Negev Travel Guide
Explore the beauty of Negev with our informative travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.
- Introduction to Negev
- List of Places to Visit in Negev
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Negev
- Best Things to Do in Negev: Activities and Tours
- Jeep Tours
- Stargazing
- Camel Riding
- Week-Long Itinerary for Negev
- Food and Drink Scene of Negev
- Where to Stay in Negev: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Beresheet Hotel
- The Green Backpackers
- The Desert Routes Inn
- What to Buy in Negev: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Pottery
- Spices
- Local Culture and Customs of Negev
- Best Time to Visit Negev
- Do’s and Don’ts of Negev
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Negev: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Negev
- Where to Go Next from Negev: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Eilat
- Jerusalem
- Conclusion
Introduction to Negev
Located in the southern part of Israel, Negev is a vast, arid desert region that covers about 60% of the country’s total land area. It’s known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, unique geological formations, and rich cultural heritage, making it a popular travel destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history buff, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, Negev has something to offer.
List of Places to Visit in Negev
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Sde Boker
Sde Boker is an agricultural settlement located in the heart of the Negev Desert. It’s home to the Ben Gurion Archives and Research Institute, which preserves the legacy of Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion. Visitors can tour his house, which has been preserved as a memorial, and learn about his life and contribution to Israel’s history.
Masada National Park
Masada National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Israel, located on a clifftop overlooking the Dead Sea. It’s an ancient fortress that tells the story of the Jewish rebellion against the Romans in the 1st century AD. Visitors can hike up to the top of the cliff, explore the ruins, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the desert and the sea.
Nabatean City of Avdat
Avdat is an ancient Nabatean city located in the heart of the Negev Desert. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 3rd century BC. Visitors can explore the impressive ruins, learn about the Nabatean culture, and enjoy the stunning desert landscapes.
Natural Attractions of Negev: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Timna Park
Timna Park is a geological wonderland located in the southern Negev Desert. It’s known for its unique rock formations, canyons, and towering sandstone pillars. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, bike paths, and scenic drives, as well as visit its copper mines and ancient rock carvings.
Ein Avdat National Park
Ein Avdat National Park is a stunning canyon in the heart of the Negev Desert. It’s known for its natural springs, waterfalls, and lush vegetation, which contrast with the surrounding desert landscapes. Visitors can hike through the canyon, swim in the pools, and enjoy the peacefulness of the desert oasis.
Makhtesh Ramon
Makhtesh Ramon is a massive, horseshoe-shaped erosion crater in the Negev Desert. It’s the largest of its kind in the world, measuring 40 km long and up to 500 meters deep. Visitors can hike along the rim, explore the unique geological formations, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the desert landscapes.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Negev
Negev has numerous hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of expertise. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual nature lover, there’s a route for you. Some popular trails include the Israel National Trail, the Spice Route, and the Red Canyon Trail. These trails offer stunning views of the desert landscapes, unique geological formations, and diverse wildlife.
Best Things to Do in Negev: Activities and Tours
Jeep Tours
Jeep tours are a popular way to explore the Negev Desert. These tours take visitors off-road to explore the rugged terrain, hidden canyons, and stunning landscapes of the desert.
Stargazing
The Negev Desert is known for its clear skies and stunning starry nights. Visitors can enjoy stargazing tours that take them to remote areas of the desert, away from light pollution, to observe the stars, constellations, and planets.
Camel Riding
Camel riding is a traditional way to explore the Negev Desert. Visitors can experience the Bedouin way of life, ride camels through the dunes, and learn about the culture and history of the desert nomads.
Week-Long Itinerary for Negev
Day 1: Explore Timna Park and its copper mines, rock formations, and ancient carvings. Day 2: Hike through the Ein Avdat Canyon, swim in the natural pools, and enjoy the peacefulness of the desert oasis. Day 3: Visit the ancient fortress of Masada National Park, learn about the Jewish rebellion against the Romans, and enjoy the stunning desert views. Day 4: Explore the Nabatean City of Avdat, learn about the Nabatean culture and history, and enjoy the breathtaking desert landscapes. Day 5: Hike or bike the Spice Route, enjoy the desert landscapes, and visit the Bedouin settlements. Day 6: Take a jeep tour to explore the rugged terrain, hidden canyons, and stunning landscapes of the Negev Desert. Day 7: Stargaze in the remote areas of the desert, away from light pollution, and observe the stars, constellations, and planets.
Food and Drink Scene of Negev
Must-Try Dishes
Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a popular Israeli breakfast dish made with eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, served with bread for dipping.
Falafel
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern fried ball made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, served in a pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
Bedouin Tea
Bedouin Tea is a traditional herbal infusion made with sage, thyme, and other local herbs, sweetened with sugar or honey.
Local Beverages
Arak
Arak is a traditional Middle Eastern liquor made from anise, often served with water and ice.
Wine
The Negev Desert is home to several wineries that produce high-quality wines, including the Carmey Avdat Winery and the Yatir Winery.
Where to Stay in Negev: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Negev offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses.
Beresheet Hotel
Beresheet Hotel is a luxurious hotel located on the edge of Ramon Crater, offering stunning views of the desert landscapes.
The Green Backpackers
The Green Backpackers is a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of the Negev Desert, offering dorms and private rooms, a communal kitchen, and a cozy outdoor area.
The Desert Routes Inn
The Desert Routes Inn is a family-run guesthouse located near the Avdat National Park, offering comfortable rooms, garden views, and homemade breakfast.
What to Buy in Negev: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Pottery
Negev is known for its unique pottery, which is made using traditional techniques and local materials. Visitors can purchase handmade bowls, pots, and vases as souvenirs.
Spices
The Negev Desert is home to an array of herbs and spices, including the Zaatar Herb mix, which is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. Visitors can buy these spices as souvenirs or to take back home.
Local Culture and Customs of Negev
Negev is home to several Bedouin tribes, who have a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. Visitors are advised to respect their cultural customs and dress modestly when visiting Bedouin areas. Additionally, visitors should avoid photographing any Bedouin people without permission.
Best Time to Visit Negev
The best time to visit Negev is during the autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) seasons, when temperatures are mild and pleasant. The summer months (June to August) can be scorching hot, while the winter months (December to February) can be chilly and rainy.
Do’s and Don’ts of Negev
Do:
- Respect the Bedouin customs and dress modestly when visiting their areas.
- Stay on the marked trails when hiking, biking, or traveling in the desert.
- Bring plenty of water and sun protection when traveling in the desert.
Don’t:
- Photograph any Bedouin people without permission.
- Travel alone in the desert without proper preparation and guidance.
- Leave any trash or waste in the desert.
Safety and Health
Safety in Negev
Negev is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, visitors should be aware of the risks associated with the desert environment, such as extreme temperatures, dehydration, and flash floods. It’s recommended to travel with a guide when exploring the desert and to carry enough water and a first-aid kit.
Health in Negev
The Negev Desert has a dry climate, which can exacerbate respiratory and skin conditions. Visitors with such conditions should take necessary precautions and carry any medications they require. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the risks associated with drinking unboiled water.
Getting to Negev: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Negev
The nearest airport to Negev is Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv, which is about 100 km away. From there, visitors can reach Negev by rental car, taxi, or bus.
Bus Stations Near Negev
There are several bus stations near Negev, including Be’er Sheva Central Bus Station, located in the heart of the city, and Mitzpe Ramon Central Bus Station, located near Ramon Crater.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach Negev by rental car or private shuttle service. It’s recommended to plan the transportation ahead of time, as the desert roads can be challenging to navigate.
How to Get Around in Negev
The most convenient way to get around Negev is by rental car, as public transportation can be limited in some areas. Visitors can also travel by bus or take guided tours.
Where to Go Next from Negev: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Eilat
Eilat is a resort town located on the Red Sea, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and underwater observatory. It’s only a three-hour drive from Negev.
Jerusalem
Jerusalem is one of the most iconic and historic cities in the world, known for its ancient sites, religious significance, and vibrant culture. It’s about a two-hour drive from Negev.
Conclusion
Negev is a unique and fascinating travel destination that offers a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. Whether you’re looking to hike through canyons, explore ancient ruins, or immerse yourself in Bedouin culture, Negev has something to offer. With careful planning, you can make the most of your visit to this breathtaking desert paradise.
Negev Image Gallery
Moonscape inside the Machtesh Ramon
Ein Avdat
Haluza ruins
Avdat ruins
Church in Shivta
Red Canyon hiking map