Places to visit in Israel
Kfar Nokdim village
Kfar Nokdim is a unique village where the essence of Bedouin culture seamlessly blends with modern conveniences. Here, accommodations range from traditional Bedouin tents protected by woolen rugs and blankets to fully-equipped, cosy homes that mirror the traditional furnishings of ancient Jewish tribes. The village offers an immersive experience in authentic nomadic lifestyles, providing opportunities to ride camels, learn coffee brewing secrets, and even explore "bride kidnapping" customs in an authentic Bedouin setting.
At the heart of the village is a large tent that serves as a communal dining and learning space. A special oven is set up for baking traditional Bedouin flatbreads, and the tent itself is a hotspot for various activities. Lectures on desert ecology, drumming workshops, and other cultural events are regularly held, offering an educational and enriching experience for visitors. Whether it's enjoying the moonlit desert walks, listening to guitar music by the fire, or partaking in a traditional Bedouin meal, Kfar Nokdim is a place where authenticity meets comfort, inviting you to delve into a captivating blend of old and new.
In the village of Kfar Nokdim, you'll find a diverse selection of overnight accommodations, ranging from authentic Bedouin tents for youth groups to comfortable homes equipped with all the conveniences. There's something for everyone - tents lined with matting and protected by woollen rugs and blankets, bivouacs with sturdy wooden huts, and well-appointed residences decorated with authentic materials, echoing the dwellings of the first Jewish tribes under the leadership of Joshua. Spacious homes with cosy interiors closely mirror traditional furnishings and fixtures. You'll find hot water, modern shower and toilet facilities, and homes with bathtubs everywhere.
Staying here provides an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the authentic nomadic lifestyle. This means experiencing a camel or donkey ride, attending a traditional 'reception' in a Bedouin tent, learning about the secrets of coffee brewing and "bride kidnappings", and visiting an authentic sauna complete with eucalyptus branches and a temperature of 120°C.
All the dining areas are stylized and served as you would find in a genuine 'parade' tent of a nomad, reminiscent of what it might have been like in Abraham's tent when he encountered travellers. You can dine while reclining or, in keeping with modern habits, seated at tables. Breakfasts are delightful on the breezy rooftops, and the cool morning and evening breezes will remind you that the desert can be pleasantly cool.
Evening gatherings around the fire, guitar music, moonlit walks in the desert, a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life while still enjoying all the comforts of modern living - that's what Kfar Nokdim village is all about.
In Kfar Nokdim, the dining tent serves as a multifunctional gathering space. It houses a large oven where traditional Bedouin flatbreads are baked, filling the air with the comforting scent of freshly made bread. This isn't just a dining area; it's an educational and cultural hub. Here, visitors are invited to take part in a range of activities, from lectures about desert ecology and wildlife to hands-on drumming workshops. The tent offers an eclectic mix of experiences, blending traditional Bedouin culture with engaging, informative sessions.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
