After challening my brain to understand the Hebron situation, I felt like it was time to challenge my body again! Trekking time. I took a bus from Jerusalem to Beer Sheva and then onwards to Mitzpe Ramon where I stayed at Green Backpackers, a cozy hostel located directly at the crater rim, at the start of many trekking routes. Also, staff is very helpful and provides you with maps and explanations for all kind of treks in the area.

I spent 2 days trekking in the area: On the first day, I took a bus to the ruins of Avdat from where I started a 6h trek, ending at Midreshet Ben Gurion – at the grave of Ben Gurion. In the course of the 6h, I passed through various stunning desert landscapes: Deep canyons, oddly carved rocks and a little oasis with a waterfall. Also, the ruins in Avdat were cool to see and offered a nice view over the area. I was hiking by myself and really enjoyed the peace and quiet. I only met about 5 other people during the whole time. Some might claim that’s a bit unsafe to go that far just by myself – but the trails were not too difficult and mostly easy to spot so I didn’t feel worried. Sometimes it’s also good to take a break from it all and just enjoy by yourself! Especially after some intense travelling days…

On the second day, I again set out by myself – this time mainly because people in my hostel seemed lazy and were only going to start trekking at around 9 or 10am which I consider too late in the desert. The best light for photos is in the morning (and evening), and also it gets soaring hot during the day! This time, I started right behind the hostel, walking down into the Makhtesh Ramon crater, traversing it, climbing the mountain Ramon’s Tooth (amazing 360 degree views!!), and hitchhiking back into town with a Dutch couple. The trek took about 5h this time and was beautiful once again. I did prefer my first day and consider the Avdat-Ein Avdat-Midreshet Ben Gurion trek one of the most beautiful hikes I have ever done!

I always had this idea of going to Mitzpe Ramon when I initially thought about visiting Israel years ago. I’m glad it worked out and did not disappoint! A good way to finish my time in Israel, or so I thought… cause what awaited be at Tel Aviv airport on my day of departure, I never would have guessed (tbc)!