There are several sites around the Middle East that claim to be "Mount Horeb" or “Mount Sinai” but no location has as much amazing evidence to back up such claims as Jebal Maqla and it's suroundings in Saudi Arabia.
We will take you to the heritage sites around Tabuk and the Red Sea, tell you what the local bedouins believe about these sites as well as the conclusions we've reached so far based on the ongoing research we and others have performed in the region.
If you do not request pick-up from other places, we will meet you in the lobby of the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel in Tabuk. Our Staff will wear a T-shirt with our company logo on - Desert Paths.
Hilton Garden Inn Lobby
Pick up from Tabuk Airport
The Red Sea crossing point in Saudi Arabia, across from Nuwaiba Beach, attracts numerous visitors due to its historical significance. We believe that this is the area where Moses and the Israelites crossed the Red Sea during the Exodus. Visitors can explore the site and get a glimpse into the biblical events. Additionally, the beach itself offers stunning views of the Red Sea and its crystal-clear waters.
The Elim Oasis where Moses and his people camped after leaving Mara, is located in the Wady Tayyb Ism valley in Saudi Arabia. This place is a breathtaking natural paradise surrounded by towering rock formations with several wells the government has preserved for the local bedouins to water their animals. The oasis and the valley further into the canyon are known for their lush greenery, clear blue water pools, and an abundance of date palm trees. It offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration in the heart of the desert.
Jethro's Tombs is a place similar to Petra in Jordan or Mada'ain Saleh in Saudi Arabia. It is believed that one of the caves is Jethro's tomb, who was the father-in-law of Moses. In the same town of Al Bad', or Madyan as locals call it, you can also visit the well where it is believed that Moses took care of Jethro's daughters and helped her take out water for her sheep. Perhaps this is where he met his future wife, Sephora.
Visit and climb up to The Split Rock of Horeb, in the Rephidum area. The story says God told Moses to strike a rock and water will come out of it to quench the thirst of the people. Just a few minutes drive further, you can witness ancient petroglyphs carved on black stones on top of a hill. Perhaps this is the hill on which Moses stood with his hands up while Joshua went to fight the Amalekites in the valley.
Visit Al Lawz Mountain area with its peaks, Al Lawz and Maqla. This mountain range is believed to be referred to in the Exodus Story as the old Mount Sinai or Mount Horeb. You will see the camp where Moses and his people stayed, an altar made of rocks that were not chiseled and the remaining columns of the 12 pillars Moses erected before one of his climbs to the summit. Just a few minutes away, you will witness a pile of giant stones arranged as if they were purposely placed there, with many drawings carved on them depicting bulls, people, and other animals. We believe this could be the altar that Aaron built in front of the Godel Calf as mentioned in the story. Drive further for a few kilometers and you can see an ancient graveyard, believed to be the one where 3000 people were buried after they were punished for worshiping the golden calf.
At the bottom of the mountain, you will be able to see the Golden Calf Altar on top of which was once erected a Golden Calf (later this was burned to ashes) and then drive to a nearby site to see a second altar with stone pillars (only a few pieces are left of the initial 12 marble pillars) which Moses build before climbing up the mountain to receive the instructions to build the Tabernacle.
If you want to extend your journey by half a day (choose to camp at the foot of the mountain or return to Tabuk for the night), you can climb up to what is believed to be Elijah's cave, a climb we only advise the fit ones to do, but nonetheless, a climb that will forever change your perspective on the story of the Exodus and Elijahs. Contact us and we will arrange it for you.
If you want to extend your journey by another day (choose to camp at the foot of the mountain or return to Tabuk for the night), you can climb up to one of the peaks of Jebel Maqla, again a climb we only advise the fit ones to do, but likely the climb of your lifetime. Contact us and we will arrange it for you.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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