Timeline
16:31
Check the route to reach the area before dark. The desert cools quickly after sunset, so bring a layer.
16:51
Start at Metzad Zin. The ancient limestone fortress stands stark against the darkening sky. Walk along the perimeter to get your bearings and feel the scale of the Byzantine defenses.
17:06
Walk 27 minutes west-southwest to Mitzpe Dor. This viewpoint looks directly into the Zin Valley, where the stream winds through the slopes of the Avdat plateau. As the sun dips toward the WSW, the light turns golden on the ridges.
17:26
Head 9 minutes south to the Sculpture Garden. The large open-air statues are designed to interact with the natural landscape. In the fading light, the forms of Uri Orion’s work blend with the desert horizon.
Local tip
There are no food or drink shops in the immediate vicinity of these sites. Pack water and snacks before you start.
Check before you go
- No opening hours apply to the viewpoints or ruins, but ensure you have a vehicle or transport arranged, as walking between sites takes time in the dark.
- Sunset on 15 January is at 17:01. The golden light period begins around 16:25.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Sde Boker (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).