Ein Gedi is located at a significant point – between the desert and the sea, next to a nature reserve with streams and is the lowest place in the world.
The remarkable location and extreme conditions has excited people’s imagination for thousands of years, and despite its remote location, was always the focus for many historical events. This is where David fled and hid from King Saul, where Shlomo wrote the Song of Songs. Antony gave Cleopatra the Ein Gedi persimmon groves as a sign of his love.
What is in Ein Gedi today?
The Ein Gedi nature reserve is one of the most popular in Israel. Strolling along the craggy rocks at Nahal David and Nahal Arugot you will find the Ibex Mountain Goats, Hyrax rock rabbits and people, all enjoying the splendor of the area together. Remains from earlier periods – temple ruins from the Chalcolithic period, a third century synagogue, an ancient flour mill and more – can be found throughout the reserve.
The Dead Sea, the lowest sea on the globe and nature’s natural spa. Rich in unique minerals, black mud with medicinal and cosmetic benefits and of course, the famous experience of floating in the heavy sea water.
Kibbutz Ein Gedi, built on the mountain plateau adjacent to the nature reserve, has been accredited as an internationally recognized botanical garden. Walking along the paths of the kibbutz you will be amazed by the luscious greenery with close to a thousand different species of plants, brought in from around the world. Giant baobab trees from Africa, vegetation from Madagascar, Australia and more. You can stroll the garden with a map and take your own time or hire a guide. In the kibbutz you will also find: Ein Gedi Hotel, Ein Gedi Campsite (Haan), Synergy Spa, Cafe, souvenir shop, supermarket and more.
