10 of the most spectacular desert hikes in Israel

Brian Blum

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There’s no better way to see the desert than on foot. Join us in exploring the most beautiful desert trails of southern Israel.

The best time to hike in Israel’s Negev and Arava deserts is right now

The best time to hike in Israel’s Negev and Arava deserts is right now. It may be cold in the north, but the temperature is just perfect for climbing the rough-and-tumble mountains of Israel’s south before it heats up for the summer. So, in the spirit of spring, ISRAEL21c presents our picks for Israel’s top 10 desert hikes.

Mount Zefachot (also spelled Tzfachot)

This is the quintessential tiyul (trip) for hikers staying at the Eilat Field School. Starting from just east of the building, it’s also the southernmost tip of the 1,000-kilometer Israel National Trail. The Field School is on the road that leads to the Egyptian border at Taba.

The hike starts with a pretty steep ascent (you’re starting at sea level and climbing straight up), and it’s not particularly beautiful, but once you get to the top, the payoff is a spectacular panoramic view of the entire Red Sea area. In fact, you can see four countries from a single vantage point – Israel, of course, but also Jordan, Egypt and the tip of Saudi Arabia. Once you’ve drunk in the view, there are several options for the descent. If you take the longest option (about four hours), you’ll end up near Taba; you can then take a bus or taxi back to your car.

 

Amram’s Pillars

Amram’s Pillars is a natural rock formation at the end of a short canyon. Photo by Brian Blum

You don’t have to trek the entire Israel National Trail to hike some of its most beautiful parts. Drive north from Eilat on Highway 90 about 15 minutes and take the turn toward Amram’s Pillars. It’s another 15 minutes on a bumpy dirt road. You’ll need two cars for this hike – when the road splits, drive about 3 kilometers to the left and park one car near the Black Canyon. Double back and leave the other car near Amram’s Pillars, a natural rock formation at the end of a short canyon. (The back and forth shuttling of the cars can take up to an hour, so build that into your total hiking time.)

After you take in the pillars, continue up Mount Amir to its peak where you’ll be treated to some great views. As you descend, catch the Israel Trail going south to get to your other car. An alternative route goes through a canyon filled with ancient copper mines and digging shafts. Either way is three hours.

The Black Canyon

Read more here: 10 of the most spectacular desert hikes in Israel

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