THE JUDEAN DESERT
DAY TOURS
Massada and Dead Sea
Leaving Jerusalem, the stark change in scenery as you enter the Judean Desert is impressive. Changing from green mountainous and urban landscape to a yellow-rocky desert scene.
Throughout history, the Judean Desert has been an important and much documented place. It was the main entry route to Jerusalem from the east. Moses famously looked out the Holy Land across this region, from the Moab Mountains of Jordan, across the Dead Sea of Israel.
The desert has provided quiet and tranquility contrasting to the ever-political and tense situations in Jerusalem throughout the ages. Monks gathered in this region as they broke out of Jerusalem 2,000 years back. Here they formed some of the world’s most ancient and spectacular monasteries in the cliff-faces of the desert. The beautiful Monastery of St George and the Mar Saba remain active to this day. Qumran Dead Sea scrolls were discovered here less than 100 years ago. Providing one of the most important archaeological finds in history of the Bible and The New Testament.
ITINERARY
Ein Gedi Nature reserve
Masada
Ein Gedi Nature reserve is an extraordinary oasis with magnificent desert plants, wildlife, and waterfalls perched between a barren and empty desert. Enjoy walking through the greenery and cooling off in the springs.
A UNESCO world heritage site is an ancient fortress occupying a breathtaking, strategic location high on a flat plateau above the Dead Sea. Explore this incredible site – history and beautiful lookouts. Overlooking the lowest point on earth and surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Judean Desert.
Dead Sea
Float in the Dead Sea - the lowest place on earth. Nothing can survive the very salty waters, therefore it is called The Dead Sea. The lake is made up of 33% salt and contains minerals and muds with special healing properties.
I experienced great nature around Judean Desert thanks to skilled guide Moria. All the way down south, we were lucky to find a big deer in the desert looks like as if he was sent by the God in front of us. Moria is a very nice person with lots of interesting information, I really enjoyed my stay in Israel.
Nobuko Nicole Nakano, Tokyo, Japan
DETAILS
What's included
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Guided tour in an intimate group one on one, family and friends - up to 12 pax
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In option : Transportation to all sites on an 'Eshkol' authorized vehicle (AC with Wi-Fi) - Car/ Van licensed by Ministry of Tourism.
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Reservations for site entrance
Weather
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Hat, sunscreen, walking shoes, water and snacks
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Additional shawl for holy sites and colder weather.
What's not included
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Food and drinks
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Entrances fees
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Accommodation
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Personal expenses
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Travel insurance
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Tips
