Hula Valley Nature Reserve

The Hula Valley Nature Reserve is a major nature reserve and birdwatching site in the Upper Galilee of northern Israel. The Hula Valley was once a large lake and swamp (Lake Hula) that was drained in the 1950s to create agricultural land. A remnant of the original wetland was preserved as a nature reserve, which has become one of the most important birdwatching sites in the world. The reserve sits on a major migration route between Africa and Europe/Asia, and hundreds of millions of birds pass through annually.

The reserve includes wetlands, a lake, and surrounding agricultural fields that provide habitat for a rich diversity of birds, fish, and mammals including water buffalo. The climate is warm in summer and cool in winter. The best times to visit are during migration seasons: autumn (October–November) and spring (March–April).

By Plane

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is approximately 160 km south. Haifa Airport (HFA) is about 90 km southwest.

By Train

There is no train station nearby. The nearest is Karmiel (about 50 km south).

By Car / Road

From Kiryat Shmona: approximately 10 km (15 min) south on Route 90. From Tiberias: approximately 60 km (1 hour) north on Route 90. From Safed: approximately 40 km (40 min). From Rosh Pinna: approximately 25 km (25 min). Bus services connect through Kiryat Shmona.

The reserve has walking trails and observation points. A car is needed to reach the reserve and move between different observation areas. Birdwatching hides are accessible on foot within the reserve.

• Agamon HaHula — A large park within the valley with a lake, walking/cycling paths, and birdwatching hides. Electric carts and bicycles are available for rent. Open daily 09:00–sunset. Entry fee applies (approximately ₪35 adults, ₪25 children).

• Hula Nature Reserve — The original reserve with wetlands, observation points, and visitor center. Open daily 09:00–16:00 (extended hours during migration). Entry fee: adults ₪35, children ₪21.

• Water buffalo herd — A semi-wild herd maintained in the reserve.

• Crane migration (October–November) — Hundreds of thousands of cranes stop in the valley; a spectacular sight.

• Stork and raptor migration (spring and autumn) — Vast numbers of storks, pelicans, eagles, and other raptors pass through.

• Birdwatching from hides and observation points

• Cycling around Agamon HaHula (bikes for rent)

• Photography tours, especially during migration seasons

• Guided birdwatching tours (available through the reserve)

• Walking trails through wetlands and along the lake

• A café at the Agamon HaHula visitor center serves light meals and snacks
• Nearby Kiryat Shmona (10 km) has a wider range of restaurants
• Pack a picnic to enjoy at the reserve's designated areas

The visitor center café has drinks. Bring water for longer walks. Tap water in the area is safe.

• Budget: Kibbutz guesthouses in the Hula Valley from ₪300.
• Mid-range: Field & Forest — Zimmer cabins in the Hula Valley from ₪500–800.
• Upscale: Limited options; Tiberias (60 km) has upscale hotels.

The visitor center sells field guides, binoculars, bird-related souvenirs, and refreshments.

• Tel Dan Nature Reserve (20 km, 25 min) — Ancient city ruins and nature trails
• Banias (Hermon Stream) (25 km, 30 min) — Waterfalls and archaeological site
• Kiryat Shmona (10 km, 15 min) — Urban center with services
• Metula (20 km, 20 min) — Israel's northernmost town
• Rosh Pinna (25 km, 25 min) — Charming historic moshav with galleries