Judean Desert Trek Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Arad

Arriving in Arad, you’ll get settled in your accommodation before having a brief meeting to discuss all aspects of the 4 adventure-packed days of hiking that lie ahead. If you want to get a head start on the exploration, perhaps check out the Bronze Age walled city and temple ruins of Tel Arad. Enjoy your first dinner in Israel this evening and settle in for a restful night’s sleep in preparation for your first day of hiking tomorrow.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Arad
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Ancient desert footpaths of Tze’elim Canyon

Following breakfast this morning, a short taxi shuttle will take you to the trailhead. Begin your journey with a few easy warm-up kilometers that will lead you to the cliff tops of Tze’elim Canyon. As one of the largest canyons in the Judean Desert, you’ll want to spend some time at the top taking it all in before descending via an ancient desert footpath into the gorge. Hiking between the great walls of the towering canyon, you’ll reach Ein Namer (Leopard Spring), where in the past this rare water source was used by the local desert leopards that once inhabited the area. Next, you’ll be dazzled by the surreal scene of Shiny Valley. Making your way through this deep narrow gorge, you’ll be hiking amongst spectacular shiny white rocks. Exiting the canyon while following a curve on the ancient footpath, you’ll suddenly be greeted by stunning views of the Dead Sea—a welcomed reward nearing the end of today’s hike. The trail ends at the base of Masada from where you’ll be taken to your hotel by a short public transport ride.
Overnight Location: Hotel at Ein Bokek
Distance: 7-9 hours, 16.5 km, ascent 300 m
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Hike the fortress of Masada

The day will start with a public bus ride to the trailhead. Your route today will allow you to experience one of Israel’s most famous attractions in a unique and thrilling way. Built by Herod the Great during the 1st Century BCE, the Masada is a sight to behold. You’ll circle the ancient fortification via the surrounding mountains, discovering unparalleled views of the fortress. The Elazar Path is the only mountain around Masada that is higher than the palace itself and is known to offer the best views. This is a great option for those wishing to optimize this experience—however, there are many route options to access views of the Masada. A visit within the walls of the Masada itself is an option during this hike and an experience you won’t want to miss!
Overnight Location: Hostel in Ein Bokek
Distance: 5-8 hours, 17 km, ascent 350 m
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Ladders and pools of Mishmar Canyon

Today’s journey begins with a short taxi transfer a few kilometers north to Wadi Mishmar. Today you will find the perfect setting for a challenging day of hiking with ample rewards. The spectacles begin early on in today’s hike as you ascend a narrow gorge and discover a dry horseshoe waterfall and the stunning desert spring Ein Mishmar. Continuing on the trail you’ll encounter an exciting section that involves crossing pools (getting a little wet!), and climbing metal ladders built into the canyon, you’ll want to pack extra dry shoes and a small towel for this day. You’ll tackle a steep ascent to the north side of the canyon and follow the desert plateau which will eventually lead you down to Kibbutz Ein Gedi where you’ll then reach your accommodation on foot. Hikers that would rather bypass the pools and ladders, can instead take the trail that follows above the gorge. For those interested in a shorter hiking route for the day, an option is available to return from Ein Mishmar along the trails that go above the canyon, back to the starting point. A short ten-minute taxi will take you from here, back to your accommodation. This option shortens today’s hike to 12 km.
Tonight you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a meal in the quaint Kibbutz of Ein Gedi. Home to just over 600 locals Ein Gedi is a truly unique experience and is home to a world-famous botanical garden.
Overnight Location: Lodge in Elin Gedi
Distance: 9-11 hours, 20 km, ascent 800 m
Alternative option: 12 km, ascent 350 m
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Hike the grand circuit in Ein Gedi Reserve

The scenic reserve of Ein Gedi is the perfect high note to end your journey on! This circuit route begins with a tough ascent on the ancient and masterfully built Ein Gedi pass. With the sound of the rushing waters of the Arugot stream filling the air, this path will lead you to breathtaking views of the Dead Sea from high above and have you marveling at the wonders of this natural reserve. The basic circuit is 8 km long, however, there are two recommended extensions (The Window and The Essenes Pools) which will each take 2 km and are well worth your while! Make sure to pack your swimsuit for today’s adventure, as you’ll have the opportunity to swim at the picturesque pool beneath the waterfall—the perfect end to your day of thrilling hiking! Today’s hike ends mid-day and allows you time to explore some other cool local attractions. Spend the afternoon floating on the Dead Sea, and perhaps pamper your skin with a layer of dead sea mud!
Overnight Location: None
Distance: 3-6 hours, 8-12 km, ascent 500 m
Meals: Breakfast