Join this Unforgettable Israel Tour
Dear Friends,
Please consider joining me for our 2025 trip to the Holy Land. This is a trip that has been a long time in the making. Now it’s official—we’re going! Whether you’ve been to Israel before or this will be your first time, I would love for you to be part of this trip.
My friends at Rishon World Tours have arranged deluxe motor coaches, wonderful hotels, delicious meals, and a daily itinerary that takes in all that our minds and hearts can absorb.
I pray that you can be part of this life-changing experience. Please click the ‘Book Online’ button below to make your reservation and get your name on the list.
Gratefully,
Pastor Ed Taylor
Calvary Church Colorado
Best of Israel Tours will bring the Bible to life. Walk where Jesus walked. Those who travel through Israel will never read their Bible the same again!
Join us for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime.
November 3-4, 2025
Depart from Denver International Airport and arrive in Israel
Depart from Denver International Airport and arrive in Tel Aviv, Israel. Make sure to get some rest on the flight because soon you will be walking where our Savior walked!
November 4, 2025
Arrive in Israel
Welcome to Israel! We arrive in Tel Aviv where we will meet our guide and travel to our hotel for one night.
November 5, 2025
Caesarea, Mount Carmel, Megiddo, Nazareth Village, Mount Precipice Overlook.
We begin our day traveling along the Mediterranean coast to Caesarea, where Gentiles first heard the Gospel from Peter and were baptized. After viewing the Roman Amphitheatre, the Hippodrome, and Aqueduct, we will continue our journey to Mt. Carmel, where the prophet Elijah defeated the priests of Baal. Next, we will journey through the Jezreel Valley to Megiddo, the Armageddon battlefield and then travel to the Nazareth, the boyhood home of Jesus, and tour the Nazareth Village, a wonderful recreation of biblical times. Our day will end with a visit to Mt. Precipice, the site where the people of Nazareth attempted to push Jesus off the cliffside. We will enjoy the next three nights in Galilee.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Caesarea
- Mt. Carmel
- Megiddo
- Nazareth
- Mt. Precipice
November 6, 2025
Tel Dan, Caesarea Philippi, Magdala, Baptism at Yardenit
After breakfast, we will depart for Tel Dan, where Israel fell into alternative worship, and then to Caesarea Philippi, the site of Peter’s confession of Jesus Christ. Next, we will journey to Magdala, Mary Magdalene’s hometown, before traveling to the Jordan River for an opportunity to be baptized.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Tel Dan
- Caesarea Philippi
- Magdala
- Jordan River
November 7, 2025
Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Jesus’ boat museum, St. Peter’s fish lunch, boat ride on the Galilee
Our day begins with a devotional at the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus gave His inspiring Sermon on the Mount. Next, we tour Capernaum where Jesus did most of His miracles, and the home of the Apostle Peter. Then we will tour the Fishing Boat Museum and enjoy St. Peter’s fish for lunch. We will end our day with a relaxing cruise on the Sea of Galilee and reflect on the miracles which confirmed Jesus is God the Son.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Mount of Beatitudes
- Capernaum
- Fishing Boat Museum
- Sea of Galilee Cruise
November 8, 2025
Gideon’s Spring, Beit Alpha Synagogue, Beit Shean, Jericho
Today we will travel to Gideon’s Spring where God commanded Gideon to select 300 men to battle against the Midianites. Next we will journey to Beit Shean, a magnificent archeological site, where the Philistines defeated King Saul. Then we will visit the ancient city of Jericho, where God gave Israel its first victory in the Promised Land. We will spend the first of five nights in Jerusalem.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Gideon’s Spring
- Beit Shean
- Ancient Jericho
November 9, 2025
Temple Mount, Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Church of All Nations, Mt. Zion, Upper Room, David’s Tomb, Dormition Abbey, Caiaphas’ House, St. Peter Galli Cantu
If conditions permit, we will begin our first tour day of Jerusalem at the Temple Mount and receive commentary about the Temple Periods. Next, we will view the Holy City from the Mount of Olives where we will hear a devotional teaching about Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. Then we will walk to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed to the Father before He was betrayed. Our tour will continue with a visit to the “Upper Room” where Jesus and His disciples had the Last Supper. Our tour will also include visits to David’s Tomb, Dormition Abbey, Caiaphas’ House, and St. Peter’s Galli Cantu, where Peter denied the Lord three times.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Temple Mount
- Mount of Olives
- Garden of Gethsemane
- The Upper Room
November 10, 2025
City of David, Hezekiah’s Tunnel, Southern Steps, Jerusalem Archaeological Park: Robinson’s Arch, Western Wall and Tunnels, Old City, Burnt House, Antonio Fortress
Our second day in the Holy City begins with a tour of the City of David and then a walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel and a stop for a devotional teaching at the Pool of Siloam. Next we will visit the Southern Steps, the place where Jesus entered the Temple. Then we will travel to the Jerusalem Archeological Park for a fascinating tour of archeological finds from the First and Second Temple periods. Afterwards, we will visit the Western Wall followed by tours of the Tunnels, the Old City, and the Antonio Fortress, which was built by Herod the Great to honor Mark Antony. It is also believed to the be the site where Pontus Pilate sentenced Jesus Christ to be crucified.
Sites you’ll see include:
- City of David
- Hezekiah’s Tunnel
- Western Wall
- Antonio Fortress
November 11, 2025
Masada, En Gedi, Qumran, Dead Sea
Our day begins with a cable car ride to the mountain top fortress of Masada. Here our guide will share with us the history behind the famous zealots’ last stand. From Masada, we will travel to Qumran, the site where the famous Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in 1947. Next we will drive to Ein Gedi, “Spring of the Goat,” an oasis on the western shore of the Dead Sea. This is the place where David hid from King Saul and where God defeated Israel’s enemies while King Jehoshaphat led Israel in praise and worship. Afterwards, we will enjoy some free time by the Dead Sea.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Masada
- En Gedi
- Qumran
- Dead Sea
November 12, 2025
Elah Valley, Old Roman Road, Genesis Land Experience, Jewish Quarter, Jaffa Gate, The Cardo, Maximo Model
We will start our day at the Valley of Elah, the site where David defeated Goliath. After touring the Old Roman Road which was built around 300 BC, we will experience the land of Israel during the days of Abraham and enjoy lunch and even a camel ride. Next we will visit the Jewish Quarter of Jerusalem where we will tour the Jaffa Gate, the Cardo, and the Maximo Model.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Elah Valley
- Genesis Land Experience
- Jewish Quarter
- The Cardo
November 12, 2025
Yad Vashem, Israel Museum, Pool of Bethesda, St. Anne’s Church, Garden Tomb
Our last tour day of Jerusalem begins with a moving visit to the Holocaust Museum, Yad Vashem, followed by a tour of the Israel Museum. Afterwards, we will visit the Pool of Bethesda and St. Anne’s Church. We will close our day at the Garden Tomb where it is believed Jesus Christ was crucified at Golgotha and buried nearby and rose victoriously three days later. There we will worship and partake of communion together.
Sites you’ll see include:
- Yad Vashem
- Israel Museum
- Pool of Bethesda
- The Garden Tomb
November 13-14, 2025
Depart for Home
Today we depart for the U.S. and enjoy the memories of a trip of a lifetime!
Israel Land Tour
Included:
Roundtrip airfare from Denver including current air taxes and fuel surcharges (taxes and fuel charges are subject to change), Emergency medical coverage (*Medical and Dental $50,000, Emergency Transportation $250,000), 9 nights lodging at 4-star hotels, breakfast and dinner daily, farewell dinner, 2 lunches, full-time English speaking tour escorts, services of air-conditioned deluxe motor coach, all guides, tips, entrances, touring and transportation as appears on itinerary, baggage handling at hotels (one piece).
*You may opt out of the medical coverage for a $50 discount.
NOT Included:
Personal expenses, lunches not listed on the itinerary, optional payment processing Visa or MasterCard (+3%), optional group travel insurance (“Cancel for any Reason” travel insurance policy quotes are available by request – must be purchased within 14 days of deposit.)
Additional Tour Options
Please review the following options. You will be able to select your options during the online booking process. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Flights & Seat upgrades
The Best of Israel flights are included with your tour pricing.
Premium seat upgrades are quoted upon request.
*Prices are based on the best-priced airfare available at the time of booking and are subject to change.
Single Supplement option
The Best of Israel Tour pricing is based on double occupancy. If you are traveling solo or do not have a roommate, a “single supplement” fee will be added to your account in the booking process.
Israel Land Tour: $1,370
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended. Please see “Should I Purchase Travel Insurance” on the Resources page for a great article on the importance of purchasing travel insurance.
An Allianz group travel insurance policy is available to purchase in the booking process. Pricing is based on the overall trip cost (including the cost of flights). Please click on the link below to download the policy details.
Individual travel insurance policies are also available, such as the “Classic Plan – with Cancel Anytime” provision. Rates must be quoted as they are based on age and state of residency. Please indicate if you would like a quote during the online booking process.
Allianz Classic Plan -with Cancel Anytime provision must be purchased within 14 days of initial deposit.
Israel Tour Important Information
Please review the following frequently asked questions (FAQs). Feel free to contact us if you should have any questions.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation in writing must be received by Rishon World Tours 91 days prior to departure for refund of deposit minus service fees. Airline penalties are not part of the percentages below and vary based on the airline policy at the time of ticket issue.
91+ Days Prior: $100 Per Person Service Fee
90-61 Days Prior: Deposit Amount
60-46 Days Prior: 40% of tour cost lost
45-31 Days Prior: 65% of tour cost lost
30-8 Days Prior: 85% of tour cost lost
7 Days Prior or less: 100% of tour cost lost.
Travel insurance is non-refundable.
Should I bring money for tipping?
Rest assured that tips for drivers, guides, and hotel staff are included in your tour price.
In addition, some travelers want to give extra tips to a beloved guide or driver and that would certainly be welcome.
Are Covid-19 vaccinations required?
Covid-19 vaccinations are not be required for any part of the tour. You will not be asked to provide evidence of vaccination.
Will I need any visas on this trip?
Visitors to Israel do not need to obtain visas to enter as a tourist as you are staying less than 90 days.
How much cash should I plan to bring?
The amount of cash you will need will vary depending on your appetite for shopping. It’s a trip of a lifetime and you’ll no doubt want to bring home some mementos of the journey. Most shops and stores will accept credit cards and the exchange rate should be favorable.
However, you might want to bring cash for any meals that are not included in the tour. Typical lunches could be $15-20 per person.
How much will we be walking on this trip?
Walking will be part of the tour and we encourage each traveler to be able to walk at least a mile and be able to climb stairs when needed.
Tour participation is available to all travelers, however, and will not be withheld if the tour operator can furnish the requirements that an individual may need.
Because most of our Tour sightseeing schedules require tour members to walk 1-2 miles at a time using a moderate pace and sometimes navigate uneven terrain, we cannot accept persons who cannot do so and instead require special assistance. Should any Tour Member’s participation somehow materially add to the tour operator’s cost, the Tour Member will be expected to pay any additional costs. The Tour Director retains the right to require any non-sufficiently mobile persons to stay behind when deemed necessary.
How should I pack for a Israel Land Tour?
The Mediterranean climate during the fall is often excellent. This is a great time of year to take an Israel Tour as it will not be nearly as warm as during the summer months.
Below is a checklist to help you pack to make your travel experience exceptional.
Packing Checklist
- Casual and comfortable clothes including pants, jeans, shorts, T-shirts, collared shirts or blouses
- Light sweater or jacket
- Bathing suit and a cover-up or wrap if you would like to use the pools on the ship
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
- Toiletries, in a sealed, clear bag inside your luggage
- Medications in their original containers
- Small bag or backpack for port days
- Passport with separate photocopy
Packing Tips
Do not pack your passport or travel documents in your luggage. Mark your luggage and carry-on bag with your name and address so you can distinguish them easily. We recommend you also put identification information—name, address, and phone number—INSIDE your luggage in case the luggage tags are lost in transit. We suggest keeping your essential toiletries and a one-day change of clothes in your carry-on. Keep a color copy of the information page of your passport inside your luggage in case your passport is lost.
Dress Code for Holy Sites
- Women: Should cover their shoulders and wear long pants or a long skirt. Some say women should also cover their knees and chest. If their attire is considered immodest, they may be asked to cover up or denied entry.
- Men: Should not wear shorts.
Are excursions included in the tour pricing?
Many excursions are included with your tour. There will be times when you will be able to explore on your own.
Can I extend my travel experience?
If you would like to arrive a day or more early to explore on your own, Rishon Tours would be happy to make the arrangements for you. Please send us an email at info@rishontours.com and we’ll work with you to customize your pre-trip experience.
If you would like to stay in Israel or Jordan for an extra day or more to explore on your own, we would be more than willing to make the arrangements, book your hotel, etc. Just let us know by email at info@rishontours.com. We are here to serve you.
Can I transfer my reservation to a different tour?
The short answer is yes. If you need to cancel your reservation and would like to transfer your reservation to a different cruise or tour with Rishon Tours, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Can I use my cellphone on a tour?
Let’s explore how to effectively use your cell phone internationally, ensuring you stay connected and make the most of your travel experience.
Check with Your Service Provider
Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to contact your service provider to inquire about international roaming plans. Many mobile carriers offer special packages tailored to international travelers. These plans usually include data, call, and text allowances for a fixed fee. Make sure to understand the details, costs, and coverage of the plan before making a decision.
Unlocking Your Phone
If you have a locked phone, you might not be able to use a local SIM card while traveling. Unlocking your phone is the process of removing carrier restrictions, allowing you to use SIM cards from different providers. Contact your service provider to inquire about unlocking options or consider third-party services.
Purchase a Local SIM Card
One of the most cost-effective ways to stay connected while abroad is to purchase a local SIM card. This allows you to have a local phone number, access local networks, and enjoy cheaper rates for calls, texts, and data. Ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a SIM card, and don’t forget to save or transfer important contacts and data before switching.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Utilizing Wi-Fi is an excellent way to reduce data usage and stay connected for free. Most hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer Wi-Fi hotspots that allow you to make calls, send messages, and browse the internet. Remember to exercise caution when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks by using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for added security.
Messaging and Calling Apps
Take advantage of messaging and calling apps, such as WhatsApp, Viber, or Skype, to send messages, make calls, and share media with your contacts. These apps use internet-based communication, allowing you to avoid expensive international roaming charges. Ensure that the people you want to connect with also have the same app installed.
Data Usage Tips
Using data while traveling can quickly consume your phone’s battery and incur high charges. To minimize data usage, consider the following tips:
Disable automatic updates for apps.
Turn off push notifications for email and social media apps.
Download maps and travel guides before leaving your accommodation and use them offline.
Use offline navigation apps like Google Maps Offline, Maps.me, or CityMaps2Go.
Conclusion:
Staying connected while traveling internationally doesn’t have to be stressful or costly. By planning ahead, understanding your mobile carrier’s international plans, unlocking your phone, and utilizing local SIM cards, Wi-Fi, messaging apps, and data-saving techniques, you can make the most of your cell phone without breaking the bank. Remember, staying connected is important, but don’t forget to take some time to unplug and enjoy the destination you’re exploring. Safe travels!
Do I need to leave tips on a tour?
Traveling to other parts of the world on a Best of Israel Tour is an exceptional experience that offers you both fun and the opportunity to become spiritually inspired. While you’re traveling with Rishon Tours, we want to make your journey as carefree as possible by covering most of the tips and gratuities on your tour.
Tips to porters, hotel bellman, drivers and your tour guides are all included. If you visit various restaurants apart from the tour, however, remember to acknowledge and reward excellent service.
In most parts of the world, the general guideline for restaurant service workers is 10-12% of the bill and 15% to acknowledge excellent service.