Postponed until further notice

Exploring the Holy Land

Spiritually rich, intellectually stimulating, globally relevant.

Most tours land on just one of these objectives. Because we’re nimble and prepare you differently, we work hard to accomplish all three — refresh your soul, stretch your mind, and enlarge your world. Imagine exploring, feasting, and praying with a small, intimate group. Everybody gets in on the best discussions! And in smaller vans, we can savor that sunset, explore a market, or just park beside a stream for our gourmet picnic.

Study alongside Phil Oswald, a professor of New Testament who happens to also be a journeyman pastor who has traveled the world and stays up-to-date on the latest discoveries and intrigues in Israel.  Here’s what you can expect:

Day 1

After being welcomed by smiling faces at the Tel Aviv airport, climb onto our comfortable minibus and head to a picturesque park for our first picnic together. After settling in at the hotel in the timeless city of Jerusalem, sample the wonders of the nightlife of Ben Yehuda Street—the gelato is good, but the street music is better!

Day 2

Discover the beguiling West Bank with its warmth, graciousness and delicious treats. Then head north to a wonderful landing that played a major role in the Old Testament for 300 years and see a modern archaeological dig in action! Go further north to Nablus and sample what may be the best kanafe in all of Israel.

Day 3

Visit the hilltop palace and desert fortress of Masada which is somehow lonely, frightening and inspiring all in the same breath. Head below sea level with your swim suit and towel and bob your troubles away in the Dead Sea. Refreshed, stop by one of the potential areas where John the Baptist may have baptized Jesus.

Day 4

After an Israeli breakfast, bid farewll to the hotel (at least for a few days) and head to Jericho. People have been calling Jericho home for 11,000 years and there are 20 layers of town to prove it. Beit She’an is definitely on the punch list; be transported into the lavish Roman world that existed so close to the village world of Jesus. From there, head into Jezereel Valley on the way to Nazareth.

Day 5

Nazareth is the hometown of Jesus. And it isn’t little any longer. It’s sprawling. Go in search of Nazareth as it was and find some hidden gems along the way. Travel the five miles Jesus and Joseph likely walked on their way to the day job at Sepphoris. Finally, end the day at the Sea of Galilee and savor the sun going down on this place where Jesus walked, taught and healed.

Day 6

Few places will capture a heart like the Sea of Galilee. Explore the deeper teachings of Jesus as he ministered in his hometown. Visit the “postcard sights,” but go further. Take a boat ride on the sea and enjoy a lovely picnic right on the edge of the water, where time seems to slow. The places and the rich conversations will all swirl together in the best of ways.

Day 7

Head north to the far side of the Jordan River, where Jesus rested and found safety. Find solace at the lovely first century village of Qatzrin before heading up into the Golan Heights. Stretch your legs at Tel Dan and Banyas Falls and fall in love with Banyas (Caesarea Philippi) for its sheer beauty, tranquility and place in history.

Day 8

Wave goodbye to an amazing region and head up near Mt. Carmel to Caesarea Maritima. Herod’s best building genius is displayed here; he converted a rocky nub of coasline into a priceless gem. On the way back to Jerusalem, see where David and Goliath faced off in the Elah Valley and the region of Samson (Beth Shemesh). Finish the day in Bethlehem, Shepherds’ field, and time permitting, the Herodian.

Day 9

Visit the Holy Sepulcher before dawn and the crowds. Then, travel to the Western Wall on the way to the City of David Park. Visit the Pool of Siloam and travel through a tunnel that will make Jerusalem’s story come alive. After a lovely traditional lunch, visit the Zion that Jesus knew. Take a nap or sightsee until heading to the delectable Mahane Yehuda Market, which will be a feast for the eyes, ears and taste buds.

Day 10

Head east up to the crest of the Mount of Olives to get a majestic grasp of Jerusalem. Meander down the old streets until reaching the Dominus Flevit Church and eventually the Church of all Nations and the Grotto of Gethsemane. Next, walk through the famed Lion’s Gate on the way to the Pool of Bethesda. Close the afternoon with a lecture/discussion by Dr. Salim Munyer of Musalaha, a ground-breaking organization working for reconciliation and peace.

Day 11

Enjoy a lovely breakfast and final few hours with the group before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Total Cost:  $4995*

Trip price includes all meals, travel within Israel, lodging, excursions, and a personal tour-guide (and friend for life)

*Early Bird price if booked by October 1st; price increases by $200 after that date

**Add on tour to Jordan is an additional cost of $1075

Details

  • Phil Oswald—history buff, New Testament prof, pastor, and world-traveler—will be leading the trip

  • A deposit of $1200 (non-refundable) is due ASAP to hold your spot

  • Space is limited to just 16 adults--small group sizes allow us to provide intimate tour experiences

  • A valid passport is required to travel to Israel, though no tourist visa is required

If you're in...

  • Contact us at info@intomotiontravel.com or (916) 245-0062 to get your questions answered

  • Pay your $1200 deposit by ACH or credit card

  • Share this exclusive opportunity with your friends! #intoMotionTravel