Machtesh Ramon – The Ramon Crater

The Ramon Crater or as it is known in Hebrew Machtesh (Makhtesh) Ramon is a big crater in the Israeli desert. When you think of craters you usually imagine a meteor hitting earth and creating a big hole in the ground. However, this is not the case with this place.

This beautiful desert site is a unique geological phenomenon caused by erosion. Without getting too technical... the explanation of how it formed lies millions of years ago when the whole place was covered by an ocean that receded. Climatic changes that followed that created this big “crater” – about 25 miles (40 km) long and 1 to 6 miles wide.

The crater. Both pictures by Heatkernel.

Makhtesh Ramon is truly spectacular and if you like desert views you will find the place to be breathtaking.

Other than that there is not much to do really. The closest town is Mitzpe Ramon – nothing fancy – that hosts an alpaca & llama farm; if you like those animals check it out. So if you are on your way to Eilat driving the scenic (recommended but longer) route 40, stop and check out the crater in the desert.