Mount Sinai Sunrise

Mount Sinai, known locally as Jebel Musa, rises above St Catherine's Monastery in the high mountains of Egypt's South Sinai governorate, roughly a three to four hour drive from Sharm El Sheikh. The summit, at about 2,285 metres, is one of the country's best-known sunrise vantage points. From the top, photographers look east across a sea of jagged granite ridges and valleys as the sky shifts from deep blue to pink and gold, with layered peaks fading into haze in the distance. Strong foreground subjects include the summit chapel, silhouetted pilgrims and the rock ridges lit from the side as the first light arrives. The best light comes from about thirty minutes before sunrise through the first hour after, when low side-light gives the mountains depth and texture. The best season is October to April, when skies are clearer and the climb is more comfortable, although winter nights at the top are very cold and can fall below freezing. Clear, dry mornings give the most dramatic skies, while cloud or haze can flatten the view. The summit becomes crowded before dawn, since groups arrive through the night, so visitors who want a tripod position usually reach the top well before first light and claim a place on the rocks away from the main gathering area. Tripods are generally accepted for personal use, but space is tight and etiquette is to avoid blocking others. Drones are tightly restricted in Egypt and especially at religious and protected sites, so permits would be required. The climb itself is done on foot, via the camel path or the stepped route, and takes a couple of hours in the dark, so a head torch is essential. Guides from the local Bedouin community are commonly required or arranged, and fees and arrangements are set locally. A wide lens for the vista, a tripod for pre-dawn exposures, warm layers and gloves are the key kit. Basic refreshment stalls operate along the route, though facilities at the top are minimal.