Mount Sinai: Sacred History and Breathtaking Views

Of all the many things to do in the Sinai Peninsula, mountain climbing is by far the ultimate activity. Whether you plan on taking in multiple peaks as part of an extended hike or simply fancy a climb up one mountain in particular, this article will introduce the main mountain of Sinai—the key draw of tourists from all around the world. For many people, it is the reason they visit Saint Catherine or even Egypt as a whole, So, what is this fabled mount of Sinai? Well, it’s Mount Sinai, of course.

The history of Mount Sinai (in Arabic, Jebel Moussa)

Moses and the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai

Around 3,500 years ago, Moses was sent on a journey by God through the Sinai Desert. Arriving in the area around Mount Sinai, he was told to retreat into solitary contemplation for forty days. He found a small cave atop the mountain where he fasted and meditated until, one fateful day, he received the Ten Commandments. Moses asked to see God, and God replied, “Moses, no one can see Me and live.

Saint Catherine’s Martyrdom and Legacy

Mount Sinai is deeply connected with Judaism. Yet, a separate, Christian miracle is said to have taken place on the peak opposite. As a young girl, Saint Catherine rebelled against her father to embrace Christianity, for which she was tortured and then killed. Her story of resistance ended with her body being carried by angels to the summit of Mount Saint Catherine (across from Mount Sinai) where she was laid her to rest as a martyr.

The Foundation of Saint Catherine’s Monastery

It was at the base of these two religiously significant mountains that the Monastery of Saint Catherine was built. Later, when the Muslims entered Egypt, a historical document (the Ashtiname of Muhammad) was written by Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab to guarantee the church and its people the freedom to practice their religion without interference or intimidation. A mosque was later built inside the monastery to ensure that, even after Umar’s death, the monastery would remain untouched.

Cultural and Religious Significance Through History

Muslim pilgrims traveling on the Hajj would often rest up in valleys around Mount Sinai on their way to Mecca. It was these Muslims who built a mosque atop the mountain that stands till this day. Much later, when Napoleon occupied Egypt, he further secured the monastery’s protection by enclosing it in a high wall. Everyone who comes to Saint Catherine, regardless of religion and nationality, seems to play their part in safeguarding it. This monastery at the foot of Mount Sinai, still houses the burning bush, and has become a go-to destination for spiritual travelers and adventurer seekers alike.

So why is Mount Sinai so famous?

1. In 1937, the monks of Saint Catherine built the small Church of the Holy Trinity atop the ruins of an ancient basilica on the summit of Mount Sinai, on the spot where Moses is said to have encountered God.
2. The monks have always preferred to live in the peaceful solitude of nature, far from urban life. And it’s this sense of solitude that continues to attract anyone seeking inner peace (whether they have taken vows of chastity or not).
3. Bedouins have been known in the past to make pilgrimages to Mount Sinai when traveling to Mecca was too difficult or expensive. They saw Mount Sinai as an alternative to Mount Arafat in Mecca.
4. Mount Sinai has gained worldwide, lasting fame due to its religious history that brings together the three Abrahamic faiths. But, there are many other factors that make a trip to the Sinai Desert truly enjoyable, especially for nature lovers and thrill hunters.
5. Mount Sinai’s elevation, and the high altitude of the Saint Catherine region as a whole, gives visitors breathtaking views from the summit, particularly at sunrise or sunset. Standing on the top, the surrounding mountains below you, appear to come alive, changing shape and color as the sunlight shifts; and in winter, the rolling cloud formations add depth and majesty to the sun’s Sinai glow.

Is Mount Sinai in the desert?

Mount Sinai is in the Saint Catherine Mountain Range, which is part of the Sinai Desert. However, it begins within the township of Saint Catherine itself, serving as the boundary between settled life and the vast desert. The area at the base of the mountain, by the monastery, is a great place to pick up any last-minute trekking gear (perhaps, a warm poncho or a small torch), Sinai desert herbs, handmade crafts, miscellaneous souvenirs, and the unbeatable hand-pressed Sinai olive oil.

Is it safe to visit Mount Sinai?

Whether you are concerned about physical safety or personal security, visiting Mount Sinai is completely safe. The main Camel Trail path up the mountain is wide, smooth and easy to follow; it’s perfectly suited to hiking beginners. By law, visitors must be accompanied by a Bedouin guide who is intimately familiar with the route as well as the history and tales associated with the mountain. Additionally, the Egyptian government takes great care to ensure security on the mountain, verifying the bona fides of all guides and visitors before they can begin the ascent. In general, the presence of the Bedouins, known for their calm and welcoming nature, provides a pervading atmosphere of safety while preserving the privacy and spirituality of the experience.

How can you visit Mount Sinai?

You can visit Mount Sinai by arranging a trip with a Bedouin guide in the township of Saint Catherine, at the base of the mountain beside the monastery, or through a tour company. Whether you are visiting Saint Catherine for a day or planning an extended stay, tour companies can assist with transportation to and from Sharm El Sheikh or Cairo airport, accommodation arrangements, or even organizing a comprehensive expedition through the Saint Catherine Desert.

Book Mount Sinai Hike Now

Mount Sinai surroundings

Mount Sinai stands out among the neighboring mountains, renowned for its height and breathtaking beauty. To the west lies the valley and the Dependency of the Forty Martyrs, alongside the lush gardens of Saint Catherine’s Monastery. On the eastern side, Wadi El Sybaiya serves as a home to some Bedouins from the Jabaliyya tribe. To the north, you’ll find the Monastery of Saint Catherine and Mount Al-Munajat, a site revered by the Bedouins who believe that God revealed Himself there after Moses spoke with the Lord, which explains why the mountain is said to have collapsed. To the south, Mount Saint Catherine rises as the highest peak in Egypt, where, according to legend, the body of Saint Catherine was discovered, marking yet another miraculous event in this region.

Know More About St. Catherine hike

What’s the temperature on Mount Sinai?

Temperatures vary depending on the time of year, so checking the forecast before your trip is essential. In general, winter temperatures range from -14°C to 20°C, while in other seasons, they range from 13°C to 28°C. Whatever the season, bring a jacket.

Get More About Hiking Safety Tips in Sinai

What’s the best time of the year to visit Mount Sinai?

It is preferable to visit Mount Sinai outside of the Egyptian winter when the wind tends to be at its most biting—this typically last from November to March. However, if you enjoy cooler climes or just want to see snow on dusty red mountains, you can visit during the winter months but make sure you come prepared with warm clothing, gloves, woolly hats, and sunglasses.

How long does a trip from Cairo to Saint Catherine take?

You can spend a single day visiting Mount Sinai and Saint Catherine’s Monastery, or extend your stay to explore the diverse mountains and valleys that surround the township with the local Bedouins. The drive from Cairo to Saint Catherine takes about six hours, though it may extend by two hours during peak seasons, such as Christian holidays.

Know More About The Best Hikes in Egypt

What activities can you do on Mount Sinai?

The most popular trip involves walking up the mountain before dawn to watch the sunrise and then visit the monastery after coming down. Other people prefer to visit the monastery first and then climb the slopes in the afternoon to catch the equally spectacular sunset. Alternatively, you can start your hike at sunset, camp overnight, and watch the sunrise while enjoying dinner and Bedouin tea (infused with wild mint or sage). You can also explore the lesser-visited churches on the peaks of Mount Horeb or Ras Safsafa, visit the Prophet Elijah’s resting place, or camp there before ascending Mount Sinai.

Can you climb Mount Sinai?

Yes, you can climb Mount Sinai with a Bedouin guide. You can do either the sunrise or sunset hike, and the ascent is moderately challenging. You can ride a camel for the first (and longest) stretch up the slope until you reach the final set of stairs, which you must do yourself.

Is hiking up Mount Sinai difficult?

Climbing Mount Sinai is of moderate difficulty, so some physical preparation is advisable. However, you can ascend the mountain with the assistance of a camel to carry your belongings or even you for part of the way.

The sunrise hike up Mount Sinai

The hike begins at midnight after first registering at the security checkpoint. You begin by walking past the great walls of Saint Catherine’s Monastery before reaching the base of the mountain. Soon, the artificial lights of the town will disappear behind you and you’ll be following a path of gentling inclining switch-backs under a sky full of stars. Along the way, you’ll have several opportunities to stop and rest (and sit down to warm up with a cup of tea or bite to eat). The final stretch consists of 750 stone steps leading to the summit, where you can find your own perfect spot to wait for the sunrise. The panoramic view of endless mountain ranges illuminated by the rising sun is an unforgettable sight to behold.

Check Top 10 Things to Do in Sinai

Spiritual experience on Mount Sinai

Beyond the sunrise and sunset hikes, you can also choose to camp alone while a Bedouin guide brings meals at agreed-upon times. This experience mirrors the meditative isolation favoured by the monks, providing an escape from city noise and pollution for a truly peaceful day.

What to consider and what to pack before climbing Mount Sinai

1. First and foremost, select a reputable guide, ideally one from the Bedouins of Saint Catherine who speaks your language. Many Bedouins speak Arabic, English, and Russian, and you may find some who speak other languages as well. It’s a good idea to check this before booking, as having a guide who speaks your mother tongue can significantly enhance your experience.
2. Make sure to pack snacks like protein bars, dates, and chocolate to keep your energy levels up during the climb.
3. Be aware of the weather forecast for your trip, so you can dress appropriately and bring the necessary gear.
4. Wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget essentials like sunscreen and gloves.
5. Consider bringing a spare power bank, as you’ll likely want to take plenty of photos. If you have a professional camera, this will be the perfect opportunity to use it.
6. A small flashlight or headlamp can also be useful.
7. If you plan to camp, bring your tent and sleeping bag, or arrange with locals to rent these items.
8. Keep in mind that it’s always chilly at the summit, so pack a heavy jacket and warm clothing—even in summer, it’s wise to layer up.
9. A small backpack will help you carry your gear comfortably.
10. Remember to bring cash (of small denominations), as you might need it for purchases at shops both on and off the mountain.
11. If you rely on specific medications, make sure to have them on hand.
12. Lastly, pack wet wipes, as they are typically not available in the bathrooms located on the mountain.

Mount Sinai Map

• Distance : 10.5 km
• Ascent : 907 m
• Max Elevation : 2285 m
• Min Elevation : 1540 m

Mount Sinai Elevation Gain

• From a starting point at 1540 m, you’ll climb up 907 m to reach the peak at 2285 m.
• The trail covers a total distance of 10.5 km, which includes both the horizontal distance you cover and the vertical elevation gain of 907 meters.
• The first part of the trail is a zigzag trail from 1570 meters until its reaches 2065 meters.
• The second part consists of granite rock stairs that ascend from 2065m to the summit at 2,285 meters.

Key facts about Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai is mentioned in both the Quran and the Torah as the place where God revealed Himself to Moses. The Bedouins historically regarded it as an alternative pilgrimage site to Mount Arafat in Mecca. It is also the first mountain in the Saint Catherine range and is surrounded by several religious landmarks, including Saint Catherine’s Monastery, the Burning Bush, and the Prophet Elijah’s resting place.

Let Us Help You to Book Mount Sinai Hike

Conclusion

Mount Sinai is a significant spiritual and touristic site, rich with historical, religious, and natural beauty. Whether you are seeking a physical challenge, a spiritual retreat, or an opportunity to learn from the stories of the native Bedouin, your journey to this sacred mountain will be truly unforgettable.