From the country’s ancient capital to one of the world’s largest salt lakes to first-century relics of the Roman Empire, discover the interwoven cultural and historical threads of storied Israel. Consider three religious traditions and thousands of years of heritage to understand this breathtaking land’s role in an increasingly complex region.

Highlights

Discuss Jerusalem’s Old City while gazing upon it from the Mount of Olives.

In Bethlehem, visit a women’s Center for traditional handicrafts and embroidery.

Discover the ancient mountaintop fortress of Masada.

Program Particulars

Program designed to be taken with 17419, Discover Jordan and participants are encouraged to register for all or any combination of the three programs. Program cost excludes one dinner so you may explore local fare.

Activity Particulars

Walking up to three miles per day, uneven terrain; standing up to one hour during onsite lectures. Many sites involve unpaved ground, excavation sites, cobblestones, stairs without handrails, no elevators.

Day 1

Days 2-5

Begin your discovery atop the Mount of Olives, taking in views of the Old City and hearing expert perspectives on its topography and demographics. Explore the Old City itself as you hear about Jerusalem in the times of Jesus, go inside the Israel Museum with a docent, and study Islam in Jerusalem at the Al Aqsa Mosque and Dome of the Rock. Visit the Western Wall, then transfer to Bethlehem to discover the Church of the Nativity and a women’s Center for traditional handicrafts.

Lodging: Centrally located four-star hotel.

Days 6-10

At the fortress of Massada, learn about Herod the Great and the Jewish rebellions against Rome, then enjoy a float in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea. Examine the Dead Sea Scrolls in the Caves of Qumran, visit Capernaum to understand Jesus’ times and early message, and continue to the Mount of Beatitudes for a unique perspective on his Sermon on the Mount. Speak to community members at a kibbutz before preparing for your journey to Jordan.

Lodging: Elegant resort hotel in Ein Boqeq. Boutique hotel in Tiberias. Seaside hotel in Tel Aviv.

Israel

Here, on a small bridge connecting Europe, Asia and Africa, centuries of cross-cultural currents from shifting peoples and ideas nurtured Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The modern State of Israel contrasts its storied past with a dedication to dynamic, forward-looking advancements. Israel is home to the world’s second-largest number of start-up companies, venturing into new frontiers of communications, pharmaceutical and agricultural technology.