ISRAEL EXPLORER
Jerusalem. Negev Desert . Dead Sea. Jericho . Galilee . Nazareth . Tel Aviv
Perched at the crossroads of Middle Eastern history for centuries and the spiritual home to Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, Israel remains a must-visit destination for anyone eager to understand this dynamic, always-changing region. Explore the historic towns of Bethlehem and Nazareth, soak in the energy of vibrant Tel Aviv, and experience a soul-stirring connection to ancient and modern sites and peoples. Thousands of incredible moments, one comprehensive trip.
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from $2099
per person sharing
8
days
PRICE INCLUDES:
Druze Village Visit and Traditional Lunch at Isfiya Druze Village
Old Jerusalem guided tour including the Western Wall and Holy Sepulcher Church
Refugee camp community visit
Bethlehem visit
Dead Sea visit with swim
Masada guided tour
Sea of Galilee region tour
Akko and Nazareth visits
Tel Aviv orientation tour including Old Port of Jaffa
Overnight in a desert camp
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
NOT INCLUDED:
International airfare; tipping; meals unless noted otherwise, personal expenses
GRACE NOTES:
Giveback: Planeterra
ITINERARY:
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DEPARTURES: Year round
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Day 1: Jerusalem
Arrive at any time.
The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. After introductions, your guide will review the details of your tour.
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Accommodation: Holyland Hotel
Day 2: Jerusalem
Explore the old city of Jerusalem, walking through the Muslim and Jewish quarters. Visit the Western Wall and walk along the Via Dolorosa to the Holy Sepulchre Church. Enjoy the afternoon free to explore on our own. (B)
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Accommodation: Holyland Hotel
Day 3: Negev Desert
Travel to biblical Bethlehem the birthplace of Jesus and King David, and visit the Nativity Church. The city is an important site to all three major religions of Israel: Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Head to Duhaishe Camp for Palestinian refugees. What started as a camp has become a thriving town and here we learn more about the situation of the Palestinians in Israel and what daily life here is all about. Spend the night in the Negev Desert to learn more about this remote region. (B,D)
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Accommodation: Kfar Hanokdim
Day 4: Dead Sea and Jericho
Travel to Masada, a UNESCO World Heritage site and stunning rock fortress that was the last stronghold of the Jewish in their war against the Romans. The story of the site reveals the courage of the defenders of Massada and their battle against the conquering Romans. Visit Herod’s palace, the mikveh, storerooms, watchtowers, and the synagogue. Then continue to the Dead Sea which is actually a lake, without any from of life whatsoever in its waters. The water is so dense that it is practically impossible to sink and its five to ten times as salty as regular sea water. While swimming, cover yourself with the sea's mud, which is reputed to have special healing powers, and don't forget to take a photo of yourself reading a book while floating! (B)
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Accommodation: Oasis Hotel
Day 5: Galilee
Tour the Sea of Galilee, including sites such as the Church of Transfiguration and Capernaum. Capernaum is home to one of the earliest churches in the world, as well as a monumental ancient synagogue. We also visit Tabgha, with its ancient mosaic of the Loaves and Fishes dating back to the original Byzantine church. Visit a Kibbutz Community and learn about this interesting communal way of life. (B)
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Accommodation: Kibbutz Nof Ginosar
Day 6: Nazareth
Visit Nazareth, a city of religious importance and spirituality. Delve into its rich historic and biblical significance, but also admire its modern culture and Middle Eastern charm.​ Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, one of the largest churches in the Middle East. (B)
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Accommodation: Rimonim Hotel
Day 7: Tel Aviv
Visit a Druze town and enjoy a lunch of local specialties. The Druze community in Israel is recognized as a separate religious entity with its own courts and spiritual leadership. The culture and language is Arabic but they opted against mainstream Arab nationalism over 60 years ago. Continue to Akko and explore its colorful markets and old city before continuing to vibrant Tel Aviv. Enjoy an orientation walk in historic Jaffa. (B,L)
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Accommodation: Sea Net Tel Aviv Hotel
Day 8: Depart
Depart at any time. (B)
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