Ein Bokek offers different ways to experience a visit: short and long hiking trails, geological features in the canyon, historical remains and a diverse bird population in the nature reserve. The short trail takes about two hours and is also recommended for hot summer days; the long loop trail is intended for experienced hikers and includes a steep ascent and a descent via steps. This makes it easy to compare the trails by time and route profile.
Hiking trails by time and difficulty
The short Ein Bokek trail takes about two hours and is also recommended for hot summer days. This provides a rough guide for planning your day. The long Ein Bokek trail is a loop for experienced hikers. A steep ascent and a descent via steps define its route profile. In practical terms, the short trail offers an approximate time frame and is recommended for hot summer days; the long trail is distinguished by its challenging loop route. A marked trail leads from a designated parking area at Ein Bokek to the start of the hiking trail. Check the latest parking and access information, as well as the trail’s status, before your visit.
Canyon, history and nature
The trail through Ein Bokek Canyon crosses numerous geological faults associated with the formation of the Dead Sea Rift. This makes geology a tangible part of the route through the canyon. Remains of an ancient aqueduct lie at the foot of the stream cliff. In the time of Herod, Ein Bokek was a center for processing medicines and cosmetics. The long Ein Bokek trail also passes the remains of a Hasmonean farm and the Bokek Fortress, which dates to the Byzantine period. Tristram’s starlings, desert larks, little green bee-eaters and rock doves live year-round in the Ein Bokek Nature Reserve.
Getting around at the Ein Bokek entrance
At the Ein Bokek entrance, two parking areas, a concrete path from the parking area to the visitor service center, handrails, a toilet and a shaded seating area have been made accessible. These facilities can help you find your way when planning your visit at the entrance. As facility details may change, confirm their current status before your trip.
In the wider destination of the Southern District
The wider destination of the Southern District extends beyond Ein Bokek’s canyon and hiking trails. Avdat National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the ancient Incense Route in the Negev Highlands. Ein Gedi Nature Reserve includes Israel’s largest oasis, with springs and waterfalls, flowing streams, ibex and hyraxes. At Ein Gedi, a hiking trail follows the year-round Nahal Arugot to a hidden waterfall and pools in the upper reaches; trail conditions may change after floods. Masada is a symbol of the ancient Kingdom of Israel, its violent destruction and the last stand of Jewish patriots against the Roman army in 73 CE. The site also preserves the remains of Herod’s palaces and intact Roman siege works, among the most complete of their kind in the Roman world.
Discover more destinations: Elifaz, Eilat, Mishmar HaNegev, Be'er Ora, Merhav Am, Dimona, Kfar Menahem, Ashkelon.
For the wider travel overview: Southern District.
