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Mountain · Saint Catherine, South Sinai
Mount Saint Catherine
The highest point in Egypt, over 2,600 meters, southwest of the village of Saint Catherine, with a chapel on the summit and views over the Sinai mountains. The ascent is a long hike, with a Bedouin guide.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mount Saint Catherine
Mount Catherine (Jebel Katherina) lies southwest of the village of Saint Catherine and is the highest mountain in Egypt, at over 2,600 meters. Tradition says monks found the body of Saint Catherine of Alexandria there, brought by angels, and the mountain and monastery take their name from her.
At the summit is a small chapel, built in the early 20th century, and a meteorological station. From the top you can see Mount Sinai, the granite mountains of the southern peninsula and, on clear days, the gulfs of Suez and Aqaba.
The ascent is longer and more demanding than Mount Sinai’s and usually takes a full day, on a path of stones and steps that starts from the village. It’s done with a Bedouin guide, and some multi-day hikes through the mountains pass over the summit.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day, six to eight hours of walking round-trip.
Best time
In spring and autumn, when days are mild. In winter there may be snow and ice at the top; in summer, start very early.
How to get there
The trail begins in the village itself; hire the Bedouin guide the day before.
Tip
Bring water, food, warm layers and hiking shoes. Arrange the guide the day before and start early.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mount Saint Catherine
Which is the highest mountain in Egypt?
Mount Catherine, in South Sinai near the village of Saint Catherine, at over 2,600 meters altitude.
How long does the ascent of Mount Catherine take?
A full day: six to eight hours of walking, round-trip from the village of Saint Catherine, with a Bedouin guide.
What is on the summit of Mount Catherine?
A small early-20th-century chapel and a meteorological station, with views over Mount Sinai and the mountains of the southern peninsula.