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Hula Nature Reserve: A Wetland Paradise

Explore Israel's first nature reserve: a haven for migrating birds and diverse wildlife in the Hula Valley.

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The Hula Nature Reserve, Israel's first of its kind, protects vital wetlands in the Hula Valley, a key stopover for migrating birds. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, observe unique wildlife, and learn about the valley's ecological history and restoration.

A brief summary to Hula Nature Reserve

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the migration seasons (October-November and March-April) for peak birdwatching opportunities.
  • Arrive early in the morning, especially in summer, when birds and animals are most active.
  • Rent binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the trails.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the area can be exposed.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kiryat Shmona or Afula, take a bus that stops at the Shemurat HaHula Junction. From there, it's approximately a 2.3 km (29-minute) walk to the reserve entrance. Bus fare will typically cost around 5-15 NIS.

  • Driving

    From Rosh Pina-Kiryat Shmona road (Highway 90), turn east 3 km after the Yesud Hama'ala junction. Follow the signs to the Hula Nature Reserve. Parking is available at the visitor center. Parking is free. Using Waze or Google Maps, enter “Hula Valley Nature Reserve, Hula Valley” for precise directions.

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Discover more about Hula Nature Reserve

The Hula Nature Reserve, located in the Hula Valley of northern Israel, stands as a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Established in 1964, it was Israel's first nature reserve, created to safeguard the unique flora and fauna of the Hula Lake and surrounding swamps. Prior to the 1950s, the Hula Valley was largely a malarial swamp. A large-scale drainage project aimed to combat disease and create agricultural land dramatically altered the landscape. However, the ecological consequences of this drainage were soon realized, leading to the establishment of the nature reserve to preserve a remnant of the original wetland ecosystem. Today, the Hula Nature Reserve offers visitors a chance to experience a diverse range of habitats, including a restored lake, marshlands, and papyrus swamps. The reserve is a haven for birdwatchers, as it lies on a major migration route between Africa, Europe, and Asia. Over 200 species of waterfowl, along with cormorants, herons, pelicans, storks, and cranes, can be observed. The reserve is also home to water buffalo, fallow deer, and various other animals. The Hula Nature Reserve provides several points of interest, such as the floating bridge, a 600-meter-long covered platform that extends over the lake, offering concealed observation points. The observation tower provides a panoramic view of the marsh and lake, allowing bird watchers to observe the migrating birds. The Oforia Visitors Center offers an interactive presentation on the reserve's history, ecology, and conservation efforts.

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