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Israel Uncovered Tour
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Israel Uncovered OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

8 days

Tel Aviv to Jerusalem

On Request

Country(ies): Israel

Tour type: Private

Group size: Min: 1 | Max: 0

Accommodation:4-star hotels

Meals: Breakfasts - 7, Lunches - 0, Dinners - 0

Transport: A/C car/minibus

Highlights:Modern Tel Aviv, old streets of Jaffa, Roman ruins at Caesarea, port city of Haifa, Acre's crusader castle, Biblical sites at the Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, float in the Dead Sea, old Jerusalem, Bethlehem birth place of Jesus

This 8-day journey across the magnificent country of Israel is crafted specifically for travellers with a deep faith who wish to discover the Holy Land. However, it also offers a remarkable adventure for those keen to explore this captivating nation.

The itinerary allows for a brief exploration of the vibrant city and beaches of Tel Aviv before proceeding to Tiberias. It includes tours of Jerusalem and Nazareth, along with visits to many significant religious and historical landmarks. The journey also incorporates a trip to the Dead Sea, where you can float effortlessly on its incredibly salty waters, the lowest point on Earth. Additionally, the tour explores the renowned Sea of Galilee.

While this itinerary focuses on religious highlights, we can also offer a more balanced experience that includes Israel's stunning landscapes, local food producers or wineries, day walks or multi-day hikes, overnight stays in Bedouin camps, excursions in the Negev Desert, or time to unwind by the Red Sea in Eilat.

ITINERARY

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Upon your arrival, one of our representatives will greet you at the airport and arrange your transfer to the hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to unwind, explore the area on your own, and acclimatise after your flight, before joining the group and commencing the first sightseeing tours the following morning.

OVERNIGHT:

Tel Aviv hotel

MEALS:

None

EXTRAS:

None


After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and embark on a tour of the lively city of Tel Aviv. We then make our way to Jaffa for a visit to the Old City and the historic Old Port. Our journey continues with a stop at Caesarea to explore its aqueduct, Roman Theatre, Hippodrome, and the Crusader Fortress. Next, we discover Haifa and its surrounding areas before heading to the renowned Crusader city of Acre. After a full day of sightseeing, we enjoy a brief drive to Galilee, where we have dinner and spend the night.

OVERNIGHT:

Galilee Kibbutz

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


This morning, we journey to Tiberias and explore the areas surrounding the Sea of Galilee, including Capernaum, where Jesus and several of his apostles lived and preached. We will also visit other significant Christian sites associated with miracles, such as the Feeding of the 5000, the Sermon on the Mount, and the Wedding at Cana. Our day continues as we travel to Nazareth, the birthplace of Jesus, where we will visit the Church of the Annunciation.

OVERNIGHT:

Galilee Kibbutz

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


This morning, our journey begins at the River Jordan, the site where Jesus was baptised by John the Baptist. We will then head to the historic city of Beith Shean, where we can explore remarkable Roman ruins. Afterward, we will cross into the West Bank and travel south to Jericho. We'll take a refreshing swim in the Dead Sea before continuing our journey to Jerusalem.

OVERNIGHT:

Jerusalem hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


We begin our day with a visit to the Mount of Olives, a significant location in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Our journey continues with visits to several key churches, including the Garden of Gethsemane. The Holocaust Museum and the Israeli Museum will provide moments of reflection and contemplation. We then make our way to Ein Karem to explore St John the Baptist Church and the Church of the Visitation. Our day concludes in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, where we will stay overnight.

OVERNIGHT:

Jerusalem hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


This morning, we begin with a guided walk through the historic Old City of Jerusalem, which includes stops at the Church of St Anne, the Pool of Bethesda, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and Mount Calvary. We will also visit the Empty Tomb of Jesus, followed by a tour of the Jewish Quarter and the Western Wall. Afterward, we will enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the Dome of the Rock, with a visit to the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

OVERNIGHT:

Jerusalem hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


A day at leisure to explore this fascinating city further, or simply browse through the shops.

OVERNIGHT:

Jerusalem hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


After breakfast, you have free time until we collect you from your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your departure.

OVERNIGHT:

N/A

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


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Included:

 

  • All lodging specified in the itinerary
  • All transportation and transfers
  • 24-hour airport arrival and departure transfer service
  • English-speaking guide throughout touring days
  • All national park and entry fees
  • Meals as mentioned in the itinerary

 

Excluded:

 

  • Overseas Flights
  • Visa Charges
  • Travel Insurance (mandatory)
  • Meals not specified in the travel plan
  • Beverages, snacks, gratuities, and other personal costs (e.g. laundry)
  • Gratuities for the tour guide
  • Any other items not listed above

 

Dates and Prices

The prices for this tour vary by season and are listed below. We also offer the option to tailor the itinerary to suit your specific needs. Please get in touch with us for further information and pricing.

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End Date
Price (P/P)
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Note

Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

Kibbutz Lavi

Tiberias

Tiberias

Local rating

Our rating

 Kibbutz Lavi Grand Islamabad Hotel

Perched atop a mountain, this Glatt-Kosher hotel is primarily designed for Jewish religious guests. Set in a tranquil location just a short drive from Tiberias, it provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The hotel offers a variety of room options to suit different preferences and budgets. On-site facilities include a full-service restaurant, a tennis court, an indoor swimming pool (separate swimming for men and women), and a children's playground.

Complimentary wireless internet is available throughout the hotel.

Grand Beach Hotel

Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv

Local rating

Our rating

 Grand Beach Hotel Grand Islamabad Hotel

Just a 3-minute walk from the beach, the Grand Beach Hotel offers 212 modern rooms with free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a traditional Israeli buffet breakfast and relax by the rooftop pool, which provides stunning views of Tel Aviv.

All rooms have been recently refurbished and feature a contemporary design. They include air conditioning, an LCD TV, a mini fridge, and a safe.

The hotel’s business centre operates 24/7, and the bar serves drinks and light snacks throughout the day.

Grand Beach Hotel is ideally located close to popular beaches and waterfront restaurants, with Tel Aviv Marina just a 10-minute walk away. The surrounding area is home to cafes, shops, and parks, while Carmel Market and Jaffa Old Town are within easy reach.

The 24-hour front desk can assist with organising tours and day trips.

Grand Court Hotel

Jerusalem

Jerusalem

Local rating

Our rating

 Grand Court Hotel Grand Islamabad Hotel

A 10-minute walk from Jerusalem's Old City, the Grand Court Hotel features a rooftop pool with panoramic views, complimentary Wi-Fi, and generously sized rooms. Amenities include free underground parking, a fitness centre, and an iPad rental service.

The hotel’s rooms and suites come with air conditioning and a comfortable seating area. Each private bathroom is equipped with complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer.

Guests can savour a traditional Israeli breakfast buffet, offering a variety of fresh dishes and drinks, served in a bright dining room overlooking the garden.

The new Jerusalem light rail stops right outside the hotel, providing convenient access to the city’s attractions. Jewish holy sites, bustling markets, shops, and restaurants are all within walking distance. The staff are available to assist with tours and sightseeing arrangements.

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you're visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

TOUR NOTES

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

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On this tour, we select high-quality 4-star hotels. Accommodation is provided in twin, triple, or double en-suite rooms, all featuring air conditioning. For examples of the hotels typically used on this tour, please refer to the accommodation tab. Should you have any particular accommodation requests, feel free to contact us, and we will be delighted to offer a personalised quotation.


As we do not provide guaranteed group departures for this tour, we can accommodate any number of travellers, starting from a minimum of 1 person. The prices listed for this tour are based on at least 2 passengers travelling together. If your group consists of a different number of people, please get in touch with us for a personalised quote.

In Israel, we offer fully trained, local English-speaking guides who will lead any sightseeing tours included in your itinerary. At Egypt Uncovered, we exclusively work with local guides and representatives. We believe this enhances your experience of the country and the sites you visit. For further information, including profiles of some of our renowned guides, please visit our website.


The tour cost covers the entrance fees for all the tourist attractions listed in the itinerary. Should you choose to visit any sites not included in the itinerary, you will be responsible for paying the entrance fees.


This itinerary is created as a sample for a personalised tour. As a result, we do not provide fixed group departure dates for you to join. Instead, the tour is available to be taken privately, starting on any day of the year. Below are the indicative seasonal prices, based on two people travelling. Should you wish to modify the tour itinerary or have a different number of travellers, please get in touch with us, and we will tailor a price specifically for you.


Sockets in the area have two round prongs and operate at 220 volts (Type C). Universal adaptors can usually be found in airport shops if you don't already have one. Standard European adapters will work, though they might occasionally fit a bit loosely in the sockets. Every hotel room is equipped with electrical sockets, so you can easily recharge devices such as phones and cameras. If a hair dryer isn’t already in your room, you can request one from the hotel reception.

If you're bringing US appliances (110 volts), you'll need both a voltage converter and a plug adapter.


Our tours offer a combination of various modes of transport. We want you to truly experience the country you're exploring, but at the same time, ensure you’re comfortable and refreshed for the next part of the journey. Given the routes in Sudan, the available public transport options, and the distances between locations, we use private vehicles like Toyota Landcruisers (max 4 passengers per vehicle) or Toyota Hilux (max 3 passengers per vehicle) for the entire tour.


This tour includes a meet-and-greet service and airport transfer on the first day. Our representative will be waiting with an Egypt Uncovered signboard or your name clearly displayed for easy identification. If you are unable to locate our representative, emergency contact numbers will be provided on your tour confirmation voucher.

A transfer to the airport is also included at the end of the tour. Please review the tour itinerary and your flight times carefully. Most international flights departing from Khartoum are scheduled in the early hours of the morning. If you have upgraded to a 4 or 5-star hotel in Khartoum, only a day-use room is typically included for your final day. A full night's stay is provided at the standard 3-star hotel. If you require a full night’s accommodation in an upgraded hotel, an additional charge may apply.

Refunds are not available for missed transfers or parts of your trip due to incorrect flight details or delayed arrivals. Any additional expenses incurred to join the group will be your responsibility.

If your flights are scheduled to arrive before the tour starts or depart after the tour ends, we can arrange extra accommodation and airport transfers. We will strive to book these at the same hotel as the main tour, subject to availability (upgraded hotels can also be arranged upon request). Please note that if you do not book additional accommodation through us, arrival and departure transfer services will not be included, and you will need to organise your own transport.

Arrival Procedure

Be prepared for potential delays at immigration, especially if you are obtaining a “visa on arrival” (refer to the Passports and Visas section). After passport control, proceed to baggage reclaim, where further waiting times are common. Once you collect your luggage, you will need to show your baggage receipts (typically attached to your boarding pass), and your bags may be manually inspected by airport staff. This is standard procedure to ensure no prohibited items, such as alcohol or inappropriate materials, are brought into Sudan. Be aware that some magazines with certain images might also be considered inappropriate and could be confiscated without return.

After completing these formalities, you will find our representative waiting just outside the glass doors with an Egypt Uncovered signboard or your name clearly displayed.

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We aim to offer you as much flexibility as possible when booking your holiday with us. To accommodate travellers with varying plans, we exclude international flights from the main tour price. However, we are happy to assist with flight suggestions that complement the tour. Simply provide us with your preferred dates and departure airport, and we will present a selection of airlines, schedules, and fares for you to choose from.

Your transfers between the airport and hotel are included on the first and last days of the tour. Our Sudan tours begin and end at Khartoum airport (KRT).

Occasionally, we also offer flight-inclusive packages from selected airports. When these are available on our website, the prices quoted are accurate at the time, but are subject to the availability of the fare used. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking, and we will also provide you with flight times and airline details before issuing tickets.

Flight-inclusive prices are based on the cheapest Economy ticket class available, which is generally non-refundable and non-changeable unless the flight is cancelled due to circumstances like Covid-19, in which case airlines tend to offer more flexibility. If you require more flexible ticket options or wish to upgrade to Premium Economy or Business Class, these can be arranged for an additional supplement. Any changes to flight-inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline's terms and conditions.

Flight CO2 Emissions:

Flying is a wonderful way to see the world, but it does contribute to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, which have an impact on the environment. By considering the CO2 emissions of your flight when booking, you can help reduce your travel footprint.

When booking international flights, we recommend you also take into account the CO2 emissions of your chosen airline. Some airlines and flight search engines (such as Google Flights or Skyscanner) provide this information, allowing you to compare your options and make a more informed choice. Many airlines are now working towards more sustainable practices, and by opting for greener flight options, you can contribute to positive environmental change while still enjoying your adventure.


Tipping in Sudan: An Overview

Tipping, or bahsis (pronounced bahk-sheesh), is a common and widely accepted practice in Sudan. The wages for service workers are generally low, and tips play an essential role in supplementing their modest incomes.

However, tipping remains voluntary, and the amount should reflect both the quality of service you receive and your personal financial situation. Many people seek guidance on how much to tip, so here are some general suggestions to help:

  • Restaurants and Taxis:

    • For local markets and casual dining spots, simply leaving the small change is appropriate.
    • In more upscale restaurants, a tip of around 5% to 10% of the total bill is recommended.
  • Local Guides:

    • If you have a local guide accompanying you during your travels, a tip of USD 2 per person per day is a suitable amount.
  • Drivers:

    • You may have private drivers throughout your trip, some for brief periods and others for longer durations. While USD 2 per person per day is generally acceptable, you may consider a higher tip for those who are more involved in the trip.
  • Tour Guides:

    • For your main tour guide, we suggest tipping between USD 25 to 40 per person for the entire duration of the tour. Ultimately, the amount should reflect your level of satisfaction with their service and your budget. There's no pressure to give a specific amount—it's entirely up to you.


You should ensure you have comprehensive insurance that covers medical emergencies, including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Vaccination recommendations and other health precautions vary depending on the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. It is advisable to consult your GP, healthcare provider, or a travel clinic for the latest vaccination information for your destination. Additionally, make sure that you are up-to-date with the vaccines and boosters recommended for your regular life back home, such as those for occupational risks, lifestyle-related exposures, and any underlying health conditions. Below are the additional vaccinations and health precautions typically recommended for the countries in this region:

  • South Africa: Hepatitis A, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
  • Namibia: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from an infected area).
  • Botswana: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
  • Zimbabwe: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
  • Zambia: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
  • Malawi: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
  • Tanzania: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
  • Kenya: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Poliomyelitis, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from an infected area).
  • Uganda: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from an infected area).
  • Sudan: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area; may also be needed for departure).
  • Morocco: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria not usually present, Yellow Fever certificate not required.

Please note that this information may change at short notice. For the most up-to-date health and vaccination requirements, we suggest contacting your medical practitioner or travel clinic.

Malaria: There is no vaccine for Malaria, a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. To reduce the risk of infection, wear long-sleeved clothing and long trousers, use insect repellents, and sleep under a mosquito net if needed. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. Consult your GP or a travel clinic for the most suitable malaria prevention medication for the areas you are visiting.

Yellow Fever: This disease is transmitted by mosquitoes active during the day. Many countries require a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate as part of their entry requirements, particularly if you have travelled from or through an infected region, including stopovers of more than 12 hours. You can refer to US CDC information to check where Yellow Fever is present and which countries require proof of vaccination. Ensure that you arrange for the certificate in advance and carry it with you throughout your trip.

Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma, as well as any prescription medications you are taking. Additionally, we need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities.

If you are taking part in an Overland tour or a wildlife safari, be aware that you may be travelling on rough or bumpy terrain for extended periods. This can be uncomfortable or even painful, especially if you have a back condition. Please contact us if you have any concerns.


The time in Sudan is 3 hours ahead of GMT. Daylight saving time is not observed.


Luggage:
To ensure smooth transport of everyone’s luggage in the vehicles, we kindly ask that you bring soft luggage instead of hard suitcases. A small daypack or bag is also recommended for daily outings. Your main luggage will typically stay at your accommodation during sightseeing trips, so you won’t need to carry it far. Hotel porters are usually available to assist with luggage handling.

Luggage Restrictions:
To optimise space and comfort in the vehicles, we ask that your main luggage does not exceed 15kg for this tour. As for hand luggage, most airlines allow between 5kg and 10kg, but we kindly request you limit yours to 5kg.

Clothing:
Sudan's climate varies from hot and dry in the north to humid and tropical in the equatorial south. The best time to visit is from October to April. During October/November and March/April, daytime temperatures range from 30-38°C, with nights around 12-18°C. In December/January/February, temperatures are slightly cooler at 25-30°C during the day, with nights dropping to 5-10°C. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C, but tours are generally not held during this time. Dust storms (haboobs) can occur from July to August and again from November to January. You will need clothing suitable for hot days but also something warm for the cooler evenings and nights, especially in the desert areas.
Sudan is a predominantly Muslim country with Sharia law in place, and modesty is highly valued, particularly for women. Therefore, it’s advised that clothes be loose-fitting and not revealing. Women are not required to wear a veil or cover their heads, but it’s a good idea to bring a headscarf or sunhat as they are often helpful in the desert sun. Shorts should be avoided by both men and women.

Other Essentials:
Bedding (sheets, blankets, pillow) will be provided at the Meroe desert camp, but we recommend bringing a lightweight sleeping sheet or liner for added comfort year-round (sand tends to find its way everywhere). Additionally, we suggest you bring a sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a basic first aid kit, toiletries, a money belt, a small torch, a camera, and chargers.

Nimitti:
Between February and April, there can be an abundance of “nimitti” in the northern regions (Tombos, Soleb area). These small, harmless flies, which aid in palm pollination, can be quite bothersome. We will provide fly nets for face protection, and your tour leader will suggest wearing long-sleeved tops to help minimise discomfort.


Your airport transfers are included only on the first and last day of the scheduled tour itinerary, as well as on any extra days if you book your accommodation with us. If you choose to organise your own accommodation at the start or end of the tour, you will be responsible for arranging your own airport transfers on those days.


Passports must remain valid for at least six months beyond your scheduled departure from the country. Avoid carrying passports that are nearly full or about to expire. It is the traveller’s responsibility to handle visa arrangements, and requirements may change based on local regulations.

Starting from 1st January 2025, all travellers to Israel must have a pre-approved visa or ETA-IL. Many nationals, including those from the UK, EU, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, do not need a visa for stays of less than three months. However, an ETA-IL approval is mandatory even for those exempt from requiring a visa. Travellers from other countries should consult their local consulate.

From 1st January 2025 onwards, all travellers to Israel must apply for ETA-IL approval online at https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/visa-option/. A fee of 25 shekels (approximately GBP 5 or USD 7) will be charged during the application process. If you are travelling before January 2025, ETA-IL approval is not required.

Many of our tours to Israel also visit the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT). No special visas are necessary, but please be aware that checkpoints and border posts are managed by Israeli authorities, and access may occasionally be restricted or limited.


The currency used in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories is the Israeli Shekel (ILS). There’s no need to bring Shekels with you, as currency exchange services are available at international airports, most hotels, banks, and exchange offices in major cities. It’s a good idea to carry small denominations of notes or coins during your trip, as these will come in handy for items such as toilets, tips, and minor purchases. ATMs are widespread in larger towns, and many local stores accept VISA, Mastercard, or American Express, although they may apply fees of up to 10%, so it’s wise to check beforehand. Traveller’s cheques are no longer widely accepted and can incur high fees.

While visiting Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories, you will need enough funds for meals not included in your itinerary, drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and other personal expenses such as laundry. These should generally be paid in local currency, though tips for guides and drivers may be given in foreign currencies (GBP, USD, EUR).

It’s hard to suggest an exact amount of spending money as it varies depending on individual preferences, but as a general guide, we recommend budgeting around USD 25-35 per person per day. You may need more if you plan on shopping extensively or purchasing a lot of alcoholic drinks.

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