Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is also known as Jabal Musa and is located in the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt. This is one of many locations that claim to be the biblical Mount Sinai. According to the Bible, Torah and Quran, this is where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Standing at 2,285 meters high, this mountain range is surrounded on all four sides by even higher peaks.
Mount Sinai is located in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt on the eastern side of the Gulf of Suez.
Checking in
I was so fortunate to be able to climb Mount Sinai in Egypt with other travelers many years ago. We arrived at the base of Mount Sinai at 7pm. After checking into our hotel, we had dinner and went to bed early to prepare for the climb.
Debrief
Our hearts were pounding with anticipation as we eagerly anticipated the journey ahead. At 1 am, the guides gave us a briefing on the ascent, and then taught us how to ride a camel.
Camel ride
We began our climb at 2 am. The first leg of the journey was done on camelback, which added an extra element of adventure and discovery. It was an incredible experience that increased my sense of exploration.
I heard occasional sounds as I carefully led my camel along the rough, winding, and dark paths. I looked up into the Middle Eastern night sky and saw the stars.
Abraham
I embarked on a journey back in time through the intricate tunnel of my mind. In the depths of my imagination, I can vividly envision God speaking to Abraham, promising him that his descendants would multiply like the countless stars scattered across the enchanting Middle Eastern night sky, more than 4000 years ago.I was amazed by the historical significance of this mountain as we climbed to the summit.
We arrived at the station after a long and exhilarating camel ride. We dismounted the camel here, and started climbing uphill, navigating the steep terrain. Our ascent began as the darkness gave way to dawn.
Spectacular sunrise
We arrived at the peak of Mount Sinai at 5am and began to wait for sunrise. As we waited, the sky gradually brightened and more landscape features became visible. When the sun finally rose, it painted the skies in stunning shades of orange and pink. It was absolutely magnificent.
The descend
At 6 am, we began our descent. Mount Sinai’s rock terrain was revealed in the dawn light, which contrasted starkly with the darkness of the night. We enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and views as we slowly descended.
Our journey ended at St. Catherine’s Monastery, an ancient, revered site located at the foot of Mount Sinai. This made our climb more meaningful, creating an unforgettable trip that included physical challenges, natural beauty, and deep reflection.
St. Catherine Cathedral
Saint Catherine’s Monastery, located in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, is the oldest Christian monastery still continuously occupied. It dates back to between 548 and 565 AD. It’s located at the base of Mount Sinai.
This place is widely believed to be the exact location where Moses witnessed the awe-inspiring burning bush. The Codex Sinaiticus, an ancient manuscript of the Christian Bible, was preserved here until the mid-19th century. Then, it was moved to the British Library.
Practical tips
Mt. Sinai Mount Sinai is accessible by road, bus, taxi, and private tours services.
Wear sturdy hiking boots or sneakers to ensure your safety when you hike up the mountain.
If you visit during sunrise or sunset, dress in layers as the temperatures at the summit can be quite cold.
Bring some money, because there are many huts along the path that sell refreshments.
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