There are almost 350 national parks and natural reserves in Israel. In about 60 of them you have to pay an entrance fee, whilst some are totally closed to visitors. 8 reserves are UNESCO world heritage sites.
At the cashiers of the national parks you can expect to find maps and explanations in English, and sometimes in other languages too.
Israel’s Top 10 Nature Reserves & National Parks:
Jerusalem Walls National Park – Welcome to the City of David, the place where it all began 3,000 years ago. Tour this amazing site, either by overlooking Biblical Jerusalem from the city walls or by going deep underground to the ancient springs and water tunnels.
Hermon National Park (Banias)Â – Beginning at the foot of Mount Hermon, the Banias Spring rushes with great force and forms into the largest waterfall in Israel, alongside the remains of an ancient city.
Yehudiya Forest Nature Reserve – Located in the heart of the Golan Heights, this 16,500 acre reserve provides magnificent hiking trails which run along rivers, natural pools, and waterfalls. Trails vary from short family routes to challenging all day hikes.
Zippori National Park – Known as the most important city in the Galilee during the Maccabee era, Zippori offers impressive ruins and mosaics (including the stunning “Mona Lisa of the Galilee”) and is the traditional birthplace of Mary.
Caesarea National Park – An enchanting port city located on the Mediterranean coast, Caesarea once considered one of the most modern ports in the world. Explore the 3500-seat theatre as well as other remains of the Roman Empire.
Ein Gedi Nature Reserve – As an oasis near the Dead Sea, the reserve’s four springs are the wellspring for a diversity of flora and fauna, providing a stark contrast to the surrounding parched desert environment.
Masada National Park – This mountaintop fortress overlooking the Dead Sea is one of the Jewish people’s greatest symbols. A 3-year siege of the fortress by Roman soldiers led to a mass suicide of Masada’s Jewish fugitives when defeat became imminent.
Avdat National Park – Sitting on the ancient incense and spice route from South Arabia to the Mediterranean, the old Nabatean town of Avdat demonstrates how the harsh desert was settled for trade and agriculture.
Ramon Park Complex – The Ramon Crater boasts a breathtaking view and is the most spectacular geological site in the country. Learn about the creation of the crater and meet some the desert’s unique animals and plants presented in Bio Ramon.
Coral Beach Nature Reserve – Enjoy a fantastic glimpse into the natural world of the coral reef in the Eilat Bay. All you need are a mask and snorkel and you will closely view this magnificent underwater garden.
More Information on nature reserves and natural parks can be found at www.parks.org.il
If you plan to visit a few reserves, It is highly recommended to purchase a discounted multi-entry ticket. Click on the picture below for details.
