Top 5 misconceptions about Christian tours to Israel

Planning a Holy Land pilgrimage can stir as many questions as it does excitement. We hear the same myths again and again — so let’s clear them up. If your heart is set on walking where Jesus walked, don’t let misinformation keep you from the journey of a lifetime.

 

1) “It’s not safe to travel to Israel”

Safety is the first concern for many travelers. The truth is: pilgrim routes and the sites on our itineraries are well-traveled and closely managed, and we continually monitor conditions to keep our groups in secure, safe areas. If you want a balanced, practical overview, start with our in-depth guide on safety and what to expect on the ground: Is the Holy Land safe?

• For practical prep (visas, seasons, packing, health): Planning your Christian Holy Land pilgrimage.
• For FAQs (tipping, attire, WiFi, visas, and more): Frequently asked questions.

2) “It’s just sightseeing — not a spiritual journey”

A faith-filled tour is nothing like a checklist of landmarks. It’s prayer on the Mount of Olives, worship on the Sea of Galilee, and quiet reflection in the Garden Tomb. Our aim is to provide tours that run at an easy-going pace and that make room for Scripture, ministry, and encounter with the Lord.

• See how we build tours of Israel for spiritual depth: What makes our tours different?
• Meet who you’ll travel with: About Elbow Holy Land Tours.
• Want a day dedicated to Jerusalem’s most sacred places (to walk where Jesus walked?)? One Day Christian Jerusalem Tour.

 

3) “You need to be a Bible expert to enjoy it”

Come as you are. Whether you’re new to the faith or have studied for years, Scripture comes alive when you see it in context. Our licensed, born-again Christian guides teach clearly, connect passages to place, and leave room for questions and prayer — at every level.

• Old & New City in one day (Dead Sea Scrolls, City of David, Hezekiah’s Tunnels): One Day Christian Old & New Jerusalem Tour.
• A full Galilee immersion (Nazareth Village, Capernaum, Tabgha, Mt of Beatitudes, Galilee boat ride): One Day Christian Nazareth / Galilee Tour.

 

4) “A Holy Land pilgrimage is too expensive”

You have options. We offer transparent pricing, 4 star half-board hotels, all site tickets, airport group transfers — and zero hidden extras. You can join a small-group Christian multi-day tour, build a bespoke group itinerary (to your own budget / requirements), or choose a private one-day tour if you’re short on time. For a clear financial picture, review our Israel Pilgrimage cost guide.

• Cost breakdown (flights, meals, tips, insurance, real totals): Holy Land pilgrimage cost guide.
• Organize a church trip with tailored pricing: Bring your church to Israel.
• Let us beat any quote you have been given: Beat my quote.

 

5) “Baptisms are complicated — and probably not possible”

They’re profoundly simple — and unforgettable. We handle robes, the ceremony and logistics; you bring an open heart. Whether you’re coming as a group or a family, we can arrange baptisms at Qasr el Yahud (near Jericho), the site many believe to be closest to where Jesus was baptized.

• Dedicated private baptism tour, with Jericho, Mount of Temptation, Dead Sea, and Qumran: One Day Jordan River Baptism Tour.
• Prefer to combine with desert highlights? One Day Masada / Dead Sea Tour.
• or even a Nazareth / Galilee Tour? One Day Christian Nazareth / Galilee Tour.

 

Ready to trade myths for the real thing?

If you’re craving a faith-deepening, Spirit-led journey that’s unhurried and full of Scripture, you’re in the right hands.

• Explore upcoming small-group Christian tours: Multi-Day Christian Tours of Israel.
• Prefer a coastal prophecy-to-Acts route? One Day Christian Caesarea / Med Sea Coastline Tour.
• Have questions or want a no-obligation quote? Contact Us for a Christian Tour of Israel Quotation.
• Want to see why travelers choose us? Why Choose Elbow Holy Land Tours.

Let’s help you walk where Jesus walked — and give God room to meet you in His land.