Jethro’s Tombs is an extraordinary site, often compared to Petra in Jordan or Mada’in Saleh in Saudi Arabia for its rock-carved facades and ancient atmosphere. It is believed that one of the caves here is the tomb of Jethro, the father-in-law of Moses. In the nearby town of Al-Bad’—known to locals as Madyan—you can visit the well where tradition says Moses helped Jethro’s daughters draw water for their sheep. This peaceful spot is believed to be where Moses first met his future wife, Zipporah. Walking through these sites, you’ll step into the heart of the stories that shaped the region’s biblical and historical legacy.

Visit and climb up to the Split Rock of Horeb, located in the Rephidim area—believed to be the very rock Moses struck when God commanded him to bring forth water for the Israelites. Standing before this massive, split formation, you can almost imagine the moment when water is said to have flowed from it to quench the people’s thirst. Just a short drive from there, you’ll find a hill covered with ancient petroglyphs etched into dark volcanic stones. Many believe this could be the very hill where Moses stood with his hands raised as Joshua battled the Amalekites in the valley below. It’s a powerful and humbling place that connects history, faith, and the landscape in one unforgettable experience.

Overnight in Haql

Visit the Al Lawz Mountain area, home to the peaks of Al Lawz and Jabal Maqla—believed by many to be the true Mount Sinai or Mount Horeb from the Exodus storey. Explore what is thought to be the camp of Moses and his people, featuring an altar made of uncut stones and the remains of twelve pillars Moses erected before ascending the mountain. Nearby, you’ll see a pile of massive stones with carvings of bulls, people, and animals—possibly the altar Aaron built before the Golden Calf. A few kilometres further lies an ancient graveyard, believed to be where 3,000 people were buried after that event.

At the base of the mountain, you’ll see the site believed to be the Golden Calf Altar—where the idol once stood before being burned to ashes. Nearby, you can visit a second altar with remnants of stone pillars, thought to be part of the twelve marble pillars Moses built before ascending the mountain to receive instructions for the Tabernacle.

If you wish to extend your journey by half a day, you can either camp at the foot of the mountain or return to Tabuk for the night. This extension allows you to climb to what is believed to be Elijah’s Cave—a challenging ascent recommended only for those physically fit. The effort is well worth it, offering breathtaking views and a powerful connection to the stories of the Exodus and the prophet Elijah. Contact me, and I will arrange every detail for you.

If you’d like to extend your journey by another day, you can choose to camp at the foot of the mountain or return to Tabuk for the night. This extension allows you to climb one of Jebel Maqla’s peaks—a challenging ascent recommended only for the fit, but an experience that could very well be the climb of a lifetime. Contact me, and I will handle all the arrangements for you.