Mons Claudianous the Lost Roman City

Overview

Journey back nearly 2,000 years to an extraordinary archaeological marvel hidden deep within the Red Sea mountains. Our exclusive private safari to Mons Claudianus takes you off the beaten path to explore a massive ancient Roman quarry town dating back to the 1st and 3rd centuries AD (reign of Emperor Hadrian). Discover how Roman soldiers, miners, and engineers lived, worked, and carved the legendary imperial granite that built monuments across the Roman Empire.

Tour Highlights

• The Ancient Roman Fortress: Explore the well-preserved defensive walls and quarters built by Roman legionnaires.

• Imperial Granite Quarries: Stand where massive blocks of granodiorite were cut and hauled using sledges and donkeys across the desert.

• Temple of Isis & Public Baths: Visit the sacred sanctuary where Roman workers prayed and explore the ancient bathhouse and water aqueduct systems.

• Workers’ Village: Walk through the stone houses where miners lived over 1,800 years ago.

• Historical Significance: Learn how Mons Claudianus supplied prized stone for elite Roman architecture, including columns and floors for Villa Hadriana in Tivoli and the Temple of Venus.

• Private 4×4 Safari: Enjoy a rugged, comfortable off-road adventure through the dramatic Red Sea mountain landscapes with an expert guide.

Detailed & Itinerary with Sjptours team.

• 07:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel in Hurghada (or Safaga, El Gouna, and Makadi) by a private 4×4 vehicle.

• 08:30 AM: Begin the off-road drive deep into the Red Sea mountains toward the western interior.

• 10:00 AM: Arrive at Mons Claudianus (located about 40 km west of Safaga, sitting 700 meters above sea level).

• 10:15 AM: Guided walking tour of the Roman fortress, workers’ stone houses, the Temple of Isis, the ancient water aqueduct, and the massive abandoned granite columns.

• 12:30 PM: Enjoy a picnic lunch or a relaxing break amidst the stunning mountain scenery.

• 02:00 PM: Begin the return off-road safari journey through the desert.

• 04:30 PM: Safe drop-off back at your hotel.

Tour Details & Specifications

What is Included & Excluded

What’s Included:

• Private 4×4 desert safari transportation from/to your hotel.

• Expert tour and historical guide.

• All entrance and site fees to Mons Claudianus.

• Bottled water and refreshments during the safari.

• All local taxes and service charges.

What’s Excluded:

• Gratuities / Tipping for the driver and guide (recommended).

• Personal expenses or souvenirs.

• Meals (unless specifically requested to be arranged).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Mons Claudianus?

It is a massive ancient Roman settlement and quarry site in the Eastern Desert of Egypt, active during the 1st to 3rd centuries AD, famous for producing high-quality granodiorite used in major Roman imperial architecture.

How do we get to the site?

The site is located deep in the mountains about 40 km west of Safaga. We utilize private 4×4 safari vehicles to safely navigate the desert tracks and mountain terrain.

What should I wear for this safari?

We recommend comfortable hiking or walking shoes, sturdy clothing suitable for rocky terrain, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera to capture the incredible Roman ruins against the desert backdrop.