Forthcoming journeys

Sinai Discovery – A Desert Adventure
1st – 8th April 2012

Cost: £925 + flight

We are so often asked by parents whether they can come too! This Easter journey offers the perfect introduction to the beauty of South Sinai and its Bedouin people. A delightful combination of adventure and discovery will appeal to family groups with children from 10 to teens, giving an insight into traditional Bedouin life, while travelling through stunning landscape encountering ancient sites, culminating in a visit to St Catherine's Monastery.

Hidden Ethiopia
16th – 27th April 2012

Cost: £1,995 + flight

Discover the hidden depths and extensive culture of rock-hewn churches and ancient ceremonies of Ethiopia's northern Tigre Region. Exquisitely designed, the contrast of architecture within the region is astounding. From the grand splendour of the geometrically designed Debre Selam Church through to the ancient ruins of the Queen of Sheba's palace, this impressive environment is matched only by the warm Ethiopian hospitality en-route.

Historical Odyssey
26 April - 3rd May 2012

With guest speaker Professor Janet Soskice, Professor in Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Cambridge and author of Sisters of Sinai: How Two lady Adventurers Found the Hidden Gospels

Cost: £975 + flight

"Janet Soskice is an endlessly fascinating storyteller, whose skill in bringing the past into the present so meaningfully is not only a remarkable asset, but helped to make the journey unforgettable. Each day was even more thrilling than the preceding one, with the climax at Mt Sinai itself delivered beyond expectation." Gabriel Somorjay, Historical Odyssey, April 2011

The backdrop to many Biblical traditions, the inspiration for the earliest psalms, and the remnants of the crusades and medieval journeys of those who came before us are all integral to this gentle adventure across the Sinai. As well as being closely associated with the Old Testament, Sinai was an important centre for early Christianity. The journey encompasses historical sites including chalcolithic tombs, ancient inscriptions and, of course, St Catherine's Monastery, one of the treasure houses of early Christian manuscripts and art, including the Syriac palympsest Gospels discovered by the Scottish twins Margaret and Agnes Smith, as told in Janet Soskice's enthralling book.

The Wisdom of the Desert – In the Footsteps of the Desert Fathers of Egypt
15th – 23rd September 2012

With guest speaker Sister Bridget Tighe FMDM

Cost £1,075 + flight

A journey rich in history and spirituality, tracing the origins of Christian monasticism. We explore the emergence and influences of the Desert Fathers and Mothers as we visit the monasteries that developed around the pioneering desert hermits, St Anthony and St Paul. We continue to St Catherine’s Monastery in Sinai and then experience for ourselves the beauty and solitude of the desert as we spend a night sleeping under the stars.

Adventure into Silence
7 - 14 October 2012

With guest speaker Sara Maitland, author of A Book of Silence

Cost: £925 + flight

“A very special experience … I am thinking longingly of my special meditation spot and already wanting to return” Jane Bellamy, October 2010.

"For years, I have been fascinated by, and drawn to, what I call the S's - stillness, silence, solitude, simplicity, sacredness and soul." Read More Tim Pickles, October 2011

Set in the most beautiful sandstone area of the Sinai desert, surrounded by spectacular weather beaten hills and wide sandy valley floors, this is one of the few places on earth where “the crashing sound of silence” (from the story of Elijah) can still be found. This gentle adventure will offer time and space to explore silence, with optional walks, accompanied by our Bedouin hosts. At the start and end of each day, our wonderful guest speaker Sara Maitland will lead discussions, drawing upon her highly acclaimed A Book of Silence . Everyone is welcome on this non-denominational journey.

Sinai Retreat

Dates to be confirmed
Cost: £830 + flight

The Wind Sand & Stars desert retreat has become a week to which people return again and again. The power of the desert silence, the beauty of the sandstone hills, the opportunity for reflection, the time of discussion and the company of the Bedu family draw the newcomer as well as those who have been before to journey with us on this very gentle retreat. Staying for five days in a stunning stretch of sandstone desert overlooked by weather beaten hills gives a unique opportunity for a sense of timelessness away from the pressures of urban life.

To express an interest in joining this Retreat, please contact the Wind Sand & Stars office and we will send you further details when available.

Adventures in Education

Journeys throughout the year

With over 20 years of expertise and experience in Sinai we are able to offer fantastic educational adventures within a very safe framework. If you would like further information please let us know.

Team Building and Charity Challenges 100KM

Groups on Request

Sinai's history and natural beauty combine to justify this unique part of the world's description as the place “Where the Heavens touch the Earth". The 100km trek follows ancient trade routes from the Red Sea to Mt Sinai. It passes through stunningly beautiful desert areas before reaching the high mountains. This truly is a life changing experience for anyone seeking a challenge or wishing to raise funds for a charity close to their heart.

Tailor Made Journeys, for families and friends