There’s always something new to discover in Israel, from archaeological finds to cultural experiences. Here are a few ideas for an in-depth & interactive itinerary.
Biblical/Historical
In addition to the more well-known sites, there is plenty more to see when it comes to experiencing the lands of the Bible. Consider extending your Holy Land trip to add on some of these educational, immersive & adventurous activities:
- Jesus Trail – Trace the steps Jesus may have walked by hiking the 40-mile route from Nazareth to Capernaum.
- Saxon Center – Follow the 4000-year Biblical & historical timeline.
- Jericho & the Mt. of Temptation – The adventurous can trek 30-minutes up a steep path, passing through the cliffhanging monastery on the way. Or, choose a 5-minute cable car ride.
Jericho
- Acre – Visit Acre, Crusader capital of Israel for 100 years. See the well-preserved ruins of Knights Halls, the Citadel, living areas, prison & secret Templar escape tunnel!
- Nimrod’s Castle – Stroll through the largest Crusade-era castle in Israel.
- Nazareth Village – See what life was like during the time of Jesus. Stroll past houses, terraced fields, wine & olive presses – built to reenact 1st-century life in a Galilee village.
Nazareth Village – Photo courtesy of the Israel Ministry of Tourism
- Underground Boat Ride – Explore the ancient Pool of the Arches where locals would water their goats during Biblical times.
- Hezekiah Tunnels – Walk through the water channel carved beneath the City of David connecting the Gihon Spring to the Pool of Siloam (wet & dry options).
- Archaeological Dig – Participate in an ongoing archaeological dig to help uncover Biblical history.
Culinary
Hungry for more? Israel is world-famous for its cuisine and culinary heritage. Here are some examples of culinary activities your group can add on to spice up your Israel itinerary.
- Shabbat Dinner – Enjoy a traditional Shabbat dinner in a Jerusalem family’s home.
- Food Tour – See an herb & spice farm, olive oil press & traditional Arabic coffee roaster. Visit a cheese maker or enjoy a short Druze cooking workshop. Local winery &/or micro-brewery tours are also available.
- Machane Yehuda Food Market – Tour Jerusalem’s largest food market. Then, visit Nachlaot, a group of neighborhoods in central Jerusalem known for its winding lanes, old-style housing, hidden courtyards & many small synagogues.
- Picnic on Sculpture Road – Israeli artists’ works line the road through President’s Forest. Enjoy a bite on the way to Samson’s home town or to see Crusader ruins.
Cultural
There is plenty to experience when it comes to Israel’s diverse culture. Immerse yourself in the Bedouin, Druze, or Kibbutz lifestyle and traditions, and/or learn more about the Holocaust at Yad Vashem.
- Bedouin Experience – Share a traditional meal with village residents and/or choose to stay overnight in a tented camp or take a camel ride through the desert.
Photo courtesy of the Israel Ministry of Tourism
- Visit a Kibbutz – Learn about the values embodied by kibbutz life: equality, sharing, a strong worth ethic & mutual responsibility.
- Druze Village – Learn about this Israeli culture known for its hospitality. They have opened their villages to tourists, but maintain their traditional lifestyle.
- Yad Vashem – Spend time at the Holocaust Memorial complex.
Yad Vashem – Photo courtesy of the Israel Ministry of Tourism
Spirit Renewing
Israel is a place where you can rejuvenate your spirit, enhance your faith, and refill your cup of emotional energy. There are many ways to mindfully take the time to do just that; here are but a few:
- Volunteer Project – Choose from a variety of options, including: fruit picking, forest conservation & food distribution.
- Eilat – Relax at this oasis city on the shores of the Red Sea. You can plan activities such as swimming with dolphins, scuba diving, or snorkeling.
- International Prayer Center – Take time for prayer and reflection and encourage members of your group to have a personal encounter with God.
Ready to Start Planning?
Here’s an itinerary that already includes many of these experiences in addition to the key sites – Return to the Land. You can add or subtract sites/experiences based on your interests.
Have your own itinerary in mind? Reach out to get started on a custom group itinerary.
It’s a big world. Get out there!
Your FTI Team
www.fellowship.com
