12-Day Christian Israel Tour with Petra Add-on – October 2026
12-Day Christian Israel Tour with Petra Add-on – October 2026
Experience a Spirit-Led Journey Through the Holy Land & Petra on our 12-day Christian Tour of Israel & the Holy Land
Tour Date: 15th – 26th October 2026
At Elbow Holy Land Tours, we invite you to embark on a transformative 12-day Christian tour of Israel in October 2026, with an optional add-on to the ancient city of Petra. This isn’t just a trip; it’s a Spirit-led pilgrimage designed for born-again Christian believers to deepen their faith, walk in the footsteps of Jesus, and connect with the vibrant history of the Bible. Our small group tours ensure an intimate, unhurried, and truly personal experience in God’s land.
Overview
Itinerary
Included / Excluded
FAQ
Why Choose Elbow Holy Land Tours?
We believe your pilgrimage to Israel should be more than just a tour; it should be a deep spiritual encounter. Here’s what sets our Christian tours to Israel apart:
-
Relaxed & Unhurried Pace: We never rush you. Our tours are designed at an “easy going” pace, allowing you ample time to reflect, pray, and truly appreciate the significance of each biblical site. While our itinerary is comprehensive, our routing is carefully planned to minimize travel time between locations.
-
Spirit-Led & Faith-Filled Experiences: All our Tour Guides are Born Again Christian believers in Yeshua (Jesus). Our tours are genuinely Spirit-led, allowing the Lord to guide our journey. This unique approach brings life and fulfillment, not only to our passengers but also allows God’s glory to touch locals as we tour with the Light of Jesus shining brightly. We prioritize God’s leading over a rigid schedule, ensuring a dynamic and living experience.
-
Small Group Sizes for a Family Atmosphere: Limiting our groups to a maximum of 30 passengers fosters a true “family of believers” dynamic. This ensures:
– Everyone travels together as brothers and sisters in Christ.
– Easy access to your Tour Guide and Driver for questions and fellowship.
– No one feels left out or rushed.
– Reduced delays compared to larger groups.
– More opportunities to build lasting friendships.
– You’ll fully understand and appreciate every site, unlike large tours where passengers often feel overwhelmed and rushed.
-
Our Mission: While Elbow Holy Land Tours is a business, our core purpose – our ‘Elbow,’ that which connects – is to create a point of connection between Christian believers worldwide and the Lord’s people in Israel. We are dedicated to providing true spiritual experiences and to showing locals in Israel that Yeshua is real and available to them through the light shining from our groups.
Holy Land & Petra Itinerary
We’ve meticulously crafted this itinerary to maximize your time in Israel, ensuring you visit all significant biblical sites while enjoying a comfortable and faith-filled journey. Our experienced, Spirit-led guides will bring the scriptures to life at every stop.
Day 1 (Thursday, October 15, 2026) – Arrival in Tel Aviv
- Arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV).
- Transfer to your hotel in Tel Aviv.
- Accommodation: Sadot Hotel (or similar) – Breakfast ONLY (no evening meal due to varied arrival times).
Arrival Window: 16:00 – 21:00. Private transfers can be arranged for earlier/later arrivals.
Day 2 (Friday, October 16, 2026) – Coastal Plains & Armageddon
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
Drive up the Old Damascus Road (following in Paul’s footsteps).
-
Jaffa: Explore the ancient port city, site of Peter’s Vision, Jonah and the Whale.
-
Caesarea Maritime: Discover Herod’s impressive harbor city.
-
Megiddo (Armageddon): Stand on the plains of prophecy.
-
Mount Carmel: Where Elijah called down fire from heaven.
-
El Muhraqa: Enjoy spectacular views of the Jezreel Valley and Plains of Armageddon.
-
Continue to Galilee.
-
Accommodation: Ron Beach, Galilee (or similar) – Half Board (Breakfast & Evening Meal).
Day 3 (Saturday, October 17, 2026) – Jesus’ Ministry in Galilee
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
Nazareth: Visit the Basilica of the Annunciation or the ruins from Jesus’ time.
-
Nazareth Village: Step back in time to an authentic recreation of a 1st-century village.
-
Cana: Site of Jesus’ first miracle, turning water into wine.
-
Continue to the Sea of Galilee.
-
Capernaum: Explore “The Town of Jesus.”
-
Tabgha: See the Church of the Loaves and Fishes.
-
Accommodation: Ron Beach, Galilee (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 4 (Sunday, October 18, 2026) – Northern Israel & Golan Heights
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
Mount of Beatitudes: Reflect on the Sermon on the Mount.
-
Travel North over the Golan Heights.
-
Tel Dan: Discover the story of the tribe of Dan.
-
Caesarea Philippi: Where Peter declared, “You are the Christ!”
-
Visit a Local Date Farm.
-
Accommodation: Ron Beach, Galilee (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 5 (Monday, October 19, 2026) – Jordan Valley & Jericho
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
Jesus Boat Museum: See an ancient fishing boat discovered in the Sea of Galilee.
-
Boat Ride on the Sea of Galilee: Enjoy a praise and worship boat ride.
-
Continue towards the Jordan River Valley.
-
Beit She’an: Explore this impressive Roman Decapolis city.
-
Qasr el Yahud (Bethany by the Jordan): The traditional site of Jesus’ baptism (baptisms available).
-
Jericho: View the ancient city where the walls fell.
-
Mount of Temptation: See where Jesus was tempted after 40 days of fasting.
-
Accommodation: Jericho Resort (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 6 (Tuesday, October 20, 2026) – Judean Wilderness & Dead Sea
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
Travel South through the Judean Wilderness.
-
Qumran: Site where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered.
-
Masada: Herod’s dramatic mountain fortress, a symbol of Jewish heroism.
-
Ein Gedi: Oasis where David hid from Saul.
-
Dead Sea: Experience a unique float in the mineral-rich waters.
-
Begin driving South through the Wilderness of Zin (Moses’ journey).
-
Pass by Lot’s Wife and Sodom.
-
Visit an Eilat Stone shop.
-
Arrive in Eilat for an evening by the Red Sea, shopping, or time at the Marina.
-
Accommodation: Prima Music Hotel, Eilat (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 7 (Wednesday, October 21, 2026) – Eilat & Petra Excursion
- Depart after breakfast.
- Free day in Eilat (Red Sea): Enjoy snorkeling on the Coral Reef (included).
OR
- FULL DAY EXCURSION TO PETRA, JORDAN: ($460 per person add-on, includes all border taxes/crossing fees). Explore the magnificent Nabataean city carved into red rock.
- Accommodation: Prima Music Hotel, Eilat (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 8 (Thursday, October 22, 2026) – Negev Desert to Jerusalem
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
Journey north through the Negev Desert (retracing parts of Moses’ journey).
-
Ramon Crater & Space Center: Marvel at Israel’s Grand Canyon.
-
Avdat: A historical point on the ancient Silk Road.
-
Be’er Sheva: Visit Abraham’s well.
-
Beit Shemesh: Site associated with the Ark of the Covenant.
-
Elah Valley: Where David faced Goliath.
-
Arrive in Jerusalem, the Eternal City.
-
Accommodation: Grand Court Hotel, Jerusalem (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 9 (Friday, October 23, 2026) – Jerusalem: Mount of Olives & Old City
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
Mount of Olives: Panoramic views of the Old City (Hinnom, Tyropoeon, Kidron Valleys, Southern Steps).
-
Walk down the Mount of Olives, following Jesus’ Palm Sunday path.
-
Dominus Flevit: “The Lord Wept” church.
-
Garden of Gethsemane / Church of All Nations: Pray where Jesus prayed.
-
Enter the Old City through the Lion’s Gate.
-
Pools of Bethesda (St. Ann’s Church): Site of Jesus’ healing miracle.
-
Antonia Fortress: Where Jesus stood before Pilate.
-
Via Dolorosa (Walk of Sorrows): Follow the Stations of the Cross.
-
Church of the Holy Sepulchre: Revered site of the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.
-
View Nehemiah’s Wall.
-
Western Wall (Kotel/Temple Mount): The holiest site for Jewish prayer.
-
Explore the Jewish Quarter.
-
Accommodation: Grand Court Hotel, Jerusalem (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 10 (Saturday, October 24, 2026) – Jerusalem: City of David & Mount Zion
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
City of David: Explore the ancient heart of Jerusalem.
-
Hezekiah’s Tunnels: Walk through this ancient water tunnel.
-
Pool of Siloam: Where Jesus healed the blind man.
-
Mount Zion: Visit sacred sites.
-
St. Peter in Gallicantu: Where Peter denied Jesus three times, and the House of Caiaphas.
-
Upper Room: Traditional site of the Last Supper.
-
View the ancient steps Jesus would have used.
-
Garden Tomb: A serene alternative site for reflection on the resurrection.
-
Accommodation: Grand Court Hotel, Jerusalem (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 11 (Sunday, October 25, 2026) – Jerusalem & Bethlehem
-
Depart after breakfast.
-
Israel Museum: See the Second Temple Period Model of Jerusalem.
-
Shrine of the Book: Home of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
-
Drive to Bethlehem (Palestinian Authority area).
-
Church of the Nativity & Manger Square: Revered birthplace of Jesus.
-
Shepherds’ Fields: Where the angels announced Jesus’ birth.
-
Accommodation: Grand Court Hotel, Jerusalem (or similar) – Half Board.
Day 12 (Monday, October 26, 2026) – Departure from Ben Gurion Airport
- Plan for Late Flight Home.
- Depart from the hotel after breakfast.
- Yad Vashem (Holocaust Museum): (Optional visit for reflection).
- Ein Karem: Traditional birthplace of John the Baptist.
- Transfer to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV): Arrive around 16:00 pm.
- Final goodbyes before your flight home.
Note: Earlier airport transfers can be arranged if needed.
Note: The sequence of the tour, hotels used, and sites visited may be amended due to circumstances such as crowds, traffic, or the leading of the Holy Spirit. All listed sites will be visited.
Included / Excluded
What is included on the 12 Day Israel Tour – October 2026
Accommodation
4-star hotels – 1 night B&B (Tel Aviv),
10 nights Half Board (Breakfast & Evening Meal)
Transportation
Comfortable, fully air-conditioned coach with PA system for commentary.
Tour Guide
A certified, Spirit-Led, Born Again Christian Tour Guide who will bring the Bible to life.
Airport Transfers
Group collection and drop-off at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV)
Entrance Fees
All tickets and entrance fees to scheduled sites are included in the price.
Galilee Boat Ride
An unforgettable praise and worship experience on the Sea of Galilee.
Masada Cable Car
Ascent and descent included
Baptisms
Opportunity for baptism in the Jordan River at Qasr el Yahud (robes included)
Conveniences
Whisper Headsets, All Tolls / Taxes
Group Size
Small / Medium group size (16 – 30 PAX) for a more personal and family-like atmosphere.
Flights
International Flights to and from Israel.
Lunches
Breakfast / evening meal only – allowing for flexibility in your daily choices
Beverages with meals
As specified at each hotel – normally: tea, coffee, juice at breakfast, and table water at the evening meal
Tips for guide, driver
expected rates: Driver $3-$5 per day/person, Guide: $5-$7 per day/person
Personal Travel Insurance
Should cover COVID
COVID Tests / Vaccine Certificates
Not applicable right now
Petra Add-On
Petra Excusion: An additional $460 per person for the full-day excursion to Petra, Jordan.
Includes: All Israel & Jordan Border Taxes/Crossing Fees.
Important Visa Note: If your nationality requires a visa for Israel, you MUST apply for a DOUBLE ENTRY visa if you intend to travel to Petra. For most countries (USA, Australia, UK, etc.) under the Visa Waiver Program, this is not required.
12 Day Christian Israel Tour – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions we get asked about our Multi-day Christian tours of Israel.
What is the focus of this 12-day Israel tour?
This 12-day tour is a Christian-focused pilgrimage designed for born-again believers. Our aim is to provide a Spirit-led, faith-filled experience, allowing you to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and explore significant biblical sites throughout Israel, including an optional extension to Petra.
What is the group size for this Christian tour?
Our tours are designed for small to medium-sized groups, ranging from 16 to 30 passengers. This ensures a more intimate, family-like atmosphere and allows for a more personalized experience at each site, without the rush often associated with larger groups.
Are flights included in the tour price?
No, international flights to and from Israel (Ben Gurion Airport, TLV) are not included in the tour price. This allows you the flexibility to book flights from your preferred location. Airport transfers upon arrival and departure in Israel are included.
What kind of accommodation is provided?
We provide accommodation in 4-star hotels throughout the tour. Most nights are on a Half Board basis, including breakfast and an evening meal. The first night in Tel Aviv is on a Breakfast Only basis due to varied arrival times.
Is the Petra add-on worth it, and what does it include?
The Petra add-on is highly recommended for those wishing to extend their pilgrimage to the magnificent ancient city in Jordan. For an additional $460 per person, it includes a full-day excursion to Petra and covers all Israel and Jordan border taxes/crossing fees.
Do I need a special visa for the Petra add-on?
If your nationality requires a visa to enter Israel, you MUST obtain a DOUBLE ENTRY visa if you plan to join the Petra add-on. For most countries under the Visa Waiver Program (e.g., USA, Australia, UK), a separate double entry visa is not typically required. Please check your specific country’s visa requirements.
As of the 1st January 2025 all visitors to Israel must now obtain an ETA-IL before visiting Israel. Applications can be made at: https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/
Are meals included in the tour?
Breakfast and evening meals are included for 10 nights of the tour (Half Board basis), and breakfast is included for the first night in Tel Aviv. Lunches are not included, giving you flexibility. Beverages with meals (apart from basic drinks like tea/coffee/juice at breakfast and table water at dinner) are also not included.
What is the role of the tour guide?
Our tours are led by certified, Spirit-Led, Born Again Christian Tour Guides. They are not just knowledgeable about the history and geography, but they also bring a spiritual depth to each site, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide the experience and ensuring a truly faith-filled journey.
What if the itinerary changes?
While we provide a detailed itinerary as a working guide, the sequence of sites, hotels, or specific activities may be amended due to unforeseen circumstances, traffic, crowd management, or if the Lord leads our guides in a different direction. All sites listed will be visited during the tour.
Are baptisms offered in the Jordan River?
Yes, an opportunity for baptism in the Jordan River at Qasr el Yahud (traditional site of Jesus’ baptism) is included in the tour. Robes and certificates are provided for this special experience.
Is the tour suitable for seniors?
Seniors are welcome to join this tour; however, please note that it involves a fair amount of walking, including sections over uneven terrain, steep hills and stepped areas. While the tour is designed to move at an ‘easy-going’ pace, participants should still have a moderate level of fitness to comfortably explore many of the sites. It’s important to keep in mind that several locations in Israel feature hills, cobblestones, and uneven ground.
Duration
12 Days
Group Size
16 – 30 PAX
Tour Type
Multi-Day Tour
Prices
From:
$2,695 USD PP
Passenger Type
Cost Per Passenger
Adult (12 years & over):
$2,695.00 PP
based on sharing a Double / Twin room
Child (2 – 11 years):
On Request
Triple Room:
$2,645.00 PP
based on sharing a Triple room
Single Room Sup:
$1,390.00 PP
$2,695.00 + $1,390.00 supplement
Petra Add-On:
$460.00 PP
includes Border Crossing & all admission fees
Payment Breakdown:
ALL PRICES ARE IN US DOLLARS
At time of booking: Non-refundable deposit of $250 per person
Final Payment: 12 weeks before tour date: Final Balance
Full Terms, Conditions & COVID Cancellation Policy will be provided at time of booking.
Maximum of 30 seats available