Ramon Crater Family Touring

March 18th 2012

The Best Family Activities in Mitzpe Ramon

Mitzpe Ramon, the sleepy town perched on the edge of the world’s largest erosion crater, boasts tons of fun activities for the whole family. From vigorous hikes to an alpaca farm with a petting zoo, there is truly something for everyone. Don’t leave Israel without a visit to the majestic natural wonder that is the Ramon Crater. One of the highlights of the Negev region and a natural stopping point between Beer Sheva and Eilat, your tour of Israel isn’t complete without a stop in Mitzpe Ramon. 

Hiking

Pick up a trail map at the visitor’s center and choose a route through the Makhtesh Ramon crater that’s appropriate for your skill level and amount of time. Take an easygoing stroll along the Albert Promenade, which runs along the rim of the crater, or grab a walking stick and hike all the way in. You’ll be amazed by the natural beauty and serene quiet of the crater. 

Crater Jeeping

If you’d rather see the inside of the crater from a car, then a jeep tour is for you. These fun adventure tours are a great way for people of all ages to experience the area. The off-road vehicle will lead you to the depths of the crater on trails only accessible by jeeps, while your guide talks about the spot’s history, the wonders of the region and the amazing geology of the crater itself.

Alpaca Farm

With one of the largest herds of alpacas in the world, Mitzpe Ramon’s Alpaca farm is a fun place for people of all ages to visit. Tour the farm, learn about the exotic animals and hand feed them, or watch the shearing of the alpacas. Children can ride the llamas, donkeys or ponies while adults can arrange for horseback riding in or around the crater. 

Bio Ramon

Here you can pick up a map of the area that highlights all the hiking trails in the Makhtesh and ask the helpful staff for advice on which one to trek based on your physical condition and time constraints. The museum, which is great for kids, offers an educational video on Mitzpe Ramon and showcases indigenous animals. 

Stargazing

Nights are gorgeous in Mitzpe Ramon. Without the effects of light pollution, the sky is filled with glittering stars that shine so brightly that your naked eye is likely to see a more stars from here than from anywhere you’ve been before. Arrange a star tour with a local expert, or simply sit back, gaze, and enjoy the view. Sunsets over the crater are also some of the most spectacular you will ever see.