Jenin – the Allure of the North

With Sami Backleh

About the Tour:

The rich cultural, architectural, archaeological, and natural themes of Jenin make it one of the most underrated places to visit. This trip will introduce you to the multilayered beauty of Jenin and its history not commonly seen in tourism maps.

Curated By:
Sami Backleh

Tour Duration:
1-day tour (approx. 11 hours)

What to Bring:
Tourists are advised to bring water and good walking shoes, in addition to hats and sunglasses if they desire. It is important to be modestly dressed when entering the church of Burqin. Please cover your knees and elbows.

About the Guide

Sami Backleh

With Sami is a licensed tour guide from Jerusalem who holds a MSc degree in biodiversity management and conservation. Through his work in ecotourism, Sami believes the Jenin area has much potential in tourism as it contains numerous historical, natural, archaeological and cultural sites that need to be highlighted on the tourism map. Join Sami on a one-day tour and allow him to share his love of this region with you.

Tour Highlights

Track the footsteps of our forefathers as you travel the ancient Patriarch road. Smell the aroma of the late 18th century throne village in Palestine, a unique phenomenon during the Ottoman period. Explore one of the traditional sites connected to the story of Joseph and his brothers. Admire the creativity of the Iron Age town of Balama for protecting their water resources. Enjoy a traditional meal of fresh products from the Jezreel Valley and be prepared to see one of the oldest churches honoring the story of Jesus healing the leapers. The village is trying to register the church as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are lucky, you might have a glimpse of the many animals and birds that are native to the Holy Land.

Tour Details

This trail is designed to highlight some of the important cultural and historical sites in Jenin. The area played an important role in history as a crossroads between the Mediterranean Sea and the northern region. You will imagine the traffic of the historical Via Maris passing through this area as well as other internal routes when you visit Tel Dothan and khirbet Balama. We will also discuss the biblical stories connected with some of these sites. You will also admire the architectural uniqueness of Arrabeh Village as it was one of the main sheikdoms during the late 18th Century. And if you are looking for one of the earliest churches built by queen Hellen, then Burqin church will be your destination. The last station of our trip is to visit the German fighters monument during WWI and learn how the Bavarian air force managed to sustain their positions during key battles.

Testimonials

I have been in the country multiple times, I never have visited Jenin on any tour, it's just not part of most itineraries. When I visit again I will definitely visit this beautiful region of the country.

Time travel was made possible by this tour. The tour is a time machine that allowed me to have a glimpse of the distant past. I love history and meeting people, this tour is a must for anyone who would like a genuine and unique experience in Palestine.

Sami is a wonderful and loving guide, in addition to being a resourceful guide, he is caring. Travelling deep into the west bank with Sami was an excellent choice.

I brought a book to enjoy on the bus as we drove to Jenin, but honestly the window view from the bus was more interesting. I will keep the book for my flight back home. It is impossible to be distracted by anything while being on this amazing trip.