A two-day tour of Sinai Mountain and St. Catherine's offers a unique and spiritual journey through one of Egypt's most sacred regions. Here are the must-visit tourist attractions for such a tour:
Day 1: Sinai Mountain and the St. Catherine Area
Morning:
Start Early: Begin your tour early in the morning to catch the sunrise from Sinai Mountain. This spiritual and natural spectacle is a highlight of the trip. The ascent takes a few hours, and it's advisable to go with a guide.
Sinai Mountain Summit: Reach the summit of Sinai Mountain (Mount Sinai) in time for sunrise. Take in the breathtaking views and the spiritual atmosphere that has attracted pilgrims and travelers for centuries. Explore the small chapel, Chapel of St. Catherine, at the summit.
Breakfast:
3. Descend and Breakfast: Descend the mountain, and enjoy a well-deserved breakfast at the base.
Late Morning/Early Afternoon:
4. St. Catherine's Monastery: Visit St. Catherine's Monastery, one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the monastery's historic treasures, including the Burning Bush and the ancient manuscripts in the library.
Lunch:
5. Lunch in the Area: Have lunch in the nearby area or at your accommodation.
Afternoon:
6. Optional Activities: Depending on your interests and time, you can choose to explore the surroundings, go for a hike, or simply relax.
Day 2: Optional Activities and Return to Cairo
Morning:
7. Optional Activities: Consider additional activities such as visiting the nearby Colored Canyon or taking a jeep safari through the desert for more natural beauty and adventure.
Lunch:
8. Lunch: Enjoy a local lunch or lunch at your accommodation.
Afternoon:
9. Return to Cairo: Depart from the St. Catherine area and return to Cairo. The journey typically takes several hours.