The IDF's Northern Command is launching a tourism project aimed at restoring civilian presence to Israel's northern border regions, with all available slots for guided tours during Passover already sold out. The initiative, dubbed “Returning to a Safer North,” will open long-shuttered sites along the borders with Lebanon and Syria, some for the first time since October 7.
Several of the tours offer a rare glimpse into remnants of the old Middle East, such as the historic Hejaz Railway, which once connected Israel to Syria and Iraq. Others will take visitors to the ruins of the Lebanese village of Al-Khiyam, destroyed in recent fighting, or to Mount Dov for panoramic views of Lebanon’s Nabatieh region and the Ayun Valley.
Due to overwhelming demand, the IDF plans to open additional routes in the coming days. One new trail will provide the first-ever access to a circular hiking path descending from southern Golan Heights to the deep, rugged Ruqqad stream.
Although the trail crosses a military fence, it remains entirely within Israeli territory and avoids the Alpha Line marking the international border with Syria. Visitors will pass within 50 to 100 meters (165 to 330 feet) of the fence and visit an ancient fortress.
Nearby, other attractions will reopen to the public, including sections of the historic Hejaz Railway and the El-Hamma Bridge near Hamat Gader.
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A new military post has been established on a hill overlooking the Ruqqad area, where soldiers will greet and secure tour groups without pulling forces from other sectors. The IDF stressed that this trail will only open pending a final security assessment; if risks arise, participants will be notified of cancellation.
Southern Syria remains a higher-risk area, as some residents had hosted jihadist terrorists during the country’s civil war. A group of terrorists attempting to return to that area was recently eliminated by IDF forces after firing at troops.
Mount Dov, long a flashpoint between Hezbollah and the IDF, also will be partially reopened. The military has built scenic lookout points on the summit, facing southern Lebanon and the Upper Galilee. Tours will be available by advance reservation, with buses departing from nearby parking areas.
Other sites set to reopen include Brit Bein HaBetarim, parts of Mount Hermon on the Israeli side and new lookouts along the Lebanon border — from Metula and Mount Adir to Rosh Hanikra and the Sulam Ridge descending toward the sea.
At the Misgav Am observation point, visitors will see the ruins of homes in the Lebanese villages destroyed by IDF ground operations six months ago. IDF troop presence in the north has more than doubled since October 6 and permanent security is provided from a nearby outpost across the border.
“It’s important for us to restore heritage and tourism to the region and to tell the story of the battles fought during the war,” the IDF said. Paratroopers will welcome visitors to Mount Bental and describe their current activities on the Syrian front.