Southern Israel holds many hidden gems, and attractions well worth visiting. The Negev Desert and the Judean Desert make up most of southern Israel, covering over 50% of the country. Traveling to southern Israel is easy, with a train link to Beer Sheva, the capital of the south, tours, and regular buses that leave central Israel.
If you’re going to Eilat, at Israel’s southernmost point, it’s best to take a flight from Tel Aviv. Highlights of southern Israel include the iconic Dead Sea at the lowest point on Earth, and Masada, a plateau rock outcrop where Herod built his fortress over 2,000 years ago. On the shore of the Dead Sea is the desert oasis of Ein Gedi, where you can hike along babbling streams through lush vegetation to hidden waterfalls.
Other things to do in southern Israel include touring the city of Jericho; visiting Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered; and exploring Mamshit National Park, home to the remains of an ancient Nabatean city. Take a jeep safari through the Negev Desert and learn about the region’s flora and fauna. Timna Park is home to spectacular rock formations and archaeological remains. At the impressive Ramon crater near Mitzpe Ramon, you can go rock climbing, snappling, hiking, and stargazing. On your visit to Israel be sure to see this unique part of the country.