Compare and Book St Anthony and St Paul Monastery Tours from Hurghada
A st anthony monastery tour from hurghada is a full-day desert excursion covering two of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world. Both the Monastery of Saint Anthony and the Monastery of Saint Paul belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church and sit in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, west of the Red Sea coast near Zafarana.
Red Sea Quest connects you with verified local suppliers offering both shared and private options. Browse more tours in Hurghada or compare monastery day trips below.
| Feature | Shared Tour | Private Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Typical price | ~$55–$95 per adult | ~$140–$260 per vehicle |
| Group size | 6–15 travelers | Your group only |
| Flexibility | Fixed itinerary | Customizable stops |
| Hotel pickup | Included (Hurghada, El Gouna) | Included (wider area) |
| Duration | 11–13 hours | 10–13 hours |
Prices vary by supplier, season, and pickup location. Suppliers on Red Sea Quest offer free cancellation, typically up to 24 hours before departure.
What to Expect on a Hurghada Monastery Day Trip
The day starts early. Most suppliers collect you from your hotel between 04:30 and 06:00 AM for the drive west through the Eastern Desert toward the Red Sea Mountains. You travel in an air-conditioned vehicle along the Hurghada–Cairo road before turning north on the Zafarana Road. The total driving distance from Hurghada to St Anthony Monastery is approximately 260–295 km one way, taking around 3 to 3.5 hours depending on your exact hotel location.
You visit both monasteries with time to explore churches, ancient frescoes, gardens, and — for the fit — the climb to St Anthony's Cave (roughly 1,000 steps, 680 meters above sea level). The transfer between the two monasteries is about 50 km. Expect to return to your hotel between 19:00 and 21:30, making this a 10–13 hour day from hotel to hotel.
St Anthony Monastery and St Paul Monastery: Highlights
Monastery of Saint Anthony
Founded in the 4th century, St Anthony's is considered the oldest functioning Christian monastery in the world. It currently houses over 100 monks. Key highlights include the ancient Church of St Anthony containing his tomb, medieval Coptic wall paintings dating to the 13th–15th centuries, a library of rare manuscripts, and the spring-fed garden within the monastery walls. The cave of Saint Anthony sits 2 km up the mountainside — a 45-minute climb rewarded with panoramic desert views.
Monastery of Saint Paul
Built over the cave where Saint Paul the Hermit lived in the 4th century, this smaller monastery sits on the opposite side of the South Galala Plateau. Highlights include the Church of Saint Paul (built directly into the cave), ancient icons, and the fortified tower monks used during historical raids. The atmosphere here is quieter and more intimate than its larger neighbor.
Travel Time, Route, and Hotel Pickup from Hurghada
The route follows the main Hurghada–Cairo highway northwest before branching toward Zafarana along the Red Sea coast road. The road is paved, well-maintained, and passes through open desert with mountain scenery.
Hotel pickups are standard from central Hurghada (El Mamsha, Hurghada Marina area), El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, and Makadi Bay. Pickups from Soma Bay and Safaga are available with most suppliers for a small surcharge (typically €5–€10 per person). Confirm your exact pickup point when booking.
Prices, Inclusions, and What Affects Cost
Shared monastery day trips from Hurghada typically cost $55–$95 per adult. Private tours range from approximately $140–$260 per vehicle, making them better value for couples or small groups. Children usually receive discounted rates.
Standard inclusions across most suppliers:
- Air-conditioned transport (minivan or sedan for private)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- English-speaking driver or guide
- Monastery entrance fees
Factors that affect price: group size, pickup distance (Safaga costs more than central Hurghada), vehicle type, and whether a licensed Egyptologist guide accompanies the trip versus a knowledgeable driver only.
How to Choose the Best Verified Local Supplier
Look for suppliers with recent traveler reviews, clear cancellation policies, and transparent inclusions. On Red Sea Quest, all listed suppliers are verified and based locally in the Red Sea Governorate. Prioritize listings that confirm:
- Free cancellation (usually 24 hours before departure)
- Exact pickup time and location for your hotel
- Whether the cave climb at St Anthony's is included in the schedule
- Vehicle type (important for comfort on a 6+ hour round-trip drive)
Book a Monastery Day Trip
Ready to visit two of Egypt's most historically significant monasteries? Compare verified local suppliers, check live availability, and book with free cancellation on Red Sea Quest. See all Hurghada experiences to plan the rest of your Red Sea stay.
