Location
The Green BackPackers is located on the edge of the town of Mitzpe Ramon, right next to the cliff of the Ramon Crater- the largest crater of its kind in the world. The Crater, and the town of Mitzpe Ramon are located in the middle of the Negev desert in the southern part of Israel. The small town is surrounded by nature reserves and is a prime location for hiking, star gazing, mountain biking and meditation.
About the project
The Green Backpackers is a friendly, affordable and clean home-away-from home for backpackers who wish to experience the desert and marvel at the beauty of the crater. The hostel was opened by two tourguides who love the desert and share their love with all of their guests.
Volunteers will have an opportunity to host backpackers and help maintain the hostel. Since The Green Backpackers is still in its opening stages, volunteers will have an opportunity to use their creativity in planning and building the ecological garden and other parts of the hostel.
Volunteer work and contribution
Volunteers will become part of the hostel team and assist with its development. Duties will include some the following:
- Managing the hostel when the owners are away
- Painting walls
- Assisiting with green initiatives, such as planting a garden
- Maintenance and some cleaning
- Taking groups to experience the Bedouin culture and local agricultural volunteer projects
Accommodation
Volunteers will stay in one of the male or female dorm rooms. There will be a safe area to store personal belongings.
Facilities - All of the facilities at the hostel are available for volunteers; kitchen, internet, T.V, D.V.D, rental of hiking gear, etc.
Orientation in Jerusalem
The volunteer adventure will start off with a GoEco orientation at the Abraham Hostel in the center of Jerusalem. The orientation is a great base to meet fellow volunteers / travelers and includes the following:
- Volunteer preparation and travel directions to the program
- Expert travel advice in Israel for during and after your volunteer placement
- Walking tour of Jerusalem, including the Old City and the famous Machane Yehuda market
- Discount card to experience Jerusalem's vibrant night-life
- 1 night dorm accommodation and breakfast (private rooms available for extra price)
The GoEco orientation will begin at 10:00 AM on arrival day. The next morning, volunteers will travel to the volunteer project with public transportation. Full travel details to Jerusalem and the project will be provided upon registration.
Travel Highlights
The Ramon Crater is one of the most stunning places on earth. Besides excellent hiking and bycycle trails, volunteers will be able to experience many attractions during their free time.
The Albert promenade & Camel Hill: A trail decorated with impressive environmental sculptures starts from the Visitors Center and goes along the edge of the Ramon Crater.
Archery in the Desert: A unique park that combines an archery game with the desert scenery. While enjoying an exciting activity, participants can appreciate the beauty and serenity of the desert.
Jeep Tours: 150 NIS per person. (Minimum of 5 people required).
Horseback Riding: A 1.5 hour horseback excursion departing from the alpaca farm in the direction of the Ramon Crater.
Minimum requirements
- Minimum age 21-38
- Phone interview following reservation
- Cultural tolerance and open-mindedness
- A minimum 3 week commitment
- High level of independence and flexibility
- Good level of English
- Motivation to work with tourists
- Interest in organic gardening and ecological tourism
- Full travel & medical insurance
- Immunizations (please consult doctor)