Southern Israel offers a remarkable blend of biblical heritage, desert landscapes, pioneering history, and natural beauty. This 5-day journey will take you from the Gaza border communities and their modern struggles to the breathtaking Ramon Crater, the coral reefs of Eilat, and the majestic rose-red city of Petra in Jordan. Each day combines history, adventure, and spirituality, weaving together Israel’s past with the beauty of its desert frontier.
The journey begins at Kibbutz Yad Mordecai, named for the Warsaw Ghetto hero Mordechai Anielewicz. Here you will learn about the kibbutz’s defense during Israel’s 1948 War of Independence its again on October 7th, 2023. Continue to Sderot, a city near the Gaza border that has endured decades of rocket fire, and visit the memorial of the Hamas attack. Additional stops at the Burnt Cars Display and the Nova Music Festival Memorial provide a moving reflection on the tragic events of 7/10/23.
Driving further south into the Negev, visit Ben Gurion’s desert home in Kibbutz Sde Boker, where Israel’s first prime minister sought to live out his vision of desert pioneering. Nearby is Ben Gurion’s grave, set in a quiet overlook above the Zin Valley, with sweeping desert panoramas. End the day in Mitzpe Ramon, perched on the edge of the Ramon Crater, the largest erosion crater in the world. The town is an excellent base for exploring the desert.
Begin at the Mitzpe Ramon Visitors Center, dedicated to the geological wonders of the crater and the legacy of Israeli astronaut Ilan Ramon. Nearby you can experience the thrill of rappelling down the cliffs of the Ramon Crater, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with breathtaking views. Next, drive into the crater and explore its unique formations, including The Carpentry, where cooled volcanic rock has crystallized into geometric prisms. Continue to Khan Saharonim, the remains of a Nabatean caravanserai on the ancient incense route, once used by traders crossing the desert. By evening, descend to Eilat, Israel’s southernmost city on the Red Sea, where desert mountains meet turquoise waters.
Begin at the Eilat Underwater Observatory, where glass tunnels reveal the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of the Red Sea. For those who wish, an optional sail offers stunning views of Eilat’s coastline and neighboring Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. Adventurous travelers can choose to snorkel or scuba dive in the Red Sea, encountering coral gardens and exotic fish. For a touch of luxury, an optional private yacht sail can be arranged, complete with catering and water activities. In the afternoon, explore the Red Canyon, a striking desert gorge whose colorful sandstone walls glow in the sunlight, offering an easy and unforgettable hike.
Cross the border into Jordan for a full-day excursion to Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Walk through the narrow Siq canyon, where towering cliffs open suddenly to reveal the majestic Treasury, carved from rose-red stone. Explore temples, tombs, and colonnaded streets that once made this Nabatean capital thrive. On the return journey, stop in Aqaba, Jordan’s Red Sea port city, for a short tour and a chance to stroll along its vibrant waterfront before crossing back into Eilat.
Heading back north, stop at Timna Park, home to stunning desert landscapes and ancient copper mines once operated by the Egyptians. Within the park is a remarkable replica of the biblical Tabernacle, offering an inspiring opportunity to visualize Israelite worship in the wilderness. Continue north to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Relax with a rejuvenating swim in the Dead Sea, floating effortlessly in its salt-rich waters and enjoying the surrounding desert scenery.
