Golan Heights Travel Guide

Discover the natural wonders, cultural attractions, and best things to do in Golan Heights with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your itinerary, learn about local customs, and get tips on where to stay, eat, and explore.


Introduction to Golan Heights

Nestled in the heart of the Middle East, Golan Heights is a region that offers breathtaking views, thrilling outdoor adventures, and a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich cultural history. Located in Syria’s Hauran plateau, Golan Heights boasts a unique landscape that is popular among travelers seeking a taste of the Middle East’s natural beauty.

In this guide, we will take you on a journey through Golan Height’s most popular attractions, provide insider tips on where to stay, and explore the local customs and culture. Whether you are a passionate hiker, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, Golan Heights has something for everyone to explore and discover.

List of Places to Visit in Golan Heights

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Golan Heights is home to a rich and unique culture, and the following museums and historical places offer an exciting way to learn more about the area’s history.

  • The Golan Archaeological Museum: located in the town of Katzrin, this museum provides fascinating insights into the area’s ancient history and culture.
  • Ancient Katzrin Park: an outdoor museum located in the heart of Katzrin that showcases reconstructed buildings and artifacts from the Talmudic period.
  • Nimrod Fortress: an impressive medieval fortress located at the foothills of Mount Hermon, offering a stunning glimpse into the region’s military past.
  • Qasr al Hilu Palace: a beautifully restored Ottoman palace in the village of Majdal Shams, showcasing traditional Ottoman architecture and decorative art.

Natural Attractions of Golan Heights: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Golan Heights’ rugged terrain and picturesque landscapes make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its many national parks, nature reserves, and hiking trails, adventure seekers can explore this region to their heart’s content.

  • Mount Hermon Ski Resort: Here travelers can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports in the colder months.
  • Golan Heights Winery: located near Katzrin town, this winery provides a unique opportunity to taste the region’s internationally acclaimed wine.
  • Hula Valley Nature Reserve: a protected wetland area that provides birdwatching, hiking, and cycling opportunities through a lush landscape of fields, streams, and lakes.
  • Banias Nature Reserve: home to the Banias Waterfall and many scenic hiking trails that offer impressive views of the surrounding area.
  • Gamla Nature Reserve: features stunning views of the Gamla valley, ancient Jewish ruins, and a wide range of hiking and mountain biking routes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Golan Heights

For travelers who love to hike or cycle, the Golan Heights region has many routes that offer breathtaking views, rugged terrain, and close contact with nature. Here are some of the most popular routes:

  • The Hermon Stream Nature Reserve Trail: a 12km trail that takes you through stunning scenic views, waterfalls and refreshing swimming spots.
  • Mount Hermon’s northern slopes: a challenging hiking trail that offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Golan Heights Trail: a 120km long-distance hiking trail that traverses from Mount Hermon to the southern foothills of the Sea of Galilee.
  • The Syrian-African Rift Valley Route: a markable cycling and hiking track passing by the beautiful Beekeeper’s trail, Nahal El-Al, the Majrase, and Krutzim Ranch.

Best Things to Do in Golan Heights: Activities and Tours

Golan Heights offers several unique experiences that should not be missed on a trip here. Here are some of the most recommended activities and tours:

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: a breathtaking way to experience the stunning views of Golan Heights from above (best from April to November).
  • Golan Jeep Adventure: a fun way to explore the rugged terrain with an experienced local guide.
  • Golan Heights Wine Tour: a perfect way to taste the region’s internationally acclaimed wine, including visits to vineyards and wine cellars.
  • ATV Tours: adventurous travelers can enjoy exploring the area’s beautiful landscapes and nature reserves via an ATV tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Golan Heights

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Golan Heights:

  • Day 1 - Start your trip at Mount Hermon and explore the mountain’s scenic views and ski resort.
  • Day 2 - Explore the Hula Valley Nature Reserve and try fishing in the area’s numerous streams.
  • Day 3 - Experience the Banias waterfall and take a hike along the many scenic trails.
  • Day 4 - Visit the Golan Archaeological Museum and the Ancient Katzrin Park to gain insight into the region’s history and culture.
  • Day 5 - Take an ATV tour to explore the rugged terrain of the Golan Heights.
  • Day 6 - Head to the Nimrod Fortress to discover the area’s military past.
  • Day 7 - Finish your trip with a relaxing wine tour.

Food and Drink Scene of Golan Heights

Must-Try Dishes

Golan Heights offers some of the most delicious and authentic dishes in the region. Here are some culinary delicacies not to be missed:

  • Kebabs: Golan Heights is known for its deliciously marinated meat kebabs that are grilled and served with fresh vegetables and bread.
  • Shakshuka: a spicy tomato and egg-based dish that is a popular breakfast meal in the Middle East.
  • Hummus: a creamy dip made from ground chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice.
  • Falafel: a deep-fried ball made of ground chickpeas and served as a snack or side dish.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Golan Heights is known for its internationally acclaimed wines, with the Golan Heights Winery being among the most famous.
  • Tea: Traditional black tea is commonly served in Middle Eastern settings, with several sweet options available as well.
  • Coffee: A rich and flavorful Arabic coffee, known for being very strong, is widely popular.

Where to Stay in Golan Heights: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury resorts to quaint guesthouses, tourists can find accommodation of every type in Golan Heights. Here are some of the best options:

  • U Boutique Kinneret Hotel in Tiberias: a luxurious boutique hotel located in Tiberias, boasting a stunning view of the Sea of Galilee.
  • Golan Heights Accommodation from Airbnb: One can find a lot of cozy, and affordable rent-outs through Airbnb in locations like Rosh Pinna, Katzrin, and Golan Heights.
  • Guest Houses in Gamla and Nimrod forts area: Offering a comfortable night stay with a unique and historic location.

What to Buy in Golan Heights: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Golan Heights is famous for its unique, local products that make excellent souvenirs, such as:

  • Olive Oil: made from locally grown olives, this oil is renowned for its quality and richness.
  • Wine: the internationally acclaimed Golan Heights Winery produces some of the world’s finest wines that make an excellent souvenir.
  • Herbs and Spices: has a unique blend of locally grown herbs and spices that are perfect for adding flavor to any dish.
  • Dead Sea Skincare Products: Enjoy the therapeutic effects of the perfect Dead Sea oils, foot scrubs, and mud masks in Golan Heights.

Local Culture and Customs of Golan Heights

Golan Heights has a rich culture and a unique way of life. Here are some tips on respecting and understanding the local customs:

  • Respect the locals: Syrians are some of the warmest and most welcoming people in the world, and travelers should be respectful and appreciative of their hospitality.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as mosques and churches.
  • Greet people with a smile and learn some common Arabic phrases, such as “salam alaikum” (peace be upon you) and “shukran” (thank you).
  • Learn about local customs and try to follow them, including respecting elders and using your right hand for eating and passing things.

Best Time to Visit Golan Heights

The best time to visit Golan Heights is between April and June or September and November. During these months, the temperature is mild, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Golan Heights

Do:

  • Try local food and wine, experience the local culture and take part in traditional customs.
  • Respect religious practices and dress appropriately while visiting religious places.
  • Be respectful and appreciative of local hospitality.

Don’t:

  • Do not photograph military installations or personnel
  • Avoid visiting areas marked “closed military zone”
  • Do not neglect proper attire rules in religious sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Golan Heights

The Syrian civil war has undoubtedly increased the security and safety risks in the region, making it essential to stay up-to-date with the latest travel advisories before planning your trip.

However, visitors report of the on-going conflict being more localized rather than generalized. Nonetheless, being vigilant and cautious is always recommended in Syria, areas like Damascus, and northern plains should be avoided.

Health in Golan Heights

Travelers to Golan Heights should be up to date on their routine vaccinations and may consider taking precautions against mosquitoes and their related diseases, such as Malaria and Yellow Fever. Medical facilities in the region are adequate, but it’s essential to have good travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events.

Getting to Golan Heights: Transportation Options and Logistics

Golan Heights can be accessed via several modes of transportation:

Airports Near Golan Heights

  • Damascus International Airport (DAM)
  • Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY)

Bus Stations Near Golan Heights

  • Central Bus Station in Damascus (Syria) and Beirut (Lebanon).
  • Shared taxis and buses from Damascus and other nearby areas are available too.

Other Options

Alternatively, you can also rent a private car or hire a taxi to travel around the area, which may provide more flexibility and convenience.

How to Get Around in Golan Heights

The most convenient and cost-effective way to explore Golan Heights is via hired taxis or shared vans (known as Sherut Taxis). For those who prefer a more independent mode of transport, private car rentals are an option.

Where to Go Next from Golan Heights: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Golan Heights is located in the northernmost region of Syria near the border with Israel. Some nearby destinations and excursions include:

  • Jerusalem, Israel (128km)
  • Beirut, Lebanon (177km)
  • Aleppo, Syria (225km)
  • Ephesus, Turkey (1,085km)

Conclusion

Golan Heights is a remarkable blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and history. This travel guide has covered the most popular attractions, things to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your trip to this unique Middle Eastern region. With its numerous options for outdoor adventures, cultural enrichment, and relaxation, Golan Heights is a top destination for all types of travelers.

Mine warning sign in the Israeli-controlled part of the Golan Mine warning sign in the Israeli-controlled part of the Golan