Sacred Lands and Ancient Wonders: A 7-Day Journey Through Israel and Palestine

Highlights Summary:

Embark on a captivating 7-day journey that takes you through the heart of Israel and Palestine, exploring sacred sites, ancient wonders, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Begin your adventure with a direct transfer from the airport to Bethlehem, where you'll spend your nights immersed in the history and spirituality of the region.

• Day 1: Settle into the historic city of Bethlehem, preparing for the journey ahead.
• Day 2: Discover the birthplace of Jesus in Bethlehem, explore the ancient city of Jericho, and renew your spirit at the Jordan River.
• Day 3: Wander through Jerusalem's sacred alleys, visiting the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and walking the Via Dolorosa.
• Day 4: Ascend the fortress of Masada at dawn and float in the healing waters of the Dead Sea.
• Day 5: Journey to Nazareth to visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, then on to the Sea of Galilee and Cana, following in the footsteps of Jesus.
• Day 6: Explore the desert monasteries of Mar Saba and Saint George, and visit Bethany, the site of Lazarus’ resurrection.
• Day 7: Enjoy a peaceful morning in Bethlehem before your departure, carrying with you memories and insights from a land steeped in millennia of history and faith.

This itinerary is designed for those who seek not just to visit but to experience the deep spiritual and historical tapestry of

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Bethlehem

• Morning/Afternoon: Pickup from Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. Depending on arrival time, travel directly to Bethlehem.
• Evening: Check-in at a hotel in Bethlehem. Depending on the time, take a brief evening stroll around the city or have a restful night to recover from the journey.

Day 2: Bethlehem, Jericho, and Jordan River

• Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. Then, proceed to Shepherd's Field.
• Afternoon: Travel to Jericho, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Visit the ancient ruins and take a cable car ride to the Mount of Temptation. Continue to the baptismal site at the Jordan River.
• Evening: Return to Bethlehem for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Full Day in Jerusalem

• Morning: Depart for Jerusalem. Visit the Mount of Olives for panoramic views, then explore the Garden of Gethsemane, and walk through the Old City visiting the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Via Dolorosa.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring Jerusalem’s highlights such as the Jewish Quarter, the Armenian Quarter, and the colorful bazaars.
• Evening: Return to Bethlehem for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4: Masada and Dead Sea

• Early Morning: Depart for Masada. Ascend by cable car or hike up to explore the fortress.
• Late Morning to Afternoon: Visit the Dead Sea. Enjoy swimming (or rather floating) and the therapeutic mud.
• Evening: Return to Bethlehem for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5: Nazareth, Sea of Galilee, and Cana

• Morning: Travel to Nazareth to visit the Basilica of the Annunciation and the old market.
• Afternoon: Proceed to the Sea of Galilee. Visit Capernaum, the Mount of Beatitudes, and the Church of the Multiplication. End the day with a visit to Cana, the site of Jesus' first miracle.
• Evening: Return to Bethlehem for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 6: Bethany, Mar Saba, and Saint George Monastery

• Morning: Visit Bethany, the site of Lazarus’ tomb. Then, proceed to the desert to visit Mar Saba Monastery, one of the oldest inhabited monasteries in the world.
• Afternoon: Visit the Monastery of Saint George, carved into the cliffs of Wadi Qelt.
• Evening: Return to Bethlehem for your final dinner and prepare for departure.

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Depending on flight time, free morning in Bethlehem for last-minute shopping or exploration.
• Afternoon/Evening: Check-out and transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for departure.

Please note that this journey requires a minimum of 10 participants and can accommodate up to a maximum of 55 individuals. To ensure a personalized and memorable experience for everyone, we kindly ask that you contact us first to confirm availability before planning your group's adventure through the sacred lands and ancient wonders of Israel and Palestine. Your understanding and cooperation help us tailor the journey to meet your group's needs and expectations. Thank you for considering this unique experience, and we look forward to assisting you in arranging an unforgettable journey.

Included:

1. Airport Transfers: Round-trip airport transfers to and from Ben Gurion Airport at the beginning and end of the tour.
2. Transportation: Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour for all scheduled activities and locations.
3. Accommodations: 6 nights of accommodation in Bethlehem, based on double occupancy in hotels with good reviews for comfort and service. Single occupancy available upon request with an additional fee.
4. Meals: Daily breakfast at the hotel. Welcome and farewell dinners in local restaurants to experience traditional cuisine.
5. Guided Tours: Professional, licensed tour guides fluent in English for all scheduled tours and historical sites.
6. Entrance Fees: All entrance fees to sites and attractions as per the itinerary, including Masada, the Church of the Nativity, and the Basilica of the Annunciation.
7. Cultural Experiences: Opportunities for unique cultural interactions and experiences, such as a visit to a local market or a traditional dinner.
8. Educational Materials: Briefing materials and information packets on the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited.

Not Included:

1. Airfare: International airfare to and from Israel is not included.
2. Travel Insurance: Participants are strongly encouraged to purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical expenses, and personal belongings from Local insurance Company in your country.
3. Meals Not Specified: Lunches and some dinners are not included, offering participants the flexibility to explore local cuisine according to personal preference.
4. Personal Expenses: Shopping, personal phone calls, laundry, beverages, and other personal expenses are not included.
5. Optional Activities: Costs for optional activities or excursions not included in the main itinerary.
6. Tips and Gratuities: Tips for tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included and are at the participant's discretion.
7. Single Occupancy Supplement: Additional charges for single occupancy rooms, if requested.