Six kilometers southeast of Dimona is Mamshit, a Nabatean city with Roman ruins, Byzantine churches and a name somewhat difficult to pronounce without snickering. (Those witfi major giggles might well wish to use the Arabic name “Qur-nub.") In the nearby Mamshit stream, three large Nabatean dams were discovered along with the underwater reservoirs they supplied. The only really worthwhile attractions in Mamshit besides the rubble of a few Nabatean houses are the two craters just outside the city’s limits, HaMakhtesh haGadol and the more distant and fantastic HaMakhtesh haKatan (literally-and ingeniously-"the big and small craters"). Those wishing to explore die craters, which have some of the Negev’s most savage scenery, should rent a car; SPNI offices can provide information on trails. The Arad visitors’ center is another good resource.

Bus #56 makes the 35-minute trip from Be’er Sheva to Dimona every 20-30 minutes (NIS5.80). Dimona has the complete set of small town amenities.