Enjoy our exciting educational Ramon crater tours!
When people hear the word “crater” they automatically envision violent meteorite impacts and giant round holes in the ground, but the Makhtesh Ramon Crater is something entirely different, as it was not created as a result of impact, but rather through a very unique process of erosion. Only seven such erosion craters are known to exist worldwide, all of which reside in the Negev desert and the Sinai deserts, with Ramon Crater being the largest (stretching up to 40 km in length). For that reason, the correct term to describe it is not 'crater' but rather 'Makhtesh', which is the Hebrew word for crater, indicating the uniqueness of this geological phenomena. Our tour will takes you through the breathtaking rock formations which are the results of different forces and materials coming together in a manner not seen anywhere else.In both English and Hebrew, an erosion crater is known as a "Makhtesh". The Ramon Crater is the biggest Makhtesh of its kind, and remains amongst a diverse number of Earth’s unique geological phenomena.
The abundance of exposed geological layers in the Ramon Crater offers a unique window into the past. Versatile fossils are encountered here, and some of Earth’s oldest geological layers are exposed. Specialized desert wildlife and vegetation inhabit the area, and hidden water bodies are present.
Going down into the crater you could already appreciate the dramatic scenery of an erosion crater. When going off the main road and into the Ramon dry riverbed, we will have a break to learn on the beauty and complexity of a Makhtesh an erosion crater. We will then continue up to the Gvanim Mt. There you a panoramic fantastic view of the Makhtesh revealed. Going down again, this time through a different path, you will see the most ancient layers of the crater unravel with brilliant colors.
Throughout the tour we will be discussing desert wild-life, botanic, geology and whatever is on your mind. Finally we will go back up again to Mitzpe Ramon and drop you off on a destination to your choice within town.
The Ramon crater tours are a unique outdoor activity for families, groups, teams and couples.