USD (US$)
AUD (AU$)
CAD (CA$)
EUR (€)
GBP (£)
JPY (Â¥)
The Banias Waterfall is considered one of Israel’s most beautifully tranquil spots. Set within the Banias Nature Reserve in the Golan Heights, the Banias is a spring which rises from the base of the picturesque Mount Hermon, Israel’s tallest mountain, flowing for about 3.5km through a gorge. Eventually, this spring forms an impressive waterfall, the largest in Israel.
Visiting the Banias Nature Reserve and Waterfall
A visit to the Banias can incorporate one of the hiking trails through the reserve, shaded from the hot summer sun by the impressive shade of the dense, lush green forest. These trails combine both the nature and the history of the region. The waterfall and stream provide water to the River Jordan, one of the most famous rivers in the world. The reserve also contains an impressive array of flora and fauna.
The ancient city that lay at Banias was originally called “Dan,” which stood atop a cliff containing a cave dedicated to the Greek god Pan. This was where the name Panias comes from - and this was changed to Banias when translated into Arabic. During the conquests of the land, the city fell under the rule of the Romans, and King Herod, built a temple there in memory of Augustus. When Herod’s son, Philip, took control of the area, he changed the name to Caesarea Philipi. The other Caesarea, on the Mediterranean, was also Herod’s city - a major seaport. In the New Testament, the Banias site is where Jesus demanded to know of his disciples who people were saying he was.
Today, amid the natural beauty of the Banias reserve, lies ruins from the past. The Banias Cave is that cave built for the Greek god Pan, and in front of this, the remains of Herod’s temple can be seen.
The Banias reserve and Banias waterfall are an overwhelmingly beautiful, impressive place to spend some time relaxing and exploring.
Opening Hours of the Banias Nature Reserve and Waterfall:
April-September: 8 am-5 pm
October-March: 8 am-4 pm
The last entry to the site is one hour before closing. On Fridays and Holiday eves, the site closes one hour earlier than usual.
Entry Fees:
Adult: NIS 31
Child: NIS 16
Group rate (over 30 people): Adult: NIS 26; child: NIS 14
Senior citizen: NIS 16
Reservation Requirement: For certain parts of the Banias reserve (waterfall / hanging trail), you need a reservation for entry.
Contact Details:
Phone: 04-690-2577 (springs), 04-695-0272 (waterfall/hanging trail)
The reserve has two main access points: the springs and the waterfall.
To reach the waterfall entrance, take Road 99 past Kibbutz Snir.
Explore Other Nature Spots in Israel
There are several other gorgeous regions in Israel to experience, like admiring breathtaking flower fields at the Darom Adom Festival, and hiking through the serene Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. On our Masada, Ein Gedi, Dead Sea, & More Tour, you’ll have the unique opportunity to journey through the ancient fortress of Masada, roam through the magnificent Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, and float in the Dead Sea. If you’re traveling to Israel, we recommend maximizing your vacation time by booking one of our Israel Package Tours. We handle all of the details - inclusive transfers, exciting activities, expert tour guides, and top-rated hotels. This ensures both an enjoyable and stress-free vacation, since we do all the planning.
