25 February 2017, Saturday. Nabi Musa to Mar Saba

This walk begins in the east Jerusalem desert near Nabi Musa and concludes at Mar Saba, the Greek Orthodox monastery.  The history of the shrine at Nabi Musa dates back to the era of Saladin, and Mar Saba is among the most ancient and wonderous desert monasteries in the Holy Land.  Women have not been allowed into Mar Saba for fifteen centuries, and will have to admire the monastery from over its exterior walls.

 

The walk from near Nabi Musa to Mar Saba will prove to be challenging, yet rewarding.  This hike is not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo, or who are afraid of heights.

  • Walking distance:         8 km
  • Walking time:               3 hours
  • Difficulty:                      Moderate - Difficult

What to bring:

 

Lightweight walking boots
Walking poles
At least 3-4 liters of water and snacks/food for the hike
Sunscreen and hat
Your camera

 

What is Included:

  • An experienced local hiking guide
  • Transportation from the Jerusalem/ Beit Sahour and back
  • Meeting point: in front of The Jerusalem Hotel, 4 Anatara Ben Shaddad St., East Jerusalem, near the Damascus Gate
  • Direction: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Jerusalem+Hotel/@31.7843026,35.2258947,677m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m2!3m1!1s0x150329c458973183:0x496b59518afd3fa1!6m1!1e1
  •  Beit Sahour meeting point: in front of Beit Sahour Municipality
  • Meeting time: 08:00
  • Approximate returning time: 15:00 
  • Hike through the east Jerusalem desert
  • Discover the history of the Nabi Musa shrine, which dates back to the era of Saladin
  • Marvel at Mar Saba, the Greek Orthodox desert monastery. Women will have to admire the monastery from over its exterior walls. 

More information:

http://masaribrahim.ps/en/masar-the-path/jericho/nabi-musa-to-mar-saba-monastery-to-tal-al-qamar

 

Route

  1. Jerusalem