St. Anthony and St. Paul Monasteries from Hurghada

Church of Resurrection in St. Anthony's monastery
Church of Resurrection in St. Anthony's monastery
Exterior of St. Anthony Monastery
Exterior of St. Anthony Monastery
The magnificent exterior of St. Paul's Monastery
The magnificent exterior of St. Paul's Monastery
Coptic fresco of Christ in St. Anthony's monastery
Coptic fresco of Christ in St. Anthony's monastery
Ancient Coptic fresco with the Flower of Life
Ancient Coptic fresco with the Flower of Life
Inside St. Anthony's meditation cave
Inside St. Anthony's meditation cave

General information

DestinationDurationCategory
Zaafarana, Egypt10 hoursPrivate Excursion

Program details

The monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul are the oldest Christian monasteries, both dating back to the 4th century AD when monks began to settle at the foot of the Red Sea mountain of Galala Al-Qibliya, in hidden cliffs and caves. Both monasteries are considered the holiest sites of the Coptic Church in Egypt.

Located 298 km from Hurghada city, the Monastery of St Anthony is a large complex encircled by high walls, including churches, chapels, a bakery, a garden, and a spring, celebrating the father of monasticism, Saint Anthony. Things have evolved drastically from the time when back in the 4th century, there were only a few hermits hiding in these cliffs.

The monastery of St Paul was built by his followers around the cave where he lived after he fled to the Eastern Desert from Alexandria to escape persecution. Both monasteries are worth a visit even if you are not interested in the spiritual aspect of the experience, the beauty of the views from these locations will make this an unforgettable trip.

WHAT'S INCLUDED
✔ Pickup and drop-off from hotels in Hurghada, Soma Bay, Makadi, El Gouna, or Sahl Hasheesh
✔ Transfers to the sites in a private car
✔ The Monastery of Saint Anthony
✔ The Monastery of Saint Paul
✔ Professional English-speaking guide
✔ Lunch in a local restaurant and mineral water
✔ Taxes and service charges

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
✖ Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary
✖ Tips and donations (optional)
✖ Souvenirs and purchases of a personal nature

WHAT TO BRING
- Passport
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Covered shoes
- Shoulders and knees must be covered inside the church
- Sunscreen with a high protective factor
- Hat and sunglasses
- Water bottle

TOUR DAYS
Daily

CANCELLATION POLICY
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.