Breakfast at your hotel

• Today's Events

  • 7:00 AM departure with 8:30 AM arrival to Climb Masada!!!

    • Sturdy walking shoes, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen advised.

Masada is an ancient fortification in the Southern District of Israel situated on top of an isolated rock plateau (akin to a mesa) on the eastern edge of the Judaean Desert, overlooking the Dead Sea. Herod the Great built palaces for himself on the mountain and fortified Masada between 37 and 31 BCE. According to Josephus, the Siege of Masada by troops of the Roman Empire towards the end of the First Jewish–Roman War ended in the mass suicide of the 960 Jewish rebels and their families hiding there. The site is spectacular and the climb is a challenge.  Those who prefer an easier trip to the mountain top can ride the cable car.

1:00 PM Lunch at the Dead Sea (note: there will be showers, lockers, a beach, and a pool)

• Swim in the Dead Sea and visit the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve 
  • Bring your bathing suit and towel!

At 1,300 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth. Since antiquity, the waters of the Dead Sea have been thought beneficial to health and beauty. Cleopatra is said to have used the water for its cosmetic and pharmaceutical value. Now people come from all over the world to take advantage of its unique properties.  Enjoy reading the Jerusalem Post while sitting on top of the water!

• 3:00 PM Special jeep tour with veteran Ein Gedi Kibbutznikim.

The landscape, climatic conditions and water sources at the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve have created a unique ecosystem of springs, waterfalls and pools surrounded by lush greenery in a desolate desert setting. Hike up to and cool off in the refreshing pools and waterfalls of the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve. The stunning Ein Gedi oasis consists of two separate waterways: Nahal David (David’s Stream), where David took refuge from King Saul; and Nahal Arugot, where remains of a 6th-century synagogue were discovered. After a dip in the waterfalls, return to Jerusalem.  Snacks provided on the bus.

• Late night visit to the Sound and Light Show at the Tower of David. 

The walls of the Citadel serve as a stage for the night show which is a celebration of sight and sound.  Amidst the archaeological remains in the Citadel’s courtyard and to the sound of original music, the story of Jerusalem unfolds through giant breathtaking virtual reality images.