Tour Details

Nitzana – Layers of Desert History Explore the fascinating ruins of Nitzana, an ancient desert settlement with a history spanning many centuries. Discover the remains of its Byzantine churches and settlement, and learn how the site was revived in the early 20th century as the Ottoman administrative and military centre of Auja al-Hafir. Nitzana offers a remarkable opportunity to see how different civilizations adapted to life on the edge of the desert. Ottoman Railway at Nitzana Discover the remains of the Ottoman railway complex at Auja al-Hafir, built by the Ottomans and Germans in the early 20th century. See the old station platform, railway embankment, bridge remains and impressive water tower, and hear how this remote desert outpost became an important military and logistical centre during the First World War. Avdat – Nabataean Desert City Walk through the impressive ruins of Avdat, one of the great Nabataean cities of the Negev and part of the UNESCO-listed Incense Route. Follow in the footsteps of ancient caravan traders who transported incense, spices and other valuable goods across the desert. Explore remains from the Nabataean, Roman and Byzantine periods, including temples, churches, a fortress, winepresses, caves and sophisticated water systems that made life possible in this harsh environment.