Discover Egypt: Sinai Summit 2025

Description

Discover the Sinai Peninsula on our Sinai Summit 2025 add-on tour, offering a balance of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Start your journey with a leisurely beach day, enjoying swimming, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, and sunbathing on golden sands. Venture into the desert to explore the stunning Red Sea Mountains and discover hidden oases. Delight in a traditional Bedouin dinner under the star-studded sky, experiencing authentic flavors and warm hospitality.

Later in your trip, embark on a breathtaking summit hike on Mount Sinai, where tradition holds that Moses received the Ten Commandments. Witness the sunrise from the peak, casting a golden glow over the rugged landscape. This tour promises an unforgettable blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion in one of Egypt’s most captivating destinations.

Sinai Summit 2025 Daily Itinerary

This tour is an add-on to the Pilgrims on the Nile tour and is not available as a stand alone event.

Day 1 – Wednesday, 15 October – Luxor to Dahab

Breakfast and check out from the hotel. Transfer to Luxor airport for flight to Sharm El Sheikh. Transfer to Dahab (approximately 2.5 hours ride). Lunch on the way. Once in Dahab, transfer to the hotel. Remainder of the day free to relax or explore on your own. Group dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 – Thursday, 16 October – Desert Canyons

Breakfast at the hotel. Morning excursion to White Canyon, a unique example of eroded sandstone formations. Lunch at the Ain Khudra oasis. With date palms and natural springs, it has been home to Bedouin tribes for hundreds of years. Afternoon visit to Colored Canyon and Mushroom Rock, if time allows. Return to Dahab for free time before group dinner near the hotel.

Day 3 – Friday, 17 October – Rest Day and Late Departure for Sinai Hike

Breakfast at the hotel. Free day to relax and enjoy the sea. Lunch on your own. Optional snorkeling at the Blue Hole, a well known Red Sea locale. 23:00 departure for Mt. Sinai hike.

Day 4 – Saturday, 18 October – Mt Sinai and St Catherine’s Monastery

Hike through the night, arriving at the summit just in time to enjoy the sunrise. Relax on the peak and slowly descend to the 6th century St Catherine’s Monastery, the world’s oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery. Visit the monastery museum, church and courtyard. Return to Dahab. Lunch on your own and free afternoon. Evening farewell banquet.

Day 5 – Sunday, 19 October – Departure

Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Sharm El Sheikh Airport for flight to Cairo and departures home.

What is it like to hike up to the summit of Mount Sinai?

Hiking up Mount Sinai is considered an easy to moderate trek that can be undertaken by individuals with a basic level of fitness. The journey to the summit can be accomplished via two main routes: the gentler Camel Path and the more demanding Steps of Repentance. Most hikers can reach the summit in about 1.5 to 2 hours. The final leg involves climbing 750 steps, which can be strenuous, especially at higher altitudes. However, the breathtaking views and the spiritual significance of the location make the effort well worth it. Preparing with proper footwear, hydration, and layers for varying temperatures is essential for a successful hike.

Sinai Summit Camel Rides

Here’s what you can expect on a camel ride up Mount Sinai:

1. Starting the Journey: Your adventure begins at the base of Mount Sinai, where you’ll meet your camel and Bedouin guide. The Bedouin guides are experienced and familiar with the route, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride.
2. The Ride: Riding a camel is a unique experience, as the gentle swaying motion allows you to take in the scenery at a leisurely pace. The camels will carry you along the Camel Path, a longer but gentler trail. This path winds its way up the mountain, offering stunning views of the desert landscape and the starry sky if you’re hiking at night.
3. From Camel to Foot: The camel ride typically continues until the terrain becomes too steep, usually near the 700-step mark. At this point, you’ll dismount and continue the hike on foot. The final stretch involves climbing the remaining 750 steps to reach the summit.
4. Tips for the Ride:
   • Comfort: Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for the portion of the hike you’ll do on foot.
   • Hydration: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re hiking during warmer months.
   • Essentials: Carry a small backpack with essentials like snacks, a flashlight if hiking at night, and a camera to capture the breathtaking views.
5. Enjoying the Experience: The camel ride offers a chance to relax and enjoy the unique experience of traversing the desert landscape like ancient travelers. The Bedouin guides often share fascinating stories and insights about the region, adding to the richness of the journey.

The combination of the camel ride and the hike allows you to fully appreciate the natural beauty and spiritual significance of Mount Sinai. It’s a memorable adventure that blends tradition and exploration.