With over 60 Israel National Parks and Nature Reserves celebrating the rich history, culture and natural splendors of the country, Israel’s National Park system has something for everyone. Even better, the parks are all within close proximity to one another and to the main cities of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, making it easy to enjoy several during a day-trip.
Northern Israel is jam-packed with National Parks, however, most are skipped as visitors make a beeline for the Sea of Galilee. However, with planning, the following parks can easily be added to the itinerary, providing an opportunity to witness ongoing excavations of ancient history, perch on sheer cliffs while admiring breathtaking views and marvel at the decadence of a seaside Roman fort.
Here are five top Israel National Parks to visit, three in the North and two in the South.
1. Megiddo National Park
Once one of the most important cities in the region, Megiddo was not only at the crossroad of several trading routes, but it was also situated on a hill overlooking two fertile valleys. This made Megiddo the site of frequent battles and the domain of a multitude of conquering armies. Christian traditional even identifies Megiddo as Armageddon, the location of the future great battle of the End of Days. Because of its strategic significance, Megiddo is not only designated as an Israeli National Park, but it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Driving into the park you must pass through a gate. Once past security, manicured gardens, a spacious parking lot and a new visitors center await. Tickets can be purchased within the gift shop. Take a few minutes to walk through the museum, admire the black and white photos and marvel at the detailed 3-D model of the site before heading outside to the park. Megiddo National Park is covered with well-maintained walking paths that are wheelchair accessible and informative signage along the way explains the archeological findings and historical significance.
The site is an active archeological dig site with tools and sherd discovered that point to human habitation as early as the Neolithic period in the 7th century BCE. In some places, even the untrained eye can identify the various eras of construction that were layered upon one another.
Highlights of the area include the giant Canaanite city gates and the stables. Tasteful chariots and horse sculptures help bring it to life. Be sure to take time to enjoy the stunning view of the valley from the Northern and Southern observation points
End your visit with a walk through the ancient water system. Beware that it does feature over 250 stairs and it could be claustrophobic. This 70-meter tunnel was painstakingly carved out of the hillside to access a nearby spring. This feat of beautiful engineering allowed the city to withstand many a siege. At the end of the tunnel, you will take a short walk along several layered dig sites on your way back to the visitors center and parking lot where restrooms and cool drinks and snacks are available.
2. Arbel National Park and Nature Reserve
Covering more than 1,000 hectares, the Arbel Nature reserve is home to hyrax and mountain gazelles and features stunning views of the Sea of Galilee. This clifftop park is a great place to hike and enjoy the natural beauty of the limestone cliff landscape.
Many hike options from easy to difficult are available, the most popular and accessible is the short hike to Mount Nitai Lookout. Standing at 390 meters above the Sea of Galilee, on a clear day, you can see the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights and Mount Herman. For those with more time and seeking a challenging alternative, the Fortress Cave hike offers steep terrain and requires the use of cables and handholds.
3. Caesarea National Park
Combining history with family-friendly amusement attractions Caesarea is an ancient port city along the stunningly blue Mediterranean Sea. Built by the Phoenicians, it served as a center of commerce for the Romans and lasted through the Byzantine and Ottoman empires before falling into ruin. Each ruling era expanded the fort adding their own unique architectural flavor to the complex. Excavations have uncovered palaces, pools, streets, and theaters all of which can be explored.
A key highlight of the park is its ancient amphitheater. Built during Herod’s time, it could accommodate over 4,000 people and is the oldest theatre in Israel. It has been painstakingly restored and is now used for performances, so even though the current theater isn’t original, it does provide a good idea of its appearance in ancient times.
Near the theatre is the Promontory Palace. Slightly submerged with the tide, this palace was built during the Roman and Byzantine periods and features pools and mosaics. History buffs might also be interested in seeing the site where the Apostle Paul supposedly appealed to Caesar. A small plaque commemorates the spot.
Public toilets, a variety of restaurants, and ample parking are available making this an easy spot to refresh and recharge.
NOTE: Don’t miss out on visiting the beautifully preserved aqueduct nestled into the public beach a 5-minute drive south of the park. Just follow the signs as you exit the parking lot.
After exploring the North, it is now time to turn your sights on the Southern jewels of the Israeli National Park System.
4. Ein Gedi Nature Reserve
Located on the eastern edge of the Judean Desert and on the western shore of the Dead Sea, Ein Gedi with its sheer cliffs and cool springs is a lush garden oasis. An easy stop after a visit to the Dead Sea, it is not uncommon to see buses and large groups in the parking lots.
Fed by four springs, the constant flow of cool water supports a dense concentration of tropical plants and groves of trees. A vast array of animals also call the area home. You may be lucky enough to see a leopard, rock hyrax, and striped hyena. It is not unusual to see ibex clamoring up the steep hillsides.
There are a number of hikes within the reserve, the most popular is the one-hour hike within the lower section of David Wadi to David’s Waterfall. The trail passes by several small waterfalls and shallow pools where you will find young and old frolicking in its coolness. The trail takes hikers over boulders and uneven terrain as you gain elevation toward David’s Waterfall and it is often wet. Proper hiking shoes are needed even though you may see a few people slipping around in flip flops. Along the trail, you will see a variety of trees, ferns, and grasses.
On your way out, grab a cool drink at one of the eateries and keep your eyes open for the ibex crossing signs. With any luck, there may be a few making their way down the hillside to enjoy a cool drink as well.
5. Masada National Park
If you can only visit one National Park during your visit to Israel, Masada would be it. Added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001. This once palatial fortress was built in the time of Herod. However, it is most famous as being the last stronghold of Jewish freedom fighters who were laid in siege for several months by the Romans. The tragic events of the last days of the rebels, even dramatized by Hollywood, made it a symbol of the struggle against oppression the world over.
Located on the edge of the Dead Sea and a short distance from Ein Gedi, Masada sits on a plateau 450 meters above the Dead Sea, with sightlines in all directions. In ancient times this made it a strategic location to build a fortress.
The modern visitors center is the starting point for your visit to Masada. You may either take the 45-minute hike up the Snake Path, perfect for sunrise or take a 3-minute cable car to the top. Once at the top of the plateau, take a moment to absorb the breathtaking view of the valley, desert floor, and the Dead Sea. It is understandable why Herod built his winter palace in this location.
Well-maintained trails link the buildings of the vast plateau fortress. Informational signage helps bring the ruins to life. You can almost imagine the people enjoying great banquets in the palace, relaxing in the baths and the workers hustling between the storehouses and cistern. Highlights include the Northern Palace which can be viewed from above or for those fit for the challenge, can be accessed by a set of steep original stairs. From above you can also see the siege ramp and remnants of the eight camps built by the Romans.
Bring a hat and plenty of water and expect to spend a few hours exploring this vast towering fortress.
South of Masada there are places to experience the otherworldliness of the Dead Sea, a required experience for any trip to Israel. Located on the Western shores of the Dead Sea, these two National Parks and Reserves can easily be combined with a day of salty floatation. An ideal spot to float in the salty sea is Hamei Zohar Beach, complete with sunshades, a cafe, and a clean beach.
Conclusion
The Israel National Park Service has done an exceptional job protecting its priceless natural resources and making many millennia of history approachable and accessible to all. So get out there and enjoy!
(Footnote: Renting a car in Israel to visit these five sites is both easy and safe. At no time did we feel uncomfortable driving the roads and highways to these various destinations.)
Don’t miss our related post: “15 Tips for Visiting Israel.”
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