Gamla Nature Reserve

Gamla Nature Reserve is a nature reserve and archaeological site in the central Golan Heights, about 15 km east of Katzrin. The site preserves the ruins of the ancient Jewish town of Gamla, which was besieged and destroyed by the Romans during the Great Jewish Revolt (67 CE) — a tragedy often compared to Masada. The dramatic hilltop setting, surrounded by deep gorges on three sides (resembling a camel's hump, hence the name Gamla from the Hebrew for camel), makes it one of the most striking archaeological sites in Israel.

The reserve is also known as a major raptor nesting site — the largest colony of griffon vultures in Israel nests in the cliffs. The climate is warm in summer and cold in winter. Spring (March–May) is the best season for wildflowers and comfortable hiking.

By Plane

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is approximately 170 km south. Haifa Airport (HFA) is about 120 km west.

By Train

There is no train station nearby. The nearest is in the Tiberias/Afula area.

By Car / Road

From Katzrin: approximately 15 km (20 min) via Route 808. From Tiberias: approximately 50 km (50 min) via Route 87 and Route 808. From Kiryat Shmona: approximately 40 km (40 min). A car is essential — there is no public transport to the reserve.

Trails lead from the parking area to the archaeological site and observation points. Allow 2–4 hours for a full visit including the hike to the ruins.

• Ancient Gamla ruins — Remains of the Jewish town including a synagogue (one of the oldest discovered in Israel), stone houses, and fortifications.

• Gamla waterfall — The tallest perennial waterfall in Israel (about 50 meters).

• Vulture observation — Griffon vultures nest in the cliffs. Observation points allow viewing without disturbing the birds.

• Dolmens — Ancient megalithic stone structures (burial chambers) scattered in the area.

• Panoramic viewpoints — Dramatic views of the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee in the distance.

• Hike the trail to the ancient Gamla ruins and synagogue

• Observe griffon vultures from the designated observation points

• Walk to the Gamla waterfall viewpoint

• Visit the dolmens in the surrounding area

• Nature photography and birdwatching

No dining facilities at the reserve. Pack a picnic and plenty of water. Katzrin (15 km) has restaurants.

Bring all water from outside. No facilities at the reserve.

• No accommodation at the reserve.
• Katzrin (15 km, 20 min) has limited options.
• Kibbutz Ein Zivan (10 km) has cabins from ₪500.
• Most visitors use Tiberias or Katzrin as a base.

The entrance has a small information point with maps and basic supplies.

• Katzrin (15 km, 20 min) — Golan Heights administrative center and winery
• Tel Dan Nature Reserve (30 km, 30 min) — Ancient city and nature trails
• Banias (Hermon Stream) (35 km, 35 min) — Waterfalls and archaeological site
• Tiberias (50 km, 50 min) — Sea of Galilee resort town
• Hula Valley Nature Reserve (30 km, 30 min) — Birdwatching