Across Ancient Nomad Trails of Egypt

We head toward El-Qsouria, following the old nomad routes. After lunch on the trail, we continue to Wadi Remhan, our base camp for Mount Umm Shomar. This site, with its ancient monastery ruins and small Bedouin gardens, will be our home for two nights.

An early start takes us up the winding path of Mount Umm Shomar (2,586 m), Egypt’s second-highest peak. Known for its steep volcanic rock faces and dramatic slopes, this climb requires hands-on scrambling. From the summit, enjoy a panoramic view of the Red Sea coast before descending to Wadi Remhan for another night beneath Sinai’s dazzling night sky.

We trek toward Wadi Zwatina, with views of Mount Remhan and Umm Shomar. Passing through Naqb Zwatina and across the expansive plains of Wadi Al-Rahba, we may encounter Bedouins grazing camels and sheep. After lunch, we continue to Naqeeb Imran before reaching Wadi El-Rutq, where we camp among the ruins of ancient gardens.

Following an ancient caravan road, we reach Bir Farsh Al-Rutq for lunch before trekking to the summit of Mount Abu Ramil. From the top, take in a spectacular desert sunset before camping on the mountain for the night.

We rise early to ascend Mount Catherine (2,642 m), Egypt’s highest peak. From the summit, the 360° views of Sinai’s peaks and valleys are unforgettable. After lunch, we descend through Umm Seila and Wadi Ahmar, scrambling through its rocky trails, before camping in Awda Garden, a lush grove of almond and apricot trees where we can enjoy a refreshing cold shower.

We trek through Wadi Al-Zawatin, climbing to Mount Abbas Helmi, where the ruins of an unfinished palace overlook the Saint Catherine Mountains. After lunch with panoramic views, we descend into Wadi Tenya and on to Saqar Canyon, camping in the peaceful valley.

Today we climb Mount Na’ga, with its panoramic outlook over El-Tih Plateau and Wadi Sheikh Awad. After lunch, we descend through Wadi Shaq Tenya and Wadi Etlah, finishing in Abo Sela village. From here, we return to Saint Catherine City, where a local Bedouin camp provides showers and rest after the desert adventure.

In the morning, we explore the historic Saint Catherine Monastery, one of the world’s oldest active monasteries, with its rare manuscripts, chapels, and sacred artifacts. In the afternoon, we ascend the pilgrim path of Mount Sinai (Jabal Mousa), climbing the 750 Steps of Repentance to the summit. From the top, the sunset over the Sinai Desert is an unforgettable finale. We return to camp for supper and rest.

After breakfast, we say farewell to our Bedouin team and transfer back to your hotel or airport, carrying with us unforgettable memories of trekking Egypt’s Ancient Nomad Trails.