DAY 1: Start of tour in Tel Aviv
![Start of tour in Tel Aviv]()
Welcome to Tel Aviv! This epic middle-eastern adventure starts here. Check in to the hotel and then the rest of the day is set aside to explore the city at your leisure. Tel Aviv has many beautiful beaches and great architectural sites to discover. There are also lots of little cafés in which to enjoy a coffee and watch the locals go by.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Lighthouse Hotel By Brown Hotels
DAY 2: Jesus' Baptism Site - Mount Masada - Dead Sea - Eilat
![Jesus' Baptism Site - Mount Masada - Dead Sea - Eilat]()
After breakfast it’s time for a jam-packed day! Depart Tel Aviv to explore the Baptism site of Jesus at Qasr el Yehud. This is a famous destination on the banks of the Jordan River as it is known as the place where Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist. Leaving the religious site, drive through the Judean Desert to Mount Masada. Marvel at the views of the Moab Mountains of Jordan before setting off to explore the Dead Sea below! Enjoy time to swim and explore the world-famous salt lake. Then, it’s onto Eilat in the early evening. Here, experience dinner in a traditional kibbutz - an authentic Israeli experience, dining with the locals and eating traditional dishes!
Experiences
Visit Qasr al Yehud, the site of Jesus’ baptism: Known as ‘the Jews’ Castle or Palace’, Qasr al Yehud is a site of great religious significance. It’s believed to be the site where John the Baptist baptised Jesus. Entrance fee: US$3
See Mount Masada: This ancient fortress was built in 30 BC and is home to Herod’s Palace and the site of one of the deciding battles of the first Jewish-Roman war. Entrance fee: US$23
Swim in the Dead Sea: The Dead Sea is the lowest place on Earth, lying 417 ft below sea level. Interestingly, it’s not really a sea at all, it’s actually a lake that is made up of more than 30% salt! The waters are said to have healing properties and the mud is used in spa treatments around the world. Entrance fee: US$24
Relax in Eilat, at a Red Sea Resort: One of the most popular resorts along the Red Sea, Eilat is a thriving destination. After a long day of exploring, we have the chance to relax and wind down with a sundowner at the seaside resort.
Enjoy dinner in a Kibbutz: Based on the idea of communal living and sharing, a ‘Kibbutz’ shares its money and resources between its inhabitants. The word ‘Kibbutz’ comes from the Hebrew word kvutza, meaning ‘group’. This type of settlement is unique to Israel, and provides a real experience of local life as you dine on traditional dishes with the residents of the Kibbutz.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Comfort Hotel
DAY 3: Eilat: Free Day
![Eilat: Free Day]()
Today, make the most of a free day to discover the many marvels of Eilat at your own pace! There is so much to choose from! Explore the Red Sea beaches or go snorkelling or diving. Visit Dolphin Reef or head to Timna Park. The cliffside views will take your breath away. Alternatively, you could visit the Underwater Observatory. Alternatively, how about touring the city on foot and doing a little shopping? Keen to explore further afield? Head to the Red Canyon hiking trails to explore the mesmerising red rock canyons. There are trails for every fitness level.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Comfort Hotel
DAY 4: Aqaba - Wadi Rum
![Aqaba - Wadi Rum]()
Today, cross the border into Jordan and enter the port city of Aqaba. The old town has a wonderful 'souk' (Arab marketplace) with a lively atmosphere. Next, embark on a jeep safari in the Wadi Rum desert with local Bedouin drivers. They will escort us through the region’s striking lunar landscape. Many Hollywood movies have been filmed here, including Matt Damon’s The Martian. The day ends at the accommodation in Wadi Rum. Here, sit by a campfire and watch the sun go down across the red rock landscape, before an amazing canvas of stars is revealed as the night draws in. Complete this fantastic day of exploring with an included dinner of traditional Bedouin and Jordanian dishes.
Experiences
Visit Aqaba: Enjoy some free time to wander around the vibrant traditional souk, where you can buy gifts for your friends and family back home.
Embark on a Wadi Rum jeep safari: Representing Mars in many Hollywood movies, the Wadi Rum desert is a place like no other. Matt Damon, the lead in the movie The Martian said, “It’s nothing like I’ve ever seen anywhere else on Earth.” Entrance fee: US$10
Overnight in a Bedouin camp: The nomadic tribes and clans of the Middle Eastern deserts are known as Bedouins. The Wadi Rum Bedouin Camp offers visitors the chance to experience the traditional way of life of these camel and goat herders. It’s in this very desert where Lawrence of Arabia fought alongside the Bedouins against the Ottoman Empire during WWI.
NOTE: Israel/Jordan border crossing fees = approx. US$65
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Beit Ali Lodge Camp
DAY 5: Petra - Amman
![Petra - Amman]()
Enjoy ample time to explore Petra today. Petra is Jordan's most famous archaeological site and one of UNESCO's 7 Wonders of the Ancient World! Discover the many tombs and temples carved into the pink sandstone cliffs on a guided tour. The iconic attraction, The Treasury (Al Khazneh), is sure to impress! This structure boasts striking Greek-inspired architectural elements. You might recognise it from the movie Indiana Jones films Afterwards, enjoy a traditional lunch before it’s time to see more of Jordan. The day ends in the city of Amman - the capital of Jordan. Expat Explore recommends you spend your evening in downtown Amman - it's a must-see!
Experiences
Enjoy a guided tour of Petra with free time: Petra was discovered in 1812 by Swiss explorer Jean Louis Burckhardt. The red hues of the stones, from which the ancient city was carved, have led to Petra also being called the ‘Rose City’. In 300 BC, this spellbinding city used to be the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom. Entrance fee: US$71
Overnight in Jordan’s capital, Amman: The vibrant city of Amman has the perfect mix of intriguing history and modern appeal. Wander through the bustling souks and sip on a coffee in one of the many coffeehouses. The centre of downtown Amman is home to the Citadel. Within this iconic structure, you’ll find the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Al Fanar Hotel
DAY 6: Jerash - Sea of Galilee & Capernaum - Nazareth/Tiberias
![Jerash - Sea of Galilee & Capernaum - Nazareth/Tiberias]()
After breakfast, enjoy a brief city tour of Amman before heading north to Jerash. One of the biggest archaeological sites in the Middle East, Jerash dates back to Roman times and the century-old ruins have been carefully preserved. Exploring these structures will transport you back in time! An included local lunch is served in Jerash before travelling back to Israel. Once there, head to the Sea of Galilee. This freshwater lake is the largest source of drinking water for Israel and is an important pilgrimage site for many Christians. Next, visit Capernaum, one of the most prominent sites in the area. This fishing village is located in the Galilee region and is where Jesus is believed to have worked his Biblical miracles. Tonight’s accommodation will be in Nazareth or Tiberias.
Experiences
Visit Jerash: This walled settlement of Gerasa lies outside of the modern city and has been inhabited since the Bronze Age! Popular landmarks to spot here include Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Artemis. Consider wandering through the Jerash Archaeological Museum - to gain insight into the history of the area. The Nymphaeum Temple, which was constructed in 191AD in honour of the Nymphs, is truly a sight to behold! Entrance fee: US$15
Explore Capernaum on the Sea of Galilee: Referred to as ‘the town of Jesus’ in the Bible, Capernaum is a sacred pilgrimage site. You could visit the ancient synagogue where Jesus famously preached, or the Franciscan church, a modern hexagonal structure that provides views of the church and house of Peter. Entrance fee: US$3
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Tabar Hotel
DAY 7: Nazareth - Caesarea - Tel Aviv - Jaffa Port - Jerusalem
![Nazareth - Caesarea - Tel Aviv - Jaffa Port - Jerusalem]()
It’s time to explore Nazareth. This city is the capital of Israel's Arab population and is said to have been the childhood home of Jesus. Nazareth is home to an abundance of fascinating architectural sites. From here, head north to the western coastline. First, stop to explore Caesarea, King Herod's renowned port on the Mediterranean. Caesarea is the ancient Roman capital of Judea and a visit to the Caesarea amphitheatre is highly recommended. This afternoon, enjoy a city tour of Tel Aviv and Jaffa. Jaffa is an ancient port city that inspired the biblical story of 'Jonah and the Whale'! Explore the beautifully restored city from which modern Tel Aviv developed. Highlights of this tour include a drive up Rothschild Boulevard. Tonight, settle down in the hotel in Jerusalem.
Experiences
Explore Nazareth: The Old City is the biggest draw as it takes you back to the time when Jesus’ mother Mary would’ve lived here. Within the old buildings you’ll find the traditional Arab souk, with locals serving freshly brewed coffee. Sites in the area include the Basilica of Annunciation and the Basilica of Jesus the Adolescent, the White Mosque and the Ancient Baths.
Visit Caesarea: Caesarea was King Herod's masterpiece port on the Mediterranean. While the port ended up under the dunes in the 14th Century, extensive archaeological excavations in the 1950s brought it back up to the surface. So much so, that it is now home to one of the most impressive Roman sites! Entrance fee: US$10
Enjoy a Tel Aviv and Jaffa city tour: The iconic Rothschild Boulevard and Ilana Moore Museum are some of Tel Aviv’s highlights that are not to be missed. The ‘Mediterranean Capital of Cool’ is how Tel Aviv has come to be known and you’ll definitely see why! Jaffa is the port city famous for the tale of Jonah and the Whale. In Jaffa be sure to explore Ramses II’s Gate Garden and Saint Peter’s Church. Marvel at the clock tower that was built in honour of Turkish Sultan Abdul Hamid and capture some photos of the old Armenian monastery.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Tabar Hotel
DAY 8: Bethlehem - Mount of Olives - Jerusalem
![Bethlehem - Mount of Olives - Jerusalem]()
Start the day with a guided tour of Bethlehem. Visit the Church of Nativity and see the famous Shepherds' Field. Then, enjoy a photo stop at the Banksy wall. At the Mount of Olives, stop to view the City of Gold from above and visit the Church of all Nations. Next up is the Old City of Jerusalem. This destination has more holy sites than any other square kilometre in the world! Visit the Wailing Wall, Mount Zion, the Via Dolorosa and more. This evening, why not discover the Machane Yehuda Market back in Jerusalem? Here, locals sell fresh produce, pastries, coffee and the best olives around! At night it changes into a hub for tourists and foodies to hang out.
Experiences
Discover Bethlehem: Said to be the birthplace of Jesus, Bethlehem is a significant Christian pilgrimage destination. The Church of Nativity dates back to the 6th century and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Shepherds’ Field is said to be where the shepherds encountered the angel in the biblical tale of Jesus’ birth.
Views the Banksy Wall: Banksy is a famous street artist from Britain. His art has caused a stir all across the world and when he visited Israel in the early 2000s to meet with Palestinian authorities, it was no exception!
Visit the Mount of Olives: Acting as a natural barrier between the Holy City and the Judean Desert, the Mount of Olives gives breathtaking views of the city and surrounds below. This is where the desert starts, and it ends at the Dead Sea. The Church of All Nations is found here, located next to the Garden of Gethsemane. According to biblical lore, the garden is said to be where Jesus prayed before his arrest.
Explore Jerusalem: A place of significance for Jews, Muslims and Christians, Jerusalem is abound with famous sites, including the Wailing Wall (also known as Western Wall) and the Via Dolorosa. The latter is believed to be the path that Christ walked to his crucifixion.
See the Western Wall: Also known as the Wailing Wall, this ancient limestone wall in the Old City of Jerusalem was originally erected as part of the Second Jewish Temple that was started by Herod the Great.
Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: Traditions dating back to the fourth-century claim that this church contains the two holiest sites in Christianity: the site where Jesus of Nazareth was crucified, and Jesus's empty tomb, where he is said to have been buried and resurrected.
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Jerusalem Gold Hotel
DAY 9: Jerusalem: Free Day
![Jerusalem: Free Day]()
Enjoy a free day in Jerusalem which has been described as one of the most spiritually intense destinations in the world. It's a holy land for Christians, Muslims and Jews alike. Discover more of the city’s top attractions today. The Israel Museum is ranked as one of the top archaeological and art institutions in the world and hosts a comprehensive range of art and ancient artefact pieces from the land of Israel and beyond including the Dead Sea Scrolls. Take a trip to Yad Vashem and the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. There's also the 9/11 Memorial Plaza and the Gardens of Gethsemane. Here, find a quiet space to rest, meditate or pray. Be sure to sample some local dishes today - the food here is exquisite!
Included Meals
Accommodationi
Jerusalem Gold Hotel
DAY 10: End of tour in Jerusalem
![End of tour in Jerusalem]()
After 10 days, this tour of Israel and Jordan has come to an end. Feel free to take your time to explore the many marvels of Jerusalem before you head home. The Tower of David, Yad Vashem and the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo are highly recommended. Safe travels! Expat Explore hopes to see you again soon.
Experiences
The tour ends after breakfast. Make sure you have exchanged contact details with your new-found travel friends, and share your amazing tour memories with us online using the hashtags #ExpatExplore and #BetterTogether.