Jordan & Israel: Cultural Crossroads

Discover the treasures of Jerusalem by night, a beacon of three faiths. By bus, enjoy stunning views of the Old City walls, Temple Mount and Mount Zion. On foot, walk through Jaffa gate to the Old City (UNESCO), which combines ancient beauty with timeless allure, and visit the Citadel (also known as the Tower of David). The walls of the Citadel serve as a stage for a “Night Spectacular” show which is a celebration of sight and sound. Amidst the archaeological remains in the Citadel’s courtyard and set to the sound of original music, the story of Jerusalem unfolds through giant breathtaking, virtual reality images celebrating Jerusalem's spiritual and historical role across the centuries.

Venture to the Judean Hills and spend your afternoon in the city of Bethlehem. This historic city is known as the birthplace of Jesus. It is also regarded in Judaism as the hometown of King David and where he was crowned as the king of Israel. Make your way through the town on foot with an expert guide, feeling as if you’ve stepped into another time. You’ll visit the historic Church of the Nativity – built upon the site of where Jesus was born. The church was constructed in the 4th century, and its weathered stone facades allude to its age. Return to Jerusalem in the evening.

Set off in all-terrain vehicles for an exploration of the Arava Desert surrounding Eilat. Experience the desert landscape as you drive off-road into Solomon Wadi (valley) and onto the viewpoint over the ancient Egyptian copper mines dated to the times of the biblical King Solomon. Immerse yourself in the silence and magic of the desert during a walk in one of the more absconded valleys before driving to the top of the Eilat Mountains. From this elevated position, enjoy the sunset and take in the spectacular view over the Red Sea and the Sinai Peninsula, traversed by Moses and the Jewish people during their 40-year wandering in the desert following Exodus from Egypt. Gather around a bonfire to share tea and freshly baked desert bread, while taking in expansive views over the 4 neighboring countries in the Gulf of Aqaba: Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Saudi Arabia.