Mount SinaiOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
Where Moses received the Ten Commandments
What to do in Mount Sinai? Immerse yourself in a mythical place where biblical history intertwines with the arid beauty of the desert. Mount Sinai, also known as Jabal Musa, is a major pilgrimage site, famous for being the place where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments. At the foot of this sacred mountain lies Saint Catherine's Monastery, an architectural and spiritual treasure, a UNESCO World Heritage site, housing ancient manuscripts and the burning bush. For an unusual activity and an immersive discovery, our outdoor escape games offer a unique scavenger hunt. Transform your exploration of ancient trails into a real treasure hunt, where each clue reveals the secrets of this desert landscape and its rich past. Discover below our trail game through Mount Sinai, an original way to soak up the spirit of the place.
Landmarks of Mont sinai
Monuments and sites covered by our escape games across the city.
Unusual things to do in Mount Sinai
For an unusual activity in Mount Sinai, our outdoor escape games invite you to an extraordinary exploration. Off the beaten path, follow in the footsteps of pilgrims and monks through lunar landscapes and hidden canyons. The trail will lead you to spectacular viewpoints over the Plain of Er-Rahah, where the tribes of Israel are said to have camped. Each puzzle is a gateway to a legend, a historical anecdote, or a secret of monastic life. It's an original outing that combines the adventure of a treasure hunt with the spiritual and historical depth of the site, offering a unique perspective that classic tours cannot match.
Things to do in Mount Sinai with kids
What to do with the family in Mount Sinai? Our escape games are an excellent option for a kids' and teens' activity. Accessible from age 8, they transform the discovery of the site into a captivating adventure. Children will love searching for clues scattered along the trails, while teenagers will get involved in solving historical puzzles. The GPS guidance system secures the route, allowing parents to enjoy the beauty of the landscape worry-free. It's a teen-friendly outing that stimulates curiosity, teamwork, and offers a fun way to learn the history and geography of this iconic region.
Mount Sinai for couples
For a couples' outing or a romantic getaway in Mount Sinai, our trails offer an intimate and memorable experience. Away from the hustle and bustle, you'll share moments of discovery and wonder in the heart of a desert landscape imbued with spirituality. Solve puzzles together while admiring the grandiose panoramas of Sinai, the changing colors of the mountains at sunrise or sunset. It's a romantic activity that invites contemplation and connection, strengthening bonds through a shared adventure. A unique way to create unforgettable memories in a setting of exceptional beauty and history.
What to do in Mount Sinai when it rains
What to do in Mount Sinai when it rains? Although rain is rare in this desert region, our outdoor escape games remain an option. The trail, though primarily outdoors, can be adapted. In case of light rain, the mystical atmosphere of the desert is enhanced, and the rocks take on deeper hues. Saint Catherine's Monastery offers natural shelters and indoor spaces to explore if the weather turns bad. A wet-weather activity that transforms the challenge into an even more immersive experience, inviting you to discover Mount Sinai in a different light.
Where is Mount Sinai, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Mount Sinai
- Saint Catherine's Monastery
- Chapel of the Burning Bush (exterior view)
- Start of the Steps of Repentance
- Saint Stephen's Gate
- Elijah's Chapel
- Summit of Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa)
- Moses' Cave (near the summit)
- Viewpoint overlooking the Plain of Raha
The history of Mount Sinai
Early Christian Settlements
The history of Mount Sinai is connected to early Christian monasticism. In the 3rd century AD, hermits began to settle in the Sinai Peninsula, drawn by its isolation and the biblical significance of Jabal Musa (Mount Sinai), believed to be the mountain where Moses received the Ten Commandments. These early ascetics lived in caves and simple shelters. By the 4th century, their numbers had grown, leading to the construction of small churches and communal living arrangements.
The Monastery's Foundation under Justinian I
The turning point came in the 6th century, under the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I (reigned 527–565 AD). Recognizing the strategic importance of the region and the need to protect the growing monastic community from Bedouin raids, Justinian ordered the construction of a fortified monastery at the foot of Jabal Musa. This undertaking, completed around 565 AD, resulted in Saint Catherine's Monastery. The monastery was built around the Chapel of the Burning Bush, believed to be on the site where Moses encountered God. Its granite walls, up to 3 meters thick and 15 meters high, have preserved the monastery's contents, including its collection of icons and ancient manuscripts. It is one of the oldest continuously operating libraries in the world.
What to see in Mount Sinai
- Saint Catherine's Monastery — See the walls of this UNESCO World Heritage site, which holds a collection of icons, mosaics, and manuscripts. The monastery's main church, the Basilica of the Transfiguration, dates from the 6th century.
- Chapel of the Burning Bush — This chapel, within Saint Catherine's Monastery, is believed to be built on the spot where Moses encountered the burning bush. A species of Rubus sanctus grows in the courtyard.
- Steps of Repentance — These steps, carved by monks, lead from Saint Catherine's Monastery towards the summit of Mount Sinai. There are approximately 3,750 steps.
- Elijah's Chapel — This small chapel on the upper reaches of the Steps of Repentance marks the traditional spot where the prophet Elijah is said to have sheltered.
- Summit of Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa) — The peak offers views of the surrounding desert. This is the traditional site where Moses received the Ten Commandments.
- Moses' Cave — Near the summit of Mount Sinai, this small cave is where Moses is believed to have waited to receive the Ten Commandments.
- Plain of Raha — This plain, visible from various viewpoints on the ascent, is identified as the place where the Israelites camped at the foot of Mount Sinai.
When to visit Mount Sinai
Visit Mount Sinai during the cooler months, from October to April. Temperatures range from daytime highs of 20-25°C (68-77°F) to chilly nights, especially at higher elevations; bring layers. The light is clear. Avoid the summer months, from May to September, when temperatures can exceed 35°C (95°F), making the ascent of Mount Sinai challenging. While the monastery is open year-round, some access might be limited during major religious holidays.
Getting around Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai is accessed via Sharm El Sheikh International Airport (SSH), approximately a two to three-hour drive away. Taxis and private transfers are available from the airport. There are no public buses directly to Saint Catherine's Monastery. Once at the monastery, most exploration is on foot. The ascent of Mount Sinai requires a good level of fitness and hiking shoes. You can climb the Steps of Repentance or take a camel path, which is less steep. Parking is available near the monastery. There are no major markets nearby, so bring any specific provisions.
Things you probably do not know about Mount Sinai
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Saint Catherine's Monastery
- Why does Saint Catherine's Monastery have a mosque within its walls? The mosque was built in the 10th or 11th century as a gesture of goodwill and a means of protection during periods of Islamic rule, demonstrating the monastery's long history of peaceful coexistence with its Muslim neighbors.
- Chapel of the Burning Bush
- What's unique about the plant identified as the Burning Bush? The Rubus sanctus (Holy Bramble) growing in the courtyard of the Chapel of the Burning Bush is said to be a descendant of the original bush, and it's believed that attempts to transplant it elsewhere have failed.
- Saint Stephen's Gate, Steps of Repentance
- Who was Saint Stephen, and what's his connection to the monastery? Saint Stephen was a Syrian monk who lived in the Sinai in the 6th century and was martyred by Bedouin raiders. His gate is a significant point on the pilgrimage route up Mount Sinai.
- Summit of Mount Sinai (Jabal Musa)
- What unusual structure can be found at the very summit of Mount Sinai? At the summit, alongside a small chapel dedicated to the Holy Trinity, there is also a small mosque, reflecting the shared reverence for the site among Christians and Muslims.
- Library of Saint Catherine's Monastery
- What rare and ancient manuscript was rediscovered in the monastery's library in the 19th century? The Codex Sinaiticus, one of the oldest and most complete manuscripts of the Bible, dating to the 4th century, was rediscovered there in 1844 by Constantin von Tischendorf.
Questions about visiting Mount Sinai
How long should I plan to stay in the Mount Sinai area?
Most visitors dedicate one to two days. A full day is needed to explore Saint Catherine's Monastery and ascend Mount Sinai for sunrise or sunset. An additional day allows for more relaxed exploration or nearby desert excursions.
What are the transportation options around Mount Sinai?
Beyond walking, the primary mode of transport for ascending Mount Sinai is either on foot or by camel, especially for the less steep path. Taxis or private transfers are necessary for travel to and from the monastery from other cities.
Is Mount Sinai suitable for children?
While the monastery itself is accessible, the ascent of Mount Sinai can be challenging for young children due to the strenuous nature of the climb. Older children who are experienced hikers may enjoy the adventure.
What is the typical budget for a visit to Mount Sinai?
Costs vary, but expect to budget for transportation to and from the region, any guided tours, accommodation if staying overnight, and a small entrance fee for the monastery. Food options are limited and basic.
Are there any specific cultural customs I should be aware of?
Dress modestly when visiting Saint Catherine's Monastery, covering shoulders and knees. It's also respectful to ask permission before taking photos of people, especially monks or local Bedouins.
What should I pack for a trip to Mount Sinai?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, layers of clothing for fluctuating temperatures, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water. A headlamp is essential if planning a sunrise or sunset hike up Mount Sinai.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game in Mount Sinai cost?
Our outdoor escape games in Mount Sinai start at €12 per team (1 phone). For multiple players on the same trail, it's €19 for 2 phones and €25 for 3. As there is currently only one trail, a City Pass is not available, but each game offers excellent value for an unforgettable adventure.
Are the Mount Sinai escape games suitable for children / families?
Yes, our Mount Sinai trail is designed to be a family-friendly activity, suitable from age 8. The puzzles are varied, combining observation, logic, and a touch of history, allowing every family member to contribute. The in-app GPS guidance ensures smooth and safe progress, even for the youngest explorers, making this treasure hunt a perfect outing for teens and children.
How long does an outdoor escape game in Mount Sinai last?
Expect between 1h30 and 2h30 to complete our outdoor escape game in Mount Sinai, depending on your pace and puzzle-solving skills. Our games are self-guided, meaning you can start whenever you like and take your time to explore the area. This is ideal for fitting into your schedule and fully enjoying the experience without rushing.
Do I need to book in advance?
Online booking is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended, especially if you plan to play in a group or during peak tourist seasons. Purchasing online guarantees you'll instantly receive an activation code via email, which you can use at any time, with no expiry date. This offers you complete flexibility to start your adventure whenever you wish.
What is Mount Sinai famous for? / What to visit in Mount Sinai?
Mount Sinai is globally renowned for its biblical significance as the place where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments. Beyond climbing the mountain itself, Saint Catherine's Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-see. It houses an impressive collection of icons and manuscripts, and the site of the burning bush. Our escape game trail incorporates these iconic locations, allowing you to discover them interactively.
What is the best season to visit Mount Sinai?
The best season to visit Mount Sinai is spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). Temperatures are milder, and the skies are generally clear, offering ideal conditions for hiking and outdoor activities. Summer can be very hot, and winter cold, especially at night. However, even in winter, sunny days are suitable for exploration, and the desert light is magnificent.