Nablus

Nablus, north of Jerusalem, is a thriving industrial and trade center full of archaeological sites within its unique Old City. It is also renowned for its exquisite olive oil soap production and appetizing sweets such as the kunafeh. The city was established in 72 AD by the Roman Emperor Vespasian west of Shechem (currently Tell Balata) that was destroyed that same year. The archeological site of Tell Balata, dating back to the second millennium BC contains the remains of a Middle Bronze Age city with a massive city wall, two impressive gates, a fortress temple, and domestic houses.

Present-day Nablus remains a fascinating place – from the small enclave of Samaritans preserving their ancient culture atop Mt. Gerizim to the mosques and markets to be found around each bend of the charming Old City’s winding streets. After thoroughly exploring Nablus City and all its intrigues, walkers leave their urban sprawl and pass several small communities scattered across the Central Highlands of the West Bank, enjoying views of hills thick with olive trees as they go. From these hills, the trail descends through the spectacular Wadi al- ’Auja towards the largest oasis in the Jordan Valley: Jericho.

Nablus-Regional-Map-768x875

Day Stages

Experience the unique atmosphere of the famous city, Nablus. Indulge yourself in tastes and fragrances of its Old City markets.

Walk from a village to village, encounter the stunning views of the Jordan Valley in the background.

The name Duma means calmness. Indeed, when you enter this agricultural village its peaceful atmosphere absorbs you.

Experience one of the most stunning valleys of the area and admire its natural richness.

Name Area Languages Spoken Contact Information Other services Particular Interests
Alaa’ Hammouz Nablus Arabic, English (+970)0599392397
Email:horizoncyhi@gmail.com
Biking Tours Flora/fauna, history, archaeology
Anwar Dawabsheh Nablus Arabic, English (+970)0599136831
Email:anwar_hamad2000@yahoo.com
Flora/fauna, history, archaeology
Zaid Al-Azhari Nablus Arabic, English (+970)0599789631
Email:zaid-a@hotmail.com
Flora/fauna, history, archaeology
Majdi Shilleh Nablus Arabic, English (+970)0598222466
Email:majshella@yahoo.com
Flora/fauna, history, archaeology
Nedal Sawalmeh Jenin to Bethlehem Arabic, English (+970)0599789631
Email:tawbah2002@yahoo.com
Flora/fauna, history, archaeology
Stage Location Name Price Range Contact Info Amenities
1 Nablus Khan al Wakala $  +972 09-2377779 meals, wi-fi
 1  Nablus  Al-Yasmeen Hotel  $  (+970)9-2333555 meals, wi-fi, kitchen
 2 Duma  Nihal Dawabsheh Homestay  $ (+970)599559394 meals, wi-fi, laundry
 3 Kufr Malek  Ibtihaj Be’arat Homestay  $ (+970)22802064 meals, wi-fi, laundry
 3 Kufr Malek  Misada Muadi Homestay  $ (+970)599398586 meals, wi-fi
 4 Al-‘Auja  Ali Abu Khurbesh Beduin Tent  $ (+970)597427434 meals
 4 Al-‘Auja Auja Guesthouse  $ (+970)2-2310423 meals, wi-fi, laundry

There are no exact schedules for the following transportation options. Buses and services (orange shared taxis for up to seven people; pronounced servees) usually start driving when they are full. Most transportation stops operating at sunset. The transportation might be less frequent on Fridays, especially between 12-2pm. Prices are subject to change.

FROM / TO NABLUS DISTANCE TRANSPORTATION PRICE
Jerusalem via Al-Azariya 66km Bus and Taxi ~50 NIS
 Ramallah  49km  Taxi  16 NIS
 Bethlehem  94km  Taxi  50 NIS
Sabastiya 12km  Taxi  6 NIS
 ‘Awarta 8.5km  Taxi 7 NIS
 Duma 27km  Taxi 10 NIS
Kufr Malek 37.5km  Bus/Taxi (via Ramallah)  24 NIS
 Aqraba 17.5km  Taxi  7 NIS
LOCATION NAME CONTACT MISSION PRODUCTS
Awarta Palestinian Women Committee Nala Awad
Tel: 0599587351
Empowering women; Developing women economic, social, and cultural activity. Pastries and pizza.
Aqraba Aqraba Women’s Center Huda Badawi
Tel: 0597344393
Developing the situation of women in the village. Honey, zaatar, herbs, mlokhia, eggs, cheese, embroidery and beads.
Kufr Malek Alata’ Women Association Mesada Mua’di
Tel: 0599398586
Enhancing the situation of women, children, and elderly. Maftoul, bread, pastries, honey, camomile, embroidery and beads.