Day 1:  Wednesday, JUNE 9, 2027 – depart usa for tel aviv, israel

Day 2:  thursday, JUNE 10, 2027 – Arrival in Tel Aviv

Arrive in Tel Aviv. Tour group will be met at airport and assisted with arrival procedures. Dinner and overnight beside the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. 

Dinner

DAY 3:  friday, JUNE 11, 2027 – Caesarea MARITIMA / Megiddo / Mt. Carmel / Mt. Precipice / Tiberias (Sea of Galilee) 

Today we depart for the Galilee enjoying stops at Biblical sites along the way.  

• Caesarea Maritima:
  • Extensive ruins of an ancient port city built by King Herod
  • Later became the seat of government of the Roman governors
  • Peter proclaimed the Good News to the Roman centurion (Acts 9 & 25)
• Megiddo (the valley of Armageddon) & Mt. Carmel:
  • Mt. Carmel: Where Elijah prayed, and God defeated 450 prophets of Baal with fire from heaven (1 Kings 18)
• Mt. Precipice – tradition says it is the site where Jesus disappeared in the crowd after being chased out of the synagogue in Nazareth

Dinner and overnight in Tiberias on the shore of the Sea of Galilee.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4:  saturday, JUNE 12, 2027 – Mt. of Beatitudes / Capernaum / Boat ride on the sea of galilee / MAGDALA / Mt Arbel

We begin our special time in the Galilee, rich in memories of the life of Jesus.   

• Mt. of Beatitudes:
  • Time for spiritual reflection and meditation on Jesus’ teachings from the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5: 1-15)
• Capernaum:
  • Base of Jesus’ early ministry
  • Home of Peter
  • Site of many healings (Mark 1: 31-38)
• Ginosar/Gennesaret
  • Board a replica “Jesus Boat”- a fishing boat of the type used by the disciples of Jesus for a ride on the Sea of Galilee
  • Boat Museum of fishing boat from time of Jesus discovered in 1986
• Ancient city of Magdala:
  • Prominently mentioned in the Bible as the hometown of Mary Magdalene, a disciple of Jesus Christ
• Mt. Arbel: enjoy the incredible panoramic view of the Sea of Galilee

Dinner and overnight in Tiberias.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5:  SUNDAY, JUNE 13, 2027 – CAESAREA PHILIPPI / TEL DAN / MOUNT BENTAL / PETER’S PRIMACY / YARDENIT (BAPTISM SITE)

Travel north this morning into the Golan Heights to ancient Biblical sites before returning to the Sea of Galilee. 

• Caesarea Philippi (Banias):
  • Location where Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” (Mark 8: 27-30)
  • Opportunity for reflection on the profound question posed by Jesus to his followers
  • Historical significance as a center of pagan worship during biblical times
• Tel Dan Nature Reserve:
  • Named for the Tribe of Dan, one of the twelve tribes of Israel
  • Exploration of archaeological sites including the gate of Jeroboam and the ancient Abraham Gate
  • Immersion in the natural beauty of the reserve, which features lush vegetation and flowing streams
• Mount Bental:
  • Spectacular panoramic view of the Golan Heights and the border of Syria
  • Historical significance as the site of a courageous battle during Israel’s war for the Golan
  • Opportunity to reflect on the geopolitical context of the region while enjoying breathtaking scenery
• Peter’s Primacy:
  • Located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee
  • Best known for the appearance of Jesus to his disciples after his resurrection (John 21:1-14)
  • Site where Jesus commands Peter to “feed and tend” His flock, symbolizing his role as a leader in the early Christian community
• Yardenit for baptisms:
  • Participants will have the opportunity to experience baptism in the Jordan River
  • Symbolic act of spiritual renewal and commitment to the Christian faith
    • Note: White robes must be worn over clothing or swimsuits for baptisms. Robe and towel are rented on-site for a minimal fee.

Dinner and overnight in Tiberias.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6:  MONDAY, JUNE 14, 2027 – Tiberias / Beit She’an / jericho (go to the ruins) / Qumran / THE DEAD SEA AREA.

Today’s adventure leads us on a picturesque journey as we travel southward along the banks of the Jordan River to the lowest point on Earth, the remarkable Dead Sea.

• Beit She’an: Known for its historical significance, including the poignant site where the bodies of King Saul and his sons were hung from the city walls after their defeat by the Philistines (1 Samuel 31:10-12).
• Jericho: Explore one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, steeped in history and biblical lore. Explore the intriguing ruins of Jericho, where archaeological treasures offer glimpses into its rich past. 
• Qumran: Enjoy a brief yet enriching stop at Qumran, where the ancient Dead Sea scrolls were authored over 2000 years ago and discovered in 1947, shedding light on ancient Jewish life and thought.
• Dead Sea: Our hotel awaits us at the lowest point on Earth, the remarkable Dead Sea, renowned for its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic properties.

After arriving at our hotel, we will have time to float in the Dead Sea. 

Dinner and overnight at the Dead Sea.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7:  TUESDAY, JUNE 15, 2027 – masada / Ein Gedi / JErusalm

Following breakfast, we depart from the hotel and embark on our journey to Jerusalem, making several stops along the way. 

• Masada Fortress: the formidable fortress constructed by King Herod and renowned as the site of the last Jewish resistance against the Romans in 73 AD.
  • Ascend Masada by cable car, granting us panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Survey the extensive ruins of Masada, including fortifications, waterworks, a synagogue, temples, and palaces, offering insights into ancient Jewish life and history.
• Ein Gedi:
  • Discover the serene beauty of Ein Gedi, a lush oasis nestled in the desert landscape.
  • Explore the area where David sought refuge from King Saul, as recounted in 1 Samuel 24:1-7, connecting with the biblical narrative in a stunning natural setting.
• Jerusalem:  ascend to the “City of Gold,” one of the most ancient and culturally significant cities in the world. Nestled in the Judean Mountains between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea, Jerusalem holds immense religious, historical, and cultural importance.

Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8:  WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2027 – Tuesday, Mt. of Olives / Palm Sunday Road / Garden of Gethsemane / thE POOLS OF BETHESDA AND ST. ANNE’S CHURCH / THE church of the holy sepulchER / Western wall / western wall tunnel / Southern Steps 

We begin our day on the beautiful Mt. of Olives to behold the breathtaking panorama of the Holy City. 

• Palm Sunday Road and Garden of Gethsemane:
  • Descend along the Palm Sunday Road to the serene Garden of Gethsemane, where ancient olive trees whisper tales of the past.
  • Visit the Church of All Nations, believed to be where Jesus prayed on the night of His betrayal (Matt. 26:36, John 18:1).
• Zion Gate and Pools of Bethesda:
  • Enter the Old City of Jerusalem through the Zion Gate, proceeding to the historic Pools of Bethesda, where Jesus healed a cripple.
  • Explore St. Anne’s Crusader Church, renowned for its magnificent acoustics, before continuing our pilgrimage.
• The Pavement and Via Dolorosa:
  • Visit the Pavement, where Jesus stood while being tried by Pilate, immersing ourselves in the profound history of the site.
  • Follow the Via Dolorosa, retracing the steps of Jesus, culminating in a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
• Western Wall and Western Wall Tunnel:
  • Approach the Western Wall, a sacred site where Jews gather for prayer and reflection, with the opportunity to tour the Western Wall Tunnel.
  • Contemplate the significance of the Temple area, once purchased by King David (2 Samuel 24:18-25), now adorned by the golden Dome of the Rock and the El-Aksa Mosque.
• Southern Steps:
  • Conclude our journey with a visit to the Southern Steps, where Jesus once walked as He entered the Temple area, connecting deeply with the footsteps of the past.

Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9:  THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2027 – CITY OF DAVID and HEZEKIAH’S TUNNEL / THE CHURCH OF ST. PETER IN GALLICANTU AND THE HOUSE OF CAIAPHAS / BETHLEHEM / HERODIUM

Be prepared for a day filled with profound history and moments of reflection.

• City of David:
  • Begin the day with a visit to the City of David, where excellent archaeological remains from David’s period and the Kings of Judah era await exploration (2 Samuel 5:8-10).
• Hezekiah’s Tunnel and Pool of Siloam:
  • Embark on a fun and enlightening walk-through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, a 2,700-year-old water tunnel ingeniously constructed during the reign of King Hezekiah (2 Chron. 32:30).
  • Experience the wonder of early engineering as we traverse the tunnel, potentially getting wet along the way, and emerge at the historic Pool of Siloam, where Jesus healed the blind man (John 9:1-12).  Note: Bring a flashlight and water shoes for the tunnel exploration should you choose to walk the “wet” tunnel.
• Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu:
  • Journey to the Church of St. Peter in Gallicantu, situated at the site of the house of Caiaphas, where Peter famously denied Christ three times.
  • Witness the original steps used by Jesus during his time at Caiaphas’s house before his trial by Pontius Pilate and subsequent crucifixion.
• Bethlehem and Shepherd’s Field:
  • Travel to Bethlehem to visit the revered Church of the Nativity, marking the sacred birthplace of Jesus.
  • Explore Shepherd’s Field, a pastoral setting imbued with biblical significance, where the angelic announcement of Jesus’ birth was made to the shepherds.
• Herodium:
  • The imposing fortress constructed by King Herod, which also serves as his final resting place.

Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.        

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10:  FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2027 – TEMPLE MOUNT (TIME PERMITTING) / ISRAEL MUSEUM INCLUDING THE SHRINE OF THE BOOK AND THE MODEL CITY / GARDEN TOMB.

• Early Visit to the Temple Mount:
  • Weather and conditions permitting, start the day with an early visit to the Temple Mount, a site of profound religious significance.
  • For Jews, the Temple Mount is the holiest site in Judaism, as it is believed to be the location of the First and Second Temples, which were central to ancient Jewish worship. According to Jewish tradition, the Temple Mount is the place where God chose to manifest His presence on Earth.
  • For Christians, the Temple Mount holds significant biblical importance, as it is where Jesus is believed to have taught, preached, and overturned the tables of the money changers in the Temple. The area around the Temple Mount also features prominently in the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
• Israel Museum:
  • We will marvel at the Shrine of the Book, housing the Dead Sea Scrolls, providing insights into ancient Jewish life and thought.
  • Explore the 1:50 scale model of Jerusalem, depicting the city as it would have appeared during Jesus’ time, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
• Golgotha and the Garden Tomb:
  • Sacred sites for reflection, worship, and communion.
  • Take time for quiet contemplation amidst the serene surroundings, connecting deeply with the spiritual significance of these hallowed places.

Dinner and overnight in Jerusalem.          

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11:  SATURDAY, JUNE 19, 2027 – Flight to the USA / Optional Petra, Jordan Extension

Depart from the hotel and proceed to the Tel Aviv Airport for your return flight to the USA, or board the bus for a transfer to the Israel/Jordan border.

Breakfast

OPTIONAL PETRA, JORDAN EXTENSION

DAY 11:  SATURDAY JUNE 19, 2027 – JORDAN / MT. NEBO / PETRA, JORDAN

This morning, we bid farewell to Israel as we embark on our journey to Jordan via the Allenby Bridge. Upon arrival, we’ll be met and assisted through the border crossing procedures. 

• Mt. Nebo: the sacred site where Moses beheld the Promised Land. We will enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Israel and the Jordan River from this historic vantage point.
• The remainder of the day will be spent traversing through the picturesque landscapes of Jordan, culminating in our arrival at Petra.

Dinner and overnight in Petra, Jordan.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12:  SUNDAY, JUNE 20, 2027 – PETRA 

Following breakfast, we embark on a journey to Petra, a remarkable 2000-year-old Nabatean city.

• Walk through the Siq:
  • Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided walk through the narrow passageway known as the “Siq,” flanked by towering cliffs on either side.
• The Treasury:
  • At the end of the Siq, Petra’s most iconic monument, the Treasury, emerges in all its grandeur, illuminated by the brilliant sunlight.
• Exploration of Petra:
  • Known as the “Rose City,” Petra is a labyrinth of intricately carved caves, temples, and tombs, crafted from blush pink sandstone over two millennia ago.
  • Enjoy a guided explanation of the site’s history and significance before having the freedom to explore this extraordinary ancient city at your own pace. 
• Return to Hotel:
  • After a day of exploration, return to the hotel at your leisure, relishing the memories of Petra’s timeless beauty and enchanting atmosphere.

Dinner and overnight in Petra. 

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 13:  MONDAY, JUNE 21, 2027 – depart petra /AMMAN

• Travel to Amman:
  • Depart from Petra and embark on a journey to Amman, the vibrant capital city of Jordan.

Dinner and overnight in Amman, Jordan.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 14: TUESDAY, JUNE 22, 2027 – depart JORDAN for U.S.A.

Reflect on the memorable experiences of our time in Jordan and Israel as we return to the USA. 

Breakfast