Is Golan Heights Safe for Travel in 2024?

Golan Heights, Israel
Safety Score
59

The Golan Heights or simply the Golan is a region in the Levant spanning about 1,800 square kilometers. The region defined as the Golan Heights differs between disciplines: as a geological and biogeographical region, the Golan Heights refers to a basaltic plateau bordered by the Yarmouk River in the south, the Sea of Galilee and Hula Valley in the west, the Anti-Lebanon with Mount Hermon in the north and Wadi Raqqad in the east.

Warnings & Dangers in Golan Heights

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

The Golan Heights is not the safest place for travelers, but you can avoid most of the troubles if you use common sense and take precautions.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Public transport is well-developed and safe. Taxis are convenient for getting around, but sometimes drivers can rip off tourists at exorbitant prices. Make sure the cab has a taximeter.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Like any major city in The Golan Heights, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Just as in all parts of Israel, the possibility of the area being flooded during winter exists.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

The risk of severe robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Golan Heights. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : HIGH

Due to the Palestinian-Israeli military conflict, the city may be at risk of terrorist attacks. Be attentive, vigilant, and study the political situation before your visit to this city.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : LOW

You can be careful and attentive to your surroundings, but usually, in Golan Heights, no one tries to deceive tourists.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel relatively safe in Golan Heights. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is Golan Heights for Tourists?

When people think about Israel, they tend to believe that this is not a safe destination for travel, which is why they sometimes avoid visiting this beautiful country.

One destination that is frequently visited by tourists in Golan Heights and generally speaking this is not such a dangerous destination in the periods when Israel is not in war with Syria.

Reports state that Israel is extending its buffer zone in the Golan Heights between itself and Syria.

This means that this area of Israel is far from safe, and is going deeper in the war.

As in any other country, you need to be precocious, as you can never predict what can happen.

You should get acquainted with the current situation in the specific area before starting your journey.

Especially avoid taking pictures of people in Muslim and Orthodox Jewish areas or military or police personnel.

You need to carry identification with you at all times and do not attract too much attention.

No matter whether you are visiting for a few days or a few weeks, you need to take care of yourself and your personal belongings.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Golan Heights?

Visitors to Israel must obtain a visa from one of the Israeli diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. All visitors must hold a valid passport for six months after the date of departure from Israel.

Which Currency Is Used in Golan Heights?

The Israeli new shekel, also known as simply the Israeli shekel, is the currency of Israel and is also used as a legal tender in the Palestinian territories of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. The new shekel is divided into 100 agorot.

How's the Weather like in Golan Heights?

Located at an elevation of 727.67 meters above sea level, Golan Heights has a Mediterranean, hot summer climate ). The city’s yearly temperature is 22.14ºC, and it is -0.55% lower than Israel’s average. During March, April, November, and December, you are most likely to experience good weather with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Golan Heights?

Fik Airfield is an airfield in the Golan Heights, occupied by Israel, near the Israeli settlement and kibbutz Afik. The airport is used for private aviation activity and is operated by the Golan Regional Council. Fik has seen traffic drop in recent years but is used by Elbit Systems to test their Unmanned aerial vehicles. The airfield was the site of Israel’s 2001 Kart racing championship, and there is talk of converting it into a race track.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Golan Heights?

The Golan Heights is a disputed territory in the Middle East. Most of it is currently controlled by Israel, and the eastern part is controlled by Syria. Both Israel and Syria consider the Golan Heights to be part of their territory. The UN Security Council recognizes this territory as Syrian.

Is the Water in Golan Heights Safe to Drink?

Tap water is safe to drink.

Is Uber Safe in Golan Heights?

There is no Uber taxi in Golan Heights. You can use any other local taxi services.

More Travel Destinations

Leave a Comment