Nahal David, in the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, is considered one of the most attractive streams in the Dead Sea Land. It flows all year round, and is an enjoyable trip-experience for the whole family.
Nahal David is named after King David, who, before becoming King of the United Kingdom of Israel, was forced to flee and hide from Saul. He found himself a magical refuge in the oasis of Ein Gedi:
“And David went up from there and dwelt in the strongholds of Ein Gedi.” (Samuel A.29). “And it was, when Saul had returned from following the Philistines, that they told him, saying, “David is in the Desert of En-Gedi.” (Samuel A.1).
Nahal David combines water from four springs flowing into its path – Ein David, Ein Shulamit, Ein Gedi Spring and Ein Arugot.
The tour starts from the entrance to the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, and after a few minutes’ walk you reach the first waterfall. The trail continues through the stream-route to the enchanting David Waterfall. This is a real oasis, explaining why people chose to settle here, throughout the ancient eras and up until the Second Temple period.
Throughout the entire route you can wade through the water, and the walk back descends to a circular route parallel to the outgoing trail.
- Trail Length: approx. 1.5 kilometers
- Trail Duration: approximately two hours.
- Suitability: for the entire family, even the tiny-tots
- Recommended Season: spring/autumn/winter
- Trail Map: #11
- Starting and Finishing Point: Ein Gedi Nature Reserve night-camp
Please note: immediately after entering the reserve, and all along the path, you will see dotted around the mountainside, cute little rock-rabbits (Hyrax).
The itinerary, as described above, is a recommendation only, and those who choose to take this trip do so at their own discretion and responsibility. The Regional Councils will not be held accountable in the event of any adverse consequences that may ensue.
Due to Ministry of Health guidelines and ‘Purple Tag’ restrictions, advanced registration must be made in the online reservation system of the National Parks & Nature Reserves Authority.
