Makhtesh Ramon

On a particularly hot summer day, we set out on a trip to Makhtesh (not crater!) Ramon, one of Israel’s most spectacular natural sites. Already on the way there, the desert landscape spread before us in all its splendor – the hues of sand and earth, the sense of infinite space and the solitude of the desert. As we approached the edge, the sight of the massive cliffs and the rocky landscape revealed below is impressive every time anew. The intense desert heat is immediately felt when stepping out of the vehicle, and the scorching sun rays intensify the challenge, but also enhance the sense of connection to the wild nature surrounding us.

The first stop on the trip was the Ilan Ramon Visitors Center, where the story of Israel’s first astronaut is movingly integrated with the landscape and history of the Makhtesh itself. The visitors center offers a glimpse not only into the rich geological history of the area, but also into the astronomical and cosmic aspect, with reference to craters on other planets. The interactive displays, combined with films and photographs, deepen the understanding of how the Makhtesh was formed and its unique richness in terms of fossils, minerals and distinctive geological landscape. After the tour of the center, we stood before the view from the observation deck – the entire Makhtesh spread before us in all its splendor, flat and wide like a giant plate, surrounded by cliffs that enhance the sense of magnitude.

After a short break, we set out for Harut Hill, one of the prominent landmarks of Ramon Makhtesh. The ascent to the hill initially appears simple, but the desert conditions make it a real challenge. Every step on the dusty trail feels heavier in the scorching heat, and as we approach the summit, the slope becomes steeper. Nevertheless, the clear air and the sight of the prominent black rocks of Harut Hill provide motivation to continue.

When we reached the summit of Harut Hill, the view that spread before us was breathtaking. From the high vantage point, the entire Makhtesh can be seen from above – the vast expanse, the small hills dotting the area, and the cliffs surrounding the Makhtesh from all sides. The wind at the summit was strong and refreshing, contrasting with the heavy heat that prevailed in the lower areas. We sat to rest, drink water and gaze at the landscape spread before us, holding onto this moment of tranquility and sense of smallness in the face of nature’s power.

The descent from Harut Hill was faster, but still required caution due to the steep slope and hot sand that made the path slippery. We returned to the starting point tired but satisfied, filled with a sense of accomplishment for having overcome the challenge. The Makhtesh, in its size and power, provided a unique sense of proportion – a place that reminds us how large and powerful the world is, and how small we are in comparison.