South Sinai: Mountains, Protected Areas and Culture

The mountain landscape of Saint Catherine and the coral reefs of the protected areas give South Sinai two very different identities. The town and protected area of Saint Catherine lie at 1,600 m above sea level. The mountainous protected area has spiritual, historical, geological and biological significance.

Mountains and Religious Heritage

The Saint Catherine area is sacred to Christianity, Islam and Judaism. Its historical heritage includes Saint Catherine’s Monastery: it was built between 548 and 565 AD by order of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to house monks who had lived on the Sinai Peninsula since the 4th century AD. The Fatimid Mosque also stands within the monastery. It was built in 1106, the year 500 AH, during the rule of the Fatimid caliph al-Amir bi-Ahkam Allah.

The mountain routes also differ considerably. Two main routes lead to the summit of Mount Moses: the steeper Steps of Repentance consists of 3,250 steps carved into the rock. The comparatively easier Camel Trail is a gravel path with switchbacks. Both routes meet the final 500 steps to the summit—so even the easier option includes a section of stairs.

The Moses Path, known in Arabic as Sikket Sayidna Musa, leads to the summit of Mount Moses. Its features include two arches, the Gate of St. Stephen and the Gate of the Law, as well as the remains of chapels. Mount St Catherine offers a different challenge: it has an elevation gain of 2,642 m and is considered a more demanding climb for experienced, physically fit hikers.

Reefs, Mangroves and Wildlife

Different landscapes take center stage in the protected areas. Ras Mohammed National Park has an 8 km-long coral reef and a lush mangrove forest. The Nabq protected area, which covers more than 600 km², stretches from mountains and sand dunes to dense mangrove forests and offshore reefs. At Wadi Kid, a natural spring attracts wildlife, including Nubian ibex, gazelles and hyraxes.

The Abu Galum protected area includes internationally renowned dive sites such as the Blue Hole and Three Pools, as well as unique coral reefs. The Taba protected area is home to rare wildlife and important plant communities. The Nawamis, a cultural and archaeological site, are also located there. When choosing the focus of your trip, you can weigh mountain trails and historical heritage against protected areas with reefs, mangroves and wildlife.

Planning Mountain Tours

The Mountain Trails are suitable for day trips; longer tours may include overnight stays in tents. Along the way, visitors are encouraged to drink traditional Bedouin tea and listen to stories. Whether this experience is part of a particular tour depends on the excursion. Before setting out, check current route conditions and whether a guide is required, and what requirements apply. Before a desert excursion or mountain adventure on the Mountain Trails, also check with a tour operator, hotel or licensed guide whether the activity is open to visitors.

Discover more destinations: Taba, Sharm El-Sheikh, Nuweiba, Dahab, Saint Catherine, Ras Sedr, Ra's Matarma, Qesm Saint Katrin, El Tor.

For the broader travel overview: Egypt.