The Negev Desert & Eilat

About the area

The Negev Desert, covering more than half of Israel’s land area, offers a stark yet beautiful landscape of rolling sand dunes, dramatic craters, and rugged mountains. It is home to unique natural wonders such as the Ramon Crater and the Ein Avdat canyon, along with ancient Nabatean cities like Avdat. At the southern tip of the Negev lies Eilat, a bustling resort city on the Red Sea known for its coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Eilat is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and desert adventures, making the Negev Desert and Eilat an exciting combination of natural beauty and recreational activities for travelers.

The Negev Desert & Eilat Top Highlights

The Ramon Crater

The Ramon Crater, or Makhtesh Ramon, is a breathtaking geological wonder. This vast, heart-shaped crater, stretching 40 kilometers long and 10 kilometers wide, is the largest of its kind in the world. Formed through a unique process of erosion, the Ramon Crater reveals millions of years of geological history with its multicolored rock formations and fossils. Visitors can hike, bike, or take jeep tours through the crater’s rugged terrain, discovering its natural beauty and unique landscapes. With its stunning vistas and rich geological significance, the Ramon Crater is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Ramon Crater, The Prism _ Credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Ramon Crater, Negev 2 _ credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Ramon Crater, Negev _ credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Ein Avdat

Ein Avdat Nature Reserve is a stunning canyon and oasis offering a striking contrast to the surrounding arid landscape. Carved by water over millennia, the canyon is home to lush greenery, waterfalls, and natural pools, making it a haven for wildlife such as ibex and vultures. Visitors can explore the area through well-marked hiking trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and ancient caves. Ein Avdat is not only a place of natural beauty but also holds historical significance, as it was once inhabited by Nabateans and Byzantine monks. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers seeking serenity and adventure in the desert.

Sde Boker

Kibbutz Sde Boker is known for its rich history and stunning desert landscapes. It became famous when Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion, chose it as his retirement home. Ben-Gurion’s vision of making the desert bloom led him to settle in Sde Boker, where he dedicated himself to the development of the Negev desert. Today, visitors can explore Ben-Gurion’s hut, preserved as a museum showcasing his life and work, and pay their respects at Ben-Gurion’s grave, located nearby with breathtaking views over the Zin Valley.

The Incense Route

An ancient trade route that traversed the Negev Desert, this route was once used by the Nabateans to transport valuable goods such as frankincense, myrrh, and spices from the Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean. This historic route connected key cities like Petra and Avdat, with the latter being a major stop along the way. Today, the Incense Route is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where visitors can explore the remnants of ancient fortresses, caravanserais, and desert cities that once flourished due to this bustling trade. The route offers a unique glimpse into the ancient world, blending history, archaeology, and stunning desert landscapes.

Shibta National Park _ Credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Mamshit National Park _ Credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Timna Park

Located in the southern Negev Desert near Eilat, Timna Park is a stunning geological and historical site known for its dramatic rock formations and ancient copper mines. The park features unique natural landmarks, such as Solomon's Pillars and the Mushroom Rock, alongside fascinating archaeological sites, including ancient Egyptian mining shafts and rock carvings. Visitors can explore Timna’s vast desert landscape through hiking trails, bike paths, and jeep tours. With its rich blend of natural beauty and history, Timna Park offers an unforgettable experience for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.

Timna Park_ Credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

The Red Canyon

Located near Eilat, the Red Canyon is a striking natural wonder known for its vibrant red sandstone walls and narrow, winding passageways. Formed by years of erosion, the canyon offers a relatively easy hiking trail that takes visitors through its stunning, colorful rock formations, creating a surreal and picturesque experience. As sunlight filters through the canyon, it highlights the vivid hues of red, orange, and pink, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. The Red Canyon’s unique beauty and accessibility make it a must-visit spot for those exploring the Eilat region.

Eilat Mountains 2 _ Credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Eilat Coral Beach

Located on the Red Sea, Eilat Coral Beach is one of Israel’s most beautiful and vibrant marine reserves. Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs, the beach offers a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The colorful reefs are home to a rich diversity of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and unique coral species. With easy access to the underwater wonders, Eilat Coral Beach provides both beginners and experienced divers the chance to explore one of the most pristine aquatic environments in the region. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Eilat’s coastline.

Eilat Marina in the evening _ Credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Eilat, Dolphin Reef _ Credit Tony Malkevist for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

Eilat _ Credit Dafna Tal for the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

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