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Holy Land Tours
Day 1:
Departure from your City.
DAY 2:
Arrive in Israel and transfer to your hotel.
DAY 3: CEASAREA, HAIFA, NAZARETH
We begin our tour of Israel at Caesarea city of Cornelius the Centurion, the first Gentile convert (Acts 10). Here, as we walk among the ruins of many centuries, the events of yesterday seem very near. In a beautiful example of a Roman amphitheater have your group sing and listen to the acoustics of a structure built in the days of Jesus. At Mt. Carmel, see where Elijah held the contest with 450 prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18). Then drive to Haifa, the only natural port in Israel. Continue to Sephoris where a third century city is being excavated and see the best preserved mosaic floors in the country. This is believed to be the birthplace of Mary, Jesus mother. Visit Nazareth, where Jesus spent most of His life, stop at the Church of Mary’s Well. We drive through Cana of Galilee where Jesus performed His first miracle at the wedding feast. At the end of the day drive across the Galilee to our hotel.
DAY 4: THE SEA OF GALILEE – GOLAN HEIGHTS
This morning we will be visiting places where Jesus spent most of his public life. We board a boat for a ride on the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum, where Jesus taught in the synagogue and spent much of His ministry (Matthew 4). Then we will visit the Golan Heights, major scene of the Six Day War, Kuneitra on the Syrian border, and the Damascus Road, where Paul had his vision (Act 9). We will journey to Mt. Hermon, where the miracle of Transfiguration occurred, and on to Banias, one of the headwaters of the Jordan River, the site of Caesarea Philippi. Here Peter confessed Christ’s divinity. We end the day at the Mount of Beatitudes, where Christ preached the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7).
DAY 5: MEGIDO – BETH SHEAN – JERUSALEM
Today we leave the Galilee and head toward Jerusalem. Drive by Mt. Tabor to Megido to view the excavations of 21 superimposed cities, the remains from Solomon’s days and walk through the water tunnel dug in the days of king Ahab. Mt. Gilboa, site of Saul’s death (I Samuel 31); and the natural hot springs of Sachne. At Beth Shean explore the latest excavations revealing the remains of the Decapolis Capital, streets, markets, Roman coliseum and amphitheater before heading down the Jordan Valley to Jericho (Joshua 3). Then travel on the same Jericho Road used at the time of Christ (Luke 10) to go up to the Golden City of the Mighty King:JERUSALEM.
DAY 6: MT. OF OLIVES – NEW JERUSALEM
We begin the day at the Mt. of Olives with an overview of Jerusalem, an explanation of its history, and a walk down the Palm Sunday Road, the Garden of Gethsemane, site of Jesus’ betrayal. Next we visit the Model of Jerusalem during the time of Jesus where an excellent perspective o the city can be gained. In the afternoon we will visit Yad Vashem, which the museum for the Holocaust, and at the end of the day the Israel Museum, with the Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed.
DAY 7: OLD CITY – JEWISH QUARTER – BETHLEHEM
A tour of the old city is on today’s schedule. Starting at the Jaffa Gate we walk through the old Arab Market and bazaars to the Jewish Quarter, visiting the extensive area uncovered by archaeologists, including the Burnt House, the Herodian Quarter where you see the interior of houses from the days of Jesus, the Cardo, Hezekiahs Wall, the Rabbis Tunnel visit the underground archeological digs in Jerusalem, walk along the Western Wall and through the Hasmonen Tunnel from the 2nd century B.C.E., the Ofel excavation walk on the Roman Street from Jesus days and view the destruction of Jerusalem done by Titus in 70AD, also walk on the slops leading to the Temple mount during the 2nd Temple Period. Then we visit the Wailing Wall and the Temple Mount. In the afternoon we visit Bethlehem, the Church of Nativity, and the Shepherds’ Fields, where David raised his sheep and the Good News were received.
DAY 8: DEAD SEA – MASSADA
Today we leave Jerusalem and drive to Massada where a cable car takes us to Herod’s Magnificent fortress, site of Zealots’ stand against Rome. At Ein Gedi we hike through the nature reserve to the waterfall where David cut off Saul’s skirt. Then we stop at the Dead Sea for lunch and swimming before returning to Jerusalem. On the way we visit Qumran site of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
DAY 9: JERUSALEM CHRISTIAN SITES
We begin our tour day in Jerusalem by retracing the steps of Jesus Herod’s Family Tomb see a rolling stone, in its original setting of the kind that was used to seal the tombs in Jesus days. After a time of praise and worship in the Upper Room we walk down the Kidron Valley. Entering St. Stephen’s Gate, we come to the Pool of Bethesda, where Jesus healed the lame man. After a time of praise in St. Anne’s Church, we enter the Antonia Fortress, site of Jesus’ trial. We then follow the Way of the Cross out of the Damascus Gate to Calvary, where we visit the Site of the crucifixion and culminate our tour with communion at the Garden Tomb.
DAY 10: MT. NEBO – MADABAH – PETRA
We depart Jerusalem early on the way to the Allenby bridge continuing to Amman and visiting the capitol of Jordan. Then continue to Mt. Nebo where Moses saw the Promised Land before he died. After the breathtaking view we continue to Madbah to see the famous mosaic floor from the 6th century depicting the Holy Land and the city of Jerusalem. We over night in Petra.
DAY 11: AQABAH – EILAT
This morning we will visit Petra ant the remains of the outstanding Nabatean city and its temples all cut out of the rock. We leave Petra and visit Aqabah. After passing the border formalities we cross to Eilat Israel southern city on the Red Sea.
DAY 12: RED SEA – SINAI
Early in the morning we drive through one of the most majestic deserts in the World until we come to the foot of Mt. Sinai the place were the law was given to Moses. We visit the St. Catherine Monastery with one of the two oldest churches in the world. We return to overnight in Eilat.
DAY 13:
The day is for swimming, resting or shopping. On the late afternoon we take a domestic flight to Tel Aviv airport and departure for home, chasing the sun all the way and arriving with a lifetime of memories.
Pharaoh’s Land
Day 1: Monday – Departure
Our journey starts today as we depart on our flight to Egypt – to the land of the Pharos.
Sit back, relax and enjoy your flight, and prepare yourself for a life-changing experience.
Meals included: Meals on Board
Overnight: On Board
Day 2: Tuesday – “Ahlan Wa Sahlan” – Welcome to Egypt – the Land of Pharos
Upon arrival in Cairo and after passport control, you will be met by our Cairo representative. A private transfer is included from the airport to your hotel. Our hotel is conveniently located only 1.5 miles away from one of the Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Giza. Check-in at the hotel, unpack and rest. In the evening we will meet our Egyptologist tour guide-escort and traveling companions for a welcome dinner and orientation meeting.
Arrival private transfer included: Complimentary by AIT
Meals included: Full Buffett Dinner
Lodging: Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa » Click here for hotel info
Evening Activity: Optional Pyramids Sound & Light Show ($40 pp)
Pyramids Sound and Light show should be reserved before your departure and paid directly in Egypt
Day 3: Wednesday – Discovering Egypt’s Ancient Civilization
Pyramids / Sphinx / Enter Inside the Great Pyramid/ Camel Ride / Egyptian Museum / Old Cairo / Coptic Cairo
After breakfast, meet our Egyptologist tour guide and start our first touring day in Egypt. Our first stop will be at the Pyramids of Giza. A visit to the 3 Giza Pyramids is on every world traveler’s must-see list. Cheops Pyramid, the largest of the three, was built in the 3rd dynasty about 2690 B.C. and is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In front of the Pyramids of Chephren, we will find the the colossal statue of the Great Sphinx, which has stood guard over the pyramids for more than 4,500 years. The Sphinx carved from a single piece of stone; it is a lion with a Pharaoh’s head thought to be a portrait of the Pharaoh Chephren. We will have the privilege to get inside the Great Pyramid to discover the burial chamber. The burial chamber consists of an emptily Sarcophagus (7.3 ft by 3.75 ft) with smooth walls and a polished ceiling. The floor is made with blocks of pink granites which cover 50 sq meters. During our Pyramids visit you will have a chance to ride a camel around the pyramids (complimentary by AIT). This is your opportunity to have your postcard photo riding a camel with the pyramids on the background. Next, We will drive into Old Cairo to explore the City’s cultural landmarks that span three millennium of Egyptian history. Discover the greatest collection of Pharaonic treasures in the world at the famous Egyptian Museum. See the unique collection of Pharaonic art, starting with the Old Kingdom Collection, on to the Middle and New Kingdom galleries and Greco-Roman periods and the famous Tut-Ankh-Amon treasures. Continue to Coptic Cairo, where we will visit the famous Suspended Church (Hanging Church), dating to the late 4th and early 5th century. This basilica was named “Al-Mu’allaqah” because it was built atop the south gate of the Fortress of Babylon. Continue to the Church of St. Sergius, a 5th century Coptic Church. This basilica is built on the cave in which the Holy Family stayed and is regarded by visitors as a source of blessing. As we stroll along, we will come to the recently restored Synagogue of Ben Ezra, which marks the place where Moses was saved by the water girl of Pharaoh. This is the oldest Jewish synagogue in Egypt built in 882 AC. Return to our hotel for dinner.
» Learn more, click here to view the Giza Pyramids National Geographic video
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Le Méridien Pyramids Hotel & Spa » Click here for hotel info
Evening Activity: Optional Nile Dinner Cruise with Show ($55 pp including transfers)
Nile Dinner Cruise should be reserved before your departure and paid directly in Egypt
Day 4: Thursday – Into the Wilderness / Tracing the Route of the Exodus
Sinai Desert / Marah by the Red Sea / Elim / Rephidim / Mt. Sinai / Dinner in a Bedouin Tent
After Breakfast we will travel east heading towards the wilderness of the Sinai Peninsula and the Land of Goshen tracing the Route of the Biblical Exodus (Genesis16-18). We will drive via the tunnel underneath the Suez Cannel to the west branch of the Red Sea. Our first stop will be Marah by the Red Sea, the desert springs along the shore of the Red Sea, where the children of Israel found the waters bitter. Continue to Elim and visit the desert oasis and the possible sites where the 12 wells and 70 Palm Trees were found during the children of Israel’s journey to the Promised Land. We then travel along the western Sinai coast to Wadi Feiran (Rephidim), the desert valley where the Children of Israel fought against the Amalekites. From here we can see Mount Serbal, the possible site where Moses held his arms up for victory. We head inland heading towards the granite mountains of Mt. Sinai and Wadi el Raha. Raha in Arabic means “rest” and according to tradition this is the area where the Israelites camped and the golden calf was forged (Exodus 32). In the afternoon we will arrive at our hotel near Mt. Sinai and St. Catherine’s Monastery. This evening we will enjoy an authentic Bedouin dinner in a Bedouin tent.
Please note: the options for accommodation in the remote area of Mt. Sinai are very limited. Although not equivalent in quality to the other hotels we use along this tour, the hotel we use is the best in the area.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Mt. Sinai, Morgen Land Village Hotel » Click here for hotel info
Night Activity: Optional Climb to Mt. Sinai. For those who wish to climb Mt. Sinai, please bring warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes for the ascent. Optional Camel ride is available up to 1/3 of the Mt. and can be arranged at the spot with your tour guide for $25 per person
Day 5: Friday – From Mt. Sinai to the Red Sea and the Mountains of Edom
Climb Mt. Sinai / St. Catherine Monastery / Taba Border / Eilat /Cross to Jordan / Aqaba
At day break, those who desire and are physically capable, will depart for a memorable early ascent to Jebel Musa – Mt. Sinai (about 6,900-ft) walking in the footsteps of Moses and the devoted pilgrims who tread this route centuries earlier. You may choose to ride a camel part way, stopping at one of the stations to take in the scenery along the climb to the summit (750 steps). We should reach the summit just before dawn in time to witness its incredible sunrise and splendid views. We will enjoy a time of praise and unforgettable, breathtaking views of the Sinai wilderness. As we read from the Book of Genesis we remember that this is the place where Moses met the Lord in the Burning Bush and where he received the Ten Commandments. Descending the mountain we return to the hotel to rejoin the rest of our group for breakfast. We spend the later part of the morning touring the beautiful and unique Monastery of St. Catherine, taking in its fascinating and interesting
sights and exceptional history. St. Catherine’s Monastery was constructed by the Roman Emperor Justinian (527 and 565 AD). It is built around what was thought to be Moses’ Burning Bush. The Greek Orthodox church building is the oldest continuously used church building in the world. Leaving the Mt. Sinai area we will head towards the eastern shores of the Sinai Peninsula and on the Red Sea on our way north to the Taba Border (Egypt / Israel border). After crossing, meet our Eilat representative and welcome to Israel. We will take a short city tour in Eilat – Israel’s southernmost town on the Red Sea. Arive at the Arava Border (Israel / Jordan southern border).Cross to Jordan and meet with our Jordanian tour guide – Welcome to Jordan. A short drive from the border (15 minutes) lays the resort city of Aqaba on the Red Sea. We will check in at our 5 star resort hotel for dinner and overnight. Free evening to enjoy the hotel’s facilities or just rest, relax and enjoy the Red Sea and the tranquil town of Aqaba.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Aqaba, Mövenpick Resort » Click here for hotel info
Day 6: Saturday – Exploring the Nabatean Treasure City of Petra
Full Day in Petra / Arrive in Amman, Jordan’s capital
After breakfast we will drive along the king’s highway to Wadi Musa – the Jordanian village located at the entrance to the ancient city of Petra – one of the world’s greatest archaeological sites and today’s one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The 2,000-year old ancient city of Petra. Known as the red rock city, Petra was the ancient capital of the Nabateans from the 3rd century BC to the 2nd century AC. Carved by the Nabataeans out of solid rock, Petra was forgotten for hundreds of years until it was rediscovered in 1812. At the entrance to Petra travelers are offered the option to ride a horse for 800m – from the visitors centre to the entrance of the dramatic “Siq” ( canyon). From the entrance to the Siq there is a 1,250 meter walk to the 1st monument “The treasury”. Throughout most of the day we will explore Petra’s incredible structures: the treasury, the field of tombs, the obelisks and the altar, and much more. In the late afternoon we will drive north to Amman – Jordan’s capital and largest city. Check in and dinner at our hotel.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Amman, Le Méridien Amman » Click here for hotel info
Day 7: Sunday – Crossing to Israel – Into the Promised Land
Madaba/ Mt. Nebo / Cross to Israel / Jericho / Old Jaffa / Tel Aviv
After breakfast we head to the biblical town of Madaba. Madaba is best known for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics and for its Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. Here we will view the earliest original map of the Holy Land. We continue to the biblical Mt. Nebo from which Moses viewed the Promise Land. Mt. Nebo, believed to be the site of the tomb of Moses, commands a spectacular view across the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea. We will drive by Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John the Baptist is purported to have baptized Jesus and cross to Israel via the Allenby Bridge (Jordan/ Israel Central border) to meet our Israeli tour guide. As we enter into Israel we remember Joshua as he led the Children of Israel on this exact path – into the Promised Land.
Passing by Jericho we will drive westward all the way to the Mediterranean Sea and arrive in Tel Aviv – Israel’s largest and most modern city. Check in at the Dan Panorama hotel, conveniently located in the heart of Tel Aviv, on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, 10 minutes walking distance from famous Old Town Jaffa and the artistic neighborhood of Neve Tzedek. Free time to rest and relax at your hotel room or stroll the Tel Aviv sidewalk and enjoy your first evening in Israel.
After dinner, enjoy a free escorted night tour to Old Jaffa with your expert tour guide:
For those who would like to explore Old Town Jaffa at night, meet with your tour guide after dinner. After a short walk on the famous Tel Aviv sidewalk we will arrive in Jaffa and walk through the narrow passages of Old Jaffa, believed to be the oldest port city in the world. See the amazing St. Peter Church at night and take a spectacular view of Tel Aviv Shoreline from Jaffa’s Hilltop. Peter came to Joppa from Lydda to raise Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead (Acts 9:36-42). While in Jaffa, the apostle stayed at the house of Simon the Tanner. The Church of St. Peter marks the traditional site of Peter’s vision of the great sheet.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Tel Aviv, Herods Hotel » Click here for hotel info
Evening Activity: Free escorted tour to Old Jaffa after dinner
Day 8: Monday – From Tel Aviv to the Sea Galilee via the Mediterranean coast & the Valley of Armageddon
Tel Aviv / Coastal Plains / Caesarea / Mt. Carmel / Megiddo / Nazareth / Sea of Galilee / Tiberia
After an early breakfast we start our Holy Land tour heading north to the Sea of Galilee. We will have a relaxing drive along the beautiful coast of the Mediterranean Sea and stop at Caesarea Maritime (Acts 9.30 Acts 10 24-48), which was the center of early Christians. Here Cornelius the Centurion and his household were saved and baptized (Acts 10), and it was also here where Paul made his defense before Festus and King Agrippa prior to his final journey to Rome (Acts 25 & 26). Next, we will stop at Mount Carmel (Muchraka), where Elijah issued his challenge to the False Prophets. Then on to Megiddo (1 Kings 4.28, 9,15, 2 Kings 23,29 & Revel. 16.16), and the Valley of Armageddon (Revelation 16), to see the remains from Solomon’s days, and view the site where the Battle of Armageddon will be fought. We continue along the Jezerel valley to visit the town of Nazareth (Luke 1.26, 4.16-29, Matthew 2.23). We will take in an unforgettable view of the city of Nazareth from the top of Mt. Precipice, also known as Mount of Precipitation, or Mount of the Leap of the Lord. It is believed to be the site of the rejection of Jesus, described on Luke 4:29-30. (* If time permits we will also visit the Church of the Annunciation). we drive to Cana of Galilee, where Jesus performed his first public miracle – the turning of water into wine at a wedding feast (John 2.1-11). We will end our first day of touring Israel by driving through the Lower Galilee region to the beautiful Sea of Galilee and the town of Tiberia. Our centrally located hotel is situated right on the town’s center and on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Check in and dinner at our hotel. Enjoy a free evening to walk along the shores of the Sea of Galilee and explore the town of Tiberia.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Sea of Galilee, Leonardo Plaza Tiberia (Former Sheraton Tiberia) » Click here for hotel info
Day 9: Tuesday – Discovering the Sea of Galilee, the Upper Galilee and the Golan Heights
Sail on the Sea of Galilee / “Jesus Boat” /Golan Heights / Upper Galilee / Caesarea Philippi / Yardenit
Today we will discover the tranquil Galilee region and the beautiful Golan Heights. After breakfast we will board a wooden boat and sail on of the Sea of Galilee as the disciples did 2,000 years ago. We will dock at Kibbutz Nof Geonsar and visit the “Ancient Jesus Boat” – the remains of a 2,000 year old boat that was discovered in 1986. This boat was used at the time of Jesus and his disciples. Next, we will drive up to the beautiful Golan Heights and learn about the ancient Jewish settlements in this region. We will visit Banias – ancient Caesarea Philippi (Matt. 16.13 and Mark 8.27), where Jesus said “on this rock I will built my Church”. We will drive through the natural Hula Valley and the Upper Galilee region back to the Sea of Galilee. We conclude this remarkable day with a visit to Yardenit – the wonderful baptismal site on the Jordan River. Return to our hotel for dinner.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Sea of Galilee, Leonardo Plaza Tiberia (Former Sheraton Tiberia) » Click here for hotel info
Optional: Baptism in the Jordan River
Day 10: Wednesday – Jesus’ Early Ministry along the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River
Mount of Beatitudes / Tabgha / Capernaum / Beth Shean / Dead Sea / Free time to float & enjoy the resort
Today we will experience the area of Jesus’ early ministry around the Sea of Galilee. After breakfast we will drive along the shores of the Sea of Galilee and visit the Mount of Beatitudes (Matt. 5,6,7,8), where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount. We will visit the famous chapel, constructed in 1939 by the noted architect Antonio Barluzzi and enjoy the breathtaking view. We will continue to Tabgha – the site of the Feeding of the 5,000 and Primacy of Peter (Matt. 13, Mark .33-45, & John 21). Here we will visit the Church of Multiplication with its 4th century mosaic floor. Continue on to the 2,000 year old remains of Capernaum (Matt. 4.13 13.54, 17.24, Luke 7, Mark 1.2, John 4.46-54). Here we can stand in what is left of the synagogue in which Jesus ministered. It was from this city that Jesus did most of his Galilean ministry, where he performed many miracles, and where Peter’s mother-in-law lived and was healed. From here we will drive south along the Beth Shean valley and the ancient city of Beth Shean (Mark 5.20, 7.31) for an overview of this remarkable archeological site. It was here that after defeating Saul and his sons on Mount Gilboa, the Philistines hanged their bodies on the walls of Beth Shean (1 Samuel 31). We will drive through the Jordanian Valley pass the city of Jericho and arrive at the lowest place on earth – the Dead Sea. We will check in at our hotel, located on the shores of the Dead Sea. After check in and before dinner we will enjoy relaxing free time at our wonderful Dead Sea resort hotel, conveniently located on the shores of the Dead Sea. Walk to the beach and float in the salty water of the Dead Sea and take a dip in the beautiful swimming pool of our resort hotel. You can also take this opportunity to enjoy the Dead Sea famous mud and mineral treatments at our hotel’s spa.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Daniel Dead Sea Resort and Spa » Click here for hotel info
Optional: Mud, mineral and Spa treatments at the 5 star Daniel resort & spa hotel
Day 11: Thursday – Exploring the Dead Sea and the Judean Desert / Arrive in Jerusalem
Dead Sea / Masada/ Ein Gedi / Qumran / Jerusalem / Mount of Olives / Garden of Gethsemane
Today we will explore the Dead Sea and the Judean desert region and its biblical and historical sites. After breakfast we will drive along the shores of the Dead Sea to visit one of the most spectacular sites in Israel –
the 1,500 feet mountaintop fortress of Masada. Built by King Herod, Masada is famous for being the last stronghold of the Jewish rebellion against the Romans. We will ascend to Masada by cable car and discover the 1st century Synagogue, Herod’s Bathhouse and many other sites. We will continue along the shores of the Dead Sea for a look out on the oasis of Ein Gedi, where David hid in a cave when running from Saul (1 Samuel 23). It was here that David composed several of his Psalms. Next, we will visit Qumran and walk through the ruins of this ancient Essene community. In this spot, an amazing cache of ancient biblical texts were discovered in 1947 – commonly called the Dead Sea Scrolls. From here we will ascend to Jerusalem – the holy city of Zion. Upon arriving in Jerusalem we will head to the top of the Mount of Olives to stand where the Lord ascended into heaven (Acts 1). From the Mount of Olives we take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city across the Kidron Valley to the Eastern Gate where the Prince of Peace will enter (Ezekiel 44). We will pass by Pater Noster Church and visit Dominus Flevit where “the Lord wept” as he beheld the Holy City. We will take the Palm Sunday Road down to the Garden of Gethsemane where we will see 2,000 year old olive trees that date back to the time of Christ. We will end our day and continue to our centrally located hotel for check in and dinner. Our hotel is conveniently located walking distance from the old city Jerusalem as well as from the city center. Free time to rest, relax and enjoy your first evening in Jerusalem.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Jerusalem, Leonardo Plaza (Former Sheraton Plaza Jerusalem) » Click here for hotel info
Day 12: Friday – The Stones of Your Heritage: Temple Mount in Jesus times, Jerusalem Old & New City
“Yad Vashem” Holocaust Museum/ Temple Mount Archeological Excavations / Southern Wall / Southern Steps / Davidson Center / Western Wall /Jewish Quarter/ Mt. Zion/ Upper Room/ Tomb of King David
Today we walk where Jesus walked. Following breakfas we will head to the new city and Mt. Herzl area for an emotional visit of the newly renovated Holocaust Museum – “Yad Vashem”. We will return to the Old City and enter the Old City via the Dung Gate and visit the Southern Temple Mount archeological excavations. Here we will visit the “Southern Steps” – the archaeological reconstruction of the Temple Steps where Jesus walked so often. From here Jesus entered the Temple Mount and drove out the vendors and money changers who were exploiting the people. We will visit the unearthed southern end of the western wall, the paved street and the Robinson’s arch. At the Davidson Center museum we will view a fascinating documentary of the excavation and a 10 minutes film describing a visit of a pilgrim to the second temple – to better understand what the Temple was like in Jesus times. We will continue our old city exploration and walk through the historic Jewish Quarter all the way to Mt. Zion. Here we will visit the Tomb of King David and worship in the Upper Room (Luke 22) – the traditional site where Jesus instituted the Lord’s supper and where later Thomas cried, “My Lord and my God”. In the late afternoon we will return to the Western Wall plaza and visit the Western Wall (“Wailing Wall”) – the holiest site in Judaism and one of the original ancient walls that retained the Temple. We will have some free time to experience this holy site, to pray at the wall and to sense the importance of this site to the Jewish and Christian people just before the entrance of the Shabbat. Return to our hotel for a festive Shabbat dinner.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Jerusalem, Leonardo Plaza (Former Sheraton Plaza Jerusalem) » Click here for hotel info
Day 13: Saturday – City of Zion – Past, Present and Future: Jerusalem Old City and Bethlehem
Lions’ Gate / Via Delarosa /St. Anne Church / Pool of Bethesda/Judgment Hall of Pilate /Church of the Holy Sepulcher/ Christian Quarter/ Knesset / Bethlehem/ Church of the Nativity/ Shepherd’s Field/ Garden Tomb
Following breakfast, we will enter to Old City via the Lions’ Gate. The Lions’ Gate, located in the eastern wall of the Old City is the entrance marks the beginning of the last walk of Jesus from prison to the crucifixion – the Via Delarosa. We will start our walk along the Stations of the Cross to visit the St. Anne Church and the Pool of Bethesda. Continue to the Judgment Hall of Pilate all the way to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher (Matt. 27. 33-57, 28.10). After lunch time we will enjoy some free time to rest and shop at the colorful Christian Quarter bazaars. We will drive through the new city of Jerusalem and pass by the Knesset – Israel’s parliament and continue to Bethlehem to visit the Church of the Nativity (Luke 2: 1-7). We venture out to the Shepherd’s Field, referenced in Luke 2:8-20, where an angel appeared to announce the birth of Jesus. We will end our touring day visiting the Garden Tomb, where we will celebrate the resurrection with a time of prayer (Luke 23). We will end the day by driving back to our hotel for our great farewell dinner. We will share food with our new friends and be inspired by all the memories from our journey – memories that will last a lifetime.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast and Dinner
Lodging: Jerusalem, Leonardo Plaza (Former Sheraton Plaza Jerusalem) » Click here for hotel info
Day 14: Sunday – Enjoy a free day in Jerusalem / Saying Goodbye / Transfer back to the Airport & Departure
After breakfast and by 12 noon, check out from your hotel and store your luggage at the hotel storage room to enjoy a free day in Jerusalem. Take this opportunity to experience the special atmosphere of Jerusalem. Our hotel is conveniently located within a walking distance from the Old City as well as the city center. You might choose to return to the Old City to walk again through the biblical sites and the colorful bazaars, or head to the city center and walk along the Ben Yehuda Street to experience the authentic Jerusalem restaurants and shops. Our knowledgeable staff will be more than happy to suggest some other sites for you to explore on your own, such as the newly renovated Israel museum and the shrine of the book and much more. After dinner (not included) the group will meet at the hotel lobby for our evening departure transfer back to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport (40-60 minutes drive). Your departure transfer is fully escorted by your tour guide.
Meals included: Full Buffett Breakfast
Departure transfer included: Complimentary by AIT (* for night flights departures only)
* please note: departure transfer from your Jerusalem hotel to the airport at the end of the tour will be provided for travelers flying on night flights only – Continental, U.S Airways, ELAL and Delta.
Day 15: Monday – Arrival
Arrive this morning back in the U.S.A and start planning your next trip to the Holy Land……..
Important notes:
* If you need to arrive back in the U.S on Sunday, you will have to take a Sunday morning flight out of Tel Aviv.
» If your flight departs from Tel Aviv on Sunday morning you will be back in the U.S. on the same day (Sunday).
» If your flight departs on Sunday evening/night, you will arrive back in the U.S. the following day (Monday).
Transfers
» Arrival transfer in Cairo is always included if your flight arrives on Tuesday (anytime)
» Return transfer is included for Sunday night flight departures only. If your flight departs on Sunday morning departure transfer will not be included. Please check with us for departure transfer information and rates.
» It is a 40-60 minutes drive from Jerusalem back to Tel Aviv airport
Enter His Gates
Day 1:Airport meeting assistance and transfer to hotel Ramses Hilton
Day 2 – Cairo Pyramids Giza Sphinx Memphis Sakkara.
Day 3 – Egyptian Museum Citadel Mohd. Ali Mosque Ithan El Khalili Bazaars and Queens Valley etc. East Bank Karnak Luxor Temple etc.
Day 4- Arrive in the morning at Luxor. Visit Nile River, West Bank Kings and Queens Yalley etc. East Bank Karnak Luxor Temple etc. Transfer to Luxor Airport, take flight back to Cairo then transfer from Cairo Airport to the Hotel.
Day 5 – Depart early the Hotel in Cairo and through the Suez Canal. Visit Suez Bay of Solomon. Continue to St. Catherine Monastery, visit the Monastery and continue to Nuweiba village Hotel overnight.
Day 6 – Transfer from Nuweiba to Eilat passing through the necessary formalities. Cross to Eilat, visit Eilat. Visit the aquarium.
Day 7 – Take the Glass bottomed boat to watch the marvelous richness of the Red Sea.
Day 8 – Drive to Arad, Massada, Ein Gedi Bead Sea Qumran. End in Jerusalem overnight.
Day 9 -Visit Bethlehem – Drive to Bethlehem, visit en route Rachel’s tomb, Church of Nativity, Caves of St. Jerome. Lunch in Bethlehem. After lunch proceed to Beit Sahour to visit fields of Ruth and Shepherd’s field, back to Hotel in Jerusalem.
Day 10- A.M. – Old city of Jerusalem – Via Dolorosa Drive to St Stephen’s Gate to visit Church of St. Anne (Traditional place where virgin Mary was born) Pool of Bethesda, Antonia Fortress, Citadel of Flagellation, Ecce Homo, Convent of Litrostrotos, Via Dolorosa, Calvary and Holy Sepulchre bach to the Hotel.
PM. – Old City of Jerusalem – The Temple Area. Proceed to Herod’s Gate. Visit Mt. Moria. Mosque of Omar, Mosque of El Aksa, Western Wall (Wailing Wall) back to the hotel.
Day 11 – New City of Jerusalem. Drive to New City of Jerusalem passing by parliament, Hebrew University. Continue to the Israel museum. Visit Shrine of the book where the Dead Sea’s Scrolls are kept. Continue to Ein Karem to visit the church of St. John the Baptist, Back to the Hotel.
Day 12 – Bethany Bethfagi and Mt. Zion Visit church of Mary and Martha and Lazarus’s Tomb. Then proceed to Bethfagi from where Jesus started his triumphal entrance into into Jerusalem. Continue to Mr Zion’s Church of Peter in Gallicantu (Where Peter denied Christ at the Cock Crow). The pool of Siloam where Christ cured the Blind, Church of Dormition, Room of Last Supper and David’s Tomb.
Day 13- A.M. – Mt of Olives Gethsemane. Drive to Mt of Olives to visit the Church of the Ascension Church of Pater Noster, Garden of Gethsemane, Church of the Agony, Virgin’s Tomb. Continue to Emaus to visit the Church constructed over the House of Cleofas. Black to the Hotel. P.M – Free
Day 14 – Day Jericho Nazareth Tiberias. Drive through the Wilderness of Judea towards Jericho. Visit en route the Good Samaritan Inn, arrive at Jericho visit the Old excavations, view of Mont Temptation, Elisha’s Fountain, Tel Jericho continue to Nazareth to visit the chruch of Annunciation, St. Joseph Carpentry Shop, Fountain of the Virgin, then visit Cana of Galilee (The first miracle of Fountain of the Christ where he converted water into wine). Arrive Tiberias overnight.
Day 15. Tiberias and Mt Tabor. Cross Sea of Galilee from Tiberias by boat to Capernaum. Visit the 2nd century Synagogue, then drive to Tabgha to visit the church of the Miracle of the Multiplication of the Loaves and fishes. the mosaic of the floor of the 4th Century, then drive to St. Peter’s Church ( Church of the Primacy). The Mount of Beatitudes where Jesus recited the Sermon of the Mountain, River Jordan, then proceed to Mt Tabor. Ascend and descend by taxis to visit the Church of Transfiguration, visit Nain (the Miracle of Resurrection of the son of the widow). Back to the hotel.
Day 16 – Tiberias Haifa Caesarea Tel Aviv. Drive to Haifa to visit Stella Maris, Persian Gardens, Bahai Temple, Mt Carmel and Panoramic view of Haifa City, then proceed to Jaffa to visit the Artists Colony, St Peter Church and House of Simon the Tanner. Arrival in Hotel in Tel Aviv overnight.
Day 17 – Transfer to Airport for Departure to Athens. Arrive in Athens airport meeting assistance and transfer to Hotel overnight. Athens by night Tour including dinner in a Taverna in Plaka (Old City) with Folk dances.
Day 18 – Full Day Tour to Delphi including visit to the Museum and the Archeological site, lunch. Late return to the hotel.
Day 19 – Half Day sightseeing tour of Athens including visit of the Acropolis. Afternoon Drive to Cape Sounion with the temple of Poseidon.
Day 20 – Full Day tour to the Argolis region including visit and entrance fees for Mycenae and Epidavros with lunch. Day 21 – Transfer to the airport for departure.
Egito Antigo
Dia 1 – Rio de Janeiro para Cairo
Saída do aeroporto de Rio de Janeiro com destino ao Cairo. Por favor, esteja no aeroporto 3 horas antes do vôo para conexão internacional e segurança.
Dia 2 – Cairo
Chegada no Aeroporto Internacional do Cairo onde você será aguardado, recebera assistência na imigração e será transportado para o hotel.
Dia 3 – Cairo-Giza
Haverá um passeio para Memphis, a primeira capital do Egito Antigo, destruída pelo imperador Teodoro. As pedras e blocos eram usados pelos conquistadores islâmicos para construir suas mesquitas e palácios. Continuando pela Pirâmide de Saqqara, projetada pelo arquiteto inovador Imhotep e de pirâmides. O tumulo do rei Zoser tem mais de metros de altura e se parece com um jogo de escadas. Seguindo para Giza e as grandes pirâmides de Cheops, Chefren e Mykerinos e sua guardiã a Esfinge. Jantar e pernoite na cidade do Cairo.
Dia 4 – Cairo
O passeio da manha pelo Cairo Antigo começa com uma visita ao Museu Egípcio de Antiguidades, para ver a coleção única da arte Faraônica e o famoso tesouro do rei Tutankhamen. Passeio ao refugio de Saladin, construído em 1183aC, a mesquita Alabaster de Mohammed Ali, e o fascinante Khan El Kalili Bazaar. Neste local você encontrar centenas de lojas e vendedores prontos para pechinchar sua imensa variedade de temperos, perfumes, jóias de ouro e prata, tecidos, tapetes, couro, utensílios em latão e artesanatos em madeira. Jantar e pernoite na cidade do Cairo.
Dia 5 – Cairo – Luxor
Transporte para o aeroporto no período da manhã, voa para Luxor, onde você ira embarcar no luxuoso Cruzeiro . No período da tarde visita ao Templo de Luxor, construído durante o reinado de Amenophis III e dedicado ao deus Amon-Rá. O templo foi ampliado por Ramsés II, que adicionou estatuas representando ele mesmo. Um obelisco fica lá e outros dois no Palácio de Concorde em Paris. . Seguiremos então para o Templo de Karnak, conectado ao Templo de Luxor pela Avenida das Esfinges. O Templo de Karnak era o centro de adoração do deus Amon, e cada faraó adicionou sua própria contribuição para o templo. Passado o primeiro massivo e o segundo pilar, guardado por duas imensas estatuas de RamsesII, esta o Hypostile Hall, o maior saguão de todos os templos no mundo. Existem 134 colunas enormes. O obelisco da rainha Hatshepsut fica, e formado por um sólido pedaço de granito rosa. Conforme você passa por sucessivos pedaços de pilares e, você volta ao tempo ate atingir a parte mais velha do templo, construída pelos faraós no Reino do Meio. No fim sul do templo esta o Lago Sagrado, onde barcos cerimoniais faziam parte da adoração a Amon.
Dia 6 – Luxor – Esna
Esta manha se caracteriza com uma visita ao Banco Oeste do Nilo, e a numerosa cidade de sepultamento chamada de Necrópoles de Thebes, no lado oposto do Nilo de Luxor. Essa visita te levará Colossi de Memnon, o templo da rainha Hatshepsut em Deir El Bahari, o Vale dos Reis, e próximo ao Vale das Rainhas. Velejaremos nesta tarde para Esna para visitar o templo dedicado a um do mais antigo deus Egípcio, o deus Khnum, que criou o homem. E principalmente interessante para o mistério astronômico os desenhos no teto e . Passaremos a noite em Esna.
Dia 7 – Esna – Edfu – Kom-Ombo
Iremos de barco para Edfu, visitar o Templo de Edfu. Este templo é dedicado ao deus Horus, o princípio egípcio da ressurreição. O deus cabeça de falcão é pintado como uma vingança a seu pai Osíris, que foi morto pelo irmão Seth. É um dos mais bem preservados templos do Egito. Continuando nosso passeio de barco para Kom-Ombo. Passaremos a noite em Kom-Ombo.
Dia 8 – Kom-Ombo – Aswan
Visita ao Templo de Kom-Ombo, dedicado a dois deuses contrastantes: Sobek, deus cabeça de crocodilo, o deus da terra e Haroeris, o deus do céu. Passeio de barco para Aswan. Passeio num típico barco egípcio “felluca” ao redor da ilha Elephantine e visita ao Mausoléu Agha Khan. Neste local você terá uma excelente visão do Velho Aswan dique, construído em 1902, o rio com fellucas brancas e rochas cobertas de folhas, e a bela paisagem ao redor da cidade. Visita ao Jardim Botânico criado por Lord Kitchener, localizado em uma ilha no centro do Nilo. Passaremos a noite em Aswan.
Dia 9 – Aswan – Cairo
Desembarque após café da manhã. Esta manhã o ritmo será mais relaxado conforme nosso passeio para o Alto Aswan dique, o orgulho do Egito moderno. Continuando para o Templo de Philae e visita ao Grande Templo de Isis e Hathor. Esses templos foram modificados para salva-los das enchentes do Nilo. Seguindo para a Pedreira de Ganito para ver o Obelisco Inacabado. Seguiremos para o aeroporto num vôo em direção ao Cairo. Passaremos a noite em um hotel no Cairo.
Dia 10 – Cairo para Rio de Janeiro
Deixaremos o hotel pela manhã e seguimos para o aeroporto internacional do Cairo onde pegaremos um vôo para Rio de Janeiro.
Celebración a la Tierra Santa
Excursion a Israel: 11 Dias
DIA 1: Partida de su ciudade.
DIA 2: Arribo en Israel y transporte al hotel.
DIA 3: Llanura Costera -
Comenzaremos nuestra excursion en Israel en Cesarea, la ciudad de Cornelius, el Centurion, el primer gentil convertido (Hechos 10). En el Monte Carmel, veremos el lugar donde Elias tuvo en enfrentamiento con los 450 profetas de Baal (1 Reyes 18). Luego iremos a Haifa, el unico puerto natural en Israel. Continuaremos a Sephoris donde una ciudad del siglo 3ro. esta siendo excavada y podremos ver los mejores pisos de mosaicos conservados en el pais. Este se cree es el lugar de nacimiento de Maria, la madre de Jesus. Visitaremos Nazaret, donde Jesus paso la mayor parte de su vida, pararemos tambien en la Iglesia de Maria. Viajaremos a traves de Canaan de Galilea donde Jesus realizo su primer milagro en la fiesta de la boda. Al final del dia viajaremos a traves de Galilea hacia nuestro hotel.
DIA 4: Cumbres de GOLAN
El dia de hoy esta dedicado a la parte norte de Israel, donde seguiremos los acontecimientos descritos en Lucas 9. Visitaremos las Cumbres de Golan, el escenario mayor de la Guerra de los Seis Dias, Kunetria en el borde Sirio, y el camino a Damasco, donde Pablo tuvo la vision (Hechos 9). Luego continuaremos haca el Monte Hermon, donde sucedio el milagro de la Transfiguracion, la fortaleza de Nimrod para ver los remanentes de las Cruzadas. En Banias, uno de las cabeceras del Rio Jordan, la ciudad de Felipe de Cesarea, donde Pedro confeso la divinidad de Cristo. Terminaremos el dia en la Reserva Natural de Dan. Aqui se puede ver el descubrimiento del Altar de Jeroboam (1 Reyes 12) y una de las puertas de la ciudad del tiempo de Abraham.
DIA 5: ALREDEDOR DEL MAR DE GALILEA
Esta manana visitaremos lugares donde Jesus paso la mayor parte de su vida publica. Abordaremos un bote para cruzar el Mar de Galilea hacia Capernaum, en la sinagoga donde Jesus enseno y paso la mayor parte de su ministerio (Mateo 4). Viajando alrededor del lago visitaremos Betsaida donde ocurrio la alimentacion de los 5000 (Mateo 14), el tierra de los Gadarenos donde Jesus libero al endemoniado (Marcos 5). Luego de almuerzo saldremos hacia el Rio Jordan y terminaremos el dia en el Monte de las Beatitudes, donde Cristo predico el Sermon del Monte (Mateo 5-7). Si el tiempo lo permite, caminaremos hacia los lodos en las colinas del Mar de Galilea, volviendo sobre los pasos de las multitudes.
DIA 6: MEGIDO – BETH SHEAN – JERUSALEN
Hoy dejaremos Galilea y nos dirigiremos hacia Jerusalen. Viajaremos a Monte Tabor hacia Megido para contemplar las excavaciones de las 21 ciudades superpuestas , remanentes de los dias de Salomon ( 1 Reyes 9) y caminaremos a traves del tunel de agua excavado en los dias del rey Ahab. Monte Gilboa, lugar donde murio Saul (1 Samuel 31); y las aguas termales naturales de Sachne. En Beth Shean ( 1 Samuel 31) exploraremos las ultimas excavaciones revelando los remanentes de la Capital de Decapolis, calles, mercados, coliseo Romano y el anfiteatro antes de dirigirnos hacia el Valle de Jordan en nuestro camino a Jerico (Josue 3). Luego viajaremos en el mismo camino de Jerico usado en los tiempos de Cristo (Lucas 10) para ir hacia la Ciudad Dorada del Gran Rey: JERUSALEN.
DIA 7: Monte de los OLIVOS – Nueva JERUSALEN
Comenzaremos el dia en el Monte de los Olivos con una vista de Jerusalen y explicacion de su historia, caminaremos en el camino de Domingo de Palmas, el Jardin de Getsemani, ciudad donde ocurrio la traicion de Jesus. Continuaremos hacia la ciudad de David y visitaremos las ultimas excavaciones del area G, Warrens Shaft de los dias de los Jebusites, el Tunel de Ezequias y la Piscina de Siloam. Durante la tarde visitaremos Yad Vashem, con el museo sobre el Holocauto, y luego al final del dia el Museo Israeli, con el Sepulcro de los Libros, donde se guardan los Rollos del Mar Muerto.
DIA 8: ANTIGUA CIUDAD – CUARTELES JUDIOS – BELEN
En el horario de hoy tenemos una excursion a la ciudad antigua. Comenzando en la Puerta de Jafa caminaremos a traves del Mercado Arabe y bazar hacia el Cuartel Judio, visitando una area extensiva descubierta por arqueologistasluyendo la Casa Quemada, los cuarteles de Herodes donde se veran los interiores de las casas durante los dias de Jesus, el Cardo, Paredes de Ezequias, el Tunel de los Rabinos, visitando ruinas arqueologicas subterranes excavados en Jerusalen, caminaremos a traves del Muro Oeste y a traves del Tunel Hasmonen del siglo 2do. antes de Cristo, la excavacion de Ofel en las calles romanas de los dias de Jesus y obtendremos una vista de la destruccion de Jerusalen realizada por Tito en el ano 70 luego de Cristo, tambien caminaremos en el fango en el camino al templo durante el 2do. periodo. Luego visitaremos el Muro de los Lamentos y el Templo del Monte. Durante la tarde visitaremos Belen, la Iglesia de la Natividad, y el Campo de los Pastores, donde David crio sus ovejas y las Buenas Nuevas fueron recibidas.
DIA 9: MAR MUERTO – MASADA
Hoy dejaremos Jerusalen y viajaremos a Masada donde un funicular nos llevara a las magnificientes fortaleza de Herodes, ciudad donde los Zealots se levantaron contra Roma. En Ein Gedi caminaremos a traves de la reserva natural hacia las cascadas donde David corto parte de la pollera de Saul. Luego pararemos en el Mar Muerto para almuerzo y nadar antes de retornar a Jerusalen. En el viaje de regreso visitaremos Qumran, el lugar donde se descubrieron los Rollos del Mar Muerto.
DIA 10 : VALLE DE ELAH – FILISTINA
Usando el Camino de Gaza donde Felipe viajo con el eunuco Etiope (Hechos 
alcanzaremos el Valle de Elah. En este lugar quizas te gustaria recoger algunas piedras del arroyo donde David mato a Goliat (1 Samuel 17). Tambien visitaremos las Cuevas de las Campanas, canteras antiguas donde se extraia material para la produccion de cemento 2000 anos atras!!! Tel Maresa, recientemente abierta al publico, con deslumbrantes remanentes de los dias Elenisticos, Romanos y Bizantinos. Continuaremos hacia Joppa y Tel Aviv antes de retornar a nuestro hotel.
alcanzaremos el Valle de Elah. En este lugar quizas te gustaria recoger algunas piedras del arroyo donde David mato a Goliat (1 Samuel 17). Tambien visitaremos las Cuevas de las Campanas, canteras antiguas donde se extraia material para la produccion de cemento 2000 anos atras!!! Tel Maresa, recientemente abierta al publico, con deslumbrantes remanentes de los dias Elenisticos, Romanos y Bizantinos. Continuaremos hacia Joppa y Tel Aviv antes de retornar a nuestro hotel.DIA 11: CIUDADES CRISTIANAS DE JERUSALEN
Hoy comenzaremos nuestra excursion en Jerusalen volviendo sobre los pasos de Jesus, en la tumba de la familia de Herodes veremos una roca redonda, es un ejemplo de tipo de roca que se usaba para sellar las tumbas en los dias de Jesus. Luego de un tiempo de adoracion y alabanza en el Cuarto Superior bajaremos hacia el Valle Kidron. Entrando en la puerta de Esteban, llegamos a la piscina de Bethesda, donde Jesus sano al hombre leproso. Luego de un tiempo de alabanza en la Iglesia de Santa Ana, iremos a la Fortaleza de Antonia, ciudad donde se llevo a cabo el juicio de Jesus. Luego seguiremos el Camino de la Cruz a traves de la puerta de Damasco hacia el Calvario, donde visitaremos el lugar de la crucifixion y culminaremos nuestra excursion con comunion en la Tumba del Jardin.
DIA 12: Partiremos temprano para regresar a casa, persiguiendo el sol durante el camino de regreso y arribando con una vida de memorias.