Discovering the Wonders of the Galilee: An Unforgettable 8-Day Journey Starting from Aqaba
Experience an 8-day adventure full of excitement and marvel! Start your journey at the breathtaking Red Sea in Aqaba before taking on the vast desert of the Great Rift. Delight in the enchantment as you travel to the lowest point on earth at the Dead Sea, then continue your expedition to the serene waters of the Sea of Galilee and the captivating shores of the Mediterranean. Explore the charming northern villages and cities, delving into their vibrant history and culture, until you reach the ancient walls of both the Old and New City of Jerusalem. Climb the Mount of Olives, wander through Bethlehem, and prepare to be enthralled by even more remarkable destinations along the way. Whether you choose to cross into new territories via Aqaba or Eilat, embark on this unforgettable journey through the Araba Border. Adventure beckons!
Itinerary
Day 1: Red Sea – Dead Sea – Sea of Galilee
Begin your memorable adventure from Eilat in the early morning, driving through the breathtaking Arava Valley, a striking segment of the Great Rift that separates Africa and Asia. Explore desert settlements known for their successful cultivation of winter vegetables from the arid land, before continuing on to the mesmerizing Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth.
Travel along the shoreline and make a stop at the renowned Massada, Israel’s leading Archaeological Park. Ascend to the desert fortress via cable car for a comprehensive visit that unravels the rituals, politics, and culture of its former inhabitants.
After experiencing the beauty of Massada, head down to the Dead Sea to float in its therapeutic waters, lather yourself in the mineral-rich black mud known for its rejuvenating properties, or simply unwind at the luxurious SPA. Journey north towards the Qumran caves, where the significant Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, before making your way along the Jordan River to the magnificent Sea of Galilee.
Finish off your day with a delicious dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel, ready to embark on a new adventure the next day. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore some of Israel’s most iconic sites on this unforgettable journey.
Day 2: Around the Sea of Galilee & Golan
Start your day by exploring the rich history of the Sea of Galilee at the “Man in Galilee” museum, where a 2000 year old fishing boat is on display. This boat is just one of an estimated 400 that sailed on the Sea of Galilee during the time of Jesus, setting the stage for many of the events in his life.
Continue your journey along the north shore of the Sea of Galilee, passing by the historic sites that played pivotal roles in Jesus’ ministry. Visit the Mt. of Beatitudes, believed to be the traditional site of the Sermon on the Mount, and Tabgha, where the ‘miracle of the loaves and the fish’ took place. Then, explore the Church of Primacy, where St. Peter was reinstated, and the ancient Jewish village of Capernaum, the center of Jesus’ messianic work.
Take a peaceful sail across the Sea of Galilee, immersing yourself in the same tranquility and scenery that has remained unchanged for over two millennia. As you sail, marvel at the beauty of the northern Golan Heights and Emek Ha Bacha, a significant battleground of the Yom Kippur War in 1973.
Complete your day by passing through Druze villages and descending to your final destination. Experience the beauty, history, and spirituality of this sacred land in one unforgettable journey.
Day 3: Upper Galilee & Northern Cities
Today begins with a visit to the “Man in Galilee” museum, which houses an incredible fishing boat from 2000 years ago that takes you to Jesus’ time. This historical treasure is just one of the estimated 400 fishing boats that once sailed on the Sea of Galilee. Immerse yourself in the stories and events of Jesus’ life as you drive along the picturesque north shore of the Sea.
Today’s adventure takes you to the mystical town of Safad, known for its rich history of Kabbala and Jewish mysticism. Journey on to Zippori, the capital of Galilee in the 1st Century, before continuing your exploration towards the coastal city of Akka (Acre). Discover the secrets of the crusader period as you explore the intricate subterranean city of Crusader halls and sanctuaries.
Next stop is Haifa, where you’ll be awed by the stunning Bahai Gardens and treated to a panoramic view of the city from Mt. Carmel. As the day winds down, travel back to your hotel in Galilee for a restful overnight stay. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to uncover the wonders of the Holy Land and create unforgettable memories.
Day 4: Nazareth to Jerusalem
Embark on a fascinating journey through the Holy Land, starting with a visit to the village of Kana, where Jesus performed his first miracle. Explore the historic sites of Nazareth and the Church of Annunciations before continuing on to the ancient ruins of Megiddo – Armageddon.
As you travel west towards the Mediterranean, don’t miss the chance to marvel at the grandeur of Caesarea Maritima, a masterpiece of architecture by Herod the Great. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this region, once home to Roman governors like Pontius Pilate.
End your day in awe-inspiring Jerusalem, where you will stay overnight in a comfortable hotel. Experience the beauty and significance of this sacred city as you continue your journey through the Holy Land.
Day 5: Jerusalem Museums – Bethlehem
Begin your morning at Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial Institute and its new historical museum, to pay tribute to the victims and understand the importance of remembrance. Next, immerse yourself in history at the Israel Museum and Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are housed.
Drive to Bethlehem (subject to local conditions) to visit the sacred Church of Nativity and iconic Manger Square. Return to New Jerusalem, making a stop at the Knesset, the heart of Israeli democracy, before heading to your hotel for a restful overnight stay. Experience a day filled with poignant history and cultural significance.
Day 6: Jerusalem of Gold
Jerusalem, a city rich in history and emotion, captivates the hearts of many from around the world. Begin your day with a drive by Mount Scopus, passing significant landmarks such as the WW1 British cemetery, Hadassah Hospital, and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Stop at the Mount of Olives for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Old City, where centuries of history unfold before your eyes.
Descend to the Garden of Gethsemane and journey through the Kidron Valley, filled with biblical monuments. As you make your way to the walled city, pause at the Western Wall, Judaism’s holiest site, and walk the Via Dolorosa, stopping at each ‘Station of the Cross’ until you reach Golgotha and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
Explore the Tower of David Museum to delve deeper into Jerusalem’s storied past, wander above the Roman Cardo, and exit the walled town through Zion Gate to Mt. Zion. Visit Dormition Abbey and the Room of The Last Supper for a truly enriching experience in this timeless city. Jerusalem awaits you with open arms, ready to evoke a myriad of emotions and embrace you in its history.
Day 7: Jerusalem & some more
Explore the fascinating history of Jerusalem by visiting the Davidson Centre and the City of David, where the ancient city began. Discover the National Park of Bet Guvrin, known as the “Land of 1000 Caves,” carved out of limestone hills and used by various civilizations throughout history. Immerse yourself in the rich Hellenistic history of the area, with cities dispersed across the landscape, connecting the coastal plains to the Judean Hills.
Complete your journey by traveling through Emek Ha Elah, where the legendary battle between David and Goliath took place, before returning to your hotel in Jerusalem. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience of exploring the ancient wonders of Israel.
Day 8: Departure
You have some time to spare before your journey to the airport for your departure from Jerusalem or your transfer to Eilat. Relax and enjoy a moment to yourself.
Tour Highlights
Galilee tour; Israel travel; Middle East trip; religious sites; historical landmarks; cultural experiences; guided tour; group travel; biblical locations; sea of galilee; pilgrimage sites; holy land exploration; religious pilgrimage; biblical history; tourist attractions; galilee region; Jordan border; travel itinerary; heritage tour; sacred sites; historical sites; sightseeing tour; tourist destinations.
The program includes
- Meet, pick up and drop off at your lodging Mousa.
- Transfers by air-conditioned vehicle.
- English-speaking guide.
- Entrance fees to the sites.
- Meals.
- 7-day accommodation.
The program does not include
- Personal travel Insurance expenses.
- Tips / gratuities.
- Government tax, Value Added Tax (VAT), or compulsory charges introduced after publication.
- Optional excursions and activities (are subject to availability).
- Any beverages with meals, unless mentioned and upon request.
- Carriages and camel rides.
- Extra costs due to unanticipated changes in the itinerary for reasons beyond our control.
- Any other items not listed in the “includes”.
Tour options
- Optional activities are subject to availability.
- Optional private or onsite local guides.
- Guides in languages other than English are available upon request and subject to availability.
- Optional special private vehicles are available upon request.
Changes overview
The itinerary may change due to unanticipated circumstances, factors beyond our control, or at the guide’s discretion.
Important notes
- Staying Healthy
- The time frame for this tour is approximate and subject to change according to the client’s preference.
- The tour itinerary is subject to change due to factors beyond our control and event of unforeseen circumstances or at the guide’s discretion.
- In the event of an increase in fuel prices, Via Jordan Travel & Tours reserves the right to raise the prices for its services without prior notice.
- Optional excursions and activities are subject to availability.
- Optional special private vehicles available upon request.
- Copies of your passports are required in advance to issue port permits (if needed).
- You need to take your passport or a good quality photocopy of it with you.
- Reservations made less than 20 working days before the start of the service may be subject to change.
- Your booking is confirmed only upon the provision of 50% prepayment.
- Using sufficient amount of sun protection lotion is essential for avoiding sun burn.
Dress Code
- Dress appropriately for the weather.
- In order to protect oneself from the hot summer heat, you should use caps, sunscreen lotion, and loose, cool clothing.
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