Ein Gedi National Reserve

Looking to get out of the city and enjoy some nature?

Look no further than the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve.

About an hour’s drive from Jerusalem, it is a premier hiking spot, with multiple hiking trails.

On the Dead Sea coast, it is the largest oasis on the western shore.

It boasts one of only two freshwater springs on the western shore, most of the others having a high salt content.

There are many archaeological finds in the area, and Masada is also nearby.

Qumran is just north, and is an ancient and very important archaeological site(In 1947, the Dead Sea scrolls were found there).

In short, this is an excellent and refreshing stop among other just as worthwhile destinations.

Thousands of years ago, Ein Gedi provided a refuge from David as he fled from King Saul (1 Samuel 23-29).

Here lies the cave where David cut Saul’s cloak in the Biblical story.

Today this lush desert oasis provides a burst of vegetation to travelers coming from the desert.

Hyrax, wild goats, rabbits, deer  and birds are in abundance.

Leopards live in the jungle, but sightings are rare. This lush oasis beckons city dwellers in the heat of summer, and not only animals but plants and trees exist in a wide variety in this verdant wonderland.

The fresh water attracts creatures not otherwise seen in the desert. Foxes and hyenas prowl at night and early morning, adding a layer of excitement to this beautiful oasis. Another draw to the park is the variety of hiking trails. Yes there are difficult hikes, but there are also beginner and intermediate trails, so that everybody can enjoy the shady pools and waterfalls. The Nahal David trail is especially popular and easy. The Upper David stream provides a little more of a challenge and the benefit of less crowds. Those wanting a little more of a workout can take the Arugot Stream trail, which will take about four hours and provides a true nature experience.

About 600 feet above Dead Sea level, waterfalls crash down over the rocks. Only 30 minutes of hiking will take the day visitor to a pool and waterfall. Those with the energy to scramble to the top will be treated with a majestic view of the Dead Sea. Four different springs have eroded the limestone cliffs over the centuries, forming canyons and heat. Migratory birds stop here on their way to and from Africa and Europe. Hiking opportunities are abundant here. Be sure to carry a swimsuit and a towel to enjoy the pools, and arrive very early to avoid the crowds.

Entry fees to the Nature Reserve (including the synagogue): Adults NIS 27, children NIS 14.

Israeli senior citizens receive a 50% discount.

The park opens at 8 am and closes at 4pm, 5pm from April-September.

Animals will not approach the oasis, one of the only sources of water in the region if there are people nearby, which is why the closing times are strictly adhered to.

Food and fire are not permitted either.

As the park closes in the afternoon, the only way to see the nocturnal animals is very early in the morning or by staying at the Kibbutz Ein Gedi. The nearby kibbutz harvests date palms as their main crop, as the oasis has them in abundance.

They also run a spa to the south where visitors can cover themselves in Dead Sea mud and relax.

They boast a pool and lovely surroundings for those wanting to soak in the atmosphere of the oasis.