Due to Israel's location, climatic and geographical crossroads between 3 continents, Israel offers a surprising wealth of plant life. Israel boasts a total of approximately 2,380 kinds of flora, including many endemic varieties found only here. The variety of flora is much larger than many far bigger countries.About 510 species of birds have been spotted in Israel, most of them migratory species that fly through in the fall and spring. Israel is a bottleneck on many migration paths, and millions of birds pass through in the two seasons. Migrations can be observed in the Hula Reserve, the bird site at Kibbutz Kfar Ruppin in the Beit Shean valley, as well as at Kibbutz Lotan. Also we recommend bird watching center in the Arava and at the International Birding and Research Center in Eilat.​
Israel provides a habitat for rich wildlife, including animals originating in various zoogeographical regions that surround the country. This is particularly evident among insect and bird varieties, although reptiles and mammals are also well-represented.Israel possesses a myriad of natural wonders such as Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee, the Judean and Negev deserts, Mount Carmel and the Dead Sea. Nature tours abound with itineraries that cover almost the entire country. They offer the nature lover the possibility of seeing gazelles, ibex, hyenas and wolves in Israel's more than 50 national parks and nature reserves
The Negev Desert in Israel is a truly stunning place to visit and one of Israel’s absolute must-sees!
For many, especially those used to the city life, the stark desert landscapes of the Negev are fascinating to look at, and just the drive through this part of the world can leave you breathless.
The Negev Desert covers over half of Israel’s total land area, and although vast areas of this desert are uninhabited, there are a number of gems that are well worth checking out, including wineries, various unique tours of the region, and of course, some amazing natural scenery.
​
Ein Avdat
Ein Avdat is a stunning desert valley just south of Kibbutz Sde Boker. Off the beaten track a little for many tourists but with a rich history of ancient inhabitants, including Nabateans and Catholic monks, this beautiful hiking trail of springs and waterfalls is a great little oasis in the heart of the Negev. There are also some incredible views to enjoy.
​
Cycling in the Desert
There are some great cycling routes in the Negev, suitable for those looking for a real terrain challenge, as well as for the more leisurely, family-friendly cyclist. Some popular routes to enjoy include around and in the Ramon Crater and the Yerucham Lake area.
​
The Ramon Crater
The Ramon Crater, one of the many unique makhteshim (huge erosion craters) in the south of Israel, is one of the Negev sites that might just take your breath away. The best place to access the Ramon Crater is from the town of Mitzpeh Ramon, which includes a visitor’s center and an amazing observatory point that offers mind-blowing views of the crater