Eilat is the southernmost city in Israel and it has a whole lot to offer tourists around the year. This busy port and resort area can be found just at the Northern tip of the gorgeous Red Sea, located on the Gulf of Aqaba. This popular tourist destination attracts people for many reasons. For example, they have remarkable beaches, coral reefs, desert landscapes, and a buzzing nightlife. These attributes bring in tourists from the country itself as well as internationally.

It is estimated that the original settlement was probably located at the Northern tip of the Gulf of Eilat. In fact, archaeological discoveries have found impressive prehistoric tombs that date back all the way back to the 7th millennium BC. They were discovered on the Western edge of Eilat. Additionally, nearby copper fields and mining operations at Timna Valley were discovered to be the oldest in the entire world. It is believed that they date back to the 4th dynasty of Egypt! Exciting right?

As you can see, there is not only extensive amounts of beauty and recreational opportunities here, but a whole lot of history as well. Eilat is initially mentioned in the Hebrew bible. As I mentioned before, there is a lot to do in Eilat should you decide to visit. Let’s look below at the top places to visit while you are in the area.

The top tourist attractions in Eilat

Eilat features a hot desert climate that boasts hot, dry summers and winters with a warm, almost rainless winter. This means you can successfully visit Eilat at any time of the year and still have a good time without sacrificing recreational opportunities.

Tourist attractions in Eilat include birdwatching, marine reserves, camel tours, an underwater observatory, tons of coral reefs, dolphins, nature reserves, marina, the Timna Valley Park, and much more. You can even visit an astronomical observatory or the ice mall for some skating and shopping.

International Birding and Research Center

Eilat happens to be a major intersection on the bird’s paths and an important stop on their migration pattern; not just a couple types of birds, but birds from all over the world. There is one overland bridge here that exists between Europe, Asia, and Africa. It serves as a bird sanctuary for millions of migratory birds who are preparing themselves for a foodless flight across the hot Sahara Desert. The goal of the International Birding and Research Center is to renew food sources and enable them to be safeguarded through research, so their flyway is successful.

When you visit the bird sanctuary you will be able to discover elements and habitats of birding hides. There is a freshwater lake that hosts waterfowl, herons, and the like. Additionally, you are able to hike throughout the surrounding nature in able to view the activity of the birds and insects in the area. It is a true treat for fans of animals and travel.

Ice Mall Eilat

This shopping mall is the only one in the world to host a beautiful ice-skating rink. Within this ice-skating rink exists an assortment of luxurious stores that sell all the worlds big-name brands, so you can find a little bit of home. Built in 2012, on the bank of a lagoon, it was built as a "cathedral" type round shaped building that covers approximately 130,000 square feet.

If you are visiting the Ice Mall and you find yourself a bit hungry, the mall also offers a variety of delicious cafes and restaurants serving up traditional Israeli foods for the masses. Here you will find about 150 stores for buying souvenirs for yourself and others all in the heart of Eilat. On the top of the mall you will find a geodesic dome built with ancient building methods, featuring a beautiful design constructed by the finest professionals and architects in all the land. Finally, the largest indoor amusement park in the world can be found here. As you can see, this "Mall Market" features fun treats and surprises at every turn and it is well-worth a visit.

Timna Valley

For starters, let me begin by saying that this is one of the most beautiful parks in the entire world. It holds much global significance because of its variety of scenic, geological, and archaeological sites. It features both Acacia trees and a variety of other arid -land vegetation. When you visit it can be quite exciting as there is not only beautiful vegetation, but wondrous wildlife like wild Ibex that will watch you from atop the cliffs.

This place is great for solo travelers or families, as you can bike, hike, or simply go for a stroll on the many trails that exist here. If you plan on spending the night you are in luck. After a day of outdoor activities, you can enjoy local delicacies at King Solomon’s Khan restaurant, check out the souvenirs at their shop, and spend the night at their overnight campgrounds. For more information about the lovely city of Eilat and Israel, enjoy the Tripedia site.