On the northern side of the Sea of Galilee is the adorable Majrase Nature Reserve. This gorgeous ecosystem is a sanctuary not only to flora and fauna but for humankind to relax away from the hustle of modern life. Hiking along the pleasant wet and dry trails is what brings in so many visitors each year to the Majrase Nature Reserve.
It is the perfect location to cool off during periods of hot weather and is fun for the whole family. Do note that there are washrooms and changing stations at the beginning of the trails for your convenience. In addition, you are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of your family, so keep a close eye on those playing in the water at all times. While along the northern edge of the Sea of Galilee, we also recommend taking the time to tour the Gamla Nature Reserve and visit the religiously significant cities of Capernaum and Tabgha.
The Most Amazing Trials at Majrase Nature Reserve
When exploring the Majrase Nature Reserve, there are two main trails that hikers enjoy experiencing. The first is the Majrase, a “wet route” perfect for cooling off during the warm spring, summer, and fall months. Here you will walk 800 meters through the Daliyot stream. The Daliyot flows down from the Golan into the Sea of Galilee. If no one is around, you can splash around to your heart’s content!
After reaching the end of the “wet” route, you can either backtrack through the water to return or take the “dry route” back to the beginning. The second route is the Zaki “wet route,” a challenging trail that follows along the riverbed formed by the Yehudaya stream estuary merging with the Meshushim stream. The trail can vary in difficulty; in some spots, there are deep pools where you may have to paddle your way across, and in other areas, it is gently flowing shallows.
As you traverse through Majrase Nature Reserve; keep an eye out for the fascinating wildlife that lives within this rich ecosystem. With over 250 species of plants, there are plenty of places for beautiful creatures to hide! If you watch patiently, you may be lucky enough to see swamp cats, porcupines, and otters. You won’t find animals just hiding amongst the brush, but also soaring overhead and with you in the water.
In the streams, you will see the fish’s glistening scales being hit by the sunlight, lazy turtles relaxing in the sun, and marsh treaders racing along the water’s surface. Look up, and you just might see kingfishers, egrets, storks, and falcons. If you listen carefully, you may also hear the sweet sounds of the songbirds. As you walk, keep an eye out for snakes! You certainly don’t want to tread on their tails!
Majrase Nature Reserve: the Opening Hours
Last entry to the site! one hour before cited closing time!!
Summer hours: Sunday–Thursday and Saturday: 17:00 – 08:00
Friday and holiday eves: 16:00 – 08:00
Winter hours: Sunday–Thursday and Saturday: 16:00 – 08:00
Friday and holiday eves: 15:00 – 08:00 Holiday eves: 13:00 – 08:00
Yom Kippur eve: 13:00 – 08:00
On holidays and Saturdays, I recommend arriving early; entry is based on the availability of space.
Phone: +(00)972-(0)4-6793410
