Israel Uncovered

Holding sacred ground to three of the world’s major religions, there’s no doubt that Israel boasts a melting pot of cultural, political, and historical perspectives. Immerse yourself in a country that lies in a unique place within the Middle East and learn all you can about this ancient land. From the winding lanes and tall spires of Jerusalem to the ancient port city of Caesarea Maritima and the ruins of Capernaum, there will be no shortage of adventure or learning opportunities. Around every corner you’ll hear new stories on the life of Jesus and the past. So buckle up and get ready for a whirlwind experience through timeless cities and ancient religious sites.

Day 1 Jerusalem
Arrive at any time. Your arrival transfer is included.

Day 2 Jerusalem
Today starts off with a walking tour of Jerusalem’s Old City. This area of the city is where sacred sites are located that happen to be important to three of the world’s largest faiths. The group will visit the Dome of the Rock and Al-Aqsa Mosque when at the Temple Mount. Afterwards, walk through the Jewish Quarter to the Hurva Synagogue. Follow the Way of the Cross, which is believed to be the route Jesus took on his way to crucifixion. Later in the afternoon the group will climb up the Mount of Olives where they can enjoy views of the city below. In the evening take part in a discussion with a local scholar to learn about daily life in this country and the hardships that may come with it.

Day 3 Jerusalem
First thing in the morning the group will head to Israel’s memorial to the Holocaust called, Yad Vashem. Afterwards, it’s on to see the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum. Choose to meander through the exhibition on your own and in the evening embark on a walking tour to the vibrant Mahane Yehuda Market with an Israeli chef. During the walk you’ll learn about the staple ingredients in Israeli cuisine before partaking in a lesson in kosher cooking.

Day 4 Jerusalem
It’s all about Bethlehem today. This ancient town is located in the hills of the West Bank. First, the group will visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity, supposedly, where Jesus is said to have been born. Then, take a walk through a Palestinian refugee camp close by before continuing on to a local women’s collective to support refugee women. Here, watch and learn how Palestinian dishes are prepared in the shared camp kitchen before digging in to the delicious meal with these women who will tell you stories of their experiences and lives as refugees.

Day 5 Jerusalem/Tiberias
Enjoy a guided visit this morning to Masada, King Herod’s 2,000-year-old mountaintop fortress and also a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander the remains of palaces and bathhouses before going to the Dead Sea where you’ll have the opportunity to try floating in its known waters. Then, travel north to the Sea of Galilee and visit a kibbutz, which is an Israeli communal settlement. While here learn all about the movement's origins.

Day 6 Tiberias
Experience the place where it’s thought that Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount at the top of the Mount of Beatitudes. See the incredible views of the Sea of Galilee and visit the church that commemorates the event. Then, onwards to the ruins of Capernaum to learn perspectives of Israeli Arabs before continuing on to Nazareth. Here, enjoy a quick visit to the Basilica of the Annunciation, which also happens to be one of the largest churches in the entire Middle East. Later, the group will be treated to a private tasting and tour of a local winery.

Day 7 Tiberias/Tel Aviv
Along the way to the beautiful Mediterranean, stop at the coastal city of Haifa before continuing south to Caesarea Maritima for some exploring of the ruins of this harbour city. Then, finish the day in Tel Aviv where you can enjoy the group’s last night in Israel.

Day 8 Tel Aviv
Depart at any time.