| Bible Land Encounters
Encounter new and different sites in the Holy Land, from the coast of the Mediterranean Sea to the Sea of Galilee; the Golan Heights to the Dead Sea; the West Bank to Jerusalem. Bible Land Encounters will change the way you understand and live your faith and deepen bonds within your group.
What’s Included
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Itinerary
Day 1 – Depart The USA
Depart the USA on your international flight. (Note: Those making their own arrangements will start with EOX on Day 2.)
Day 2 – Arrive in the Holy Land
Arrive in the Holy Land and make your way to your hotel on the Mediterranean coast.* (D)
Day 3 – Caesarea, Mt. Carmel, Megiddo, and Nazareth
Immerse yourself in the Holy Land as you begin your encounters in the land of the Bible. Along the Mediterranean in Caesarea, where the apostle Paul was imprisoned for over two years, walk through the theatre, Herod’s fortress, and a Roman aqueduct. Imagine what it was like to be an early Christian during the turbulent first years of the church. Next, recall the LORD’s power at Mt. Carmel, where He won a dramatic victory over the prophets of Baal when Elijah called down fire from heaven. In Nazareth, walk the paths of our Savior’s childhood, where Jesus played, grew up, and worked. Then follow an ancient caravan route through the Jezreel Valley. Explore Tel Megiddo, an exciting archaeological dig with layers of twenty different cities built one on top of another. Talk to your guide about your choice of delicious authentic dining options today and throughout your journey. (B, D)
Day 4 – Sea of Galilee Sites
In the Galilee, Biblical encounters truly abound. You will have several chances to engage not only with your faith heritage but with the current culture. Majestic Mount Arbel overlooks the Sea of Galilee and is an ideal hiking opportunity. Choose to sail across the Sea of Galilee while experiencing a unique onboard worship service. Learn about the Valley of the Doves, the path Jesus and his disciples would often travel. Venture to Magdala, where new Loaves and the Fish are powerful locations in which to contemplate the miracles and teachings of Jesus. Enjoy taking your time in these important locations and truly letting their meaning permeate your heart. (B, D)
Day 5 – Golan Heights and Winery
Approach the Golan Heights while reflecting on its importance to Christianity and world affairs. At the ruins of Tel Dan, learn about the altar built by King Jeroboam I and where the “House of David” fragment was discovered. You can visit Caesarea Philippi, where Peter declared, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God!” During your drive, you can see Mt. Hermon in the distance, Israel’s tallest mountain and one of the possible sites of the transfiguration. Then, opt to stop at a viewing area where you can clearly see a UN base camp sitting on the border of Lebanon, Syria, and Israel. Then, enjoy relaxing in the beautiful countryside while enjoying wine from any of the nation’s five wine-producing regions. Israel has housed vineyards for thousands of years, and wine is an important part of their culture. Taste the distinct flavors of the Holy Land while learning about their wine production process. (B, D. Overnight in Tiberias)
Day 6 – Beit Shean, Jericho, Bethlehem
Travel to Beit Shean, which has been continuously inhabited for over 5,000 years and is where the Philistines hung the bodies of Saul and his sons on the city walls. Recently discovered ruins date back to the Greco-Roman city that was part of the Decapolis of Jesus’ day. See colonnaded streets with marble sidewalks, Roman public baths, and a theater. Jericho is another city that has been continuously inhabited for thousands of years. Here, you can tour the ruins of the ancient city Joshua conquered. Off in the distance, you can see the traditional site of the Temptation of Jesus. In Bethlehem, gaze out over Shepherds’ Field and visit the Church of the Nativity, built above the cave where Jesus was born. It is considered the world’s oldest functioning church. Enjoy exploring many amazing food possibilities throughout the Jordan Valley. (B. Overnight in Jerusalem)
Day 7 – Qumran, Dead Sea, and Masada
At Qumran, discover many significant sites during your customizable day. See, first-hand, where a Bedouin shepherd unearthed the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947. Encounter Masada, the spectacular mountaintop fortress built by Herod that later became the final tragic stronghold of the Jewish rebellion against the Romans. Ride the cable car or hike to the top to explore the fortress and look down upon the remains of the Roman camps and siege ramp below. On the way to Jerusalem, opt for a stop at the Dead Sea, the lowest spot on earth, where you can take a quick dip in the famous and therapeutic mineral-laden waters. (B)
Day 8 – Jerusalem
With two days in Jerusalem, create an experience filled with exciting highlights and exclusive memories. This city is teeming with possibilities!
Get a feel for the people and history of Israel. Perhaps pay your respects at Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Memorial. Walk through name after name and photo after photo of those lost to hatred. You can get a truly amazing view of ancient Jerusalem at the Holy Land Model City, where hundreds of feet of miniature architecture portray the exquisite city. The Israel Museum offers hours of archeological contributions, art galleries, and remarkable history. For a vibe of Israel, wander no farther than the marketplace where cultural fusion and new ventures continue to thrive in the Israel of today. (B)
Day 9 – Jerusalem
At the Western Wall, submit your prayers to heaven as so many before you have and sit on the Teaching Steps where Jesus taught. Trace the footsteps of Christ during His last hours before the crucifixion. Stand on the Mount of Olives for a remarkable view of Jerusalem, “the Golden City.” Recall the events of the Last Supper as you visit the traditional location of the Upper Room. Visit the home of the High Priest Caiaphas and stand upon the ground where Jesus stood when He was tried by His own people. Walk the Via Dolorosa, “the Way of the "cross," to the traditional sites of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. Experience the reality of the Resurrection when you visit the Garden Tomb. (B, D)
Day 10 – Return Home
Return home with life-changing memories.*
*(Transfer to airport included if air purchased through EOX or if you provide EOX with your flight information at least one month prior to your departure. Those not providing this information may have to make their own transfer arrangements to return to the airport.)
B=Breakfast Included
D=Dinner Included