2-Day Northern Israel Tour From Jerusalem: Golan Heights, Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee

Set out on a captivating 2-day journey through northern Israel’s most breathtaking landscapes and historical sites. Explore the majestic Golan Heights, explore the vibrant history of Nazareth, and discover the serene beauty of the Sea of Galilee. Along the way, indulge in rejuvenating hot springs, uncover ancient Galilean life, and experience a meaningful baptism in the Jordan River. With expert guidance and comfortable accommodations, this tour promises an enriching adventure that will leave you…

Good To Know

• This 2-day guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Northern Israel, including the Golan Heights, Nazareth, and the Sea of Galilee.
• Highlights include visiting Hammat Gader hot springs, Katzrin village, Mount Bental, and the opportunity for baptism in the Jordan River.
• The itinerary focuses on the region’s natural beauty, rich history, and religious significance, with a tailored experience for each group.
• Comfortable accommodations, transportation, and an expert guide are provided to ensure a seamless and immersive tour experience.
• Travelers should consider an early start, modest dress code, and accessibility limitations when booking this tour.

Tour Overview

The Northern Israel Tour is a 2-day guided adventure that takes visitors through the stunning landscapes and historic sites of northern Israel, departing from Jerusalem.

Key destinations include the Golan Heights, Nazareth, and the Sea of Galilee. Travelers will have the opportunity to visit Hammat Gader hot springs, Katzrin village, and Mount Bental, as well as the chance to be baptized in the Jordan River.

Overnight accommodations and transportation are included, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.

This tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s natural beauty and religious significance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to explore the northern reaches of Israel.

Itinerary and Activities

Day 1 immerses travelers in the captivating Golan Heights region. The itinerary includes:

1. Visiting the remarkable Hammat Gader hot springs, where relaxation abounds.

2. Exploring the charming Katzrin village, a window into ancient Galilean life.

3. Ascending Mount Bental for panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes.

On Day 2, the tour ventures to Nazareth, the childhood home of Jesus, and the serene Sea of Galilee.

Travelers will have the opportunity for a special experience – baptism in the Jordan River, scheduled for 15:30-16:15.

The itinerary may adjust slightly depending on the departure day, ensuring a tailored experience for each group.

Exploring the Golan Heights

The Golan Heights region offers a captivating landscape steeped in history and natural wonders.

On the first day of the tour, visitors will explore this unique area, which features volcanic formations, lush vineyards, and strategic military outposts.

They’ll visit Hammat Gader, known for its rejuvenating hot springs, and Katzrin, an ancient Jewish village that provides insights into life in the Golan centuries ago.

The highlight of the day may be the ascent to Mount Bental, offering panoramic views across the border into Syria and an up-close look at the region’s complex geopolitics.

Throughout the day, the guide will share stories that bring the Golan’s rich history and modern significance to life.

Visiting Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee

On the second day, travelers venture to Nazareth, the childhood home of Jesus.

They’ll visit:

1. The Church of the Annunciation, a major Catholic pilgrimage site where the angel Gabriel is said to have appeared to Mary.
2. The Church of St. Joseph, built over the legendary site of Joseph’s carpentry workshop.
3. The Old Market, a lively souk where visitors can browse local crafts and sample Middle Eastern cuisine.

After Nazareth, the tour proceeds to the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus is believed to have walked on water and performed other miracles.

Travelers have the opportunity for baptism at the Jordan River before returning to Jerusalem.

Baptism in the Jordan River

After exploring the sites of Nazareth, the tour moves on to the highlight many travelers eagerly anticipate – the opportunity for baptism in the Jordan River.

This sacred Christian ritual takes place at the Yardenit baptismal site, located along the Jordan River banks. Travelers can dress in provided robes and be immersed in the river’s waters, recreating the baptism of Jesus.

The estimated time for this experience is 15:30-16:15, allowing ample time for preparation and the ritual itself.

This deeply meaningful activity is a cherished part of the tour, connecting visitors to the rich history and religious significance of the region.

Included Accommodations and Transportation

Typically, the tour includes comfortable overnight accommodations at a hotel situated near the tour’s key destinations.

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey throughout the northern region of Israel.

The tour package also includes:

1. Breakfast to fuel your day’s explorations.
2. Hotel pickup and drop-off services, making it convenient to start and end your adventure.
3. A professional guide to provide historical and cultural insights along the way.

While gratuities aren’t included in the package, the overall inclusions ensure a well-organized and seamless northern Israel tour experience.

Essential Travel Considerations

When embarking on this northern Israel tour, travelers should keep a few essential considerations in mind. The tour starts early at 5:40 am, so an early morning start is required. Modest dress is a must for visiting holy sites, with knees and shoulders covered. Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and a hat are recommended to stay comfortable during the long days of exploration.

Consideration	Importance	Recommendations
Start Time	High	Be prepared for an early 5:40 am departure
Dress Code	High	Wear modest clothing covering knees and shoulders
Packing List	Medium	Bring comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, hat
Accessibility	Low	Tour is not wheelchair accessible, not suitable for young children

The tour is not wheelchair accessible and not suitable for children under 4 years old. With a maximum group size of 40 travelers, this tour offers an intimate experience to discover northern Israel’s highlights.

Traveler Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for this northern Israel tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 stars out of 9 reviews.

Reviewers praised the tour’s comprehensive coverage of Israel’s history and scenic beauty, with highlights including:

1. The breathtaking landscapes of the Golan Heights.
2. The opportunity to be baptized in the Jordan River.
3. The insightful commentary from the professional guide.

However, some travelers expressed concerns about the time spent on pickups and the guide’s occasional focus on war victories.

Plus, a few noted that the promised hotel pickup wasn’t provided for their tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Tour’s Cancellation and Refund Policy?

The tour’s cancellation and refund policy is not explicitly stated in the provided information. Travelers should check with the tour operator for their specific cancellation and refund terms and conditions prior to booking.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Options for the Included Meals?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions or options for the included meals. Travelers with special dietary needs should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about accommodations.

Can Travelers Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour doesn’t provide meals unless specified, so bringing personal snacks and beverages is allowed and encouraged to ensure travelers’ comfort and preferences are met during the excursion.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Hotel or Add Additional Experiences?

The tour package doesn’t include an option to upgrade the hotel or add additional experiences. Travelers can explore those possibilities separately, but they’re not part of the standard tour offering.

How Are Single Travelers Accommodated, and Is There a Solo Traveler Supplement?

Single travelers are accommodated with shared rooms. There’s a solo traveler supplement to cover the additional cost of a single-occupancy room. Upgrades and add-ons may be available for an extra fee.

The Sum Up

The 2-Day Northern Israel Tour from Jerusalem offers a captivating exploration of Golan Heights, Nazareth, and the Sea of Galilee. Travelers will enjoy rejuvenating hot springs, explore ancient Galilean life, and take in breathtaking views. The itinerary includes significant religious sites and a meaningful baptism experience. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour promises an enriching journey through history and natural beauty.