The last two weeks of August are always a special period. The heat still lingers, but there is already something in the air signaling the approaching end. Children try to squeeze every last moment out of the summer vacation, while parents look for ways to fill these days with beautiful memories that will warm their hearts when the routine resumes. This is the last opportunity for family adventures, discovering new places, and enjoying experiences that only summer allows.
Nature reserves and gardens have prepared in advance with a variety of activities to make these days unforgettable—from mesmerizing art installations in ancient caves to outdoor cinema shows under the night sky, from challenging adventures to relaxing and healing experiences. From the Galilee in the north to the Negev in the south, from Crusader fortresses to hot springs, from lantern tours to concerts in nature—there is something here for every taste and age. Here are our recommendations for the last two weeks of summer.
"Nari" – A Sensory Journey in the Beit Guvrin Caves
In the heart of Beit Guvrin National Park, in the mysterious Bell Caves, an extraordinary artistic experience unfolds. Three talented creators—Idan Raichel, Merav Shaham, and Eli Haziza—have created an emotional installation telling the story of the "People of Silence," who set out in search of a new home.
The experience begins with the name itself—"Nari" is the hard upper layer of soft chalk rock from which the unique caves were carved. For 35 minutes, sounds and images will envelop you in the cave space, while special arrangements of Raichel’s songs are played using traditional instruments from all over the world.
Where: Beit Guvrin National Park, Bell Caves area. When: Sunday–Thursday and Saturday evenings. Duration: The installation and tour last about an hour and fifteen minutes. Note: Advance reservation is required on the Nature and Parks Authority website. It is also recommended to order a luxurious picnic basket.
When Opera Meets Antiquity
Who said opera is only for grand opera houses? The Herod’s Theater in Caesarea invites you to a unique cultural experience—the screening of the classic opera Carmen on a giant screen, set against the backdrop of the ancient port city.
The story of the beautiful and heart-breaking gypsy girl, set among the ruins of Herod’s palace, is a combination hard to beat. If you have never experienced opera before, this is a perfect opportunity. And if you are already familiar with the genre—watching Carmen in such a location is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Where: Caesarea National Park. When: Sunday, 24.8 – gates open at 17:30, gathering at the theater at 19:30. Note: Activity is weather-dependent. It is recommended to arrive early and enjoy the sunset and the breeze at the palace.
The Last Shabbat Before Routine
On the last Friday of summer vacation, there is a special place for a family Shabbat reception. At Beit She’arim National Park, the fascinating site where every step connects to the past, a Shabbat reception with the Jaman Band will take place. The performance combines music and instruments from around the world, Shabbat songs, and audience participation in singing and drumming.
Meanwhile, curious families can join a special discovery activity—exploring the burial caves hidden throughout the site and uncovering their secrets.
Where: Beit She’arim National Park. When: Friday, 29.8 – opening at 16:00, Shabbat reception from 16:30. Suitable for the whole family, especially families with curious children.
Thoughtful Photography in Nature
E.T. – The Extra-Terrestrial is a film we all remember, but watching it from the top of Kochav Hayarden Fortress? A completely different experience. The impressive Crusader fortress, unique in Israel, overlooks the Lower Galilee and the Jordan Valley, providing a perfect backdrop for a story about extraordinary friendship.
After the screening comes the equally fascinating part—“Close Encounters of the Third Kind” with expert sky guidance. Are we alone in the universe? What is a UFO? And why is everyone talking about aliens? Kochav HaYarden Fortress is an ideal space for stargazing and pondering the big questions.
Where: Kochav HaYarden National Park. When: Thursday, 28.8 – gates open at 17:30, tours at 18:00, screening at 19:30. Overnight stay under the stars is possible.
Water and Legends Under the Stars
Eshkol Park in Beersheba National Park offers the perfect combination for a day and night of fun. In the afternoon, enjoy a Bedouin drumming workshop, colorful crafts for children, and cooling water games on the lawn—just what is needed in the final summer days.
In the evening, as darkness falls, continue at the night campground with an intimate performance of “Legends and Folk Tales”—full of humor, morals, and instruments from around the world. Early risers can also enjoy a magical morning walk in the park at dawn.
Where: Eshkol National Park (Beersheba). When: Thursdays, 21.8 and 28.8 – day activity 15:00–17:30, night show 20:00. Overnight stay: night campground by reservation.
Lantern Tours in Caesarea
Caesarea at night is completely different from daytime. The new lantern tour reveals hidden angles of the familiar site—you will walk among the antiquities by lantern light, discover secret passageways carved by the Crusaders during the siege, and visit rooms where gladiators waited before fighting wild beasts. The combination of darkness, floating light, and historical stories creates a mysterious and captivating experience suitable for the whole family (children from age 5).
Where: Caesarea National Park. When: Thursdays in August and Friday, 29.8 – departure at 20:00. Cost: 55 NIS per person with advance registration. Note: Wear comfortable shoes (no flip-flops) and warm clothing.
Masada from a New Perspective
For those seeking a real challenge, the “Masada Challenge” offers a new and unique trail revealing Masada’s secrets beyond the familiar walls. This is a cliff-edge walking route with ladders, handholds, and a safety harness throughout, leading to hidden archaeological complexes previously inaccessible. Along the trail, enjoy breathtaking views from the Judean Desert to the Dead Sea.
Meanwhile, the new nighttime show “Masada – From Sunset to Sunrise” offers a stunning multi-sensory experience—giant VIDEO MAPPING projections on the mountainside, combined with advanced lighting and a special soundtrack by Shlomo Gronich. It is recommended to arrive an hour before the screening to enjoy additional areas against the backdrop of dusk.
For those wanting a completely different experience—“Sunrise for All” offers a cable car ride directly to the mesmerizing sunrise, suitable for everyone—children, adults, hikers, and people with mobility disabilities.
Where: Masada National Park. Challenge: Friday 22.8, 29.8 and Saturday 23.8, 6:00–8:00. Night show: Tuesdays and Thursdays in August at 21:00 (arrival from Arad only). Sunrise cable car: Friday 22.8, 29.8, 5:00–7:00. Note: Challenge suitable for experienced hikers and children over 10, advance registration required.
Jewish Heritage and Galilee Scenery
At Zippori National Park, a unique experience awaits, combining history, art, and stunning scenery. The guided evening tour takes you along enchanting paths, vineyards, and orchards to discover 2,000-year-old mosaic floors. The tour ends at the fortress roof with a view westward to the breathtaking Galilee sunset.
Children can participate in a mosaic workshop and try their hand at ancient artistic techniques. This is a perfect opportunity to understand the lives of the ancient city’s residents and connect with their cultural heritage.
Where: Zippori National Park. When: Wednesday, 27.8 – open until 20:00, tours at 18:30 and 19:30. Craft workshops: 16:00–20:00, additional fee 10 NIS.
Hamat Tiberias – Healing and History
In the last scorching summer days, there is nothing like bathing in the hot springs of Hamat Tiberias. This small national park offers a relaxing experience, combining ancient history with proven healing powers. Visit the ancient synagogue with its magnificent mosaic floor and enjoy an exciting audiovisual display telling the story of Tiberias’ glory days.
The hot springs have been known since ancient times for their healing properties. The park trail is fully accessible, there is a charming reflexology path, and a mosaic workshop is available. After a full day of activities, this is the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate.
Where: Hamat Tiberias National Park. When: Wednesday and Thursday, 20.8 and 21.8, until 21:00 (pools emptied at 20:00). Required equipment: swimwear, towels, walking shoes.
Nature Art at Ein Afek
The exhibition “Butterflies in Focus” at Ein Afek Nature Reserve invites you to pause, breathe, and admire the beauty around us. Butterflies, far more than just a pretty sight, are an important biological indicator of ecosystem health. The exhibition is displayed in the old flour mill and includes stunning photographs by talented photographers capturing wonderful moments of living nature.
The reserve itself, with its nature preserving its charm, invites close observation of the small and joyful moments that nature offers. This is an opportunity to connect with nature and understand the importance of protecting biodiversity.
Where: Ein Afek Nature Reserve. When: until 11.9, during park opening hours. No additional fee beyond park admission.