⛪ Day Trip to St. Catherine & Dahab from Sharm El Sheikh
Full-Day Tour to the World’s Oldest Christian Monastery & the Red Sea’s “Flower Power” Town
Enjoy a full day of adventures in St. Catherine, where you’ll visit one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. St. Catherine’s Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s oldest working Christian monastery, built around the site of the Burning Bush. You’ll be transferred from Sharm El Sheikh to discover this historic treasure, which lies 220 km northwest of the city, nestled between Mount St. Catherine and Mount Moses.
Within its ancient walls, you’ll find a citadel brimming with religious and historical relics, including the Museum of St. Catherine—famous for its collection of icons attributed to the renowned 15th-century painter Angelos, as well as seminal works by Michael Damaskinos from the 16th-century Cretan School. After your monastery visit, continue to Dahab for a leisurely lunch and time to explore the laid-back seaside promenade.
🌟 Key Highlights 🌟
🏰 St. Catherine’s Monastery: UNESCO World Heritage Site & oldest working Christian monastery
🔥 Burning Bush: See the legendary site where Moses is believed to have witnessed the holy fire
🖼️ Iconic Treasures: Discover artworks and icons in the Museum of St. Catherine
🏖️ Dahab Stopover: Enjoy lunch and free time in the vibrant “Flower Power City” by the Red Sea
📅 Tour Program
Typical Itinerary (Duration ~10 hours):
- Stop 1: Sharm El Sheikh
Departure after breakfast from your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh, heading northwest to St. Catherine (approx. 3-hour drive). - Stop 2: St. Catherine’s Monastery
Guided visit to the oldest Christian monastery, built around the site of the Burning Bush. Explore its historic walls, church, and the museum housing precious icons (2 hours). - Stop 3: Dahab
Proceed to Dahab for a city and shopping tour. Savor local cuisine at a seaside restaurant for lunch and enjoy free time to explore the relaxed promenade (3 hours). - Stop 4: Return to Sharm El Sheikh
Transfer back to your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh (2 hours).
📦 Inclusions & Exclusions
Included:
- Air-conditioned vehicle transfers (hotel pickup & drop-off)
- Qualified Egyptologist guide
- Lunch in Dahab
- Visit to St. Catherine’s Monastery (grounds access)
- Visit to Dahab City
Excluded:
- Museum room ticket at St. Catherine’s
- Entrance fees to St. Catherine National Park (10€ per person, cash only)
- Drinks at the restaurant
- Personal expenses & tips
ℹ️ Additional Tour Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Trip Capacity | 1 to 5 persons per trip |
| Maximum Group Size | Not more than 25 persons |
| Tipping | 10% of the tour price |
| Payment | Due upon arrival |
| Private Trip Requests | Contact EL Pharaon via Phone/WhatsApp: +201055441595 |
| Passport Requirement | Bring your passport and send a copy via email for permissions (required for Exodus and all trips) |
| Booking & Cancellation | Book at least 2 days in advance; cancellations accepted up to 1 day before. For Exodus trips, book at least 1 month in advance; cancellations accepted up to 15 days before. |
| Exodus Private & Self-Drive | For Exodus private and self-drive trips, contact EL Pharaon via Phone/WhatsApp: +201055441595 |
⏰ Tour Details
Duration:10 hours (approx.)Group Size:Up to 15 travelersAccessibility:Not wheelchair accessible; infants must sit on lapsWeather Disclaimer:Tour may be canceled or rescheduled due to poor weatherCancellation Policy:Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance of start time
🎒 What to Bring
- Passport (required at checkpoints)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Modest clothing for monastery visit
- Cash for national park fees & personal purchases
Additional Information:
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- Not recommended for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers