Getting Oriented

There are three basic areas in the inverted triangle of the Negev, Israel's southern desert that make up the southern part of the country. The first, and farthest south, is carefree Eilat, with the Underwater Observatory at Coral Beach, and Timna Park. Eilat is also a convenient jumping-off point for a trip to Jordan and the splendid ruins of the ancient city of Petra. Next is the Negev's heart, with sites such as Ben-Gurion's desert home and grave, the ancient Nabatean-Roman-Byzantine ruins at Tel Avdat, and the amazing Makhtesh Ramon (Ramon Crater). The third, in the north, includes the capital city of Beersheva.