Things To Do
in Dimona
Dimona is a city in the southern Negev desert founded in the 1950s as a development town and now home to a diverse community. It sits amid arid desert scenery, where expansive skies and warm desert light shape daily life. The city serves as a gateway to nearby Negev wonders such as Makhtesh Ramon and Avdat while maintaining a close-knit, family-friendly vibe.
Its growing local scene includes markets, cafes, and cultural events that reflect the mix of Jewish, Bedouin, and immigrant communities in the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Rise before dawn and head to the rolling sand dunes east of Dimona. Watch the horizon glow in warm hues as the sun peeks above the Negev plateau. Sip mint tea prepared over a small campfire while listening to the whisper of the wind.
Explore the Dimona Visitors Center for an interactive introduction to desert geology and biodiversity. Walk along marked desert trails, spotting resilient plants like the desert hyacinth and acacia trees. Join a workshop on sustainable desert survival techniques led by a local guide.
Return to a nearby desert camp for an alfresco dinner under a starlit canopy. Savor traditional Negev dishes seasoned with regional spices while seated on embroidered rugs. End the night with local musicians playing the oud and sharing ancient desert tales.
Begin your day at the Dimona Heritage Center to learn about the city’s founding in the 1950s. Examine archival photographs, personal artifacts, and oral history recordings of early pioneers. Engage with interactive displays that highlight the challenges and triumphs of establishing a desert community.
Stroll through the Moroccan Quarter to admire colorful street art inspired by North African motifs. Visit the Mosaic Cultural Center to see local artists creating traditional tile patterns. Stop for a light lunch at a family-run café serving freshly baked bourekas and leafy salads.
Walk to the municipal amphitheater for an evening performance of folk dances and Druse songs. Sample local pastries and sweet mint tea at a popup dessert stand. Enjoy the cool desert breeze as the performers narrate stories of Dimona’s multi-ethnic heritage.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $70-120 |
| 🚗Local transport pass or ride | $12-25 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the Negev’s natural wonders and stark desert landscapes
- Affordable lodging and dining compared to major cities
- Friendly, family-oriented communities with a sense of southern Israel culture
- Clear night skies ideal for stargazing and desert photography
- Limited nightlife and few large urban attractions
- Heat in summer can be intense; plan around the sun
- Public transportation options are not as dense as in larger cities
- "שלום" - Hello
- "תודה" - Thank you
- "בוקר טוב" - Good morning
- "כמה זה?" - How much is this?
- "איפה השירותים?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "אני לא מדבר עברית טוב" - I don't speak Hebrew well
- "האם אתה מדבר אנגלית?" - Do you speak English?
- "אני צריך עזרה" - I need help
Places to Visit in Dimona
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic desert craters with dramatic rock formations, perfect for sunrise and panoramic desert shots.
Narrow canyons and ancient Nabatean traces offer atmospheric canyon photography and waterfall-tinged scenes after rain.
Accessible overlooks around the city provide expansive Negev horizons, especially at golden hour.
Clear desert skies offer stellar photography opportunities with minimal light pollution.
Food in Dimona
Dimona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple served with warm pita, found at most eateries and street stalls in Dimona.
Must-Try!
Eggs poached in tomato-pepper sauce, a popular breakfast/brunch option in cafes.
Crispy chickpea patties served in pita with salad and sauces; widely available from street stalls and cafés.
Pita stuffed with fried eggplant, egg, salads, and sauces; a common choice for a hearty meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling daily market where you can taste fresh produce, spices, baked goods, and quick street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple 'Shalom' or 'Hello' is polite; shake hands in business contexts and wait for cues in more intimate settings.
Respect Sabbath closures and dress modestly when visiting religious sites; observant areas may have restricted hours on Friday evenings and Saturdays.
Ask for permission when photographing people or private spaces; be discreet in sensitive areas.
Safety
Tipping in Dimona
Ensure a smooth experience
In Israel, a tip of about 10–15% is customary if service isn’t included; in many places it may be included automatically, so check the bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with cash still handy for markets and small eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with intense sun; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, and seek shade during peak heat.
Warm days with cooler evenings; a comfortable time for desert walks and longer hikes, with pleasant sunsets.
Mild daytime temperatures but cooler nights; bring layers for evening outings and note potential desert conditions after rain.
Temperatures are moderate; vibrant desert flora may bloom after rains, making it an excellent time for photography and hikes.
Dimona at Night
Hiking in Dimona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible desert trails along the crater rim with panoramic views and geological interest.
Canyon walks and Nabatean-era landscapes near Sde Boker for scenic hikes and photo ops.
Airports
How to reach Dimona by plane.
Israel's main international gateway, about a few hours' drive from Dimona via highways; accepts international flights and offers extensive domestic connections.
A domestic and international airport near Eilat; closer in distance for some southern itineraries but with fewer long-haul options than TLV.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dimona hosts a mix of Jewish residents, immigrant communities, and a significant Bedouin population in the Negev, contributing to a rich cultural fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Israel, with local clubs and community games in and around Dimona.
Common in schools and community centers; casual leagues and pickup games are typical in larger towns nearby.
Trail running, cycling, and off-road vehicle experiences are popular in the Negev.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dimona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; look for falafel, hummus, salads, and veggie dishes at cafés and markets.