Border Road 10: Driving the restricted desert route between Israel and Egypt

Border Road 10 is a super-exclusive route hugging the Israeli-Egyptian border! This 190 km (118-mile) stretch of asphalt is usually off-limits, winding through a seriously militarized desert landscape. Imagine cruising right next to the border fence itself!

This road is basically a high-speed patrol route for the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) – vital for keeping an eye on the Sinai border. If you somehow manage to get access, you're in for a raw, unfiltered desert experience. Forget gas stations, cell service, or even water – you're on your own out there!

Running north-south, from near the Gaza Strip down to the Red Sea near Eilat, this drive gives you a crazy up-close view of the border infrastructure. You'll be right beside the high-tech fence, and you can even spot Egyptian border posts across the line – talk about an intense vibe!

Getting permission to drive Border Road 10 is a major challenge. Most of the time, it's closed to civilians. But occasionally, the IDF opens sections to the public during Jewish holidays like Sukkot or Passover. These openings are super short, usually only about 10 days a year, and only during daylight. Even then, you HAVE to check with the military, as things can change in a heartbeat depending on what's happening in the Sinai.

The road itself is paved, but the condition varies wildly. Some parts are perfectly maintained, while others are beat up by the heat and covered in sand. The highest point is in the Negev Highlands, reaching 988 m (3,241 ft) and offering insane views of the Sinai Desert and Eilat Mountains. You MUST be self-sufficient. Bring tons of extra fuel, food, and water.

Beyond the scenery, this road is a key part of regional security. It lets the IDF respond super fast to any border breaches. The high-altitude lookouts give a strategic view over the vast Egyptian desert, making it one of the most closely watched roads on the planet.