Things To Do
in Majdal Shams
Majdal Shams is a picturesque Druze village located at the foot of Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights of Israel. Known for its stunning views, it serves as a gateway for outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The village is rich in Druze heritage, offering unique culinary delights and traditional crafts.
With a welcoming community, Majdal Shams is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a breakfast of local pastries and fresh labneh at a local café. Then, visit the Majdal Shams Heritage Center to learn about the Druze culture.
Take a hike on the Mount Hermon trails, enjoying the stunning views and diverse wildlife. Pack a lunch to enjoy a picnic in nature.
Dine at a traditional Druze restaurant, savoring dishes like stuffed grape leaves and roasted lamb. After dinner, stroll through the village and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then head to the slopes of Mount Hermon for some skiing or snowboarding in winter, or mountain biking in warmer months.
Visit the nearby Banias Nature Reserve to explore the beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails. Enjoy lunch at a scenic spot within the reserve.
Return to Majdal Shams for dinner, where you can try the local specialty, kebab hindi. Conclude your day with a visit to a local coffee shop for traditional Arabic coffee.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $10-$20 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-$5 |
| 🚌Public transportation fare | $1-$3 |
| 🍦Ice cream | $3-$5 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $80-$150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and unique Druze cuisine.
- Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
- Welcoming and friendly local community.
- Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
- Summer heat can be intense for outdoor activities.
- Language barrier may exist for non-Arabic speakers.
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "نعم" - Yes
- "لا" - No
Places to Visit in Majdal Shams
Visit one of these nice places.
A breathtaking viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Golan Heights, ideal for sunrise and sunset photography.
A beautifully maintained courtyard showcasing traditional Druze architecture, perfect for cultural photography.
Stunning waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery, providing a picturesque backdrop for nature photography.
Food in Majdal Shams
Majdal Shams Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Druze dish made from minced meat seasoned with spices and grilled to perfection.
Must-Try!
A creamy strained yogurt served with olive oil and za'atar, often enjoyed with pita bread.
Grape leaves filled with rice, herbs, and spices, providing a delightful taste of local flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional snacks.
Look out for food stalls offering delicious shawarma and falafel, popular among locals and visitors alike.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
While Majdal Shams is relatively liberal, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Be respectful when engaging with local customs and traditions, particularly during religious events.
A warm handshake or a friendly 'hello' in Arabic can go a long way in establishing rapport.
Safety
Tipping in Majdal Shams
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the bill.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
Summer can be hot, with temperatures soaring; it's advisable to hike early in the morning to avoid heat.
Autumn offers comfortable weather and beautiful fall colors, ideal for sightseeing and photography.
Winter can bring snowfall on Mount Hermon, attracting skiers and snow enthusiasts.
Majdal Shams at Night
Hiking in Majdal Shams
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading to the Banias Waterfalls, featuring lush vegetation and wildlife.
A challenging hike that takes you to the summit of Mount Hermon, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Airports
How to reach Majdal Shams by plane.
Located approximately 100 km from Majdal Shams, Haifa Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majdal Shams is predominantly inhabited by the Druze community, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.
The village attracts a mix of tourists, particularly those interested in outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is a popular sport among locals, with many community teams and leagues.
During winter, skiing on Mount Hermon attracts many enthusiasts from the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Majdal Shams.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about ingredients.
Druze cuisine is predominantly halal, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.