St Paul and St Antonius Monasteries Private Tour: Immerse in Ancient Egyptian Christianity

Immerse yourself in the ancient Egyptian Christianity with a private tour of St Paul and St Antonius Monasteries. Explore the oldest Christian monastery in Egypt, discover well-preserved medieval paintings, and delve into the cultural and historical heritage of the Egyptian orthodox Copts.

Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • St. Paul Monastery - First we take you to St. Paul’s Monastery. It was built over the cave of Saint Paul, a Christian hermit who lived in the 4th Century AD. He preferred an ascetic life in the desert to the comfort of a city and devoted his life to worshiping God. According to legend, God himself sent bread from ravens to his faithful servant to…
What's Included
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Landing and facility fees included
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
  • Pickup from Makadi hotels 5 euros per person surcharge and 10 Euro from Safaga
Additional Information

The most ancient Christian monastery in Egypt, revered as a sacred place among Egyptian Orthodox Copts. A treasure trove of cultural and historical significance. Presently, it is home to over 100 monks. It houses an ancient Coptic church, the final resting place of the saintly figure (St Anthony), and it boasts well-preserved medieval artworks. Its…

Location
St. Paul Monastery
طريق دير الانبا بولا
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.5
(8 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Renata_l
Jul 30, 2024
The Monadtety of St Anthony is a gem and beautiful place to visit - I had a very good experience and enjoyed the trip. All was very good. I can recommend this excursion.
Review provided by Viator
Drjm_c
Mar 12, 2024
Amazing and spectacular peace and beauty - A long way from Hurghada, 3.5 hours to get there with no other pick ups. St Anthony's monastery is strikingly beautiful and peaceful beyond belief (!). Almost 2000 years old and large and fully functioning with garden and copious spring water supply in the heart of the dessert. 1300 steps up to his cave. Well worth the effort. Don't overdo do it if that's too much for you. And St Paul's monastery is equally beautiful and quiet on a smaller scale. No tourist crowds at all in mid March. But it was both the 2nd day of Ramadan and the 2nd day of Lent. No catering is available within 20 miles! Sadly at the end the taxi driver was confused about how much I should pay him for one coffee that he bought.
Review provided by Viator
148xavierf
Feb 2, 2024
My most spiritual day in Egypt - The most spiritual day of my stay in Egypt. - A fantastic journey to the oldest monasteries in the world which are venerating Saint Anthony and Saint Paul, both members of the Coptic Orthodox tradition. A trip full of soul and character! With a wonderful driver, Ahmed and guided by a wise and lovely monk, father Anyhony. The coordination of Sameh -the travel agent- was also amazing and he was very patient with me. Definitely one of my best days in Egypt! A fabulous day in the cradle of Christian monasticism! The monasteries of Saint Anthony and Saint Paul, both members of the Coptic Orthodox tradition. A trip full of light thanks to a wonderful driver, Ahmed, and with the help of Father Antonio, a monk from the community of the same name who guided us with his wisdom, patience and tenderness. And obviously I would also like to highlight the excellent coordination of the travel agent Sameh who, with patience and affection, made this trip possible. Without a doubt, one of my best days in Egypt!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Monika
Jan 12, 2024
Perfect day! - We had a well organised trip where everything worked out as described. Very friendly communication and an excellent driver. Both monasteries are worth the visit. We were guided by monks who were very friendly and gave us many insights. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Christopher_o
Jan 27, 2023
Long but excellent day. - Arranged this for a pick up from Soma bay. A small surcharge as a little further from Hurghada & just 1 person. Thanks Sameh. 4am start but good for the climb to St. Anthony’s cave. It was a scramble to get inside, a very small limited space & with those wanting to pray for a while, tempers got frayed - maybe due to a little claustrophobia with those who couldn’t out. We’ll worth the loooong climb. Had a tour with Father Marcus and joined a lovely family/ friends group. The children enthusiastically wanted to practice English. The Fathers English was excellent. As was the tour. Dropped into St Paul’s monastery, conveniently, on the way back to Soma Bay. Far away & 12 hours from Soma Bay but an excellent day with an expert driver.
Review provided by Viator
Cuatrov1ajeros
Jul 18, 2022
A wonderful day - Good afternoon. Very interesting visit to the Monasteries of San Antonio and San Pablo, thanks to the attention and kindness of the monks who received us and served as our guide. The driver stood out for his professionalism, kindness and discretion that made the journey go smoothly and make it a wonderful day, of which we have wonderful memories.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $96
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).