For such a small country, Israel is blessed with beauty, nature and incredible sights in abundance. Get a real feel for the countryside with a visit to at least one of the Israel’s more than 60 national parks. We love them all, but here are five absolutely can’t-miss national parks.
Beit Shean National Park
Beit Shean is a must see for history buffs. It conserves the remains of both Roman and Byzantine Beit Shean. Make sure you plan your visit for early in the day. Situated in the Jordan Valley, Beit Shean gets hotter than hot and there is limited shade at this sprawling site.
During the hottest months of the year, the national park runs the “Shean Nights” audio-visual presentation, giving a great view of the park after the sun goes down.
Call: +972 4 658 71 89 / in Israel: 04 658 71 89
Caesarea National Park
Built by King Herod, Caesarea National Park is incredible any time of the year. There are Roman ruins (a theater, hippodrome and archaeological park), multi-media and interactive displays and cafes and galleries.
Don’t forget to bring a swim suit. Caesarea is situatedright on the stunning Mediterranean Sea and you won’t be able to resist finishing your visit with a dip in the beguiling water.
Call: +972 4 626 70 80 / in Israel: 04 626 70 80
Ein Gedi National Park
Ein Gedi is the perfect place for a hike on the way to or from the Dead Sea. There is a range of different hikes for all levels, including a short circular route that’s easy enough for families.
Bring water shoes and towels and enjoy a dip in the refreshing springs. As you walk around, keep an eye out for local residents, including the Nubian Ibex and Rock Hyrax.
Call: +972 8 658 42 85 / in Israel: 08 658 42 85
Hula Nature Reserve National Park
If you can, visit the Hula Nature Reserve National Park during the twice annual migration of birds between Europe and Africa.
Over 300 species of birds pass through the area each spring and fall. As well as the birds, keep an eye out for Persian fallow deer, soft-shelled turtles and otters (bring your binoculars). To get a real understanding of the history of the site, don’t miss the interactive “Euphoria” Visitors Center.
Call: +972 4 693 70 69 / in Israel: 04 693 70 69
Masada National Park
Masada National Park is one of the best known sites in the whole of Israel. Located on an isolated clifftop in the heart of the Judean Desert, Masada was the site of the last stand of Jewish rebels against mighty Rome from 73-74 CE.
If you arrive before the sun really hots up, brave the Snake Path to the top. Otherwise, take your time at the museum in the visitor’s center and enjoy a quick and easy cable car ride to the summit. Bring a hat and plenty of water as there’s limited shade on top.
Call: +972 8 658 42 07 or 8 / in Israel: 08 658 42 07 or 8
Money Saving Combi Tickets
Tourists can purchase multi-site tickets: Blue Card with 3 site visits, valid for two weeks – 78 ₪ / Green Ticket with 6 site visits, valid for two weeks – ₪110 / Orange Ticket with unlimited site visits, valid for two weeks – ₪ 150
Note concerning the tourist cards: The price is the same for all ages. The cards offer access only to the official sites listed on the front of the card. All the multi-site cards include entrance to Caesarea and the Masada Museum. The cable car at Masada is not included. City of David N.P is not included. The cards are valid for two weeks from the first visit. The card is intended only for tourists.
The tickets can be found in parks and reserves: Caesarea National Park, En Hemed National Park, Masada National Park, Bet Guvrin National Park, Tel Megiddo (Armageddon) National Park, Tel Dan Nature Reserve, En Gedi Nature Reserve, En Avdat National Park, Avdat National Park, Hermon Stream (Banias) Nature Reserve, Zippori National Park, Eilat Coral Beach Nature Reserve, Makhtesh Ramon – Nature Reserve and Visitors.
Please note that for all our IsraelRail guests who book multiple private tours with us, we will be happy to purchase and deliver the “Saving Combi Tickets” directly to you through our tour guides! Feel free to let us know what kind of card you are interested in.
Words: Danielle Max
