We spent two amazing months exploring Israel, travelling all around this often “scary” country that seems to spark endless opinions about safety. Of course, no one can decide your risk factor except you, but let me tell you, there is so much to see. From bustling cities to quiet desert towns, each place has its own surprises. One of our absolute favourites was a hidden gem tucked in the Negev Desert: Mitzpe Ramon, home to the jaw-dropping Ramon Crater and an unforgettable family adventure.

What is Mitzpe Ramon Known For?

Mitzpe Ramon is famous for the Ramon Crater, Israel’s spectacular natural wonder tucked in the heart of the Negev Desert. This massive crater stretches 40km long and 2 – 10km wide in the Israeli desert, with layers of colourful rock, rolling hills, and dramatic textures that are absolutely mesmerizing.

The Mitzpe Ramon attractions are perfect for hiking, photography, and family adventures. From sunrise to sunset, the crater provides jaw-dropping vistas, toddler-friendly trails, and endless opportunities for desert photography.

Is Mitzpe Ramon Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt! Our family trip to Mitzpe Ramon was one of the highlights of our Israel road trip. From short, easy hikes with Mia and Caius to simply sitting at the crater’s edge and watching the sunset, every moment felt magical. Even if your kids aren’t ready for big adventures, the town itself has charming cafés, quirky hostels, and plenty of safe spots to relax. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Mitzpe Ramon, this destination delivers.

Is Mitzpe Ramon Safe?

Yes – and we felt completely comfortable exploring with our little ones. Mitzpe Ramon is quiet, small, and family-friendly, with well-maintained trails around the Ramon Crater. Just remember, it’s the desert, so pack water, hats, and sunscreen. The town and surrounding hikes are safe and welcoming, making it perfect for families wanting adventure without stress.

Where Does the Name Mitzpe Ramon Come From?

“Mitzpe Ramon” or “Mitzpeh Ramon” מצפה רמון literally means “Ramon Lookout” in Hebrew, and the name couldn’t be more fitting. The town sits right on the edge of the Ramon Crater, offering sweeping views over one of Israel’s most dramatic landscapes. From the lookout points, you can spot rock layers shaped over millions of years, making it an educational and awe-inspiring stop for families like ours.

Are There Desert Animals at Mitzpe Ramon?

Yes – the desert around Mitzpe Ramon is full of fascinating wildlife if you keep your eyes open. We loved spotting Nubian ibex perched on the cliffs and the occasional gazelle roaming the plains. The skies are alive with birds of prey, including eagles and vultures, while the rocks hide colourful lizards and geckos. Even small mammals like desert foxes and hedgehogs live in the area, though they’re mostly nocturnal. Mia and Caius were thrilled every time we glimpsed a creature, making a simple walk or lookout feel like a mini desert safari.

Where to Stay in Mitzpe Ramon – Family-Friendly Accommodation Tips

If you’re planning a family visit to this crater in Israel, I highly recommend The Green Backpackers, an eco-friendly hostel right near the Ramon Crater. Private rooms are perfect for families, and a room for 2 adults and 2 kids currently costs around $120–$150 per night.

Staying here means you can enjoy sunrise and sunset over the Negev Desert without long drives, and the quirky recycled décor – beer bottles holding up coffee tables, toothpaste tube door handles – will entertain the kids. Plus, the communal kitchen and lounge make it easy to meet other travellers, if you’re lucky enough to share the space.

Please note – some websites have it as closed – I am unable to find reliable information for either way currently.

The Road Trip to Mitzpe Ramon

I’ll admit it – I went all out researching this desert oasis before our visit. I wanted to know everything about the Ramon Crater, the best hiking trails, family-friendly spots, and where to eat with Mia and Caius. My brain was full of maps, tips, and quirky facts about the Negev Desert, and I loved planning every little detail to make sure our trip ran smoothly and was full of memorable adventures.

The drive from Jerusalem was mostly smooth, stretching across the hot, barren desert landscape. With hungry kids in tow, we made a pit stop at McDonald’s – our first visit in Israel on this trip. The food had improved since our 2007 visit, but at around $40 for two meals plus 10 nuggets, it felt like highway robbery.

Settling In at The Green Backpackers

Once we arrived, we made our way to The Green Backpackers. This hostel is run by the friendly duo, Lee and Yoash, who have decorated the place with hilarious recycled items – beer bottles holding up coffee tables and toothpaste tubes as door handles. There are dorms, private rooms, a communal kitchen, and a lounge for meeting other travellers.

We were lucky to have the whole place to ourselves, which was nice for privacy, though I do miss the buzz of fellow adventurers. After a quick chat with Yoash, he handed us a map and suggested a walk along the Makhtesh Ramon, pointing out the famous “camel” lookout. I had no idea what a makhtesh was – maybe a riverbed? Spoiler alert: it wasn’t.

First Glimpse of the Ramon Crater

The walk through the desert scenery to the lookout was gorgeous – breezy, the summer sun low, and stony steps to climb while keeping dust out of my eyes. When I reached the top, I turned east first, marvelling at the desert sunset, then spun around west… and my jaw dropped.

There it was – Israel’s own version of the Grand Canyon, right in front of us. The Ramon Crater stretched out with vibrant colours, layers, and textures. Mia wanted to explore every inch, Caius was busy finding rocks to throw, and I just soaked it all in.

Fun fact: there are only seven makhtesh formations in the world, all in Israel and Egypt. Makhtesh Ramon is the largest, stretching 40km long, 2–10km wide, and plunging 500 metres deep. Essentially, it’s a closed valley surrounded by steep rock walls, usually drained by a single wadi (river).

Dinner, Drinks, and Family Time

After our desert adventure, the kids needed dinner. We found a small café a few hundred metres from the hostel and grabbed a meal. Mia and Caius went straight to bed afterwards, leaving me to unwind on the couch with a nightcap while Yoash shared stories about the hostel and the area. He even recommended toddler-friendly hikes around the Ramon Crater for Mia and Caius – short, easy walks perfect for little legs.

Fossil Fun at the Ammonite Wall

The next morning, after a hearty hostel breakfast, we hit the road toward Eilat. About 20 minutes out of Mitzpe Ramon, we stopped at the Ammonite Wall – or as I like to call it, the “snail trail.” The kids stayed in the car while I took a quick stroll in the heat.

In less than ten minutes, I was standing before fossilised sea creatures that at first looked like curly rocks but revealed their ancient secrets the closer I looked. A few snaps for the photo album, and we were back on the road.

What I wish I’d Done at Mitzpe Ramon with kids

Looking back, there are a few things I really wish we’d done while in Mitzpe Ramon. For starters, stargazing is supposed to be incredible here – the clear desert skies and minimal light pollution make it one of the best spots in Israel to see the Milky Way. I also wish we’d tried Boudwin-style camping right on the edge of the Ramon Crater, sleeping under the stars with Mia and Caius listening to the desert’s nighttime sounds. It would have been the perfect way to fully experience the desert magic and make memories that last a lifetime.

Why Mitzpe Ramon Should Be on Your Family Travel List

Mitzpe Ramon is a hidden gem. If your family loves hiking, it’s an unbeatable spot for exploring the Negev Desert and Ramon Crater. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, grab a cold drink, pull up a foldout chair at the edge of the precipice, and let the view transport you to another world. Visit the Mitzpe Ramon visitors center for more information!

Whether it’s toddler-friendly trails, jaw-dropping sunsets, or quirky hostel vibes, Mitzpe Ramon attractions are fun, adventurous, and unforgettable for families like ours. Would you consider Israel as part of your next family vacation?