Five Days in Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Shalom! Welcome to Jerusalem. Your adventure begins with this afternoon’s important welcome meeting at 4.30 pm. If you arrive early, you could grab a coffee or a cold one from the many bars, cafes and restaurants near your hostel.

Once you've made your introductions, head out on an orientation walk with the group. You'll stop at Machane Yehuda Market, where you can sample tasty local cuisine using a Bite Card – your ticket to tasting the likes of sabich (pita stuffed with fried aubergine and boiled egg) and authentic kubbeh soup (veggie broth topped with meat-filled dumplings). Your leader will leave you here to spend the evening as you wish – we recommend checking out the laneway bars with your new-found friends as the market comes to life, or wandering nearby streets to check out the shop-shutter graffiti only visible at night.

This morning you’ll take in some of Jerusalem’s cultural wonders on a walking tour of the Old City. Follow the stations of the cross along the Via Dolorosa, which represents the route Jesus took before his crucifixion; witness locals and pilgrims rocking in prayer at the Western Wall, Judaism’s holiest site; and get fabulous views of the golden Dome of the Rock – and the city's countless other spires and towers – from the rooftop terrace at the Austrian Hospice, a historic Catholic guesthouse.

The rest of the afternoon is free to explore. You could try a flight of boutique Israeli brews at the Beer Bazaar, hunt down the perfect hummus in the Old City (ask your leader for tips) or grab some snacks and find the perfect picnic spot at Sacher Park – saving time to wander the winding paths of the nearby Wohl Rose Garden.

Rise and shine nice and early (approximately 3am) to drive out to the spectacular cliff-top desert fortress of Masada, near the Dead Sea. Kick off the day with a morning hike up the Masada Snake Path, which meanders up approximately 400 metres from the lowest point on earth (the Dead Sea) to the peak. This World Heritage site is important to the Jewish people; it’s seen as a symbol of their exile from the Holy Land as well as bravery and self-sacrifice.

Catch the cable car back down and drive to the Dead Sea for a float in the oh-so-salty waters. Apparently, Cleopatra used products from the area as part of her beauty regime, which is also said to have included almond extract and goat's milk. After soaking in the briny sea, transfer back to your hostel in Jerusalem for a free evening.

This morning, check out of your hostel and head to the Mount of Olives for panoramic views of the Old City. From there, you’ll drive to Bethlehem. Visit the Church of the Nativity, built on the spot where Jesus is said to have been born, and head to the Shepherd’s Fields, where angels allegedly appeared to bring the good news.

You’ll also have time to explore the street art that emblazons much of the contentious West Bank Barrier – including pieces by famed British artist Banksy – and learn the personal stories and political implications behind some of the more prominent pieces. Afterwards, continue to Tel Aviv via the ancient port city of Jaffa. This afternoon, enjoy some free time in this relaxed city. An optional sunset bike ride (approximately 2 hours) is a great way to get your bearings. Tonight, why not get the gang together and hit the town? Tel Aviv is known for its happening nightlife.

There aren’t any activities planned for today, so you’re free to leave the hostel at any time. That doesn’t mean your Middle Eastern adventure has to come to an end! If you’re looking at spending more time in Tel Aviv, we don’t blame you. Let us know in advance and we’ll happily organise additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).