Desert Adventures and Discovery

This week, our students studied the Mishnaic Period in Israel, the beginnings of the Middle Ages and the Jewish Diaspora, and the rise of Christianity and Islam. After three days of classroom learning, we put down the notebooks and embarked on a four-day journey across the Negev. 

On Wednesday, we went on a full-day hike to Hod Akev. It was physically demanding, but the sense of accomplishment and the stunning desert scenery made it all worthwhile. At the end of the day, we enjoyed some Bedouin hospitality, gathered around a bonfire for stories and music, and slept in Bedouin-style tents. 

Thursday began with a sunrise camel ride. From there, we headed to Mitzpe Ramon, where we admired the dramatic cliffs and learned about the unique geological formation called a “machtesh.” Later, we slid and rolled down sand dunes, playing at one of the unique sites in the Negev. The day concluded with free time along the boardwalk in Eilat. 

On Friday morning, we hiked Har Tzfachot, a remarkable viewpoint at the very end (or beginning) of the Israel trail, from where we could see four countries at once: Egypt, Israel, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. We then went snorkeling in the waters of the Red Sea, full of colorful fish and coral reefs. Finally, we returned to Kibbutz Ketura to prepare for a Shabbat experience at one of the few traditional, communal kibbutzim still in the country. We can’t wait to see what the next week in Israel will bring!