Jordan & Israel: Cultural Crossroads

The stillness of the desert. The breeze off the coast. The foundation of spiritual phenomena. The lowest point on Earth. In Jordan and Israel, uncover the truth behind a land cloaked in mysteries, legends, and unwavering cultures.

Start your journey in Amman, the innovative capital of Jordan. Make your way to the legendary Dead Sea, whose salty shores draw inquisitive nomads, health gurus, and those seeking out a slice of indulgence. Feel at peace as you settle into your tranquil home for the next 2 nights.

Admire sprawling vistas from Mount Nebo, where Moses shared his vision of the elusive Promised Land. In Madaba, visit St. George’s Church, whose Byzantine mosaics illustrate a glimpse into ancient history. Connect with an inspiring entrepreneur at his progressive bookstore. After enjoying lunch cooked by locals, it’s your choice! Reflect at Bethany Beyond the Jordan (UNESCO), the site of Jesus Christ’s baptism -OR- enjoy time on your own to float in the Dead Sea’s ethereal waters. As the sun sets on the turquoise tides, get to know your fellow travelers over dinner.

Start your morning with an Impact Moment at Bani Hamida, a women’s rug weaving cooperative, where you’ll participate in a hands-on lesson before lunch. Continue on to Petra, a red sandstone city carved into the cliffs. Try your hand at culinary techniques during an authentic Arabic cooking class. After you prepare your meal, discover the unique blend of flavors as you enjoy your carefully crafted dinner.

Beat the crowds and the heat of the sun with an early-morning tour of Petra’s archaeological remains (UNESCO). With towering bluffs overhead, delve into this ancient crossroad with a local guide. The remainder of the day is yours to discover this “lost city” on your own.

Launch into a land of quiet stillness and open dunes as you make your way to Wadi Rum on a 4x4 vehicle. Take time for lunch before returning back through the desert. Grab your bags and get ready for the second part of your adventure as you cross the border into Israel.* A short transfer takes you to your hotel located in Eilat’s Marina, your home for the next 2 nights.

Soak in the atmosphere as it’s your choice! Spend a morning at the Coral Beach Nature Reserve, snorkeling** in the crystalline waters of the Red Sea -OR- relax aboard a glass bottom boat cruise of the Gulf of Aqaba in search for marine life. With a free afternoon, perhaps you’ll go on an optional excursion to the Eilat Mountains, where you’ll be able to take in the sun as it sets over four countries: Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Israel and Egypt. Gather around a bonfire and gaze over the Sinai, the area where Moses led the Jews during their Exodus from Egypt and back to the Promised Land.

Discover why the locals have so much pride in their ability to grow food in this harsh climate at Desert Agriculture Research Center in the Arava Valley, where you’ll learn about drip irrigation and other innovative techniques that allow crops to flourish in the desert. Travel to the desert fortress of Masada (UNESCO), perched upon a cliff next to the Dead Sea. With a guide, explore Herod's Palace and the Roman Camp. Descend the ancient walls by cable car before continuing on to Jerusalem, your home for the next 3 nights.

Today, you’ll begin your exploration of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, where you’ll marvel at the panoramic view of the Holy City, including the shining Dome of the Rock. Get ready to see Jerusalem on foot and embark on a comprehensive tour of the old city, covering multiple religions that have coexisted here for centuries. Pause at the Western (Wailing) Wall, follow the Stations of the Cross on the Via Dolorosa, and walk in the footsteps of millions before you. With the remainder of your day at leisure, delve into Jerusalem’s Shuk (the Bazaars of the Old City), with each narrow street dedicated to different trades passed down through generations. As you explore, breathe in the smell of freshly baked bread, roasting sesame seeds, and savory spices.

Reflect on the sorrows of the past at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, followed by a poignant discussion with a Holocaust survivor.*** The rest of the day is yours to do as you please. Perhaps you’ll take an optional tour through the Judean Hills to Bethlehem. You may also opt to see the city from the different perspective with a tour of Jerusalem at night.

Head to Magdala, regarded to be the hometown of Mary Magdalene, and find an ancient city of stone carvings and excavated temples. Sail on the sea in a historic replica boat before continuing on to the Mount of Beatitudes, an overlook where Jesus gave his famous Sermon of the Mount. End your day in Safed, a beautiful little town of weather-worn alleyways and one of Judaism’ Four Holy Cities.

Wander along rumbling waterfalls, quiet ponds, and temple ruins in Caesarea Philippi National Park. Travel by apple orchards and green groves on your way to Majdal Shams, a town in Golan Heights. Get to know a variety of the local religions today, first meeting with a member of the Druze community to learn more about this mysterious and secretive sect of Islam. Return to Safed for a walking tour led by an expert. Learn about Kabbalah’s mystical beliefs, providing another glimpse into a local religion. Connect with one of the town’s Orthodox Jewish families over a home-hosted dinner.

Explore Nazareth, the childhood town of Jesus. More than just a religious town, Nazareth’s culinary scene and growing businesses brought the city into the 21st century. After visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation, experience an Impact Moment at a non-profit community center where local women lead a lesson on traditional crafts. Discover the nearby open-air market before enjoying a home-hosted lunch in a historic house, featuring Arab-Israeli favorites such as hummus, baba ghanoush, pastries, and more. Head to the bustling waterfront city of Tel Aviv – the remainder of the day is yours. Perhaps you’ll relax in an outdoor café, walk along the beach, or check out the dynamic nightlife.

Make your way through Tel Aviv’s historic section, Jaffa, passing by St. Peter’s Church, Wishing Bridge, Ramses Gate, and the unique Suspended Orange Tree. Then taste your way through one of Tel Aviv’s lively street markets as you connect with the locals, getting a true taste of everyday life in this bustling Mediterranean city. This evening, toast to the end of your trip at a farewell reception.

Wish Israel goodbye as you depart for home.