Recreation

Israel is a country uniquely positioned between three continents and hence has diverse climate in a limited area.

Hiking

There are several touring and hiking routes through this scenic and picturesque country. It has green mountains with several rivers flowing through it in the north. The sea surrounds it on its western coast. The Dead Sea, which is the lowest point on Earth, is to the east of the country. Craters, mountains and deserts bound the nation in the south.

Routes for hikes are available on websites of the Israel Nature Preservation Society. Maps and information on the flora and fauna of the region is also available on this site. Eye On Israel is yet another site that features all regions of the country along with their hiking routes. It is however advisable to discuss in detail with knowledgeable hikers before deciding upon a hiking route.

Nature reserves and parks

Israel Nature Preservation Society maintains many natural reserves where plants and animals, indigenous to the area can be seen in their natural surroundings. The Khai Bar nature reserves in Carmel Park near Yotveta is a park where extinct and dying species in nature are nurtured and sheltered.

Migratory birds moving from Europe to Africa pass through Israel on their passage. Birds of several varieties pass through the country in the spring and fall of the migrating seasons. It is hence an ideal place for bird watchers. It is possible to get information on the hotspots for bird watching on several websites.

Safari Park in Ramat Gan near Tel Aviv houses a large open-range zoo in which animals are free to wander around and visitors are allowed to drive up real close to them. It also boasts of a traditional zoo with animals in cages. The Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem is also an important place of tourist interest.

The Coral Beach Nature Preserve located in the bay of Eilat contains a narrow strip of beach and sea that encloses the only coral reef in Israel. Tourists can indulge in diving or snorkeling and view the rich diversity of fish and the colorful coral reef and derive a wonderful experience. It is possible to get snorkeling equipment on rent, and licensed divers are authorized to dive by themselves. The bay of Eilat has a profusion of coral reefs and this is the northernmost location wherein they are found. Its isolation from the ocean and geological structures has resulted in conditions that are most favorable for the development of several indigenous varieties of wildlife and plants. Haifa, Akhziv, and Rosh ha-Nikra are some of the other diving sites that are highly recommended.

Sports

Water Sports is also very popular in the country. Swimming, surfing, sailing, and water skiing are some of the sporting activities on the beaches of the Mediterranean, the Red Sea and Lake Kineret. It is possible to enjoy the beach season on the Mediterranean coast that begins in April and continues till October. Soccer and basketball fans can also enjoy the national league games in the various stadiums.