Tue Feb 11th, 2025

Cranes are not alone: ​​Hula Valley reopens its doors to visitors

December 27th 2024 , , ,

Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (KKL) has reopened the Hula Valley to the public as of Sunday, December 22, 2024, after a period of closure due to the security situation.

The valley, which covers approximately 6.000 dunams (1.500 acres) of unique ecological habitat, is one of Israel's natural treasures and a key stopping point along the international bird migration route.

During the closure, thousands of cranes continued to arrive in the valley as part of their seasonal migration, and visitors can now witness them in all their glory. Before the war, the valley received approximately 400.000 visitors a year, offering a unique opportunity to observe around 500 species of birds recorded there.

The Hula Valley is a global success story of ecological restoration, offering a unique example of integrating nature conservation, ecotourism and agriculture. Every year between November and March, tens of thousands of sandhill cranes visit the valley, offering visitors a spectacular natural spectacle of large flocks flying, feeding and soaring over the water. The cranes, along with a rich diversity of wildlife and migratory birds, have made the valley one of the world’s most important birdwatching sites, attracting travelers, nature photographers and bird enthusiasts from Israel and abroad.

As part of the Hula Valley's reopening, visitors can enjoy the newly renovated visitor center, which features a rooftop panoramic viewing platform and an innovative virtual reality experience. Additionally, guided tours in the camouflaged car allow for up-close bird watching. The site also offers hiking and biking trails, along with a variety of activities for the whole family.

For now, safety restrictions limit the number of visitors to 200 in open areas, and the site's gaming facilities will remain closed until further notice.

Ifat Ovadia-Luski, Chairwoman of KKL-JNF: “The reopening of the Hula Valley is much more than the reopening of a natural space – it is a symbol of resilience and renewal for the entire north. Over the past year, KKL-JNF workers continued their efforts here under fire, facing severe forest fires. This is the time to thank the residents of the frontline communities – you are the living shield that protects our country.

The valley, which for the past year served as a field hospital for injured wildlife, is resuming its activities today. At KKL-JNF, we are committed to restoring the northern communities to a better state than before. The cranes that have returned here are the best proof that Israeli nature, like the people of Israel, is strong.”

Until the end of March, entry to the valley will be available at a symbolic fee of just NIS 10, and residents of frontline communities can enter free of charge upon presentation of an ID.

One thought on “Cranes are not alone: ​​Hula Valley reopens its doors to visitors”
  1. “The guindastes are not sozinhos: the Vale do Hula reopens its doors to visitors”
    What cherry are you talking about? Terrible translation friends!
    The Portuguese word “guindastes” means “cranes” in Spanish!
    The birds of the art are “garças” in Portuguese or “grous” in Spanish.
    I offer my translator services for a good salary.
    Chanukah Sameach

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