Ein Gedi
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📖 About Ein Gedi
The Ein Gedi Nature Reserve is a magnificent desert oasis on the shore of the Dead Sea, where ancient springs create flowing waterfalls in the heart of the extreme desert. Two main streams: Nahal David to the north (more popular) and Nahal Arugot to the south (wider and marked). The biblical story: this is where David hid from Saul. The unusual vegetation includes papyrus, native acacia, and Mediterranean plants that should not exist in the desert — all thanks to the springs. The most remarkable wildlife: herds of ibex stroll lazily among the rocks, and you can see them up close. Nahal David: a 30-minute walk to the main waterfalls. The area called David Waterfall is a natural bathing pool with a 5-meter cascade of cold, clear water. You can continue another 30 minutes to the Shulamit Spring and the Dodim Pool. Nahal Arugot: longer and less crowded, a marked 90-minute walk one way, with the option to continue 4 more hours for a comprehensive tour. The visitor center includes a restaurant, showers, lockers, and a canteen, open daily (including Shabbat) until 17:00 (16:00 in winter). In summer you must arrive before 9:00, as the later heat is severe. Nearby: the famous Ein Gedi spa, Dead Sea beaches (10 minutes), and stunning stargazing in the evening.
📚 From the encyclopedia
Ein Gedi Spa was a wellness center along the Dead Sea, Israel, fed by the waters of the Dead Sea and is now permanently closed due to sinkholes that threaten the area. It provided health by the four elements of the area: water, air, sun, and mud. The spa had hot pools that are filled with sulphur water. It was previously a famous attraction on the shore of the Dead Sea. The spa was known for its unpleasant odor resulting from the sulphur springs. However, it still drew large crowds who believed in its health benefits. The spa was run by the Ein Gedi Kibbutz. Initially built directly along the shoreline of the Dead Sea, due to the sea's shrinkage, the spa was quite a distance from the lake due to ongoing evaporation of the Dead Sea. The Spa is closed and desolated. The Spa closed March 2020. By then the seashore was 4 km away. The annual Ein Gedi Race starts off at the spa's location.
⭐ מה מיוחד כאן
- ✓A desert oasis with flowing waterfalls on the Dead Sea shore
- ✓Natural bathing pool at David Waterfall
- ✓Ibex roaming freely around you
- ✓Biblical story — Davids hiding place
- ✓Unusual flora: papyrus and acacia in the desert
- ✓Two routes: northern Nahal David or longer Nahal Arugot
- ✓Close to the Dead Sea, Masada, and Arad
❓ שאלות נפוצות
How should I plan the visit?
Arrive early (7:00), do Nahal David until noon, return for lunch at Kibbutz Ein Gedi, and spend the afternoon at a Dead Sea beach.
What should I bring?
Swimwear, water (2 liters per person), non-slip hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen. Lots of water in summer.
Can you bathe in the waterfalls?
Yes! It is part of the fun. The first David Waterfall has an organized pool. Keep it quiet and clean.
Where to eat?
The Kibbutz Ein Gedi restaurant serves good Mediterranean food, plus a picnic along the stream.
Will I see ibex?
Almost certainly. They walk throughout the reserve, some very close to the trails. Do not feed them.
Where to stay?
Kibbutz Ein Gedi guesthouse is very good. The De Nature hotel is luxurious. Arad to the north has more options.