As the gates of Expo Tel Aviv swing open for IMTM 2026, the International Mediterranean Tourism Market, there is a palpable sense of renewal in the air. This landmark event serves as the heartbeat of the region’s travel industry, bringing together global innovators and local experts to shape the future of exploration. At the very center of this buzz sits the Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) booth, offering a vibrant look at how the country is blending its ancient roots with modern, soul-stirring travel experiences.

The numbers tell a story of a deep-seated love for the outdoors; in 2025 alone, over 8.5 million visitors flocked to Israel’s national parks and nature reserves. According to Raya Shukri, CEO of the INPA, these sites are far more than just scenic backdrops—they are the essential anchors of the Israeli experience. Shukri emphasizes that as the country prepares for a robust return of international tourism, the focus has shifted toward creating “living spaces.” These are sites where history isn’t just observed through a glass case but is felt, touched, and lived through active, value-driven adventures that resonate year-round.

For those seeking the ultimate desert high, Masada National Park remains a crown jewel with a few new twists. Beyond the iconic sunrise hike up the Snake Path or the effortless ascent via cable car, the INPA is highlighting the “Masada Challenge.” This specialized cliffside trail reveals hidden corners of the fortress that most travelers never see. For a more grounded experience, visitors can now engage in desert “Poike” workshops—traditional slow-cooking over open coals—before spending a night under a blanket of stars at the Masada West campsite. It is a rare chance to blend the epic scale of Jewish history with the quiet intimacy of a campfire.

The trend of “hands-on history” continues with the Touch the Time initiative. Rather than just walking through ruins, travelers can now join professional conservators in the delicate work of preserving the past. Available at the stunning archaeological sites of Tzipori, Avdat, and Beit She’an, this program allows guests to work with original materials, literally placing their hands on the stones that have stood for millennia. It is a profound way to connect with the land, turning a standard tour into a personal contribution to the preservation of world heritage.

If your idea of a perfect day involves a slower pace, the rolling hills of Beit Guvrin-Mareshaoffer a sensory feast. The park has introduced curated picnic baskets filled with local wines, artisanal cheeses, and fresh breads, allowing families and couples to dine amidst the ruins of an ancient crossroads. This blend of nature and culture is further elevated by the park’s commitment to the arts. Following the massive success of the “Nari” exhibition—a mesmerizing video and sound installation by Idan Raichel and other artists in the Bell Caves—the INPA is currently developing new creative showcases that transform these ancient limestone caverns into surreal, subterranean galleries.