Riding Through Time: A Jeep Tour of Timna Park’s Copper Valleys
A half-day off-road journey through ancient copper mines and sandstone cathedrals north of Eilat
The Jeep thumps over a washboard track and then eases into a basin that feels both alien and intimate: red sandstone cliffs crowd the sky while wind-smooth domes and freestanding pillars cast long, theatrical shadows. A gust lifts dust in a gold filament that catches the afternoon sun. You lean out of the vehicle for a better look at Solomon’s Pillars—vertical ribs of stone that have stood like sentinels above the valley floor for millions of years—and for a moment you can imagine copper ore being hauled by hand, fires flaring, and the clink of metal being worked by an artisan’s hammer. This is Timna Park, thirty minutes north of Eilat, where geology, archaeology, and the sharp, merciless beauty of the Negev converge on a half-day jeep route.
Trail Wisdom
Hydrate before and during the tour
Bring at least 1.5–2 liters of water per person for a half-day; refill options are limited in the park.
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes
Traction matters on sandy, uneven sandstone—trail runners or hiking shoes protect your feet on short walks from stops.
Time your light
Book morning or late-afternoon departures to avoid the harsh midday sun and get the best colors for photos.
Respect archaeological sites
Do not touch or remove artifacts and stay on designated paths to protect ancient mining remnants and rock art.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •A short hike behind Solomon’s Pillars to small rock engravings that many tours skip
- •The quiet basin east of the main loop for expansive sunset colors
Wildlife
Nubian Ibex, Desert lizards (e.g., agama species)
Conservation Note
Timna is a protected park; visitors are asked to stay on trails, avoid touching rock art, and carry out all trash to protect fragile sites.
Timna contains archaeological remains of ancient copper smelting and trade—evidence in the park dates back millennia and includes Egyptian-period installations.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower displays, Comfortable temperatures, Photography
Challenges: Occasional windy days, More visitors on weekends
Spring (March–April) offers mild temperatures, occasional desert blooms, and excellent light—one of the best times for a jeep tour.
summer
Best for: Clear skies, Early-morning tours, Lower humidity
Challenges: High daytime heat, Shorter comfortable window mid-day
Summer means intense heat; early departures and sun protection are essential to enjoy the landscape safely.
fall
Best for: Cool evenings, Stable weather, Less crowding
Challenges: Possible seasonal winds, Shorter daylight in late season
Fall mirrors spring with pleasant temperatures and steady skies—great for photography and exploration.
winter
Best for: Crisp mornings, Clear air for distant views, Off-season rates
Challenges: Cool nights and mornings, Potential for brisk winds
Winter tours can be chilly at dawn but deliver clear visibility; bring layers for the cool desert mornings.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
1.5–2L Hydration Pack or BottlesEssential
Keeps you hydrated during the half-day in arid conditions.
Trail ShoesEssential
Provides grip and protection on sharp, uneven sandstone and scree.
Sun Protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)Essential
Shields you from intense desert sun, especially midday.
Light Layer (windbreaker or fleece)
Useful for cool mornings and windy conditions, particularly in winter.
Common Questions
How long is the Timna Park jeep tour?
Tours run about 3.5–4 hours (210–240 minutes) and typically include multiple stops for short walks and photo opportunities.
Is the jeep tour suitable for children?
Yes—families are common on these tours, but bring sun protection and water; short walks may be challenging for very young children.
Do I need special footwear?
Closed-toe trail shoes or sturdy trainers are recommended due to uneven sandstone and loose gravel on short hikes.
Are park entrance fees included?
Many organized tours include Timna Park entrance, but confirm with your operator before booking to avoid surprises.
Can I visit Timna independently by car?
Yes—the park has a visitor center and marked trails, but a guided jeep tour provides context and access to more viewpoints.
Is cell service available in the park?
Cell coverage is generally available near the main sites but can be intermittent in remote basins—don’t rely on it for navigation.
What to Pack
Water (1.5–2L), Trail shoes for rocky terrain, Sun protection (hat/sunscreen), Light layer for cooler mornings
Did You Know
Timna Park contains remnants of some of the earliest known copper-smelting activity in the region, with archaeological layers spanning several millennia and Egyptian-period inscriptions and symbols.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning or late-afternoon departures; confirm park entrance is included; bring cash for small purchases; expect limited cell reception in remote basins
Local Flavor
After your tour, drive back to Eilat’s marina for fresh seafood or head into town for Bedouin-style hospitality—look for restaurants serving mansaf or grilled fish, and end the day on the Eilat promenade with a local craft beer.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Eilat Ramon Airport (ETM); Driving distance from Eilat: ~25–30 km (30–40 minutes); Cell service: generally available near main sites, intermittent in remote basins; Permits/Passes: Timna Park entrance fee required—confirm if included in tour price.
Sustainability Note
Timna is a protected archaeological and natural site—please stay on designated tracks, pack out trash, and avoid touching ancient rock art or artifacts.