Travelling through Ma'ale HaAtzmaut Road

Ma'ale HaAtzmaut is a short section of Highway 40, located in the Negev Desert of Israel.

Ma'ale HaAtzmaut

Where is Ma'ale HaAtzmaut?

Ma'ale HaAtzmaut is situated about 85 km south of Beersheba, in the southern part of the country, within the Ramon Nature Reserve.

Is Highway 40 in Israel paved?

Built in 1953, Highway 40 is the second longest highway in the country. It is fully paved.

Why is Ma'ale HaAtzmaut famous?

This stretch of road, also known as Ma‘alé Ha‘Aẕma'ut, features four long hairpin switchbacks. This part of the highway descends into the Ramon Crater, crosses it, and then ascends 250 meters to reach Mitzpe Ramon, a town on the edge of a vast cliff in the heart of the desert, at an elevation of 860 meters (2,800 feet) above sea level. The drive offers stunning views of the Ramon Crater (Makhtesh Ramon).

 

 

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