EL AL | Atmosphere

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09 The magic of the desert : an experiential winter break in Kfar Hanokdim

In the heart of the Judean Desert, between Arad and Masada, lies Kfar Hanokdim, a magical oasis of lush vegetation, traditional Bedouin hospitality, and perfect temperatures this time of year. It’s the perfect destination for a peaceful family vacation, with all the cozy comforts and experiential activities you could wish for / By Shani Alterovich

What to see & do Camel rides: on Friday and Saturday mornings, the Camel Care Center offers camel rides to guests of all ages. The center offers an exciting and enriching experience, allowing you to come up close and personal with these gentle desert giants. There’s also a petting corner for kids, with goats, rabbits and other animals that come to visit, including colorful peacocks that roam around freely. Lookout points and night excursions: guided night tours on which you can discover nocturnal animals, learn about stargazing in the desert - and the absolute highlight: watch scorpions glow in ultraviolet light. Kfar Hanokdim is located just minutes aways from Masada, all the Judean Desert trails, Nahal Tze’elim, and more, so there are plenty of hiking trail options in the area - long and short, for families and hikers of every level. Evenings by the campfire: there’s no tv in Kfar Hanokdim, and cellphone reception is poor, so evenings are all about connecting with the quiet of the desert. In the evenings, everyone sits around the campfire, roasting marshmallows, playing card games, and enjoying each other’s company. Where to eat Cook your own meal or eat in the refectory There are kitchenettes with refrigerators and work surfaces scattered all around, and each family is free to cook their own meals. There are barbecue areas and campfire corners, where you can prepare desert tea, roast

ritzner Photo: Joni G

20 ATMOSPHERE JANUARY 2026 goats’ wool tents with mats and mattresses scattered all around. There are toilets and showers Kfar Hanokdim is a desert oasis located in the Judean Desert’s Kanaim Valley. It’s a small and verdant village spread across a vast stretch of land, free of fences and enclosures, making it the perfect spot for families with children, who are free to run around. A variety of accommodation options are available, alongside a myriad experiential and desert activities to enjoy. Where to stay Glamping huts or authentic Bedouin tents Kfar Hanokdim offers an array of accommodation options to choose from, from glamping huts to Bedouin tents, to classic B&B bedrooms. Bedouin tents: traditional

nearby, as well as a cooking area, and a cozy seating area. The tents are heated are in the winter, which makes them super cozy and surprisingly comfortable. A particularly great option for groups. Glamping huts: wooden huts lined with insulating goats’ wool, thinly tiled floors, seating areas, etc. Glamping is great for families or small groups looking for a desert experience with a little more of a home feel. B&B bedrooms: cozy bedrooms with handmade furniture, private shower and toilet, and air conditioning. Ideal for those who need all the comfort, but still want that desert experience. The “camel bus”: an old bus that’s been renovated and adapted for camper living – a super fun experience, especially for children. It’s parked in the camping zone where camping tents can be set up, as well as personal camper vans.