Twice a year in the period between March to May and September to November, the city of Eilat turns into one of the biggest birdwatching spots of the world. The birds of all colours and species cross the Israel's land on their way to warmer countries. The best place to observe their migration is Hula Valley National Park. Wake up early in the morning not to miss any single sound of nature. Each month you may watch different species of birds, however, birdwatching in October is special with a vast amount of White Pelicans, Common Cranes and flocks of Eagles. November is more of a transition month when most frequently you may watch birds of prey. If you plan a journey for December, you are very likely to see such species as Great White Egrets, Great Cormorants, Black Storks and Black-headed Gulls. So get a pair of binoculars and get ready for your birdwatching adventure.
Practical info
What makes Eilat a great destination for birdwatching?
Eilat's strategic location between Europe and Africa makes it an exceptional destination for birdwatching. Each year millions of birds fly through the region, making it a popular stopover for bird migration. Eilat's ecosystem is diverse, consisting of desert, mountains and the Red Sea, which provides a rich habitat for many bird species, including resident and migratory birds. Show more
When is the best time to visit Hula Valley National Park for birdwatching?
The ideal time to visit Hula Valley National Park for birdwatching is during the migration season, twice a year. These periods fall between March to May and September to November. During these times, millions of birds of different colours and species pass through Israel on their way to warm countries. Each month offers an opportunity to see various bird species. However, October, in particular, offers excellent opportunities to witness several bird species like White Pelicans, Common Cranes and flocks of eagles. Show more
What types of birds can be seen during the October migration in Eilat?
October is an excellent month to visit Eilat for birdwatching, as it is a resting place for several bird species like White Pelicans, Common Cranes and flocks of eagles. These birds fly from Europe to Africa, and once they get to Eilat, they take a rest and eat to regain their strength before they continue their journey. Eilat's location on the Great Rift Valley migration route, coupled with its strategic position, makes it one of the most important spots for bird migration in the world. Show more
Is it necessary to wake up early in the morning to see the birds during the migration season?
For birdwatching during migration season, it's advisable to wake up early in the morning. In the early hours, the birds take off from their roosting sites across the sky, providing a breathtaking spectacle of bird migration. The morning is cooler, and the sunlight is dimmer, resulting in better visibility. Early morning is a better time to watch birds since that's when they're the most active. Show more
What are some other popular birdwatching spots in Israel?
Some other birdwatching spots in Israel include En Gedi, the Hula Valley, Hatzeva and Mount Arbel. En Gedi and Hatzeva are situated in the desert, and visitors can watch the various bird species that breed in such an environment. Mount Arbel, on the other hand, provides birdwatchers with high cliffs that offer an excellent view. Additionally, the Hula Valley hosts more than 500 bird species, making it one of the best birdwatching locations globally. Show more
