Rare Desert Floods Fill Long-Dry Pools Across the Arava Region

Recent flash floods in the central Arava desert have filled numerous natural desert pools, locally known as gavim, transforming the arid landscape and offering rare hiking opportunities. Among the most notable sights is the Holit pool, which has remained dry for years. Hidden at the base of a rock waterfall between Sapir and Mitzpe Ramon, the pool spans roughly ten meters across and is accessible via a challenging 20-kilometer trek along the Israel National Trail or by a 4x4 vehicle from Ein Yahav.

Water levels have also risen significantly in Nahal Masor, a narrow canyon near Hatzeva featuring vertical limestone walls, ancient potholes, and metal ladders bolted into the rock. The trail leads past military training areas and air force wreckage sites, making it accessible primarily on weekends and holidays. Similarly, Nahal Hatsara offers a more family-friendly hike in the northern Arava, featuring shaded rock walls, carved natural steps, and full lower pools fed by recent rains.

Additional desert routes including Nahal Gov and Nahal Sharf boast dramatic gorges, ropes, and ladders, though several segments require traversing active military zones restricted to weekends. The journey can be concluded at the Nekarot Reservoir near Ein Yahav, where floodwaters have spilled beyond standard boundaries, creating a temporary oasis that attracts migratory birds and desert wildlife against the backdrop of the setting sun.