Masada is one of the most iconic and visited archaeological sites in Israel. It’s also one of the most photographed, and for good reason. But with so many tourists visiting Masada every day, it can be difficult to get the best views of the site. If you want to get a good shot of Masada without all the crowds, take a look at these tips.
Plan your Masada Tour
Masada is one of the most famous masada sunrise tour tourist destinations in Israel, with stunning and dramatic views from the top of the ancient fortress. If you’re planning a trip to Masada, there are a few things you need to know in order to get the best experience possible.
First, make sure to book your tickets in advance. The tours can be quite popular and tend to fill up fast. Masada is also quite remote, so it’s important to reserve a spot on a tour if you want to visit during peak season.
Once you have your tickets, pack your bags! Masada isn’t an easy place to get around on foot, so you’ll need some sturdy shoes and clothes if you plan on exploring the site in depth. And remember – it can be very hot up at the top of the fortress!
Once you’re ready, head over to Herodion Airport for your flight into Israel. From there, take the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv train line (or a taxi) all the way south until you reach Arad. From Arad, take a taxi or bus out to Masada – it will cost around NIS 45 per person roundtrip.
When you arrive at Masada, make sure to get oriented – there’s not much shade up at the top of the fortress! Once you’ve had your fill of admiring views, wander down into one of the many archeological excavations on site. You can even explore some of Herodion
Arrive at the site early to get a good spot
If you’re interested in witnessing Masada from a good spot, arrive early to get a spot. The visitor center opens at 9am and the tickets sell out quickly (usually within an hour of going on sale).
There are various paths up to the top of Masada, so it’s possible to fit in some hiking if you’re feeling energetic. However, the most popular way to ascend is by cable car. Tickets cost NIS 92 and it takes about 25 minutes to reach the summit. Once there, you can explore Herod’s palace and Khirbet Qeiyafa. If you have more time, walk around or take a ride on one of the many jeeps that stop along the way.
Masada is definitely worth a visit – just make sure you get up there before anyone else!
Dress for the weather and be prepared for crowds
Masada is one of Israel’s most popular tourist destinations and for good reason. The view from the summit, with its expanse of Mount Scopus in the background, is simply stunning. But be prepared for crowds; it can get quite crowded up there. To avoid any potential conflicts or crowding, dress accordingly. Bring a hat and sunscreen, since it can get pretty hot up on top. And if you’re visiting during peak season (July and August), remember to pack your appetite: Masada has plenty of food options, both inside and outside the fortress itself.
Give yourself plenty of time to explore Masada
If you’re looking to see one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Israel, make your way to Masada. The site is located about an hour north of Jerusalem and is well worth the drive.
Masada was once a major fortress and settlement in ancient Israel. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The site includes two towering hills – Mount Scopus and Mount Masada – that offer stunning views of Jerusalem and the Judean Mountains.
To get the best views, take time to explore both hills. There are plenty of trails that wind their way through the rocky landscape, making it easy to find your way around. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear – Masada is notorious for sharp rocks! – and bring plenty of water with you because there is no vending machine onsite.
Make sure you allow yourself plenty of time at Masada – it can be a busy place!
Tips for a successful Masada Tour
- Research the best time to go on the Masada tour. The summer months are the hottest and there is more traffic. Winter may be a better time to go as the temperatures are cooler and less tourists are around.
- Book your tickets in advance. The best time to book is around six months in advance, but you can also book up to one month in advance. If you don’t reserve your tickets in advance, there may be limited availability on the tours and you may not get a spot on the tour if you want one.
- Make sure you bring enough water with you on the tour because it can be very hot and there is no air-conditioning on the mountain. Also, pack sunscreen because it can get very bright up on Masada!
- Arrive Early at The archaeological site of Masada so that you can have plenty of time to explore before your tour begins (approximately 9am). This will give you enough time to find the correct entrance gate and meet your guide for the hike up Masada (around an hour from The archaeological site of Masada).
- Bring a picnic lunch with snacks if desired – food options along the hiking trail are limited! – and enjoy some amazing views while waiting for your group to assemble at the top of Masada!