Exploring the Desert Chills of Joash: A Sunset Jeep Adventure to Mount Joash in the Negev Desert

Nestled among the vast and captivating Negev Desert of Israel lies Mount Joash at the edge of Eilat Mountains. While the hot, dry desert environment is often seen as an unforgiving and hostile terrain, an Eilat mountains sunset jeep adventure to Mount Joash provides a captivating introduction to the wonders of this region. Whether you’re an experienced desert wanderer or a first-time explorer, a jeep adventure to Mount Joash is a unique getaway that brings friends and family together for the shared spirit of exploration.

The Mesmerizing Views and History Await

As the sun starts to set, venture away from the better-known parts of the desert and into the wild dunes of Eilat’s mountains. Tour your way through the rolling curves of sand, eventually becoming embraced by the warm, pinkish glow of the evening sky. This is your chance to take in all the beauty and wonders of the desert during one of the best times of night. On your private sunset jeep tour through Mount Joash, you will also experience and explore mesmerizing sites—many with an incredible level of ancient history and mystery. Even though natural resources are scarce in this area, the story of Eilat mountains shows how the local Bedouin tribes have managed to thrive in an otherwise challenging environment. Depending on who you ask, you may hear stories of camel trading or tales of surviving on rations.

Drama and Photo Ops

Your trip also offers a dramatic backdrop for taking photographs. With the sun setting over some of the region’s most iconic sites—like the Wadi Ura Bedouin Camp or Mahmal—though don’t forget to look out for other, lesser-known areas such as the famous abandoned ISIS prison and Jurassic Bridge. While exploring, take a moment to soak up some of the region’s rich and diverse cultural influences, from the local military base at Timna Airport to its contemporary art galleries and beyond. As you drive through the wild scenery, keep a look out for local wildlife such as mountain goats, foxes, and buzzards—all of which give this region its own unique flavor.

Making a Near-Magical Experience Last Longer

The Eilat Mountains sunset jeep adventure to Mount Joash is truly a unique experience that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their prior knowledge or fitness level. Your professional and experienced driver-guide will be with you every step of the way to ensure your safety and to provide extensive insight into the area, so you know exactly what you’re looking at when something remarkable appears out of the dunes. They will point out monuments, guides, and other significant features that help bring each part of your journey to life—including turning off the headlights to make sure you don’t miss out on a single star in the night sky.

The outing can last anywhere from two to five hours depending on your chosen tour. There are longer offerings that include culinary experiences under remarkable starry skies for those looking for something special and extraordinary, or a more relaxed half-day tour for those who just want to take in all that nature has to offer in its beauty.

The Perfect End to Your Perfect Day

At some point during your journey, you’ll be able to experience pure Bedouin hospitality when you enjoy a traditional meal hosted by your guide in an isolated site. Nothing else is quite like it.¹ Sitting around an open fire as you ring in your sunset experience with some sweet tea or flavored coffee under a blanket of stars—this is why people come here again and again.

At the end of the trip, don’t forget to book yourself in for some further memorable stays in the nearby luxury camps, or take a short hike through illuminated pathways or make a luxurious dip in the Dead Sea.

Your Eilat mountains sunset jeep adventure to Mount Joash is a wonderful way to experience Israel in all her majesty and splendor—take time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and discover some truly unique highlights from nature and culture in all their glory on this jeep adventure. To make sure you don’t miss out on this exciting journey, book with GetYourGuide today and get ready for an amazing journey through time and space and into a world full of ancient stories, splendid sights, and deliciously unforgettable cuisine!

¹ Depending on availability

An Insider’s Guide to the Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences of Joash

Local Attractions: Discovering the City’s Best Kept Secrets

When visiting Joash, don’t just stick to the typical tourist spots. Take the time to explore the lesser-known attractions that only the locals know about. Start with the Ein Avdat National Park, which is often overshadowed by the nearby Masada fortress. Here, you’ll find stunning desert landscapes with hidden waterfalls, canyons, and lush vegetation.

For a unique adventure, head to the Valley of Abraham. This area is dotted with ancient Nabatean ruins such as Qasr Ora, which dates back to the 3rd century BCE, and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Another noteworthy site is the Nabatean Avdat Acropolis, which stands as a testament to the city’s former power and prosperity.

Dining Spots: Savoring the City’s Culinary Delights

When it comes to Joash’s dining scene, be prepared for a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds. Start with the classic Bedouin dish, Mansaf, which features lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce and served with rice and pita bread.

Next up, try some of the best street food in the city. Look for vendors selling falafel, shawarma, and hummus. Don’t forget to ask for “amba,” a tangy mango sauce that is a staple condiment in Middle Eastern cuisine.

For a more upscale dining experience, check out Azura restaurant, which offers traditional Jewish and Arab dishes made from family recipes. The restaurant has been passed down through generations and is a true local institution.

Cultural Experiences: Discovering the City’s Rich Heritage

Joash is a city steeped in rich history and tradition. One must-visit attraction is the Museum of Islamic Art, which houses a collection of Islamic textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Also, be sure to visit the Ayalon Institute, an underground bullet factory that operated during the Israeli War of Independence.

If you’re visiting during the spring, make sure to experience the Mimouna festival. This traditional celebration marks the end of Passover and features music, dancing and, of course, food. It’s a fun and immersive way to experience the city’s cultural heritage.

Local History: Exploring Joash’s Fascinating Past

Joash has a rich and varied past, teeming with fascinating stories and legends. One of the most captivating is the story of the Wailing Bedouin, a tale of love, loss, and revenge that has been passed down for generations.

Another fascinating aspect of Joash’s history is its connection to the spice trade. The city was once a major stop on the ancient Incense Route, which connected the Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean. Today, you can explore the ruins of the ancient Nabatean settlements that once thrived along this route.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Adventures Beyond the Conventional

For those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience in Joash, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path suggestions to consider. One option is to take a sunset jeep tour to Mount Joash in the Negev Desert, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon while enjoying a traditional Bedouin meal.

Another option is to explore the city’s underground tunnels. Start at the Western Wall Tunnels, an intricate network of tunnels that take you beneath the ancient city. From there, head to the Hezekiah Tunnels, which date back to the 8th century BCE and were used to supply water to the city during times of war.

Joash is a city full of hidden gems and unique experiences. With this insider’s guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable visit that will leave you eager to return and explore even more.