Tuqu’ To Ar-Rashayida  

After a visit to world heritage sites, the Old City of Bethlehem and Nativity Church, follow the fertile valley of Artas towards Tuqu’.

This hike will take you from Tuqu’ through Wadi el-Jihar to ‘Arab ar-Rashayida village. Here in Bedouin lands you will see their camels and livestock in pastures. The path descends into the spectacular Wadi el-Jihar, a deep limestone canyon in the desert. The caves there have been used for homes for a long time.
The hike from Tuqu’ to Wadi el-Jihar will take about 4 hours; the terrain is rocky, with a few small climbs. Once you emerge from the valley and come to ‘Arab ar-Rashayida village, you will have the opportunity to try a traditional Palestinian meal at one of the homestays there.

Service Providers

Bethlehem Guides

Bethlehem - Wi’am Al-Masalha
Bethlehem - Usama Zughbi
Bethlehem - Riziq Ghyada
Bethlehem - Nidal Rishmawi
Bethlehem - Nadine Al-Yateem
Bethlehem - Muhammad Al-Qurna

Women Associations in Bethlehem 

Tuqu’ Women’s Center
Shawawreh Women’s Association
Ezariya - Cooperative of Rural Development
Dar Salah Women’s Association
Bethlehem - Nabd Women Center
Beit Sahour - Arab Women's Union
Photos of Bethlehem Region
Tuqu’ To Ar-Rashayida  
  • Distance: 24.3km
  • Time: 7-9 hours
  • Challenge: Difficult
Stage Logistics

For the hike take:

at least 3 liters of water
snack

Tuqu’ can be reached from Bethlehem with a shared taxi for around 5 NIS.
‘Arab ar-Rashayida can be reached with a private taxi or car.

Remember about sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)