The rim of Makhtesh Ramon to Camel Hill

From the car park by the Ramon Visitor Center in Mitzpe Ramon walk to the rim of Makhtesh Ramon (מכתש רמון) and follow the purple and black marks west along the cliff top, a path the Israel National Trail also uses here. It passes the Hanging Balcony lookout, built out over the drop, and runs along the edge of the town with the whole crater spread below. At its western end a short steep path climbs Camel Hill, a knoll of dark rock with lookout terraces. Return the same way.

It is 2.7 km there and back with 35 m of ascent; allow about an hour. The grade is Easy: a good path with two short flights of steps and a steep little climb on Camel Hill.

The cliff edge is unfenced in places: keep to the path and hold on to children. There is little shade, so carry water and a hat, and walk in daylight only. Late afternoon, when the low sun lights the coloured rocks of the crater floor, is the best time.

The rim path is free and open at all times; parking by the visitor centre is paid. The Ramon Visitor Center, with the story of the crater and of the astronaut Ilan Ramon, opens by booking only. Buses from Beersheva and Eilat stop on Route 40 in the town, about 500 m away.

Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.