The Ein Gedi Waterfall Trek is a day hike through the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, an oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea in Israel, roughly 75 km from Jerusalem. The reserve is managed by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority and contains two canyons, Nahal David and Nahal Arugot, fed by freshwater springs that support lush vegetation, ibex, rock hyraxes and desert leopards' habitat in an otherwise barren landscape. The classic route follows Nahal David to the Shulamit Spring pool and David's Waterfall, a drop of about 30 metres into a cool pool, and many hikers continue to the Ein Gedi Spring and the Chalcolithic Temple ruins.
The trek is moderate. The lower trail to the waterfall is about 1.5 to 2 km each way on a mixture of paved path, stone steps and rock scrambling, with some sections where hikers hold railings or climb ladders. Typical time is three to four hours, depending on swimming stops. Basic fitness and comfortable footwear are enough, and children who can hike for a few hours manage the lower trail. There is no formal age limit. Longer routes along Nahal Arugot and up to the Hidden Waterfall are harder and involve wading and steeper climbs.
Equipment is not supplied. Visitors should bring a swimsuit, water shoes with grip, at least two litres of water, a hat, sunscreen and a snack. Entry costs about 28 ILS (approx $9) per adult. Rangers staff the entrance and trails, and the reserve closes its gates in the afternoon, so hikers must plan to finish before closing time. The reserve has marked routes and first-aid posts, and in an emergency rangers coordinate evacuation by vehicle or helicopter. Swimming is permitted only in designated pools, and hikers must stay on the marked trails.
Flash floods are the main hazard. Hikers should avoid the canyons if rain is forecast anywhere in the Judean Desert or the Jerusalem hills, since runoff can reach Ein Gedi with little warning, and the reserve closes its trails when risk is high. Summer is very hot, often above 40 degrees Celsius, so the best season is October to May, with morning starts to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
| Price | About 28 ILS (approx $9) entry |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3-4 hours |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Season | Oct-May |
| Address | Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, Israel |
Activity facts
- Where
- Dead Sea region
Equipment
- swimsuit
- water shoes
- water 2 L
Location
Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, Israel
31.4617, 35.3892 View on map
Highlights
- Hike Nahal David to the 30-metre David's Waterfall and its cool pool
- Spot ibex and rock hyraxes on the cliffs along the trail
- Swim in the Shulamit Spring pool in designated areas
- Continue to the Ein Gedi Spring and the Chalcolithic Temple ruins
Tips for visiting
- Arrive when the reserve opens; heat and crowds build by late morning.
- Wear water shoes with grip; the pools and rocks are slippery.
- Carry at least 2 litres of water per person.
- Check the forecast for rain across the Judean Desert, as flash floods can close the canyons.
- Do not feed the ibex or hyraxes, and keep food sealed.
When to visit
October to May, starting in the morning. Summer is extremely hot, and rainy days risk flash floods.
Accessibility
The trail includes steps, ladders and uneven rock, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs. A short, flatter section near the entrance may be accessible to some visitors with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Ein Gedi waterfall hike take?
The Nahal David waterfall route typically takes three to four hours including a swim.
Can visitors swim at Ein Gedi?
Swimming is allowed in the designated pools such as the Shulamit Spring pool, but not elsewhere along the stream.
How much does entry cost?
Entry is about 28 ILS per adult, paid at the reserve entrance.
When should the reserve be avoided?
Avoid it when rain is forecast, because of flash-flood risk, and in the midday heat of summer.