Return to Nature in Palestine: Many Palestinians like to enjoy nature and usually will take time to escape the hustle and bustle of the city on their day of rest, Friday. Like many others in the world, heading out to the mountains, lakes, beaches or other natural parks is a family activity to be enjoyed on weekends and holidays. The people of Hebron are no exception and taking time to breathe in some fresh air is a good way to recharge batteries and get some truly deserved rest.
Talking to volunteers and locals alike we can agree that body and soul crave a return to the elements. Water, earth, air and fire are present in every single thing around us, we, human beings are made of these elements as well and being in contact with the elements has an incredible soothing effect on both our bodies and our souls. Who hasnโt felt immediately relieved by swimming in fresh water, been mesmerized by peace while staring at a fire, felt calmed by the feeling of earth between our toes, or by the simple feeling of wind blowing through our hair atop a hill? These are all experiences que can relate to, and as such enjoy together.
While in Hebron you will hopefully have the chance to visit some of these natural areas, perhaps together with your host family or some new found friends. The Nature reserve of Wadi Al Quff is a nice valley with forests and the closest to Hebron. It is a nice enough area to go for hikes and even have a picnic. Some of the volunteers at the Excellence Center have taken hikes around this area and found it a charming and peaceful experience. One can simply take a taxi from the city center and in around 10 min be in the middle of a lovely valley full of unexpected greenery! Be informed that it is possible to run into soldiers, Dana from the USA had an encounter which required formal identification, so carry your passport with you at all times.
An other nature reserve which is relatively close to Hebron is Al Kanub, this one is very different from Wadi Al Quff as it is a desert landscape and much more dramatic to the eye. Be prepared for hot temperatures and little shade, but the beauty of open horizon is beyond comparison.
The one element which is difficult to have access to for most inhabitants of the West Bank is water. Travelling to the Mediterranean, which is really only about 60 km away from Hebron is near impossible for most people. The only option for most is the Dead Sea and access is limited to Kalya Beach near Jericho. The Dead Sea is an experience not to be missed while in Palestine, but the area around Kalya tends to be crowded and the price for entering overpriced.
Visiting nature and coming in contact with the elements is extremely important for the wellbeing of all humans. It is no difference in Palestine. Make sure you allow yourself the time to experience these things as well while visiting.
http://www.mahmiyat.ps/en/park/about?park_id=3
