Spirit of Israel
North Africa / Middle East > Israel | 12 days
Trip Code: DOSPD
Highlights
Encountering three of the world's major religions in the Holy Land, Visiting a kibbutz for a meal and meeting the local residents, Investigating the 2,000 year-old ruins of Qumran and learning about the Dead Sea scrolls, Gazing up at the blue skies while floating on your back in the Dead Sea, Witnessing the contrast between village life and big city existence.
Israel is a crossroads of major religions and major history—it deserves contemplation. By basing this journey in three major centres—Tel Aviv, Akko and Jerusalem—this 12-day journey gives you the chance to settle into the city and your hotel before exploring the spiritual, historical and archaeological aspects of this ancient land. You’ll meet Carmelite Christian, Palestinian, Bedouin and Orthodox and Modern Jewish cultures. But don’t forget your camera, with visits to the Dead Sea, Nazareth, Bethlehem and the Mount of Olives, you’re going to need it.
More Information?
Check out our Trip Details for even more information about this trip.
Day 1 Tel Aviv
Arrive at any time with transfer included. Enjoy a language lesson this evening.
Day 2-3 Tel Aviv (2B,1L)
Walk through Tel Aviv including historic Neve Tzedek and the Yemenite Quarter and the Carmel and Arts and Crafts markets. Visit the ancient port of Jaffa and for lunch, enjoy the world-famous Jaffa falafel. Visit the Jewish Diaspora Museum, one of the biggest museums in the world that specialises in the history of the Jewish people.
Day 4 Haifa/Akko (1B)
Excursion to Haifa, including the Bahai Gardens, Carmelite Monastery, Elijah's Cave and German Colony. Continue to Akko, our base for the next three nights.
Day 5-6 Akko (2B,1L,1D)
Explore Akko including the subterranean crusader city, museum of underground prisoners and Torah Synagogue. Afternoon visit a Druze village to explore, and enjoy a local dinner. On Day 6, visit the Sea of Galilee, taking in the Mt of Beatitudes and Jesus Boat. Visit a kibbutz for a meal and the chance to learn about the kibbutzim lifestyle.
Day 7 Nazareth/Jerusalem (1B)
Visit Nazareth including the Church of the Annunciation, Synagogue Church and Mary's Well. Travel to Jerusalem to welcome in the Sabbath. Follow the crowds, laden with food for the holy day, to the Western Wall, the holiest sight in Judaism.
Day 8 Bethlehem/Jerusalem (1B)
Tour of Bethlehem, including the market, manger square and the Church of the Nativity.
Day 9 Jerusalem (1B)
Explore the old city of Jerusalem including the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus walked, carrying his cross, on the way to his crucifixion. Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Temple of the Mount.
Day 10-11 Jerusalem (2B,1L)
Drive through the desert to the ruins of Qumran to learn about the Dead Sea scrolls. Float in the Dead Sea and explore the ruins of Masada. Later, visit a village and meet Judaean Bedouin people. On Day 11, excursion to the Mt of Olives. Enjoy incredible views and walk amongst olive trees that date back 2000 years. Visit the Church of the Ascension and the Garden of Gethsemane. Visit the Rockefeller Archaeological Museum.
Day 12 Jerusalem (1B)
Depart at anytime.
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- Good Health Practices: Adjusting to new climates and cultural conditions can cause some minor complications. This guide will help you stay healthy while you travel.
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- Packing Tips: Create your own packing list based on your destination, accommodations, weather and tour activities. Leave jewelery at home and keep makeup to a minimum. Travel size toiletries stored in a waterproof kit are recommended. Pack once…divide it in half and pack again. (Please verify weight and carry on restrictions with your airline carrier.)
Pricing
Trip Overview
- If you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.
- Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
- Comfort hotels (11 nts)
- Discovery Adventures guide, local guides.
- Max 16, avg 12
- Allow USD250-300 for meals not included
- Arrival transfer - Welcome gift - Language lesson - Tel Aviv walk including, Neve Tzedek and the Yemenite quarter and visit to local markets - Visit the ancient port of Jaffa - Sample Jaffa Felafel at a local restaurant - Visit The Jewish Diaspora Museum - Excursion to Haifa including the Bahai gardens, Carmelite Monastery, Elijahs cave and German colony - Explore Akko including the subterranean crusader city, museum of underground prisoners and Torah Synagogue - Visit a Druze village and enjoy a local dinner - Visit the Sea of Galilee, including Mount of Beatitudes and Jesus' Boat - Visit a Kibbutz for a meal - Explore Nazareth including the Church of the Annunciation, Synagogue Church and Mary's well - Follow a procession in Jerusalem to the western wall - Tour Bethlehem, including the market, Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity - Explore the old city of Jerusalem including the Via Dolorosa, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, and the Temple of the Mount - Visit Qumran to learn about the dead sea scrolls - Float in the Dead Sea - Visit a Judaean Bedouin Village - Excursion to the Mt. of olives - Visit the Church of the Ascension and the Garden of Gethsemane - Visit the Rockefeller Archaeology museum
- Private van, walking, boat
- 11 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 1 Dinner

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