Heritage and Tourism Trails
Integrating field-based learning with environmental education, cultural heritage, and sustainability practices across Palestine
Introduction to Heritage and Tourism Trails
The An-Najah National University Eco-Tourism Trail Network is a unique initiative designed to combine the appreciation of Palestine’s natural beauty with its rich cultural and historical heritage. Currently, the network includes six carefully planned trails in the Nablus area, each offering visitors an immersive experience through archaeological sites, historical landmarks, natural landscapes, and educational hubs.
These trails are designed to be accessible to all ages and fitness levels, promoting walking, environmental awareness, and cultural engagement. Visitors can explore ancient Roman theaters, archaeological parks, heritage museums, scenic waterfalls, and ecological gardens, all within safe and well-marked routes.
Looking forward, the network aims to expand throughout Palestine, creating a comprehensive system of eco-tourism and heritage trails that connects cities, villages, and natural reserves. This expansion will allow both locals and tourists to experience the full diversity of Palestine’s landscapes, traditions, and history while supporting sustainable tourism, education, and local communities.
By linking nature, culture, and history, the trail network demonstrates how heritage conservation and environmental stewardship can coexist with recreational tourism, providing meaningful experiences for everyone who visits.
In Numbers: A Rich Network of Heritage and Eco-Tourism Trails
Trails
Total Trail Length
Historical & Natural Sites
Nature Reserves
Outcomes
What students achieve through our Heritage and Tourism Trails
.
Experiential Learning
Enhance academic knowledge through direct field engagement and observation.
Sustainability
Promote environmental awareness and the adoption of sustainable practices.
Heritage Connection
Deepen the connection between students and their natural and cultural heritage.
Interdisciplinary Study
Support a holistic understanding of environmental studies through various lenses.
The Structured Tracks
Guided journeys through biodiversity, geology, and heritage
An-Najah National University Environmental Route " Cultural & Academic"
| 10 km | 8 Hours | Easy, suitable for walking for all ages, free of any difficult terrain |
Explores the intersection of history and environment, starting at the Old Campus through Tel Balata to the University Environmental Garden.
View Route Detail
Start: Old Campus
- Introduction to the campus and its educational and cultural history.
- Brief overview of An-Najah National University and its role in higher education in Nablus.
Visit the Archaeological Museum and the Heritage Museum of An-Najah
- Archaeological Museum: Showcasing local and historical artifacts from different periods.
- Heritage Museum of An-Najah: Learning about Palestinian heritage and cultural and educational activities associated with the university.
Visit the Roman Theater in Ras Al-Ain, Nablus
- Explore the Roman Theater, one of Nablus’s historical landmarks.
- Learn about Roman architectural arts and the importance of theaters in social and entertainment life at that time.
Tel Balata Archaeological Park and Its Museum
- Visit Tel Balata, one of the most important archaeological sites in Nablus.
- Explore the museum to learn about archaeological discoveries and methods of preserving local heritage.
Visit the Iraqi Army Martyrs Cemetery in Old Askar Camp
- Learn about the historical site and the symbolic significance of the cemetery near the Industrial School in the camp.
- Stop at the cemetery to provide an overview of the Iraqi Army martyrs and their historical role in the area.
Visit Al-Badhan Waterfalls
- Take a nature break and enjoy the beauty of Al-Badhan Waterfalls and the surrounding natural environment.
- Opportunity for photography and contemplation of the scenery.
End: Sameet Plain and An-Najah National University Environmental Garden
- Sameet Plain: An open green area suitable for relaxation and walking.
- University Environmental Garden: Learn about sustainability and environmental projects within the university, including local plants and green space management.
Tammun Track "Biodiversity"
| 7 km | Slopes | Easy |
Focuses on geology and landscape analysis of the eastern Nablus Mountains overlooking the Jordan Valley.
View Track Detail
The ecotourism trail of Tammun is located near the village of Tammun, on the eastern slopes of the Nablus Mountains overlooking the northern part of the Jordan Valley. This trail is part of a natural protected area characterized by its unique landscapes, biodiversity, and panoramic views. The location at the edge of the mountain range provides a striking transition between the Mediterranean highlands and the semi-arid environment of the Jordan Valley.
The trail begins about 1.5 kilometers south of Tammun and gradually ascends toward the top of the nature reserve. The highest point reaches approximately 550 meters above sea level. As hikers move along the path, they cross the eastern escarpment of the Nablus Mountains, an area shaped by geological faults and tectonic formations that created steep slopes and dramatic views toward the valley below.
One of the most prominent points along the trail is a hill locally known as Ras Aboush, where the remains of a small shrine can be found. Local tradition associates this shrine with the period of Saladin. From this elevated point, visitors can enjoy impressive views of nearby valleys such as Wadi al-Hayya and Wadi al-Sha‘b, as well as Wadi al-Far’a and the surrounding agricultural lands.
The trail extends for approximately seven kilometers and is considered relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers, students, and nature enthusiasts. Along the route, visitors can observe a variety of wild plants including thyme, wild garlic, and seasonal flowers. The area is also home to several bird species such as the short-toed eagle, kestrel, and crested lark.
Overall, the Tammun trail offers an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty and ecological diversity of northern Palestine while promoting sustainable ecotourism and environmental awareness.
Tayasir Track "Ecology"
| 3 km | Forest | Easy |
A deep dive into forest environments, plant diversity, and ecological zones with panoramic landscape interpretation.
View Track Detail
The Tayasir Nature Reserve Trail is one of the scenic ecotourism paths in the northern West Bank. It lies between the city of Tubas and the village of Tayasir, within a protected natural landscape that combines mountainous terrain, forests, and wide views of the surrounding plains. The trail forms a horseshoe-shaped route and offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the eastern slopes of the northern Palestinian mountains.
The trail begins about 1.5 kilometers along the road leading from Tubas toward Tayasir, near the area known as Aqabat Tayasir. From this starting point, hikers begin their journey across an open plain situated at approximately 350 meters above sea level. The climate here reflects the eastern Mediterranean environment, with refreshing breezes and mild temperatures that make the walk pleasant for visitors.
As hikers move along the path, they gradually ascend the slopes overlooking the fertile plains of Tubas. About halfway along the route, visitors reach a forested area known as the Tayasir Woodland, a natural reserve with diverse tree species such as pine, cypress, carob, hawthorn, and Christ’s thorn. This shaded woodland provides an ideal place for resting, enjoying a meal, or observing the surrounding natural scenery.
At one point along the trail, the path turns northward, offering impressive panoramic views. From this location, visitors can see the Jordan Valley to the east and the Palestinian coastal plain to the west. The trail then curves back in a horseshoe shape, crossing a plain between two hills before ascending the southern slope of the second hill, which reaches approximately 450 meters above sea level.
The trail is about three kilometers long and is considered easy, making it suitable for hikers, students, and nature lovers. The area is rich in biodiversity, including wild flowers, migratory birds, and mammals such as the Palestinian mountain gazelle and the red fox. Overall, the Tayasir trail offers a remarkable ecotourism experience that highlights the natural landscapes and environmental diversity of northern Palestine.
Ain Al-Bayda – Ain Al-Sakout Track "Water Resources"
| 5 km | Springs | Easy |
Emphasizes rural sustainability, traditional land use, and the vital connection between natural springs and agriculture
View Track Detail
The Ain Al-Bayda – Ain Al-Sakout Trail is a scenic ecotourism route located in the northern Jordan Valley of the West Bank, east of the village of Ain Al-Bayda in the Tubas Governorate. The trail extends approximately five kilometers, connecting fertile plains, natural springs, and small historical sites while offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and distant Jordanian hills.
The trail begins near the western edge of Ain Al-Bayda, where visitors can see the remains of Sheikh Muhammad’s shrine and a small natural spring known locally as Ain Al-Shams. From there, the path crosses agricultural lands traditionally used for grazing and cultivation, reflecting the rural heritage of the Jordan Valley. The route passes remnants of Ain Al-Bayda spring, once a vital water source for local communities.
Midway along the trail lies Tel Al-Shamsiya, the site of two historical springs, which provided water before modern irrigation systems. From here, hikers continue along gentle eastern slopes, observing native vegetation such as Sidr, Dom, and Rutm shrubs, and have opportunities to spot migratory birds that pass through the valley.
The trail concludes at Ain Al-Sakout, a small natural oasis surrounded by reeds and low shrubs. Near the spring, visitors can see traces of Khirbet Al-Sakout, a village destroyed in 1967, adding historical significance to the route. Overall, the Ain Al-Bayda – Ain Al-Sakout Trail combines natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts.
Jabal Al-Kabir / Sheikh Bilal Track " Heritage"
| 6 km | Cultural | Easy |
Combines environmental learning with terrain analysis and the exploration of significant local heritage landmarks.
View Track Detail
The Jabal Al-Kabir / Sheikh Bilal Trail is a beautiful hiking route located in the northern West Bank, near the village of Azmout and the surrounding Palestinian countryside. This trail passes through the Jabal Al-Kabir Nature Reserve, a protected area that features diverse landscapes, from rocky slopes to gentle valleys. Hikers begin their journey at the outskirts of Azmout and follow a path that gradually ascends toward the top of the mountain. The trail reaches its highest point at approximately 750 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, the Balata refugee camp, and the Jordan Valley in the east.
The area is rich in flora, including pine, cypress, oak, carob, and other native Mediterranean plants. Wildlife is also abundant, with many bird species and small mammals inhabiting the reserve. Along the route, hikers encounter cultural landmarks such as the Shrine of Sheikh Bilal, an old white-domed structure surrounded by olive trees, as well as historical wells and caves.
The trail is about 6 kilometers long and is considered easy, making it suitable for beginners, families, and those seeking a nature experience. The path ends near Wadi Al–Badhan and Ain Al-Bayda, where freshwater springs create a serene natural environment.
Walking this trail provides not only physical activity but also an opportunity to connect with the natural and cultural heritage of northern Palestine. The combination of scenic views, historic sites, and biodiversity makes the Jabal Al-Kabir / Sheikh Bilal Trail an ideal destination for eco-tourism and outdoor exploration.
Faqqua Track " Seasonal Flora"
| 4 km | Iris | Easy |
A seasonal focus on plant biodiversity, featuring the Palestinian iris and landscape ecology observation.
View Track Detail
Also known as the Sawsan Faqqua Trail, is a scenic nature walk located near the village of Faqqua in the northern West Bank of Palestine. This trail runs through fields and hillsides that are home to the Palestinian iris (Iris haynei) — a rare and beautiful flower that is considered the national plant of Palestine and blooms each spring.
The route begins at the southern edge of Faqqua, which sits at about 400 meters above sea level. From there, visitors walk southward across wide Mediterranean plains, enjoying open views in all directions. On clear days, the landscape includes the wooded slopes of the Gilboa Mountains to the east, covered with a mix of native and introduced trees.
As you hike, you may encounter local wildlife such as the Palestinian mountain gazelle, especially around dawn and dusk when animals are most active. The trail also passes through areas rich in wildflowers, butterflies, and other native plants, creating a colorful and lively natural environment.
To the west, the expansive Marj Ibn Amer (Jezreel Valley) stretches out — historically known as one of the most fertile plains in the region. Along parts of the route, birdwatchers can see both resident and migratory birds attracted to scattered water spots and food sources. The entire trail is about 4 km long, with an elevation change of around 400 m, and is classified as easy, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors interested in nature, photography, or spring wildflowers.
Walking the Faqqua Trail offers a peaceful way to connect with Palestine’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and seasonal blooms.
Why These Tracks Matter
The Environmental Education Center believes that the land is our greatest classroom.
These tracks provide vital opportunities for students to:
-
-
-
Learn beyond the traditional classroom walls.
-
Engage directly with local ecosystems and communities.
-
Understand sustainability in real-life Palestinian contexts.
-
Build lasting awareness of biodiversity and responsibility.
-
-