for a hike or trek in Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

For a hike or trek in Sinai bring the following items: a duffel bag, hiking shoes, hiking backpack, trekking poles, sleeping mat, sleeping bag, camping tent, hiking pants, a thermal clothes, a warm jacket, a headlamp, hiking shorts, sandals or slippers, warm clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks, a battery charger, a first aid kit, a hat, passport, and extra money.

Do I need a guide for hiking in Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

Yes, we highly recommend that you have a guide on all hikes, treks and trails if its will be one hour, because the trail will be in the opposite direction and will be in a different to your eyes when you return, so you can get lost, and you won’t know anything about the culture and environment around you, and this will make you miss out on a lot of beauty that you would not see and find on your own

Examples of potential risks in trekking in Sinai, Egypt keyboard_arrow_down

  1. Stomach disorders : It is the feeling of pain and a feeling of discomfort in the stomach, diarrhea, and despite the multiplicity of health problems that occur in the stomach and cause pain, most of them are simple and the symptoms disappear quickly or by taking medication, as in indigestion or contraction of the abdominal muscles, and for this it must be You have a pain reliever for this.
  2. Sunburn : Sunburn is red, sore skin that feels hot to the touch. It usually appears within several hours after excessive exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun and you can avoid this with sunscreen and related conditions by protecting your skin. This is especially important when you are outside, even on cold or cloudy days.
  3. Foot blisters : These blisters usually appear in areas that have been damaged, with the aim of forming a cushion that protects the area from additional damage in most cases, and the best way to treat foot blisters is to leave them to heal on their own. Period The following can be done to speed up the healing process:Do not expose the area to any pressure or friction. Carefully clean the area around the blisters with soap and water. Cover the area with a clean, dry, breathable pad. Put a cold source on the area. Elevate the affected foot on a chair or pillow to reduce blood flow to the affected area. Not wearing the shoes or socks that caused their appearance.
  4. Drought : Dehydration is a common problem in athletes. During sports activity, the body loses water along with some important blood salts such as potassium. Dehydration impedes the physical and mental performance of the athlete at all levels. The risk of dehydration increases in light of the availability of auxiliary factors such as high air temperatures, so the body secretes sweat to maintain the body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius, and you can avoid this by keeping drinking sufficient water constantly.
  5. Low body temperature : You feel a drop in temperature when your body loses heat faster than it produces it, and your body temperature drops below 95 F (35 C). If left untreated, it can be life-threatening. It usually occurs as a result of exposure to cold weather or immersion in cold water. It can also occur with continuous exposure to indoor temperatures below 50 F (10 C). You may also be at greater risk when you feel tired or dehydrated. Signs and symptoms of hypothermia usually appear slowly and can include: Shivering, although it may stop as the body temperature drops slurred speech or mumbling Rapid and weak breathing weak pulse ataxia, or poor balance Feeling drowsy or weak Confusion or memory loss Unconsciousness The skin is bright red and cool (in infants) Gently move the person away from the cold. If they cannot enter the closed room, wrap the person in a blanket, especially around the neck and head. Isolate the person from the cold ground. Gently dispose of wet clothing. Replace wet items with warm, dry sheets or a blanket. When more heating is needed, warm it up gradually. For example, apply warm, dry compresses to the center of the body, neck, chest, and groin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests another option is to use an electric blanket when available. If you are using bottles filled with hot water or as a hot chemical, first wrap them in a towel before using them. Offer the person warm, sweet, non-alcoholic drinks. If the person has no signs of life, such as breathing, coughing or movement, begin CPR.

Possible danger during my trip? keyboard_arrow_down

Like any place where there are excursions and trails to hike in Egypt, some bumpy and some dangerous, you should know that there are sometimes paths that must follow the instructions of the guide. Sometimes we will be away from the nearest rescue unit for about two days. This makes us strict in the instructions given by the guides during the trip so as to create a safe environment with adequate control. supervising the safety of the group. You understand and agree to them prior to the trip, and you agree to carry out the instructions of the guide during the trip.

What if I feel so tired that I cannot continue walking? keyboard_arrow_down

You must inform the guide as soon as possible, and he will help you finish the path as soon as possible and through the nearest exit point from the path. You can also complete the trip sometimes with a very light walk and rest throughout the day or riding a camel.

Is there electricity during our trip? keyboard_arrow_down

It is a trip through the Sinai mountains and deserts. It is difficult to have electricity, so you must bring a power bank with you or a solar charger.

Is there a telephone network during hiking or trekking in Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

There are a few points during the trip, but you must inform friends and family before the trip that there is no network while you are hiking or trekking in Sinai or Egypt, so that there is no anxiety.

What do I need to be suitable for the existing paths and trails? keyboard_arrow_down

The first thing is that your heart health must be good, and you can walk well for long distances to be fit by walking. The most important thing is that you should always exercise well and move as high as possible, such as by climbing stairs and running. All exercises that make you pant while wearing a bag weighing approximately 10 kg This will help you very much.

What is the difficulty of hiking the Sinai Mountains trails? keyboard_arrow_down

The paths we walk are always from 10 km to 20 km, according to your itinerary. It is different, but it is not very difficult. It is a combination of easy-walking trails in sandy valleys and rocky trails between the mountains, as well as some scrambling mountain trails on the tops of the mountains. You could choose from all of it. You must know your physical fitness and the extent of your body’s energy before the trip, and you can tell us what you prefer while walking, and on this basis, we will always give you the best choice.

How will the hike be on most of Sinai's trails? keyboard_arrow_down

Joining a hike on Sinai trails or the Sinai Desert doesn't require really high experience, but you need to be fit enough to hike 5–6 hours per day in all changing climate conditions, whether cold weather, hot weather, or even rainy weather. We will keep you motivated each day and in great company with the stunning views.

How to drink water during the trip and how to find water sources? keyboard_arrow_down

We could bring bottled water if you want; we will bring it throughout the trip,or you could be like the bedouins, we use most of the time, pure water springs in the mountains and wells, which we have been drinking from since we were born. They are completely clean, and the water is very pure. You can also use water purification tablets or water filters as you like.

How will food and meals be organised during the trip? keyboard_arrow_down

You will have three extremely delicious bedouin meals cooked up the wood fire all the trip, and you can also help in their preparation if you want to. Breakfast is usually eggs, cheese, beans, honey, and jam; lunch is on the lighter side with salad, grilled eggplant, tuna salad, mashed potatoes, and white cheese; and dinner is the amazing cuisine of bedouins, which is soup, pasta, rice, lentils, vegetables, meat, or chicken slow-cooked on charcoal or on the fire with some fruit.

How will we sleep and spend the nights during the trip? keyboard_arrow_down

We will sleep in the open space under the million-star hotel, as the Bedouins called it, during our trip. Sometimes we will sleep in small rooms in the used camping bedouin gardens in the cold weather, and some days we will use tents and sleep inside them in the wilderness of Sinai under the stars, and every time we will try to find a comfortable place to sleep.

Is Sinai Trails safe to spend our hiking, trekking, and camping trips on? keyboard_arrow_down

The Sinai trails are completely safe for hiking and camping, and one of the most famous safe trails that hundreds flock to every day is the Mt. Sinai trail, the Mount Catherine trail, and the Saint Catherine trails. All of these trails are inhabited by the local tribes of Sinai, specifically the Jabaliya tribe, as well as the coloured canyon trail, the white canyon, the closed canyon, and the Salama canyon. It is completely safe, and many visitors come daily, as well as to Ain Khudra Oasis. All of it is really safe to have amaizing experiences in Sinai with the Bedouins.

Is Sinai safe to spend our trip? keyboard_arrow_down

We will be in South Sinai, where Sharm el-Sheikh, the city of peace, and Dahab, the most famous place for a simple visit, and St. Catherine, where the oldest monastery in Egypt is, are. That's where we will wander. We are far enough from the place where there were some cleansings from terrorism before. It is North Sinai, and the time between North Sinai and South Sinai is 10 hours when travelling by car. Thats why the south Sinai is safe enough to visit, but we advise you to get adequate advice from your government, your friends, and some people you know who have previously gone on Sharm El Sheikh Hiking, Dahab Safari, or trekking in Saint Catherine.

How do I make my hiking bookings with Sinai Hikes? keyboard_arrow_down

You can book or get in touch with us via email or WhatsApp to make your hike or trekking reservation.

Which hiking destinations in Sinai, Egypt are the best? keyboard_arrow_down

The best hiking in Sinai, Egypt includes the Saint Catherine Trail, which features Mount Sinai, Mount Catherine, El-Galt El-Azraq, Mount Bab El-Donya, Wadi El-Firei', and Wadi Gebal. Also, the Sinai Desert trails pass through Hudooda Sand Dunes, Ain Khodra Oasis, the Closed Canyon, the White Canyon, the Colored Canyon, Mount El-Barqa, and Mount El-Makharom.

How challenging is hiking in Sinai? keyboard_arrow_down

Hiking in Sinai have all the levels of difficulty from easy to moderate trails like Sinai Mountains trails, Wadi Gebal, Wadi Atlah, and Naqab El Fari'. The Colored Canyon, White Canyon, Closed Canyon, and Khodra oasis in the Sinai Desert. Additionally, there are hikes for several days, such as the Sinai Highland Trails, the Wadi Gebal Mountains, and Sinai desert trails. And Mount Serbal, Mount Umm Shomar, and Mount Remhan are among the more difficult ones.

Ready to Explore Sinai?