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Jordan River
At approximately 100 feet wide and 200 miles long, the Jordan River is Israel's largest fresh water supplier. Added to its importance as Israel's foremost water source, the Jordan River also nurtures some of Israel's most beautiful nature resorts. A enchanting tourist destination, the Jordan River is a sight not to be missed on any tour to Israel; perfect for a Jewish heritage tour as much as for a family tour to Israel, a Bar Mitzvah tour or a Bat Mitzvah tour.
As is the case with many arterial rivers worldwide to which cities, resorts and communities have flocked due to the lush vegetation and transportation facilities provided along the river banks, the Jordan River is home to various communities of people and wildlife.
Beginning at the feet of Mount Hermon and flowing south through Lake Hula, the Jordan River drains into the Jordan Valley creating a tropical basin which has become Israel's primary trekking and hiking destination. The Jordan River then continues downward to the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret), along which the bustling city of Tiberias rests, and terminates at the Dead Sea.
With the city of Tiberias beside the Sea of Galilee , the Banias nature resort by Mount Hermon , and the Dead Sea at its southernmost point, the Jordan River is a travelers paradise and a must-see destination for anyone on a tour to Israel.
Jordan River Birdwatching
Although all four of the Jordan River's tributaries are home to scores of birds, probably the best destination for birdwatching is the basin of Lake Hula during migration seasons (spring and autumn).
Lake Hula's swamp-like waters regularly bring many species of fish to it, which in turn make it a prominent visiting post for birds.
Birdwatching in the Hula Valley is a once in a lifetime experience and one you cannot miss when on a tour to Israel!
Jordan River Hiking
Unlike many of Israel's tourist destinations located in urban settings and centered around city life, the Jordan River offers a more outdoorsy experience perfect for a family on the go.
Trekking along the various tracks set out by the Israeli Nature Society will take you to a myriad of breathtaking locations. You may want to consult maps available at the local Information Centers so as to choose a hiking rout that is most suitable for you.
Longer and shorter treks are available, as well as treks restricted to dry land and ones that have sections of in-water walking. Depending on the time of your of tour to Israel, the weather conditions may vary and change your plans. In any case, when traveling with children hiking along the Jordan River is a great way for your little ones to blow off some steam and run around to their heart's content.
One thing to remember: if you are traveling with children and still want to get in a bit nature walking, it is advisable to plan your hiking in this northern region of the Jordan River where weather conditions year-round are much milder.
Biblical Significance of the Jordan River
Far from being simply a water source, the Jordan River is often invoked in the Bible as a symbol of fertility, rebirth and renewal.
Indeed, it was on the banks of the Jordan River that Joshua gathered the Israelites and prepared them to cross the waters. As they stepped into the water, the Biblical tale tells of the parting of the water.
As you walk along the Jordan River you may notice several fords (places in which the water is quite shallow, making walking through it seems like you are walking on land). You may then consider whether the Biblical tale of the parting of the water can be explained in physical terms…
Whatever your conclusion, be it of a more religious or secular nature, being at the sight of this Biblical affair is a humbling experience and well worth your time when on an Israel tour.
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