Places to visit in ישראל
Ein Gedi natural reserve
As I stepped into the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, I was immediately struck by the stark beauty of the Judean Desert that surrounded me. The sun blazed down, casting the rugged landscape in sharp relief, but a cool breeze carried the scent of water and fresh vegetation. I set out on the trail, eager to explore the natural wonders of this desert oasis.
The path wound along the Nahal David stream, offering a peaceful respite from the desert heat. As I walked, I marvelled at the towering cliffs on either side of the canyon, their jagged edges etched against the blue sky. The sound of rushing water filled the air, and I caught glimpses of small waterfalls and pools as I made my way deeper into the canyon.
After about half an hour of hiking, I saw the David Waterfall. The sight was breathtaking. The waterfall cascaded down from the cliffs above, a sparkling water curtain falling into a crystal-clear pool below. The lush vegetation around the waterfall created a verdant oasis amid the desert, with palm trees and other plants swaying in the breeze.
I spent some time taking in the beauty of the David Waterfall, feeling the cool mist on my face and listening to the sound of the rushing water. But I knew more to see, so I continued the trail towards the Shulamith Waterfall.
As I walked, the trail offered stunning views of the Judean hills, the Dead Sea, and the Moab Mountains in the distance. The stark beauty of the desert was contrasted by the rich greenery that surrounded the trail, with tamarisk bushes and other plants thriving in the oasis created by the streams and springs that flowed through the area.
After another half hour of hiking, I arrived at the Shulamith Waterfall. While smaller than the David Waterfall, the Sulamith Waterfall was still a beautiful sight. The water cascaded down from the cliffs above, creating a gentle, soothing sound that seemed to calm the soul. The surrounding vegetation was as lush as around the David Waterfall, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
I spent some time at the Sulamith Waterfall, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the desert oasis. As I turned back towards the entrance plaza, I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such natural wonder and beauty. The hiking trails of the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve offer a glimpse into the raw, rugged beauty of the desert while also revealing the delicate, lush oasis that can be found amidst the stark landscape. It was an unforgettable journey that left me feeling invigorated and inspired.
Ein Gedi Nature Reserve is a protected area and popular tourist attraction located in Israel along the eastern shore of the Dead Sea. The reserve offers visitors a chance to experience a unique combination of desert landscapes, natural springs, waterfalls, and wildlife.
To enter the reserve, visitors must pay an entrance fee. As of September 2021, the entrance fee for adults was 29 NIS (Israeli New Shekels), and for children and students, it was 15 NIS. However, fees and policies may have changed, so I recommend checking the official website of the reserve for the most up-to-date information.
In this particular trail, visitors can explore the reserve through hiking trail including the Nahal David Trail, which leads to the David Waterfall, and the Shulamit Trail, and back to the entrance. The trail offers panoramic views of the Dead Sea.
The reserve also has several picnic areas, a restaurant, a gift shop, and a visitor center, which provides information about the reserve's history, ecology, and geology.
It's worth noting that due to the sensitive nature of the area, there are some restrictions on activities such as camping and off-road hiking and climbing. Visitors are encouraged to follow the reserve's guidelines and regulations to help preserve the area's natural beauty and biodiversity.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
