Ein Gedi is famous as a lush oasis in an otherwise barren landscape. Several springs provide plentiful water to support a luxuriant mix of tropical and desert vegetation. The site is mentioned in the Bible for its beauty (Song of Songs: 1–14) and as a refuge of David who was fleeing from King Saul (I Samuel: 24).

Protected as Ein Gedi National Park , the oasis is a haven for desert wildlife such as ibexes and rock hyraxes, which look like large rodents, while the more remote areas are the abode of the desert leopard. Two gorges, belonging to the Nakhal David and Nakhal Arugot rivers, are at the core of the park; these are crossed by a network of paths. The shortest walking tour takes about an hour and ends at the spectacular Shulamit Falls. A short way from the park entrance are the ruins of a 5th-century BC synagogue with mosaics and inscriptions in Hebrew and Aramaic.

Ein Gedi is also a popular spot with Dead Sea bathers. For a more luxurious experience, the Ein Gedi Health Spa , a further 3 km (2 miles) to the south, has hot sulphur baths and private access to the Dead Sea.