Qumran & Dead Sea

Begin your desert journey by descending from Jerusalem or Tel Aviv toward the Dead Sea, passing through the dramatic wilderness of the Judean Desert. The landscape changes quickly, opening into dry cliffs, deep wadis, desert light, and views toward the lowest place on Earth.

Visit Qumran National Park, the ancient desert settlement associated with the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, one of the most important archaeological finds connected to Jewish and biblical history. Continue into the Dead Sea region for time to experience its unusual mineral waters and desert atmosphere. Depending on timing and interest, the day can also include a stop at the Ahava Dead Sea Factory Shop or a scenic desert bicycle experience near sinkholes and date plantations.

Highlights include:
✔ Qumran National Park ✔ Dead Sea Scrolls Site. ✔ Ahava Dead Sea Factory Shop ✔ Dead Sea Float ✔ Judean Desert Landscapes

Optional experiences:
✔ Dead Sea Bicycle Adventure ✔ Dead Sea Crystal Boat Experience

Overnight: Dead Sea

Masada & Ein Gedi

Today focuses on two of the most iconic sites in the Dead Sea region: Masada and Ein Gedi. Begin at Masada National Park, ascending the dramatic desert plateau by cable car to explore the fortress built by King Herod nearly 2,000 years ago.

Walk among palaces, storerooms, bathhouses, ancient walls, and synagogue remains while learning the story that made Masada a powerful symbol of Jewish resilience. From the summit, the views across the Dead Sea basin and Judean Desert are unforgettable. Continue to Ein Gedi, a desert oasis connected to the biblical story of David and Saul, where water, wildlife, cliffs, and vegetation create one of the most beautiful natural settings in Israel.

Highlights include:
✔ Masada National Park ✔ Masada Cable Car ✔ Herod’s Palace ✔ Ein Gedi Nature Reserve ✔ Ein Gedi Ancient Synagogue

Optional experience:
✔ Masada Snake Path Hike

Overnight: Dead Sea / Arad

Desert Kingdoms & Salt

On the final day, continue exploring the southern Dead Sea and northern Negev, where ancient desert kingdoms, modern industry, and extraordinary geology meet. Begin with the story of the modern Dead Sea Works and the mineral industry that transformed this region in the 20th century.

Visit the Moshe Novomeisky Visitors Center to understand how the Dead Sea became one of Israel’s most important natural and economic resources. Continue along the Ein Bokek promenade and shoreline, with views of desert cliffs, salt formations, and the unusual landscape of the southern Dead Sea. End the day at Tel Arad National Park, an important fortified city from the Kingdom of Judah, including remains of a rare Israelite temple from the biblical period.

Highlights include:
✔ Moshe Novomeisky Visitors Center ✔ Ein Bokek Promenade. ✔ Dead Sea Shoreline ✔ Tel Arad National Park ✔ Ancient Israelite Temple

Optional experience:
✔ Dead Sea Crystal Cave Rappelling

Tour ends: Jerusalem or Tel Aviv