Mount Sinai sunrise: the night drive from Sharm or Dahab
The Mount Sinai sunrise climb starts at St Catherine in the middle of the night. From Dahab it is about 130 km — leave around 23:00; from Sharm el-Sheikh about 220 km — leave around 22:00. The driver waits while you climb with a local Bedouin guide and brings you back by late morning. A private car costs from $190 per car from Dahab and from $265 from Sharm. Prices checked .
- From Dahab ≈ 130 km · leave ~23:00
- From Sharm ≈ 220 km · leave ~22:00
- Climb with a local Bedouin guide
- Private car from $190 per car
What does the night look like?
Pickup at your hotel late in the evening, about 2–3 hours on the road, the climb from the St Catherine monastery area starts around 1–2 a.m., sunrise at the top, walk down and back to the hotel by late morning. Warm clothes: the summit is cold at night even in summer.
What do I need to know about advice and permits?
The road runs through South Sinai; read the current FCDO regional advice for the St Catherine area before you book. Visitors with the “Sinai only” stamp can make this trip; the stamp covers St Catherine.
How much is a private car for the Mount Sinai sunrise?
| Route | Sedan | Minivan (Hiace) | Bus (Coaster) | Premium van |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Sinai sunrise from Dahab (night trip) driver waits, back the same day | $190 | $260 | $480 | $420 |
| Mount Sinai sunrise climb from Sharm driver waits, back the same day | $265 | $365 | $655 | $585 |
| St Catherine’s Monastery day trip from Sharm driver waits, back the same day | $215 | $295 | $530 | $475 |
What should I wear and bring?
Warm layers, a hat and gloves, good walking shoes and a torch; the climb is on a rough path in the dark.
Will we be back in time for a flight?
Usually back by late morning; do not book a flight for the same morning — leave a buffer.
Sources and checks
- Egypt travel advice — regional risks — UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (gov.uk), 2026-08-04; checked by us
- Egypt travel advice — entry requirements — UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (gov.uk); checked by us
You may also need
- Sharm el-Sheikh Airport to Dahab: the 85 km, day or night
- Arriving at Sharm el-Sheikh Airport (SSH) — also at night: visa, exit, the ride to your hotel
- Nabq Bay: getting there from Sharm el-Sheikh Airport, day and night
Questions
What time do we leave Dahab?
Around 23:00; from Sharm around 22:00.
How much is the car?
From $190 per car from Dahab, from $265 from Sharm.
Is the guide on the mountain included?
The local Bedouin guide is arranged and paid at the foot of the mountain; the driver shows you where.
Can we visit St Catherine’s Monastery too?
Opening days and hours vary — ask us and check locally.
Does the “Sinai only” stamp work?
Yes, it covers St Catherine.
How do I cancel?
Free up to 24 hours before pickup.