Waiting list only for both trips

These study trips will feature a sunset jeep tour, with local experts, in the amazing Makhtesh Ramon Crater, which was formed through a unique process of erosion. The eroded geological layers tell the epic story of the Earth’s early history, exposing an abundance of aquatic fossils which once resided at the bottom of an ocean. Dry and barren at first sight, the crater is actually teeming with life – including wild asses, mountain goats, reptiles and insects, plus incredible vegetation that has evolved, in this harsh environment, to survive on scarce, precious water from seasonal flash floods. We will be exploring this geological and ecological wonder by jeep with local guides.

In view of the popularity of this destination, we are arranging tours on consecutive weeks: bus 1 will tour during January 31 – February 3
bus 2 will tour during February 7 – 10, 2022.

Both groups will stay at the Ramon suites hotel (Ramon Suites – Smart Hotels | Boutique hotel chain in Jerusalem and Mitzpe Ramon – which includes a heated indoor pool), and be guided by outstanding tour guide Jacky Sivak.

Other trip highlights include:

• Tour of the Ramon Crater Visitors Center including the Ilan Ramon memorial
• Easy nature walk to the Ein Avdat oasis and exploration of the ancient ruins at the Nabetean Avdat Acropolis
• Visit to Ben Gurion’s home and tomb in Sde Boker
• Discovery of the secrets to successful desert agriculture at the Ramat HaNegev Agricultural Research Center
• Viewing and learning about the Ashalim Solar-Thermal Power station with its sunlight-heated steam boiler mounted atop a 200 meter high tower
• Meeting with social activists at the Desert Shanti House – a therapeutic and rehabilitative village that helps youth from all over the country
• Exploration of the Spice Route Quarter – including visits to Lasha Bakery for a bread baking workshop, Faran Cosmetics and local art galleries
• Interaction with a herd of beautiful alpacas and llamas, originally from South America, at the Alpaca Farm
• Other possibilities (not yet confirmed) include the tasting of wines from grapes ripened in desert conditions at the Nana Estate Winery, and evening star gazing in the Ramon Crater (weather permitting). Itinerary subject to change.

Cost is 2600 NIS per person in a shared double room, or 3650 NIS for a single room (200 NIS per person or 300 NIS per couple additional for non-AACI members) and includes: bus transportation from Jerusalem and professional English-language tour guide for 4 days, half board (breakfast and dinner) and lodging for 3 nights at the new Ramon Suites hotel in Mitzpe Ramon (Ramon Suites – Smart Hotels | Boutique hotel chain in Jerusalem and Mitzpe Ramon), use of the  hotel’s heated indoor swimming pool, and entrance fees to sites. Kashrut observed. Israeli GREEN PASS, or foreign equivalent, and full compliance with all applicable Health Ministry regulations, required.

Reservations are limited, and accepted on a first come, first served basis, so please register early to avoid disappointment.

For more information or to make a reservation, please contact Jeff Rothenberg at conted@aaci.org.il