Monday
"Jerusalem and the Hills of Judah." Head westward into the green Hills of Judah to the majestic Stalactite and Stalagmite Caves. Return to Jerusalem to the Tish Family Zoological Garden (The Biblical Zoo) in Jerusalem. Here the animals are housed in a spacious environment, which is similar to their natural habitat. View many animals that are referred to in the Bible. Head to the Ayalon Valley, a major battlefield throughout history. The Latrun Police Station located here was the scene of much bloodshed during the War of Liberation in 1948 and was liberated from Jordanian rule in 1967. Visit the Memorial Wall and view a short, moving audio-visual documentary offering a more in-depth explanation of the battles fought here. Tour the Armored Brigade Museum housing an impressive exhibit of armored vehicles.
Tuesday
"Kings and Rebels in the Desert of Judah." Depart Jerusalem heading eastward into the Judean Desert. Enjoy a nature hike along the oasis of Ein Gedi where you may well see wild animals roaming freely in the desert. South to Masada. Ascend by cable car to the mountain-top fortress of Masada for an in-depth tour of the site. In the afternoon continue to the shore of the Dead Sea for an afternoon relaxation in a private Dead Sea beach.
Wednesday
"Northward bound." Stop along the way at the "Land of Genesis" where you will "meet" Biblical characters who will lead you through the hills on camels. You will be greeted by "Abraham" and his family who will host you in their tent! North to Beit Alpha to view an audio/visual presentation that explains the process of making the mosaic floor of a 6th century synagogue. During the presentation will see this beautifully preserved mosaic floor that depicts the sacrifice of Isaac as described in the Torah. Continue via Tiberias to Safed, the city of the mystics to visit the synagogues of Rabbi Isaac Luria and Rabbi Joseph Karo. There will also be some time to wander about the alleys, lanes and art galleries of the Old City of Safed.
Thursday
"The Coast of Israel." Drive westward toward the ocean to Rosh Hanikra, the grottos and the cable car that will take us down to see the natural caverns. Optional visit to the ancient city of Akko (Acre), once the Crusader capital of the North and now a city of mixed Arab and Jewish populations. Continue southward, via Haifa, to Caesarea and its Roman and Crusader antiquities. You will here be able to view the Caesarea Harbour projects cinematic exhibition and audiovisual experience that will take you on a majestic virtual tour of the site. Return to Jerusalem.
