Are you an adventure seeker looking for your next travel destination? Look no further than Israel, a country that offers a range of exciting and diverse outdoor activities. From hiking and climbing to scuba diving and skydiving, Israel has it all.

Hiking

Hiking is one of the most popular adventure activities in Israel, and with good reason. Israel’s terrain is varied and offers a range of trails for hikers of all levels. From the lush forests of the north to the desert landscapes of the south, there’s no shortage of scenic hikes to explore. Some of the best hiking trails in Israel include the Israel National Trail, the Masar Ibrahim al-Khalil, and the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. Before you hit the trails, make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks, wear comfortable hiking shoes, and check the weather forecast.

Best Places to Hike in Israel

Masada – This ancient fortress offers stunning views of the Dead Sea and the surrounding desert. The hike to the top of Masada takes around an hour, and the trail is steep and challenging, but the views are well worth it.
Ein Gedi Nature Reserve – Located in the Judean Desert, this nature reserve is home to beautiful waterfalls, pools, and trails that are perfect for hiking. The Ein Gedi trail offers a moderate hike that takes around two hours, and the views of the surrounding desert are breathtaking.
Banias Nature Reserve – This nature reserve in the Golan Heights offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels. The Banias waterfall trail is a popular option, and it takes hikers through lush greenery and offers stunning views of the waterfall.
Mount Meron – As the highest peak in Israel, Mount Meron offers hikers a challenging and rewarding hike. The trail to the top takes around four hours and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Israel National Trail – This 620-mile trail runs from the northern border of Israel to the southern tip of Eilat. While most hikers don’t attempt to hike the entire trail, there are many sections that offer beautiful views and unique hiking experiences. Some of the most popular sections of the trail include the Galilee, the Carmel Mountains, and the Negev Desert.

Climbing

For those who prefer to climb instead of hike, Israel has a lot to offer as well. Israel’s natural landscapes offer a variety of climbing opportunities, from the towering cliffs of the Ramon Crater to the craggy mountains of the Golan Heights. Some of the best climbing spots in Israel include Metzukei Dragot, Sde Boker, and the Ein Gedi cliffs. When climbing in Israel, make sure you have the proper gear, such as climbing shoes, a helmet, and a harness.

Best Places to Climb in Israel

Shilat Cliff – situated just 30 minutes from Tel Aviv in central Israel’s Ben Shemen Forest. The cliff offers an excellent location for both novice and experienced climbers, where they can indulge in rock climbing, rappelling, and zip-lining.
Black Canyon – also known as Nakik Shachor in Hebrew, was formed due to volcanic activity in the Golan Heights region of northern Israel.
Yonim Cliff – a stunning natural wonder in northern Israel that rises 25 meters vertically and resembles a bell. The cliff is situated on a karstic cave made of limestone.
Ein Fara – a naturally formed valley with several freshwater springs. Climbing in Ein Fara is an excellent recreational activity for individuals of all ages.
Matzok Gitta – the only place in Israel that offers the Italian form of adventure climbing called Via Ferrata. It is situated in Northern Israel and is the biggest rock used for rock climbing, providing the best climbing experience in Israel.

Rafting and Kayaking

If water activities are more your speed, Israel has plenty of options for you. The Jordan River, the Sea of Galilee, and the Kinneret are all popular spots for rafting and kayaking. These activities are perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to spend a day on the water. Make sure you wear proper water shoes and a life jacket, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen.

Best Places to Raft & Kayak in Israel

Jordan River – The Jordan River is one of the most popular places to kayak in Israel, with beautiful scenery and rapids that range from Class I to Class III. There are many tour companies that offer guided kayaking trips down the Jordan River.
Sea of Galilee – The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Kinneret, is another popular spot for kayaking in Israel. The calm waters and beautiful views make it a great place for a relaxing day on the water. There are many places around the lake where you can rent kayaks.
Nahal Alexander – This river, located in central Israel, offers a great kayaking experience with beautiful scenery and moderate rapids. The river flows through lush vegetation, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
Haifa Bay – Haifa Bay offers a unique kayaking experience with stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The calm waters make it a great spot for beginners, and there are many kayaking tour companies that offer guided tours of the bay.
Hula Lake – Hula Lake, located in northern Israel, is a popular spot for bird watching and kayaking. The lake is home to many species of birds and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. There are many places around the lake where you can rent kayaks.

Scuba Diving

Israel is home to some of the most beautiful and unique diving sites in the world, making it a popular destination for scuba divers. The Red Sea offers a vibrant and diverse underwater ecosystem, with colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even shipwrecks to explore. Some of the best diving sites in Israel include Eilat’s Coral Beach, the Dolphin Reef, and the Satil wreck. If you’re new to scuba diving, consider taking a course to learn the basics before you take the plunge.

The Best places to Scuba Dive in Israel

Eilat’s Coral Beach – Coral Beach is one of the best places to scuba dive in Israel, with a vibrant and diverse underwater ecosystem that includes colorful coral reefs and a variety of marine life. The beach is home to many dive shops that offer rental gear and guided dives.
The Satil Wreck – The Satil is a sunken Israeli Navy missile boat that is now a popular dive site off the coast of Eilat. The wreck is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful schools of fish and eels.
The Dolphin Reef – The Dolphin Reef is another popular dive site off the coast of Eilat, known for its resident pod of dolphins. Divers can explore the reef and see a variety of marine life, including sea turtles and rays.
The Caves of Rosh Hanikra – The Caves of Rosh Hanikra, located on the northern coast of Israel, are a unique and beautiful dive site. The underwater caves and tunnels offer a unique underwater experience for divers.
The Red Sea – The Red Sea is a vast and diverse underwater ecosystem that stretches from Israel down to Egypt and beyond. There are many dive sites along the coast of Israel that offer access to the Red Sea’s unique marine life, including colorful coral reefs, schools of fish, and even shipwrecks. Some of the best dive sites in Israel’s Red Sea include Eilat’s Coral Beach, the Dolphin Reef, and the Satil wreck.

Skydiving

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, nothing beats skydiving in Israel. With stunning views of the Mediterranean and the country’s beautiful landscapes, it’s no wonder that skydiving is becoming increasingly popular. There are many skydiving companies throughout Israel, but some of the best places to skydive include the beaches of Netanya and the desert town of Masada.

Best Places to Skydive in Israel

Netanya – Netanya, a city located on the coast of Israel, is a popular spot for skydiving. Skydivers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea as they jump out of the plane.
Masada – Skydiving over Masada, an ancient fortress located in the Judean Desert, offers a unique and memorable experience. The views of the desert and Dead Sea are stunning.
Haifa – Skydiving over Haifa, a city located on the coast of northern Israel, offers stunning views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The jump takes place from an altitude of 10,000 feet, providing an exhilarating free fall experience.
Megiddo – Skydiving over Megiddo, a historical site located in northern Israel, provides a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. Skydivers can enjoy views of the Jezreel Valley and the Carmel Mountains.
Be’er Sheva – Be’er Sheva, a city located in southern Israel, is a popular spot for skydiving. Skydivers can enjoy views of the Negev Desert and the surrounding mountains as they jump out of the plane.

Overall, Israel offers a wealth of adventure activities for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a scenic hike, a thrilling climb, a relaxing day on the water, an unforgettable scuba dive, or a heart-pumping skydive, Israel has something for you. Just remember to come prepared, and you’ll be sure to have a trip filled with adventure, excitement, and unforgettable memories.

Adventure Activities in Israel: From Hiking to Scuba Diving