This journey will launch you directly into one of the most undiscovered and
fascinating mountain regions of the world. Usually the Bedouin world is
associated with hot desert and a constantly moving dune landscape but join
us to experience this unique 'true Arab' experience in the totally unexpected
high mountain landscape of the Sinai Peninsula.
Traditional Bedouin hospitality that reaches back to biblical times, ancient
monasteries and a landscape dominated by huge weathered granite boulders,
high scenic mountain passes, Bedouin oasis, craggy mountain walls and
narrow canyon walls.
Our journey culminates with the ascent of the highest mountain in the Sinai:
the historic Mount Sinai form the St Catherine monastery. A journey not to
be missed and which is sure to inspire many more subsequent visits' to this
most enchanted place.
Day 1: Arrival in SSH, transfer to Dahab, overnight in Dahab.
Day 2: Drive to St. Katherine. After loading the luggage on the camels, we start the trekking tour in Wadi Abu Sela. Leaving the valley floor behind us, we ascend a winding path up Jebel el Fria. Passing a ruined Byzantine monastery en route, we stop for lunch on a picturesque plateau. Continuing on our way, we pass numerous deserted houses fashioned from the hollows beneath huge granite boulders. Overnight camp in Bedouin garden.
Day 3: After breakfast, our route leads us on a meandering trail up and down the numerous valleys, until we reach the imposing granite blocks which mark the final ascent to the peak of Jebel El Banaat. From the top we have a beautiful panoramic view over the South Sinai Mountains. Lunch is in Wadi Nugra, site of a high waterfall and surrounding pools (depending on the volume of recent rainfall.) ! ; A sinuous valley brings us to our overnight camping location in a Bedouin garden, close to the tomb of Sheikh Awad.
Day 4: We begin the day on a broad, sandy plain, dotted with occasional tall acacia trees - it almost feels as if we left the 'mountains' for a hike in the 'desert!' Gradually the way becomes stonier as it gently rises and brings us back to a familiar landscape of large granite boulders. We continue on our way through Wadi Talaa and Wadi T'lah, observing the valleys becoming narrower and more winding! . We pass by numerous Bedouin gardens and palm tree oases on the way to our overnight camp in Wadi T'lah. The contrast of scenery on this day brings a delightful feeling of variety to this adventure.
Day 5: A winding path leads us out of Wadi T'lah, up and over various ridges on the way to a stunning landscape of smooth boulders, whose hollowed out basins fill with water in the springtime. A meandering climb over the boulders leads us to a delightful meadow of sand, whose flat and open terrain is in surprising contrast to the valley we just left behind. A relaxed stroll through this meadow b! rings us to the final ascent of Jebel Naga, whose peak is marked by huge granite blocks, varying in colour from grey-white to mottled brown. The view from the top is stunning - a glass of Bedouin tea enjoyed whilst gazing down over the lower lying plains will not be forgotten! The descent from the mountain is pleasant and varied, passing through another sand meadow strewn with granite boulders. Our overnight camping location is on an open plain flanked by imposing mountain peaks.
Day 6: The day begins with our ascent of Jebel Abbas Pasha. The first stage of the ascent takes us past the so-called Tiger Rock, which according to local legend, used to be a likely spot for sightings of the big predators - a long time ago! As we reach a sharrafa or observation point, we have a clear view of the ruined palace at the top of the mountain, which dates from the 1850's. The path s! nakes its way up to the peak and on a clear day one can see the Gulf of Suez on the way up. There is usually a refreshing breeze blowing in the palace ruins and it is a great vantage point for panoramic photos. The descent into Wadi Zuweitin can be done by a choice of routes according to the physical condition and desire for adventure of the guests. We camp overnight in a Bedouin garden in Wadi Kharasad El Shagg.
Day 7: Breakfast will be served early today. We move before the sunrise to reach the peak of Mount Katherine via a choice of routes - again according to the degree of physical challenge required. Depending on the season, waterholes will be full (spring) or dry (autumn/early winter.) All the available routes take us through beautiful scenery: the more demanding ones just offer a little more variety to the ascent.! The view from the peak will take your breath away - this is the highest peak in Sinai, at an altitude of 2642 metres above sea level. A winding path brings us down to the location of our overnight camping location in a Bedouin garden in Wadi El Arbaein. Our early start in the morning means that there is ample relaxation time for those who wish to.
Day 8: Climb Mount Moses for sunrise (ascent begins at 02:30.) The panoramic view from the top has been captured by many a photographer and is known the world over - it is quite simply stunning. While this peak may not be the most tranquil spot of the whole tour, it is well worth the climb to have experienced this moment for oneself. After descending to base camp in time for breakfast, we visit the monastery of ! St. Katherine (option of seeing the world famous collection of icons in the museum.) We have some time to look around St. Katherine town before taking lunch in a restaurant which offers a selection of freshly prepared and authentic local cuisine. We drive back to Dahab after lunch. Overnight in accommodation.
Day 9: Free days in Dahab with possibility of snorkelling, swimming, diving, shopping, yoga etc. Overnight in Dahab (accommodation).
Day 10: Transfer Dahab - SSH Airport / departure.
