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Mount Sinai

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Mountain
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Mount Sinai (Egypt)

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Mount Sinai, also known as Gebel Mousa or Mount Moses, is one of the most significant religious sites in the world, located on the Sinai Peninsula near Mount Catherine. Standing at 2,285 meters, it is not the tallest peak in the range, but it is historically the most renowned. According to biblical tradition, this is where Moses received the Ten Commandments from God. The mountain is a major pilgrimage destination for followers of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Hikers can choose between two main routes to the summit: the longer, moderately inclined 'Camel Path' or the steep 'Steps of Penitence,' which consist of over 3,700 hand-carved stone steps. At the summit, both a small Greek Orthodox chapel and a mosque are located. Thousands of tourists climb the mountain every night to witness the spectacular sunrise over the rugged desert terrain. Its profound spiritual atmosphere and impressive dark granite geology make Mount Sinai an essential destination for visitors.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C101216202427292926221712
Rain mm333100000132

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Reach the area typically via the town of Saint Catherine, where main trailheads begin. Most visitors arrive by arranged transport or guided tours from coastal resorts like Sharm El-Sheikh.
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Best season
The best months for a visit are usually between October and April, avoiding the extreme summer heat. Night temperatures in winter can drop significantly, so careful planning is required for pre-dawn ascents.
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Terrain & paths
The paths are well-worn but involve a steep ascent, typically including the famous Camel Path or the Steps of Repentance. The final section usually requires navigating roughly hewn, uneven rocky steps to the summit.
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What to bring
Bring sturdy walking shoes, warm layered clothing for cold nights, and plenty of drinking water. A reliable headlamp or flashlight is absolutely essential for the very common pre-dawn climbs.
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Parking
Vehicles are generally left at designated parking spots near the Saint Catherine's Monastery. From there, the mountain area is explored purely on foot along established, historical mountainous routes.
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Safety
Always stay on the marked paths and consider hiring a local Bedouin guide for both navigation and safety. Be cautious of altitude effects and ensure you are physically prepared for the strenuous, steep hike.
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Time needed
A typical round trip hike usually takes between five to seven hours depending on your pace and the chosen route. Many spend additional time at the summit to witness the spectacular sunrise over the peaks.

Geography

Coordinates
28.50000, 33.90000

Facts

  • The mountain reaches an elevation of 2,285 meters
  • There are exactly 3,750 'Steps of Penitence' leading to the top
  • The summit chapel was built in 1934 on the ruins of a 532 AD church
  • The mountain is sacred in the Bible, the Quran, and the Torah
  • Ascending via the Camel Path typically takes 2 to 3 hours
  • The granite composing the mountain is roughly 600 million years old

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Sinai MountainsSinai Mountains6 km · NExplore →
Gabal el-DeirGabal el-Deir6 km · SEExplore →
Mount CatherineMount Catherine9 km · EExplore →
Gabal AbasGabal Abas9 km · EExplore →
Saint Catherine's MonasterySaint Catherine's Monastery10 km · NEExplore →
Sinai Camel PasturesSinai Camel Pastures11 km · SExplore →
Gabal Um ShomerGabal Um Shomer21 km · SExplore →
Gabal el-GamilGabal el-Gamil22 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Gebel Musa also called Mount Moses?
According to tradition, Moses received the Ten Commandments from God here.
When do most hikes begin?
Usually around 1 or 2 AM to reach the summit in time for sunrise.
Which paths lead to the summit?
The 'Camel Path' (easier) and the 'Steps of Penance' (3,750 steep steps, harder).
Can you rent a camel?
Yes, you can ride a camel almost to the summit, but the last 750 steps must be covered on foot.
Are there kiosks at the top?
Yes, along the path and just before the summit, there are small huts selling tea, snacks, and blankets.
Mount Sinai: where is it located?
Mount Sinai is located in Egypt.
Mount Sinai: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Mount Sinai: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Sinai, also known as Gebel Mousa or Mount Moses, is one of the most significant religious sites in the world, located on the Sinai Peninsula near Mount Catherine.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

Saint Catherine's Monastery — Mount Sinai (Egypt)
Saint Catherine's Monastery
An Eastern Orthodox monastery situated on the Sinai Peninsula, at the mouth of a gorge at the foot of Mount Sinai.

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Sinai Mountains — Mount Sinai (Egypt)
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A mountain range on the Sinai Peninsula.
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The highest mountain in Egypt.
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Traditional grazing areas of the Bedouin.
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Gulf of Aqaba — Mount Sinai (Egypt)
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An inlet of the Red Sea.
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Mountainous protected area with rare desert flora.
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Maghara Coal Mine
A significant coal mine on the Sinai Peninsula.
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Port of Arish
A port on the Mediterranean coast of the Sinai Peninsula.