Road 40 is a north south route across Israel, and the main highway heading through the center of the Negev, linking Beer Sheva, Mitzpe Ramon, and Eilat, as well as tens of smaller communities and attractions in between. The 80km stretch of road between Beer Sheva and Mitzpe Ramon has many of the Negev’s top attractions within walking distance. This means that for those who are traveling without a car, the regular buses which run between Beer Sheva and Mitzpe Ramon, provide a great way to really explore the Negev, with many of the sites of the Ramat Negev region including Sde Boker, Ein Avdat, the Wine Route farms, and countless trails within easy access.
Buses in the Negev
There are five bus routes which travel north-south on Road 40 from Beer Sheva to Mitzpe Ramon, each of which follows a slightly different route, but includes the same major stops – these are 60, 65, 64, 160, 68. Buses run regularly during the day every Sunday-Thursday, with buses leaving Beer Sheva between 06:20-23:40, and Mitzpe Ramon between 05:00-21:30, and on Fridays ending earlier (last buses from Mitzpe Ramon at 15:00 and Beer Sheva at 16:30).
Road 40 map
Available here as a pdf or printed from tourist spots in the Negev, the map is a very useful tool for visitors to the region, also providing information about hiking trails in the region, and other useful information about travel in the Negev.
Forgo the hassle of traveling around Israel on your own and book a private transfer. Private transfers are the most convenient way to travel to and from the Negev. There are private transfers from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
