Ein Ovdat is a canyon in the Negev Desert of Israel, south of the kibbutz Sde Boker (Famous for being Ben Guryon’s residence). It’s about 2 hour drive by car from Tel Aviv (169 km far, see map on the bottom of the page).

Ein Ovdat has always been an attractive place for habitation due to its luxuriant fauna,flora and wild life in the middle of the desert. Consequently, the canyon and its surroundings have been inhabited for some 80,000–90,000 years by many peoples such as Neanderthals, Nabateans, and Christian monks. The canyon attracts numerous species of animals, like Ibexes and various birds, to its fertile vegetation.

The flourishing environment is caused by the water of numerous springs that begins at the southern opening of the canyon, and descends into deep pools in series of waterfalls. The springs in Ein Avdat emerge from between layers of rocks, although the source is still not known definitely. Around the springs grows salt-loving plants like Poplar trees and Atriplexes.

The entrance to the reserve is from the Ben Guryon tomb. Entrance fee is about 25 nis per person.
You enter with a car and about a couple of km down, you can park and head by foot to the canyon. You reach the first lake in about 10 minutes walk. The walk to the first lake is quite easy and is good for all ages. You can reach the first lake, and return back the way you came. But, the rest of the route (aprox one hour) and up the mountain to the reserve’s end, is for good walkers only. It requires climbing narrow and steep stairs.

Visiting Hours:
Reserve is open 7 days a week, 8:00 – 16:00/17:00 (winter and summer respectivly)

Telephone:

08- 6555684 (+972-8-6555684)
08 – 6554418 (+972-8-6554418)

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More sites in the Negev area (Between Be'er Sheva & Eilat) road#40:

• Ovdat ancient Nabatean city (Archeological site)
• Mizpe Ramon (Southern quiet town)
• Ein Ovdat Canyon (Natural reserve)
• Ben Guryon's hut (Historic site)