Sunrise on Moses’ Mountain: A Practical Guide to Climbing Mount Sinai
An 8–10 hour pilgrimage from Sharm el Sheikh to the summit with history, granite ridgelines, and a sunrise that rewards the climb.
Night folds across the Sinai like a heavy wool blanket, and the minivan hums along the coastal road away from Sharm el Sheikh. In the rearview, tourists doze; in the front, your guide checks the route for the night climb ahead. You arrive at the jagged silhouette of Jabal Musa—Mount Sinai—hours later under a scatter of stars. The air is dry and cold. Footsteps on stone sound louder than they should. Ahead, a ribbon of headlamps climbs the dark, each light a patient promise of sunrise.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early or Choose Sunset
Pre-dawn departures avoid heat and reward you with sunrise views; sunset climbs are a good cooler alternative if you're not a night hiker.
Bring a Headlamp
Most groups hike in low light; a reliable headlamp keeps hands free for trekking poles and footing.
Hydrate for Dry Desert Air
Carry 1.5–2 liters and sip often—the cold desert at altitude still dehydrates quickly.
Consider Camel Option If Needed
Camels can take you partway up if the stone steps are too steep, but you’ll miss the full hiking experience.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The Byzantine-era chapel niches near St. Catherine Monastery
- •Less-traveled ridge to the south for broad coastal views
Wildlife
Sinai striped hyrax (rare to spot), Desert larks and other passerines
Conservation Note
The area is ecologically fragile; stick to established trails, pack out all trash, and support local guides who practice low-impact tourism.
Mount Sinai is traditionally identified as the biblical mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments; St. Catherine’s Monastery below dates to the 6th century and preserves ancient manuscripts.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild daytime temperatures, Wildflower sightings in valley floors
Challenges: Windy days, Cool nights
Spring offers pleasant daytime hiking temperatures but can be windy; nights still feel cold near the summit so layer up.
summer
Best for: Long daylight hours, Clear skies for panoramic views
Challenges: High daytime heat at lower elevations, Limited water sources
Summer climbs often use pre-dawn starts to avoid heat; expect significant temperature swings and pack extra water.
fall
Best for: Stable weather, Comfortable hiking conditions
Challenges: Shorter daylight hours, Occasional rainstorms
Autumn combines comfortable temps and stable conditions—ideal for most hikers—though evenings get chilly quickly.
winter
Best for: Crisp sunrise colors, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Very cold nights and potential frost, Limited daylight
Winters are cold, especially at the summit; bring warm layers and be ready for icy patches after rain or frost.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy Hiking BootsEssential
Ankle support and grippy soles help on stone steps and loose scree.
Headlamp with Fresh BatteriesEssential
Essential for pre-dawn or post-sunset hiking on unlit routes.
Layered Insulating ClothingEssential
Temperatures drop sharply at night—base, insulating, and wind layers are key.
Hydration Pack or 2L Water BottleEssential
Dry air and exertion require carrying sufficient water; refill options are limited.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Sharm el Sheikh?
Expect around three hours each way depending on traffic and your exact pickup point.
Is a guide required to climb Mount Sinai?
Guides aren’t legally required, but local guides provide navigation, history, and logistics—highly recommended for safety and cultural context.
Can I ride a camel to the summit?
Camels can take you up much of the route but typically not to the final summit ridge; camel support is an option for those who prefer it.
What altitude is the summit?
Mount Sinai's summit is approximately 2,285 meters (7,497 feet) above sea level.
Are permits required to hike or visit the monastery?
There is no standard national permit for day hikers, but monastery visiting hours and modest dress codes apply; confirm opening times with your operator.
Is the trail safe for families?
Families with older children experienced in hiking can do the route, but be cautious with younger kids on steep steps and after-dark sections.
What to Pack
Headlamp (for pre-dawn hiking), Insulating layers (cold at altitude), 2L water (dry desert), Sturdy boots (rocky steps)
Did You Know
St. Catherine's Monastery, at the foot of Mount Sinai, is one of the world's oldest continuously operating Christian monasteries and houses a collection of ancient manuscripts, including parts of the Codex Sinaiticus.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a guided sunrise departure, Carry cash for monastery entry/tea, Start hydrated and sleep before the night transfer, Wear closed-toe boots with ankle support
Local Flavor
After the climb, head into the small town of St. Catherine for a simple meal of lentils, flatbread and tea; in Sharm el Sheikh, reward yourself with seafood on the marina or a cold beer along Naama Bay to decompress after a long day.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport / trailhead: Sharm el Sheikh International Airport (pickup provided) / St. Catherine Monastery trailhead; Driving distance from nearest city: ~230–260 km (3 hours); Cell service: Spotty near the summit; Permits/passes: No national hiking permit, but check monastery hours and entry fees.
Sustainability Note
The Sinai environment is fragile—stay on established paths, minimize plastic waste, and hire local guides to support community-led conservation.
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