Visiting the Gaza Envelope: October 7th stories with a local guide
By Sagi Hazan, licensed tour guide no. 13635 · Last reviewed 14 October 2026
The Gaza Envelope — Otef Aza in Hebrew — is the ring of kibbutzim, moshavim and towns along the border with Gaza in the western Negev. Since October 7th, 2023, many visitors want to understand what happened here. Sagi grew up in this area, and his tour combines its history, its people and its surprising beauty.
What you'll see
Depending on the day and the security situation, the tour can include Sderot and the Black Arrow lookout, memorial sites such as the Nova festival memorial near Re'im, and communities that are rebuilding. Along the way you'll hear the stories of the people who live here — told by someone who knows them personally.
A beautiful region, too
The western Negev is green farmland, eucalyptus groves and the Besor stream. Every winter, usually from January to February, the hills turn red with anemones — the famous "Darom Adom" (Red South) season.
Visiting respectfully
These are living communities, many still healing. Listen more than you photograph, ask before taking pictures of people, and dress modestly at memorial sites. Your guide will tell you where photos are welcome and where they're not.
Safety
The route is planned each day according to the current security guidance, and can change at short notice. Travel insurance is a must, as on every trip in Israel.