adirladada

I'm going to Israel next July with my mother and children and we would like to visit Masada and the dead sea. Is it possible to combine both visits with may be a one night in a hotel around the dead sea.

rsnyder

Just a couple of comments as our trip was in 2000 and things may have changed greatly. It is very possible to do both Masada and the Dead Sea in one day. And, if you are staying at a local hotel, time is aplenty. As it was, we stopped for lunch at Dead Sea with plenty of time for eating and then a dip, if one preferred. Then we motored on to Masada and had a great time there. Schedule for the tram/cable ride would certainly dictate one's schedule unless a climb or walking descent is involved. The view from atop Masada is quite impressive not only the desert but ruins of Roman camp and fortifications. Enjoy the trip and provide a trip report with photos when you return. Dick

AlexA

Distance-wise, it is certainly possible. You have to gauge how much energy you will have, though. Keep in mind that it will be extremely hot (100+ F / 38C)in both places in July. If you plan to climb on Masada, that is usually done before sunrise!
Of course the Dead Sea being the lowest place on earth will be hot at any time during the day.

sandi

We did both in 1/day, visiting Masada first, then relaxing at the Dead Sea (even visit to Jericho... many years back). As it will be summer and very hot, you may want to consider overnighting at the Dead Sea so it doesn't seem to be a rushed adventure.

pittpurple

Highly, highly recommend staying at the Kibbutz at Ein Gedi http://www.ein-gedi.co.il/lodging/en_rooms.html

My husband and I stayed there for two nights - did the Dead Sea in the morning, hiked around the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve in the afternoon, and did Masada first thing in the morning (we were there in winter so the heat wasn't an issue - the sea was freezing!)

I cannot say enough about how fabulous this hotel was - we had an early flight and they allowed us to check in at around 10am and they had the most incredible breakfast buffet I've ever experienced. We got dinner there both nights as well (breakfast is milk, dinner is meat). We had so much for breakfast we forgot about lunch so I can't comment on that.

It's in a beautiful area as well and a short drive to the Dead Sea or Masada.

Have fun!

LFG2Elecman

Second vote for the Ein Gedi kibbutz guest house, which is one of my favorite places to stay in the world! The cabins are clean and neat, the cactus botanical garden is wonderful, and there is a unique mini-golf course that our kids still talk about.

aditour

Hi,
Consider that weather in July is extremely hot.
You have to overnight in the Dead Sea area so you can enjoy Dead Sea in the afternoon, during the day it is impossible.
Good trip
Adi