Eilat International Birding Center

מרכז הציפורים אילת

A premier birdwatching destination positioned on the Great Rift Valley migration route, hosting hundreds of bird species during spring and autumn passages. The center provides observation towers, guided tours, and detailed species information for ornithology enthusiasts.

Things to do

• Spring Migration Tower Observation — Ascend the center's main observation tower during March–May to witness thousands of raptors, warblers, and shorebirds funneling through the Rift Valley in a single day.
• Guided Birding Tours — Join expert ornithologists on early-morning or late-afternoon walks through the center's ponds and hides to learn identification techniques and observe resident and transient species.
• Autumn Passage Walks — Return in August–October to experience a different migration wave dominated by honey buzzards, eagles, and storks traveling southbound to Africa.
• Species Identification Workshop — Attend indoor seminars at the visitor center covering field marks, vocalizations, and behavioral patterns of the 500+ bird species recorded in the Eilat region.
• Photography Hide Sessions — Book extended sessions in designated photography hides with comfortable seating and optimal angles for capturing migratory birds at close range.
• Sunset Viewing at Coral Beach Overlook — Combine birding with desert and sea views by watching evening flocks settle while taking in the Red Sea landscape and Sinai mountains across the water.

Food to try

• Umm Ali — A warm Egyptian-style bread pudding dessert layered with phyllo, milk, and nuts, commonly served in local Eilat cafés as an afternoon treat.
• Fresh Red Sea Fish Grilled with Za'atar — Local grilled catch seasoned with the herbaceous Middle Eastern spice blend, reflecting Eilat's coastal heritage and Levantine flavor traditions.
• Shakshuka at a Local Breakfast Spot — Eggs poached in spiced tomato sauce, typically eaten with bread for dunking, a staple morning meal before heading out on early birding walks.
• Hummus and Falafel from Port Market Vendors — Freshly made chickpea dips and fried balls sold at Eilat's waterfront market, affordable fuel for a full day of observation.
• Bedouin Coffee and Dates — Strong, cardamom-infused Arabic coffee paired with fresh or dried dates, offered as a welcoming gesture in the center's rest areas between tours.

Local customs & good to know

• Early Start Times — Birders should arrive before dawn (5:00–6:00 AM) when bird activity peaks; this is standard practice and essential for prime sightings.
• Modest Dress and Sun Protection — Wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothing that blends with the desert environment, plus a wide-brimmed hat and high SPF sunscreen for the intense Eilat sun.
• Hebrew Signage and Staff Language — While English is spoken at the center, familiarizing yourself with basic Hebrew bird names and carrying a Hebrew–English species checklist aids communication with local guides.
• Respect for Migration Timing — The birding center's peak seasons (March–May and August–October) are sacred to the local birding community; plan visits during these windows for the full experience and vibrant social atmosphere.