You can’t overdo it when describing the Ein Gedi Khan. It has everything you dream about when camping, and other things you didn’t even know you wanted (for example, you can rent an air-conditioner – what a brilliant idea!) – the scenery is amazing, the design is tasteful, and there is a variety of accommodation options at different price levels, lots of excursions in the surroundings and hospitality according to the ancient desert tradition.
Breathtaking Beauty
Shall we start with the view? The Khan is right in front of the Dead Sea, in one of the few places where you can see the sea up close and without any disturbance. Just you and Nature. What does that mean? It means waking up to the most beautiful sunrise in the land, (we take full responsibility for this!) and falling asleep to the twinkling of lights on the sea’s surface. In between, you can see the sea changing tones and hues throughout the day and, in winter, it’s also sometimes painted in stunning shades of pink and purple.
If you take a look around, you’ll discover the towering Mount Tzruya, to your right, Kibbutz Ein Gedi, a green gem in the heart of the desert and, on your left, are expanses of soft desert hills. Your eyes never stop roaming, captivated by this lovely combination of blue, green and brown.
But in Ein Gedi Khan they didn’t just build on the magnificent scenery – they also established, in the heart of this landscape, a Khan, whose every corner is more beautiful than the last one… A plethora of plants, gardens and plant-pots, consideration invested in every sign, table and wall. You can see a lot of thought and good taste in every corner. Everything has been carefully chosen and, all together, creates a place that gives you the feeling that they really want you to enjoy every minute of it.
The highlight of the place is the open central building, which is so beautiful, restful and inviting, that there is a reasonable fear that it will make you cancel all your plans, and just stay there all day. There, you will find comfortable seating areas, hammocks facing the views, the pool, snooker and ping-pong tables, other games and a small café-bar offering drinks, pizzas, humus, schnitzels, desserts and more.
There’s also free WiFi, but we really recommend that you leave your phone in your bag, allow yourself to take a deep breath, soak up the beauty around you and enjoy the disconnection.
Accommodation Options
The Khan offers four accommodation options:
Camping complex for private tents – accommodation is on large concrete platforms, so the area is flat and convenient, without dirt entering the tent. It’s worth bringing a mattress or renting in-situ.
Double Vans – four beautiful vans that include air conditioning, electricity, lighting and a double bed. One of the most romantic experiences possible!
Pre-constructed family tents – in the tents you will find air-conditioning, lighting, electricity, mattresses, blankets and pillows. The perfect option for those who want the experience of camping and sleeping in Nature, but in comfortable conditions.
Caravans – you are also welcome to bring your own private caravan.
Next to the common main building, you will find the toilet and shower facility and, even here, no efforts were spared to create a building that is both beautiful and well maintained, alongside the comfort and cleanliness of the complex. Forget the showers you usually find at campsites – this is something else entirely!
There are two kitchens in the Khan for guests’ use. These are shared kitchens with a fridge, sink and work surfaces. You must bring crockery/cutlery and pots/pans with you from home.
What’s left? Only to choose what suits you best – A romantic getaway? An indulgent family-experience? A real ‘sleeping in Nature’ night? In Ein Gedi Khan you will find all the possibilities. A great solution even when several families come together, each with their own needs and dreams.
Which excursions shall we take?
The Khan is right next to the kibbutz, so you can wander in the kibbutz’s unique botanical garden, among baobabs, exotic cacti, tropical vegetation and stroll on wide lawns. Combine your trip with a visit to the kibbutz’s supermarket to stock up, have a meal in its dining room and let your kids enjoy using the children’s play facilities.
Of course, you can’t be in Ein-Gedi without exploring the beautiful Nature Reserve – Nahal David, Nahal Arugot and the Ancient Synagogue. All of these are only 5 minutes’ drive away.
You can also go a little further and drive for about 20-25 minutes to reach Masada (to the south) or the Einot Tzukim Nature Reserve (to the north). Two beautiful and unique places really worth visiting, if you’ve already reached the region.
The more experienced travelers can also explore one of the many routes in the Judean Desert – Nahal Salvadora, Nahal Darga and more. A breakdown of all excursions in the area can be found here
The Human Factor
Comfortable accommodation, beautiful view, tidy kitchen – all of which are necessary, but what makes the small and important difference is the smile you see at the entrance, the service, the love of hospitality. The Khan was opened by two local kibbutz members – Avi Barkai and Ben Shukron, who were followed by their, daughters Kati Barkai and Elian Shukron, who joined the management. At almost any given time, you’ll find one of them walking around, taking care that everything is clean and that everyone is happy, or just sitting down with a cold beer for a chat with the guests. They’re continually developing the place, adding new accommodation options, another garden here, or a new manicured corner there… Constant action is taking place to make your experience fabulous. There is also a 24/7 staff member who will take care of you, even in the middle of the night if you need it. Desert hospitality is already well-known from the days of our forefather, Avraham, as particularly hearty hospitality, and the Khan staff are certainly continuing this tradition.
