Negev
The Negev has five makhteshim: Makhtesh Ramon; Makhtesh Gadol; Makhtesh Katan; and two small makhteshim on Mount Arif, south of Makhtesh Ramon.
- Makhtesh Ramon is exceptional as it is drained by two rivers (Nahal Ramon and Nahal Ardon). It is the largest makhtesh at over 40km long, 2-10km wide and over 500m deep. The rocks in this makhtesh contain thousands of ammonite fossils, as well as volcanic and metamorphic rocks.
- Makhtesh Gadol (Large Makhtesh) At the time of naming, Makhtesh Ramon was uncharted and so this was thought to be the largest makhtesh.
- Makhtesh Katan (Small Makhtesh) is the smallest major makhtesh at 5km by 7km and was charted in 1942 by Jewish explorers.