Ben-Gurion’s Desert Home, Sde Boker

A home preserved by its owner’s wishes

David and Paula Ben-Gurion moved to Sde Boker in December 1953. His return to public office in 1955 meant spending much of his time in central Israel. Following his final resignation in 1963, he returned to the desert home. His will asked that the house and its contents remain as they were. The home is consequently preserved in its 1973 state, giving visitors a close view of the domestic setting behind his public career.

Books, symbols and everyday objects

The kibbutz and the people who answered back

Films and decisions to discuss

The animated film “Ben-Gurion Hosts” follows his life through quotations from his writing and speeches, with particular attention to the Negev. “Who Is a Leader?” examines difficult leadership choices, including the dispute over German reparations. Both films are offered in Hebrew, English, Russian, Spanish and French. Interactive tables in “Ben-Gurion in the Test of Time” use games and dilemmas to address youth, the army and the Negev. These activities are in Hebrew, Arabic and English. Film-language options do not guarantee a guided tour in the same language.

Choose an independent or arranged visit

The site welcomes independent visitors and organised groups. Families can combine the original home with the sand table and interactive quizzes. Older children can discuss the dilemmas raised by the exhibitions with accompanying adults. Groups must book ahead; guided visits depend on advance arrangements and availability. A pioneering-themed ODT park in the olive grove has five activity stations inspired by Ben-Gurion’s statements. Ask the museum about participation arrangements for this separate activity when booking.

Opening hours and arrival time

Sunday–Thursday

08:30–16:00

Friday and holiday eves

08:30–14:00

Saturday and holidays

10:00–16:00

Plan your arrival

Arrive at least one hour before closing. Check the museum’s notices before travelling on a holiday.

Accessibility varies between activities

Finding the museum and contacting the team

Address: Ben-Gurion’s Desert Home, Kibbutz Sde Boker, Negev, 8499300. Use the name צריף בן-גוריון for navigation and the map link on the official website. Obtain staff instructions before using the special entrance through the kibbutz. Call 08-6560469, use WhatsApp 052-6753375 or email [email protected]. The official website, ben-gurion.co.il, provides visit options and current announcements. Confirm guided arrangements directly rather than assuming a tour is included with an independent visit.

Questions before your visit

• What is preserved inside the home? The furniture, books and personal belongings remain in their 1973 setting. Ben-Gurion’s library contains more than 5,000 books in nine languages.
• Can I visit independently? Yes. Independent visits are available. Groups must book in advance, and guided visits require prior arrangements and availability.
• Are there English-language displays? The two films are offered in English. Beit HaGeves includes English content, and the interactive tables can be used in English. Confirm the language of a guided tour separately.
• Is the museum open on Saturdays? Regular Saturday hours are 10:00–16:00. Arrive at least an hour before closing and check special notices before setting out.
• What can children do? There is a sand-table map of the Negev, plus games and quizzes at the interactive tables. Contact the team to arrange a children’s group programme.
• Is every activity accessible? Accessible paths, toilets and one accessible parking space are listed. The interactive tables and ODT park have limitations, so discuss individual requirements with the museum beforehand.
• How do I contact the museum? Call 08-6560469, use WhatsApp 052-6753375 or email [email protected]. The museum is at Kibbutz Sde Boker.