Beginning your journey in Jerusalem, you will discover a city rich in tradition, religion and history. Being central to Judaism, Christianity and Islam, there are few cities in the world with as much spiritual significance as Jerusalem. Alongside your knowledgeable guide, you will discover the history and beauty of Jerusalem as you visit the iconic and deeply spiritual sites. The early part of the day will focus upon the sites most holy to the non-Christian faiths, while through the afternoon, you will explore the Christian heritage of the Old City at sites such as the Garden of Gethsemane, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the tomb of King David.
With an enticing combination of old and new, outside the Old City walls, lies a modern capital and a remarkable sensory experience. The streets are steeped with a buzzing atmosphere, urban gastronomy and a budding art-scene. With authentic markets placed next to modern-day malls, strolling the streets is mesmerising experience. Jerusalem will no doubt leave a lasting impression. Alongside an expert culinary guide, discover the culinary trends of Israel where cultures have mixed and influenced each other to create unique flavours, of which you will have plenty of tastings as your guide leads you to Jerusalem’s best hidden delicacies.
Departing Jerusalem early this morning, you will then board a helicopter for a scenic flight to the Northern edge of the Dead Sea. You will gain remarkable vistas of the Old City from above, before continuing over the Judea Desert and the Mar Saba Monastery, flying low over Bedouin tribes and camels. Land at the mountain top ruins of Masada, one of Israel’s most dramatic sights, for an exclusive tour of this ancient fortress. Delight in a freshly prepared picnic lunch in this serene location, before boarding the helicopter to reach the shores of the Dead Sea. Take a swim and float in the cobalt-blue, shimmering waters that are rich in minerals.
Spend a night camping in the Negev desert at the edge of the Ramon Crater, relaxing as the sun sets over this immense canyon of red and gold. After night has descended, enjoy a simple dinner around the campfire. Your guide will bring out a small telescope to do a spot of stargazing – an amazing experience in this isolated location, far from artificial lights. Rise to a freshly cooked traditional Israeli breakfast in your peaceful and secluded setting. This morning you will venture across the arid desert in 4×4 quads, an adrenaline fuelled off-roading experience that will take you across desert dunes and into the heart of the Ramon Crater.