The Negev accounts for over half of Israel’s land area and is located in the southern region. Despite its scenery, it is sparsely populated due to its harsh desert landscape. This makes the Negev the perfect place for someone seeking a quiet excursion into nature. It was favored by Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben Gurion, who lived on a kibbutz in Sde Boker following his retirement.
One popular way for both tourists and Israelis to see the Negev Desert in southern Israel is by biking. In recent years, trails for all levels have been developing, allowing beginners and more experienced bikers alike to enjoy exploring the Negev. Biking is the perfect way to discover the tranquility of the desert, allowing more freedom than is afforded while driving a car. The Negev contains rich landscapes and varied terrain; a picturesque vision of beauty any nature lover will enjoy.
As biking through the Negev rises in popularity, more and more services are being provided in order to assist travelers. Bike centers provide rental bikes for those who do not have a bike appropriate for the terrain, and can also make repairs when needed. In addition, companies now offer tours through the Negev, which include bike and helmet use, or guides are available for hire. If camping isn’t your thing, accommodations along the trails are offered for respite. Trails are clearly marked and groomed, and maps are available in English. Here are our top picks for biking tours down south:
Geofun Desert Biking Center
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Geofun Desert Biking Center offers bike rentals, bikes for purchase, Segway rental, and a selection of desert biking and Segway tours. Take a two day trip along the Negev’s ancient spice route, through Ramon Crater in the Arava, and other locations. The center offers different levels, including 110 km in two days for experienced cyclists, or 50 km for families and those new to cycling. They provide camping equipment, bikes, food and drink, medic, mechanic, and more. The staff is experienced, knowledgeable, and patient. Geofun is the right name for this company, you’ll have a ton of fun riding with this group!
Contact: 08-6553350, http://geofun.co.il/
Address: Riding Center, Midreshet Ben-Gurion, Israel
Price: Tours starting at NIS 995
Israel Travel Company
Israel Travel Company provides customized tour guide services for individuals, couples, families, and groups traveling within Israel. They offer free itinerary planning as well. Israel Travel Company offers a biking tour where participants cycle part of the day and visit must-see sites the rest of the day, over the span of ten days. Learn about the diversity, culture, history, and terrains of Israel while experiencing the adventure of biking. Sample itineraries are available online, yet every trip is planned special for travelers. They offer bike trips throughout Israel, allowing you to take this unforgettable journey anywhere you want to see!
Contact: 02-5630611, http://www.israeltravelcompany.com/
Address: EmekRephaim, German Colony, Jerusalem
Price: Based on itinerary, dates and group size, contact for quote
Israel Cycling
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Offering trips from one to ten days, Israel Cycling is a full-trip package. Including guided tours of sites, meals, escort vehicles, a full-time mechanic, hotel stay, a quality biking shirt, and bike rentals, Israel Cycling has it all. Trips need to be booked at least three months in advance, however, it is recommended to book earlier. With average group sizes of 20-30 riders, Israel Cycling trips are for riders capable of riding 100 km a day for the duration of the trip. There are trips all over Israel, and customized tours are also available.
Contact: http://israelcycling.com/
Price: Based on trip, contact for quote
Gordon Active
If you’re looking for an adventure, Gordon Active is for you. They offer a range of trip options, with rides from Jerusalem to Eilat through the Negev, among other exciting tours. The trips range in length and ability level, so there’s something for everyone. Gordon Active was established in 1972 and is one of Israel’s largest tour operators. Its specialty is bike and active tourism, making it the perfect choice for those looking to discover Israel by bike. The staff is knowledgeable and experienced, ready to show you all of Israel’s beauty.
Contact: 03-7659000 extension 118, http://gordonactive.com/
Address: 24 Raul Walenberg, Tel Aviv
Price: Based on trip, contact for quote
Desert Land Adventure Tour
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For bike, hike, and jeep tours of the dramatic lands of the Negev Desert, including Ramon Crater and the Mitzpe Ramon area, Desert Land Adventure Tours is your go-to! They aim to provide tourists with high-quality access to the most authentic and interesting deep desert adventures. The tour guides have a deep love and knowledge of the desert that they are eager to share. Desert Land has trips for all skill levels, including easier treks for families. Experience the trip of a lifetime with Desert Land Adventure Tours!
Contact: 054-5907158, http://www.desertland.co.il
Address: 2/5 NahalMeishar, Mitzpe Ramon
Price: Based on trip, contact for quote