Ein Gedi, literally meaning "spring of the kid" in Hebrew, is an oasis and nature reserve in Israel. It is located west of the Dead Sea, near Masada and the Qumran caves, right on the border of the Judean Desert. It covers about 3,500 acres. Outside the nature reserve, you see flat desert, but as soon as you enter the area recognized as Ein Gedi, you are taken away by its beautiful waterfalls and green beauty. The government declared the area as a nature reserve only 48 years ago! It is one of the most important reserves in Israel.
Ein Gedi is one of the most popular nature sites in the country! It stands out from the other nature reserves because of how it flourishes despite its dry location. It provides water and is home to many different plant and animal species. Ein Gedi is home to the largest herds of Nubian ibexes!
Ein Gedi Nature Reserve includes two spring-fed streams that have flowing water year-round. Two other springs also flow in the reserve. Together, the springs generate approximately three million cubic meters of water per year. Much of the water is used for agriculture or bottled for consumption. The vegetation includes plants and trees from the tropical, desert and Mediterranean regions.
