When visiting Israel I highly recommend that you take a long drive straight through the Ramon crater. It was perhaps my second favorite experience during my trip.

The landscape reminded me a little bit of the American Southwest with its vast open desert space, earthy color palate, beautiful rock formations and a winding roads. There are several hiking trails to choose from. My friend and I decided to go with the Saharonim trail. But before we set off on our hike we stopped at a caravan tent and ate a HUGE druze pita and hummus "sandwhich" while listening to American Hip Hop and enjoying the view of the desert.. :P

The Saharonim trail was apart of an ancient spice route. leading from the Petra to the Gaza port. The hike was amazing and I fear that the photos don't even come close to accurately depicting the beauty and size of the area. I was speechless when we came to the canyon area of the trail. I couldn't stop taking photos of the rock formations or touching every little crevice and bump on every little rock I pasted. what should have been an hour long hike turned into a 2 hour adventure :P

at the top edge of the crater is an interesting sculpture trail.. Interestingly this trail located along the edge of the crater with no barrier for prevent kids from falling was designated as the family trail. So if you should visit with your young family member please be careful... its a long drop.

Also don't forget the sun block :P