Mitzpe Ramon is a town located in the center of the Negev on the edge of Ramon Crater which is the largest natural crater in the world.
It was originally established in as a camp for workers who paved the way to Eilat, but became a permanent town.
Over the years it has attracted people looking for calm simple lives and today draws artists looking for a more creative lifestyle.
It has also become a popular tourist destination for both Israelis and tourists from all over the world.
Being a town of desert lovers, there is a lot to near by for anyone who enjoys being out in nature.
If you looking to experience the Negev Desert without completely disconnecting from civilization, Mitzpe Ramon is a good compromise.
There are a variety of hiking trails in all levels of difficulty and plenty of bike and running trails that pass through the desert landscapes.
It is also a perfect location for star gazing, especially during the biannual meteor showers. Not to mention, amazing for astophotograhy.
In Mitzpe Ramon, is not difficult to find a desert tour guide or a guide to explain to you the night sky.
The first place to visit is the Mitzpe Ramon Visitor Center, which tells the geological story of the formation of the Ramon Crater.
It also holds the Ilan Ramon Museum created in memory of Israel’s first astronaut, who died in the 2003 Colombia Disaster.
Also near by is the Bio Ramon which is a small desert zoo and garden created to raise awareness of nature conservation.
The zoo displays small desert animals such as lizards, snakes, turtles, porcupines, hedgehogs, falcons, chamois and more.
Around the zoo there is a garden with six different habitats displaying the Negev landscape with the vegetation typical of each habitat.
Another must see is the Perfumes Road Quater.
The once industrial area is filled with restaurants, cafes, shops, an art gallery, and a jazz club and is a favorite locals and tourists alike.
Visit Mitzpe Ramon
Like most places in the Negev and Judean Desert, the easiest way to get to Mitzpe Ramon is by car.
However, it is also possible to get there by bus from both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.
Just remember, the buses aren’t frequent and don’t run at all from Friday afternoon to Saturday night.