A mountain biking adventure in the Negev desert in Israel
The Negev desert in Israel is an ideal mountain biking destination. The endless network of trails offer hundreds of opportunities to see feel and ride one of the most inhospitable yet exciting environments. Its desert section is the backbone of the desert region, it is sometimes nothing but a faint camel rout and sometime a well built high
standard bike “motorway”. Many additional routs join and leave this trail - like a nerve network. Most of these are nabatian camel trails dating 200 years back only to be reused today by mountain bikes. Riding these is the healthiest addiction you are likely to adopt. But its not just the riding - the desert has something for everyone...
If you like archeology – you will find evidence of 4000 years of human colonization. Interested in geology? The erosion craters (machtesh) are a phenomena found only in this region. Fascinated by animals and plants – natural adaptation to the harsh conditions tell many natural history stories. If anthropology is your thing – the encounter with Bedouin tradition and its conflict with modern life will fascinate you. Agriculture? Permaculture? Riding through this land you will get the opportunity to meet all those and more. Not to mention the fact that we are riding alongside the wine route of the Negev…
Based vaguely on the renowned “israel trail”, we custom fit a bike route for your group's taste and ability. Our package includes everything except bikes*. Tailored to measure, you can choose between camping in the middle of nowhere, visit a beautiful Khan (camp), stay in a hotel or combine all of the above… On long days we usually have a jeep or truck chaperone for safety and comfort (and alcohol). Experiencing those requires a firsthand knowledge, experience and logistics – which is where we come in. We put together the best team to fit you. The driver, follows the riders seeing but not seen is in charge of logistics, will cook and support you every need. But, most important, our guides - are local, have intimate knowledge of the Negev and are personally responsible for building some of the trails you will ride. The best time to visit is winter. Rain is a rare occasion and you would be lucky to experience a flood. Following the rain and floods in January to March the desert flowers for an instant and becomes softer and magnificent. What we offer is not just a holiday. Its an adventure into something else, unique and fascinating. If this is your fantasy, we will turn it into your habit.
* simple bikes can be rented
