Masada and the Dead Sea Day Trip from Jerusalem

Discover two of Israel's must-see sights on this memorable day trip from Jerusalem. You'll explore the legendary ruins of Masada and King Herod's palaces, and enjoy a therapeutic visit to the famous Dead Sea. This unforgettable day trip also passes the setting of one of the New Testament's most famous parables, the Good Samaritan.

Your day tour begins with a descent into the Judean desert, a barren wilderness in the heart of the Holy Land. En-route, you will pass the Inn of the Good Samaritan, before ascending by cable car to reach the mountaintop site of Masada. The cliff's remoteness and difficult approach made it a perfect fortress, and it was here that King Herod built two fortified palaces over 2,000 years ago.

After exploring the archeological ruins of Masada with your guide, you will continue to the Dead Sea past the Ein Gedi oasis and the ancient settlement of Qumran. Here you'll have the opportunity to view the many caves where approximately 900 parchment documents of religious significance were discovered - the fabled Dead Sea Scrolls.

The Dead Sea is the next stop, where you'll have approximately two hours to relax on the mineral beach and enjoy the surreal experience of floating in the salt-rich water, 400m (1,312 ft) below sea level! Don't miss the chance to have a mud bath in the world's richest source of natural salts. You will also have the opportunity to purchase Dead Sea skin care products at duty-free prices from the famous Ahava laboratory.

The drive back to Jerusalem along the Old Roman road which links Jerusalem and Jericho, and see Jericho from the distance.

Combining ancient and natural wonders, Israel's top day trip is not to be missed!

• Hotel pickup and drop off
• Professional guide
• Transport by air-conditioned coach

• Gratuities (optional)
• Food and drinks, unless specified