Solomon’s Petting Zoo

Solomon's Animals Petting Zoo is an amazing corner of wildlife located in the village of Nokdim, near the town of Beit Sahour on the West Bank. This private exotic animal farm has become home to more than 100 species from all over the world, offering visitors a rare opportunity for close interaction with fauna in a calm and friendly atmosphere.

Here you can encounter a wide variety of creatures: from majestic camels and friendly donkeys to exotic reptiles, giant lizards, and even rare lungfish. The farm harmoniously combines open-air enclosures and indoor pavilions, making a visit comfortable in any weather. The zoo's founder, Shlomo Horovitz, is personally involved in the lives of his charges, turning an ordinary walk into an exciting educational journey.

Of particular note is the wildlife rehabilitation center, which works in partnership with nature conservation services. Visitors can not only see foxes or hyenas undergoing recovery but also learn about the importance of preserving the region's ecosystem. The zoo's high rating confirms that it is an ideal place for a family holiday, where cleanliness, diversity, and a sincere love for animals create a unique aura.

When planning a visit to the Solomon's Animals Petting Zoo, located near the town of Beit Sahour, we recommend checking the latest information in advance. This will help you better prepare for your encounter with the amazing animal world and clarify all the details of your visit.

Please check the current data and any potential changes in the operating schedule before your trip to ensure your journey through the West Bank is as comfortable as possible and brings only positive emotions.

A truly immersive experience awaits guests at the farm: here, you can do more than just observe animals through a fence—you can pet and feed them in specially equipped areas. One of the most popular attractions is camel and donkey rides, which provide unforgettable emotions and great shots for the family album. For those who aren't afraid of thrills, the indoor sections feature collections of spiders, scorpions, and snakes.

The signature guided tours by the farm's owner, Shlomo Horovitz, are of particular value. In Hebrew or English, he shares fascinating stories about his charges' habits and the specifics of their care. You can purchase drinks and treats at the stall on the zoo grounds, and cozy relaxation areas allow for a small picnic surrounded by nature, enjoying the peace and fresh air.

For curious visitors, there is a unique skull exhibition where you can study the skeletal structures of various creatures—from sharks to storks. Thanks to the indoor pavilions, a visit to the farm is interesting even on a rainy day, turning into a full educational adventure that teaches children and adults a respectful attitude toward the world around them.

Solomon's Animals farm is located in the picturesque village of Nokdim (address: Havat Sde Bar), nestled among the hills. The most convenient way to get here is by private or rental car. The drive from Jerusalem or Beit Sahour takes about 20–30 minutes along scenic but rather narrow and winding roads, so we recommend planning your route during daylight hours.

For navigation, it is best to use Google Maps or Waze by entering the farm's name. The site provides convenient and free parking for visitors, and clear signs will help you quickly find the entrance to the zoo.

Public transport to this area is quite infrequent, making the bus a less practical option for tourists. If you do not have your own car, the best solution is a short taxi ride from the town of Beit Sahour, which is less than 10 kilometers away.

The history of the Solomon's Animals Petting Zoo began as a private initiative by enthusiast Shlomo Horovitz. His passion for nature and desire to share knowledge about fauna with others led to the creation of a unique space in the village of Nokdim. Over time, the small collection grew into a full-fledged farm, which today is home to more than a hundred species of exotic and local animals.

An important milestone in the site's development was its cooperation with nature conservation services. The farm took on the noble mission of rehabilitating injured wild animals. Foxes, hyenas, and other representatives of local wildlife find temporary shelter and medical care here, so that later, if possible, they can return to their natural habitat. Those who cannot survive in the wild remain under Shlomo's permanent care.

Shlomo Horovitz actively promotes a love for nature through the media: he is the host of popular children's television programs and runs a YouTube channel that has become especially popular in recent years. Live broadcasts from the farm have allowed viewers around the world to watch the lives of the inhabitants in real-time. Today, the zoo continues to evolve, regularly adding rare species to its collection and introducing new educational programs.

To enjoy the atmosphere of Solomon's Animals Zoo at a leisurely pace, participate in feeding, and tour all the themed zones, we recommend setting aside 2 to 3 hours. This is quite enough for a full introduction to the residents and participation in interactive demonstrations.

For families with young children, an hour and a half to two hours might be sufficient for a basic tour. However, if you plan to attend Shlomo Horovitz's signature show or organize a private event at the farm, you should allow up to 4 hours in your schedule to ensure your visit is as rich and relaxed as possible.

Solomon's Animals Petting Zoo is open to visitors most of the week, except for Saturdays when the farm is closed. On weekdays—Sunday through Thursday—guests can visit from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Please note that during the winter period, opening hours are sometimes extended until 7:00 PM, so it's worth checking the current schedule before your visit.

On Fridays and holiday eves, the zoo operates on a shortened schedule—from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Pre-booking is usually not required for a standard visit, but for participation in special shows or group tours, it is better to contact the administration in advance. Remember that in summer, operating hours may also change for the convenience of guests.

A visit to Solomon's Animals can easily be combined with other iconic sites in the region, making your trip through the West Bank even more fulfilling. Just a few hundred meters from the farm rises the majestic Herodium National Park—the ancient palace-fortress of King Herod, from whose summit breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings open up.

For those who get hungry after their walks, the Roza Gush Etzion restaurant is open nearby, offering kosher cuisine. And if you drive a bit further towards Beit Sahour, you can visit the famous Church of the Nativity or walk through the historical Shepherds' Field, immersing yourself in the deep history of these ancient lands.