Exploring Eilat: A Guide to Camel Safari with Bedouin Meal

Have you ever wanted to combine two of your favorite activities in one trip? If so, a camel safari with a Bedouin meal in Israel’s Eilat city might be the perfect choice. Our guide will fill you in on all the details needed to ensure a successful and adventurous experience.

About Eilat

The coastal resort town of Eilat lies at the southern tip of Israel, on the Red Sea. Eilat is famous for its warm, sunny weather and stunning natural landscapes, which make it the perfect spot for outdoor activities and explorations. With its unique desert wildlife, vibrant coral reef ecosystems, and scenic desert mountains, Eilat is an ideal destination for an enjoyable getaway.

What is a Camel Safari?

A camel safari is an exciting way to explore the desert in Israel. Riding atop a camel, you can wind your way through the sand dunes and rocky landscape of Eilat, taking in all the area has to offer.

The safari usually begins in the late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler and the setting sun paints the sand with a beautiful palette of oranges and pinks. The tour guides provide riders with basic directions on how to ride a camel and mount the humps of their animals. While riding through the vast sweeping sand dunes, you’ll take in the peacefulness of the desert and get plenty of opportunities to take wonderful photos.

What Does a Bedouin Meal Involve?

As part of the flat package for tourists, Bedouin meal tours are offered by many tour companies in Eilat. This typically includes a combination of hummus, baba ghanoush, kufte (meatballs) and other dishes served with bread. Bedouin meals also often feature salads or vegetable dishes made from whatever is grown or found in the desert environment.

Most Bedouin meals are cooked over a wood-fired stove and served on the side of a camel trail or in a mobile tent set up on site. The meal is prepared and served by Bedouin guides who will provide some entertainment with stories and local folklore as they serve you your meal.

A Look at What’s Included

A camel safari tour with a Bedouin meal typically lasts between three to four hours, depending on the tour operator. In addition to riding camels, the tour usually includes:

• An introduction to camel riding techniques
• A Bedouin-style meal of traditional dishes
• Beverages such as tea or lemonade
• A guide who will offer historical information/folklore
• Opportunity to visit a traditional Bedouin tent

The cost for a typical camel-Safari-with-Bedouin-meal tour ranges from about $75 per person for smaller groups up to around $90 for larger groups (booked through Get Your Guide). Most safaris include round trip transportation from Eilat to your camel safari destination.

Things to Keep in Mind

When planning a camel safari with a Bedouin meal in Eilat, there are certain measures that should be taken to ensure you and your group have an enjoyable experience:

• Dress Appropriately: Just like any desert activity, it’s important to dress modestly for your camel safari and wear sunscreen, sunglasses and hats to protect yourself from sunburns.
• Bring Cash: Most tour operators do not accept credit cards so it’s advisable to carry cash with you during your tour.
• Book Ahead: Camel Safaris tend to get booked up quickly so book ahead and don’t forget to take advantage of last minute promotions.

Why Should You Do It?

If you’re looking for an activity that combines beautiful natural surroundings with cultural education, then a camel safari with bedouin meal in Eilat is an ideal choice. The sights and sounds of the desert alongside breathtaking eastern vistas makes for an unforgettable experience. Taste the unique cuisine created by your Bedouin host and embrace the hospitality of your host and guide. As a bonus, don’t forget to take home some amazing pictures that will serve as an excellent reminder!

For an unbelievably exciting adventure in Eilat, book a camel safari with a bedouin meal experience through GetYourGuide. So grab a few friends, pack some snacks and get ready for an experience like you’ve never had before.

An Insider’s Guide to Eilat

Local Attractions: Uncover Eilat’s Hidden Gems

While Eilat is known for its pristine beaches, there is plenty more to explore beyond the shorelines. One of the hidden gems worth checking out is the Botanical Garden, a serene oasis right in the heart of the city. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll and admire the various plant species and sculptures on display.

Another unique spot to visit is the Red Canyon. Located at the entrance to the Eilat mountains, this canyon offers breathtaking views of the rock formations and colorful sands. While it can be a bit of a challenging hike, it is well worth the effort for the captivating natural landscapes that await.

Dining Spots: Savor Eilat’s Local Cuisine

Eilat has a rich culinary heritage influenced by the diverse cultures that thrive in the city. One must-try dish is the authentic Bedouin Mansaf, a rice-based dish served with meat and flavorful spices. It is the perfect meal to indulge in after a long day exploring the city.

For seafood lovers, the Doctor Fish restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests can feed the fish in the restaurant’s massive aquarium while enjoying their meal. The restaurant serves a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh, locally caught fish.

Cultural Experiences: Get Acquainted with Eilat’s Traditions

Visitors to Eilat can learn about the city’s roots at the Eilat Museum located in the heart of the city. The museum showcases the history and culture of the city, from its Bedouin roots to the present day.

For a unique cultural experience, visitors can explore the underwater observatory located just south of the city. The observatory offers a glimpse into the vibrant marine life of the Red Sea and allows visitors to appreciate the city’s connection to the sea as a source of life and inspiration.

Local History: Relive Eilat’s Past

Eilat has a rich and storied history that dates back thousands of years. One fascinating relic of this history is the Roman fortress of Fara’ on the city’s outskirts. The fortress served as a strategic military post and provides a window into the ancient world that once existed in these lands.

Another interesting historical site in the area is the Shahmon ruins, which were once home to a Nabatean fortress and agricultural settlement. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the people who once called this place home.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Seek Out Unique Experiences

For a unique and memorable experience, visitors can book a camel ride and Bedouin meal tour. The tour includes a scenic camel ride into the desert, a traditional Bedouin meal, and an opportunity to learn about Bedouin culture and customs from knowledgeable local guides.

Another off-the-beaten-path experience is a night snorkeling tour, where visitors can explore the underwater magic of the Red Sea at night. The tour includes a guide and special equipment to make the experience even more unforgettable.

Eilat may be known for its beaches, but it has so much more to offer for those willing to venture beyond the tourist spots. From local cuisine to hidden gems and unique cultural experiences, there is always something new to discover in this beautiful city.