South of Israel Travel Guide: Best Things to Do & Tours
Why Visit the South of Israel
The south is where Israel turns to desert and drama. The Dead Sea sits 430 meters below sea level, so salty you float without trying, ringed by spa beaches and the oasis of Ein Gedi. Above it stands Masada, Herod’s clifftop fortress and one of the country’s most powerful historical sites. Further south, the Negev opens into craters, canyons, and ancient Nabatean towns, running all the way to Eilat and the Red Sea. Most of it is within day-trip reach of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and we run guided trips down here regularly.
| Region covers | Dead Sea, Masada, the Negev Desert, down to Eilat |
|---|---|
| Lowest point | The Dead Sea, 430 m below sea level |
| Top sites | Masada, Ein Gedi, Mitzpe Ramon crater, Timna Park |
| How long to spend | 1 day for Dead Sea and Masada; 2 to 3 to add the Negev |
| Best time to visit | Autumn to spring; summer in the desert is very hot |
| Getting there | Dead Sea and Masada are about 1.5 hrs from Jerusalem |
Dead Sea, Masada & Negev Tours
Guided day trips to the Dead Sea, Masada, and the Negev Desert, with hotel pickup.
South of Israel Travel Guide
Southern Israel Travel. Guides to the Dead Sea, Masada, and the Negev Desert.
Qasr al-Yahud: Guide to the Jordan River Baptism Site
Ein Gedi: The Complete Guide to Israel’s Desert Oasis
Dead Sea Beaches: Where to Float, Fees and Facilities
Masada, Israel: The Complete Visitor Guide
Jericho: The Complete Guide to Earth’s Oldest City
Dead Sea, Israel: The Ultimate Guide to Floating and What to See
Dead Sea and Masada: The Ultimate 2026 Day Trip Guide
Planning Your South of Israel Trip
Dead Sea and Masada: The classic pairing. A single day from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv covers floating in the Dead Sea, the Masada fortress, and often the Ein Gedi oasis.
Into the Negev: With more time, head deeper into the desert for the Mitzpe Ramon crater, Timna Park, and the road south to Eilat.
What to bring: Sun protection, water, sturdy shoes for Masada, and water shoes for the Dead Sea’s salty, stony shore.
South of Israel FAQ
Can you visit the Dead Sea and Masada in one day?
Yes. The two are usually combined on a single guided day trip from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, often with the Ein Gedi oasis added.
How far is the Dead Sea from Jerusalem?
About 1.5 hours by car or guided tour. From Tel Aviv it is roughly 2 hours.
What is the south of Israel known for?
The Dead Sea, the Masada fortress, the Ein Gedi oasis, and the Negev Desert with its craters and canyons, running south to Eilat.
Can you float in the Dead Sea?
Yes, that is the main experience. The water is so dense with salt that you float effortlessly. Avoid shaving beforehand and do not get the water in your eyes.
When is the best time to visit?
Autumn through spring is the most comfortable. Summer in the desert and at the Dead Sea is extremely hot, so plan early starts and shade.
Ready to Explore the South?
Float in the Dead Sea, climb Masada, and cross the Negev. We handle the route and the pickups.
Browse All South of Israel ToursPart of our Israel Travel Guide. Explore more regions: Eilat · Jerusalem.