ESRA Hike Club invites you to join us again this year for another 2-day Hiking Experience.
Following the winter rains, and as spring blooms, we’ll set out on 2 days of amazing hiking, with a delightful overnight stay at the outstanding Leonardo Plaza Hotel, Dead Sea.
Day 1 Hike
We begin with an early drive down to Arad before setting out, descending from the city into the dramatic desert canyon of Nahal Ye’elim, a winding gorge carved into the Judean Desert. From here, we turn upward for a rewarding, steep climb through Rogem Zohar, where we’ll explore its evocative ancient ridge-top ruins. Continuing on, we reach Mitzpe Zohar, a breathtaking lookout offering sweeping panoramas across the wild desert landscape. Our day finishes with a descent through the rugged, challenging wadi of Nahal Abuv, meeting the bus for our transfer to the hotel.
Approx. 12 km. Hard
A demanding route at times – but magnificently rewarding from start to finish!
Day 2 Hike
We’re close by to set out early across the sun-drenched plateau of Mishor Yamin, its open desert vistas unfolding in every direction. Our path climbs steadily to the atmospheric Hurvat Tzafir, the remains of a Roman-era hilltop outpost. From there, we descend into the serene, sculpted gorge of Nahal Hatira, a quiet desert canyon rich in color and texture. The trail then leads us up the dramatic ascent and well hiked, historic desert pass of Ma’ale Palmach, before ending our two days at the wonderfully lush oasis of Ein Yorkeam, a hidden spring surrounded by desert cliffs.
Approx. 12 km. Hard
Challenging terrain in parts – but filled with unforgettable beauty throughout!
All aspects of the program will be held in line with Government and Pikud Ha’Oref regulations
Exact routes and details may change due to weather or safety considerations
The two-day trip includes:
Luxury Coach – attached to the group for all travel needs
Two full days of memorable ESRA hikes – with our veteran and knowledgeable guide, Reuven
Overnight stay at the Leonardo Plaza Hotel, Dead Sea. Nestled between the rugged desert and the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, the hotel offers a unique blend of tranquility and modern facilities in Neve Zohar. All rooms offer stunning views of the magical Dead Sea. Each is furnished to provide utmost comfort with essential amenities, including air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The hotel offers saltwater and freshwater pools under the shade of palm trees, that will ensure us a refreshing post-hike experience.
As always, we will time our arrival on day 1 to enjoy pre-dinner swim time!
Check it out: https://www.leonardo-hotels.com/dead-sea/leonardo-plaza-dead-sea
Three Kosher meals are included: extensive meat buffet dinner; full Israeli breakfast plus individual packed lunch boxes, water and snacks to go for the 2nd day. Vegetarian/vegan and/or special options available. All you’ll have to bring is water, a packed breakfast and lunch for day 1.
Enjoyable and relaxing social evening program – amongst friends!
Pricing: Based on a group of 30 people
Per person in a double room NIS 900
Single room NIS 1,200
We have kept prices identical to 2025!
Prices are per person. For non-members, an additional NIS 180 ESRA membership fee will be added, which provides household membership for one year.
These prices are for ESRA members only. Annual membership is NIS 180.
Booking
Please note that booking and payment will close on 15th February 2026 – at the latest. Booking is only guaranteed when full payment is made. Please select your preferred option - sharing in a double room or a single room.
For those sharing a room, either inform Lawrence of room partners or we will match you up with a partner nearer the date.
Bus pick-ups will be at: Netanya Beit Yehoshua train station, Raanana Mercaz Klita and Yad Binyamin.
On the first day we will be starting out early at 05:00 and exact times of pick-ups, will be coordinated nearer the time.
For additional pick-up location options – please speak to Lawrence.
Cancellation Fee: 10% up to 72 hours prior to the trip. After this time, no refund is available, as we will be committed to pay for the hotel, bus, meals and all costs.
Numbers are limited, and following previous year’s success, demand is sure to be high amongst our regular hikers! So, book early to avoid disappointment!
These 2 days of hikes are classified as HARD. ESRA hikes are only suitable for people in good health and regular full day hiking experience.
We reserve the right to refuse participation on the hikes to any person who does not come properly equipped or is not physically capable of making the distance.
Further details: Lawrence Bertfield 054 7734394 – David Broza 054 7791964
