Private Tour to the 2 Monasteries of St Anthony and St Paul from Hurghada

This private tour from Hurghada to the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul offers a full-day spiritual and historical journey into Egypt’s Eastern Desert. You’ll depart early in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. The first stop is the Monastery of St Anton, the oldest Christian monastery in the world, where you’ll explore ancient churches, frescoes, and even climb to the hermit cave of Saint Anthony. Then, you’ll continue to the Monastery of St. Paul, nestled deep in the mountains, where Saint Paul the Anchorite lived in solitude for 90 years. This tour is a peaceful, eye-opening experience into early Christian monastic life.

Monasteries of St Anthony and St Paul

Take a tour of the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul and explore the history and culture of ancient Egypt at the Coptic monasteries. The monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul are the oldest Christian monasteries; they both date back to the 4th century AD when monks began to settle at the foot of the Red Sea Mountain, in hidden cliffs and cryptic caves. Both monasteries are considered the holiest venues of the Coptic Church in Egypt.

The Monastery of St. Anthony is a large complex surrounded by high walls, including churches, chapels, a garden, and a spring, glorifying the father of monasticism Saint Anthony. More than 1600 years ago this was the home of the eremite Antony, who lived in a cave up on the mountain in 680 meters above sea level.

If you climb up to the saint’s cell you can see writings and depictions. When you look outside you have a gorgeous view over the mountains and the desert while on the horizon you can even see the Red Sea. You can see here the ancient Coptic Church where the holy man is buried and well preserved medieval drawings.

After a rise through the cliffs and plateaus of the mountains, you can reach the monastery of St Paul, which was built in the 4th century by hermits who had chosen to isolate themselves from the materialistic world at the same site where Saint Paul had chosen to live in a cave for 90 years. You have also a chance to visit the beautiful cellar that is located deeply under the level of the monastery and ornamented by colorful frescos.

Both monasteries are worth a visit, even if you’re not interested in the spiritual side of the experience. The beauty of the sights you’ll catch from up above will make the tour unforgettable.

Overview Monasteries of St Anthony and St Paul

In the heart of Egypt’s vast Eastern Desert lies one of the most profound and spiritual experiences available to travelers seeking a connection to the early roots of Christian monasticism — the Private Tour to the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul. This journey takes visitors from the vibrant coastal city of Hurghada into the spiritual silence of the desert, where two of the most ancient Christian monasteries in the world — the Monastery of St Anton and the Monastery of St. Paul — have stood for over 1,600 years. Hidden within the dramatic Red Sea Mountains, these sacred sites are not only spiritual sanctuaries but also architectural and historical treasures.

This private tour offers a deep dive into the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul, both revered for their historical significance, religious heritage, and breathtaking locations. Whether you are a pilgrim, a lover of history, a cultural explorer, or simply someone curious to step off the beaten path, this unique experience promises a day of reflection, discovery, and wonder.

Summary Monasteries of St Anthony and St Paul

Departing early from Hurghada, this full-day private tour transports visitors through the arid yet awe-inspiring landscapes of the Eastern Desert to the foothills of the Red Sea Mountains. There, enveloped by cliffs and solitude, stand the two ancient monastic institutions: the Monastery of St Anton and the Monastery of St. Paul. The journey includes a guided exploration of these sites, climbing to sacred caves, viewing ancient frescoes, and understanding the spiritual lifestyle that has continued uninterrupted for centuries.

The Monastery of St. Anton (St. Anthony), believed to be the oldest active Christian monastery in the world, was built near the cave where Saint Anthony the Great lived as a hermit. Nearby, and equally compelling, is the Monastery of St. Paul, dedicated to the Anchorite Paul of Thebes, who lived in total seclusion for nearly a century. Together, these two spiritual sites form the core of early monastic life and have influenced Christian spirituality worldwide.

This private tour is designed for maximum comfort, insight, and exclusivity, with expert guidance and air-conditioned transfers from Hurghada. As you step away from modern distractions and into these sacred spaces, you’ll embark on a profound journey into faith, solitude, and ancient Egyptian Christian heritage.

Highlights of the Tour Monasteries of St Anthony and St Paul

• Visit the two most ancient Christian monastic settlements: the Monastery of St Anton and the Monastery of St. Paul

• Witness the natural beauty of the Red Sea Mountains and the solitude of the Eastern Desert

• Climb to the cave where Saint Anthony lived, perched 680 meters above sea level

• View rare Coptic icons, manuscripts, and centuries-old frescoes preserved within monastery walls

• Walk through sacred grounds that have inspired pilgrims, scholars, and travelers for over 16 centuries

• Enjoy private, comfortable transportation from Hurghada with a knowledgeable guide

• Experience peace, reflection, and a unique spiritual atmosphere far from tourist crowds

Itinerary Monasteries of St Anthony and St Paul

05:30 AM – Hotel Pickup in Hurghada

Your day begins in the early morning with a prompt and friendly pickup from your hotel in Hurghada. A private, air-conditioned vehicle awaits to transport you through the stillness of dawn across the rugged Eastern Desert toward Zafarana, where the two monasteries are located. During the drive, your guide will introduce you to the history of monasticism in Egypt and provide context for the day ahead.

07:30 AM – Arrival at the Monastery of St Anton

As you approach the Monastery of St Anton, the impressive fortress-like walls appear against the stark desert terrain. Founded in the 4th century AD, this monastery is dedicated to Saint Anthony the Great, the father of Christian monasticism, who lived in a nearby cave in solitude and prayer.

Inside the monastery complex, you’ll explore:

• Ancient churches and chapels adorned with medieval Coptic frescoes

• The monastic garden, a lush oasis in the desert

• The sacred spring, believed to have healing properties

• The library, home to rare manuscripts and Coptic literature

The guide will take you to the Cave of Saint Anthony, a short but rewarding climb above the monastery. Situated 680 meters above sea level, the cave is where Saint Anthony lived for 43 years. Inside, you will see inscriptions and artwork created by monks and pilgrims over the centuries. From this elevation, the panoramic view of the desert, mountains, and Red Sea horizon is simply breathtaking.

The spiritual atmosphere at the Monastery of St Anton is palpable. Even for those not religious, the aura of history, devotion, and timelessness is deeply moving.

10:30 AM – Depart for the Monastery of St. Paul

After ample time to absorb the atmosphere at the Monastery of St Anton, you’ll continue on to the nearby Monastery of St. Paul. The drive itself is scenic, passing cliffs and plateaus that enhance the feeling of retreat and seclusion.

11:15 AM – Arrival at the Monastery of St. Paul

The Monastery of St. Paul, also known as the “Monastery of the Tigers” due to its remote location and the spiritual strength it symbolizes, is equally fascinating. Dedicated to Saint Paul the Anchorite, who lived in a cave for over 90 years, this monastery was built in the 5th century and remains a place of quiet reverence.

At the Monastery of St. Paul, you’ll visit:

• The Main Church, where the body of Saint Paul is said to rest

• The underground cave where the saint lived in isolation

• A beautifully decorated cellar with colorful Coptic frescos

• The relic chamber and museum with sacred artifacts

This monastery was deserted for nearly 119 years before being repopulated by monks from the Monastery of St Anton, continuing the deep spiritual bond between these two holy sites. The monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul represent not just physical spaces but the very cradle of Christian monasticism.

01:00 PM – Return Journey to Hurghada

After your visits, you will begin the journey back to Hurghada. Along the way, enjoy refreshments and reflect on the incredible spiritual and historical insights you’ve gained.

03:00 PM – Arrival at Your Hotel in Hurghada

You’ll arrive back at your hotel in the afternoon, enriched by a truly unique journey that bridges history, faith, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Egypt’s Eastern Desert.

Included / Excluded

✅ Tour Inclusions

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Hurghada by private air-conditioned vehicle

• Round-trip transport to and from the Monastery of St Anton and the Monastery of St. Paul

• Bottled mineral water and soft drinks throughout the trip

• Professional English-speaking guide (other languages upon request)

• Entry and guided tour inside both the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul

• Optional photo stops along the way

• All taxes and service charges

❌ Tour Exclusions

• Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, donations, optional tips)

• Meals (unless pre-arranged as an add-on)

• Any services or items not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary

• Optional activities such as camel rides near the monasteries (subject to availability)

Additional Tour Info

• Tour Type: Private (only you and your group will participate)

• Minimum Participants: 2 adults

• Departure Time: 05:30 AM (may vary slightly based on hotel location)

• Estimated Return: 03:00 PM

• Meeting / Ending Point: Your hotel in Hurghada

• Duration: Approx. 9 hours

Children’s Policy

• Children aged 5–10 years enjoy a reduced rate

• Children under 5 may join free of charge (please inquire for details)

Transfer Surcharges for Outlying Areas

If you are staying outside of central Hurghada, additional charges apply for transfer:

• Makadi Bay / Sahl Hasheesh: €7.50 per person

• Safaga / Soma Bay: €12.50 per person

Important to Know

• Modest attire is required for entering the monasteries of St. Anthony and St. Paul. Long sleeves, pants or skirts, and covered shoulders are necessary.

• Please wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to climb to Saint Anthony’s cave.

• Photography is allowed in most areas, but always respect signage and guidelines from monastery staff.

• This tour is conducted respectfully and in line with local religious customs. Visitors are encouraged to approach the trip with cultural sensitivity.

Why Book with HurghadaToGo?

When you choose HurghadaToGo for your private spiritual journey, you’re not just booking a trip — you’re ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime experience guided by professionals who care deeply about the authenticity, safety, and personalization of your tour. We don’t just take you to a destination; we connect you with Egypt’s hidden soul.

• ✅ Experienced guides with deep knowledge of Coptic history and theology

• ✅ Private transportation in modern, fully insured vehicles

• ✅ Personal attention to your preferences and pace

• ✅ Seamless communication and 24/7 support before and during your tour

• ✅ A genuine connection to Egypt’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy

Booking Information

📞 WhatsApp: +20 100 925 5585
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: www.HurghadaToGo.com

Book now and step into the sacred silence of the Monastery of St Anton and the Monastery of St. Paul — the oldest monastic landmarks in Christian history.

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