There are hundreds of medicinal and aromatic plants in Sinai, especially around the High Mountan Region which has a wetter and cooler climate. Many of them are endemic, which the Bedouin have traditionally used as natural remedies. Most gardens grow some of these wild plants, and the knowledge of the medicine man — the hakim — lives on through apprentices and various projects. We can help you organize a visit to any of the initiatives.
Mahmoud Mansour’s Herbal Project
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Ahmed Salah’s Herbal Project
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Helwa Garden – Late Dr. Ahmed’s Herbal Garden
Located in Wadi Itlah, one of the most beautiful low wadis, Helwa Garden can be reached from St Catherine in about two hours on foot. Founded by the late hakim Haj Ahmed Diguni, better known as Dr Ahmed, the garden grows a wide variety of medicinal herbs and offers all the basic facilities needed for a comfortable stay, including a kitchen, bathroom, and a small refreshing pool. Although not as refined as Al-Karm, it is well above the average standard of a Bedouin garden. Nearby attractions include the Chapel of St John Climacus and the canyon of Ubugiya.
Mohamed Ouda’s Herbal Garden
Also located in Wadi Itlah, about two hours on foot from Saint Catherine, Mohamed Ouda’s Herbal Garden enjoys a magnificent setting with far-reaching views and attractive traditional architecture featuring numerous terraces and shady seating areas. Like Helwa Garden, it grows a wide variety of herbs and offers all the necessary facilities, including a kitchen and bathrooms. In terms of comfort and facilities, it deserves to be considered a simple lodge rather than just a Bedouin garden. Nearby attractions include the Chapel of St John Climacus and the canyon of Ubugiya.