Southern Israel (Negev, Dead Sea & Eilat)
Desert adventures from the Dead Sea to the Red Sea 🐪
⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Due to the proximity of armed conflict in Gaza and potential for rocket fire, government agencies (including the USA, UK, CA, and NZ) advise travelers to reconsider travel to Southern Israel. Travel to the areas immediately surrounding the Gaza Strip (Western Negev) is extremely dangerous and often restricted. Families are strongly urged to consult their own government's official travel advisory before considering a trip, as circumstances and risk assessments vary.
The Southern region is defined by the dramatic beauty of the Negev Desert. This arid landscape covers over half the country, featuring craggy mountains, vast craters, and the lowest point on Earth at the Dead Sea. The climate is harsh desert: scorching hot in the summer and surprisingly cold at night in winter. Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for exploring the hiking trails and geological parks without the risk of heatstroke.
The Dead Sea is a bucket-list destination where parents and older children can experience the unique sensation of weightlessness in the hypersaline water. Nearby, the ancient fortress of Masada stands atop a rock plateau; taking the cable car up at sunrise reveals breathtaking views of the Moab Mountains across the Jordanian border. Families should arrive early to beat the heat and explore the ruins of King Herod’s palace. Further south, the Timna Park offers a landscape of red sandstone pillars and ancient copper mines, where kids can fill bottles with colored sand and crawl through rock formations.
At the southernmost tip lies Eilat, Israel's premier resort city on the Red Sea. It is a haven for water sports and relaxation, generally removed from the tensions of the north and central regions. The Underwater Observatory Marine Park allows toddlers and teens alike to view coral reefs without getting wet, while the Dolphin Reef offers the chance to observe dolphins in a semi-natural habitat. The calm waters here are perfect for introductory snorkeling lessons.
In the heart of the desert, Mitzpe Ramon sits on the edge of the Ramon Crater (Makhtesh Ramon). It is one of the best places in the country for stargazing due to minimal light pollution. Families can book jeep tours or visit the alpaca farm to feed the animals. While the eastern side of the south (Dead Sea/Arava/Eilat) is generally safer, travelers must strictly avoid the western areas bordering Gaza and adhere to all local signage regarding firing zones and military areas.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Home to the world's only 'Makhtesh' erosion craters and high-end desert retreats like Six Senses Shaharut, offering a sophisticated take on wilderness exploration. Peak months provide ideal hiking temperatures (18-28°C), while summer months are dangerously hot for desert activities and January presents flash flood risks.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Features UNESCO sites like Masada and the Incense Route, providing profound historical and archaeological education for families. Optimal weather in March-April and October-November allows for comfortable exploration of outdoor ruins, which are too exposed during the extreme summer heat.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
The Dead Sea is a globally unique therapeutic destination with world-class medical spas and luxury mineral-rich wellness facilities. Spring and autumn offer the perfect balance of warmth for floating and mud treatments; summer heat (max >35°C) is too oppressive for outdoor relaxation.
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Eilat offers exceptional Red Sea diving and snorkeling with world-class visibility and unique coral reefs accessible directly from the shore. Peak conditions occur when air and water temperatures are perfectly balanced; summer is excluded due to extreme air temperatures exceeding 35°C, while winter is too cool for comfortable swimming.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
Spectacular drives through the Ramon Crater and along the cliffs of the Dead Sea on well-maintained infrastructure. Moderate spring and autumn weather provide clear visibility and safe conditions; summer heat can strain vehicles and make stops uncomfortable, while winter rain can cause road closures.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Significant historical and cultural heritage found in ancient fortresses and desert ruins rather than traditional urban centers. The authentic cultural experience of Masada is world-class, but the harsh desert climate limits visiting comfort to the cooler spring and autumn seasons.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Offers high-quality desert cycling and segments of the Israel National Trail for active families. Conditions are best during temperate months when physical exertion is safe; summer temperatures are unsuitable for endurance activities.
