Frequently Asked Questions about Holy Land Tours
Planning Your Christian Holy Land Tour
What is Elbow Holy Land Tours?
Elbow Holy Land Tours is a leading Christian tour company based in Israel, specializing in immersive and spiritually enriching pilgrimage tours to the Holy Land. We are dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences that bring the Bible to life, guided by knowledgeable local experts.
Why choose Elbow Holy Land Tours for my Christian trip to Israel?
We offer meticulously crafted Christian tour packages to Israel, focusing on authentic biblical sites and a deep spiritual journey. As an Israel-based company, we have unparalleled local expertise, strong relationships with religious sites, and a commitment to personalized service, ensuring a safe, enriching, and seamless Holy Land pilgrimage.
What types of Christian tours do you offer in Israel?
We offer a variety of Christian tours in Israel, including:
- One Day Private Holy Land Tours: Visiting key biblical sites across Galilee, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and more.
- Multi-Day Israel Tours: 10 – 14 day tours covering the length & breadth of Israel
- Bespoke Holy Land Tours: Personalized itineraries for individuals, families, or small/large groups.
- Israel and Jordan Tours: Combined tours to explore biblical sites in both the Holy Land and Jordan (Petra, Mount Nebo).
Are your Holy Land tours suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Our Holy Land tour itineraries are designed to run at an easy-going pace with varying levels of activity. Most tours involve some moderate walking at historical sites. We can accommodate specific needs and discuss tour options suitable for various ages and fitness levels. Please contact us to discuss any mobility concerns or special requirements.
How long are your typical Christian Holy Land tour packages?
Our most popular Holy Land tour packages range from 10 to 14 days, offering a comprehensive experience of the biblical sites. We also offer shorter or longer customized itineraries based on your group’s preferences and time availability.
Booking and Preparation for your Holy Land Tour
How do I book a Christian tour with Elbow Holy Land Tours?
You can easily book your Holy Land pilgrimage by visiting our website’s tour pages, selecting your desired itinerary, and submitting an inquiry. Our tour specialists will then contact you to finalize details, answer your questions, and guide you through the booking process.
What is included in your Holy Land tour packages?
Our all-inclusive Holy Land tour packages (Multi-Day) typically include:
- Accommodation in carefully selected hotels
- Daily breakfast and dinner (Half Board)
- Experienced, licensed Christian tour guides
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation
- All entrance fees to biblical and historical sites
- All boat rides, cable cars, where necessary
- Baptisms in the Jordan River
What is the best time of year to visit the Holy Land for a Christian tour?
The most popular times for a Christian tour to Israel are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) due to pleasant weather. Winter (December-February) offers a unique Christmas experience but can be cooler and rainier. Summer (June-August) is hot but can be less crowded at certain sites.
Do I need a visa to travel to Israel for a Holy Land tour?
For many nationalities, including US citizens, a visa is not required for tourist visits to Israel. However, it is essential to have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. For other nationalities, visa requirements may apply. We recommend checking the latest visa regulations for your country well in advance of your Holy Land Tour. 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/
Is travel insurance recommended for Holy Land tours?
Yes, we highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance for your Christian tour to Israel. This provides coverage for unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellation or interruption, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and other travel-related issues, giving you peace of mind.
Safety and Travel in Israel
Is it safe to travel to the Holy Land and Israel for a Christian tour?
The Holy Land is generally safe for tourists and pilgrims. Millions of visitors from around the world travel to Israel annually without incident. Elbow Holy Land Tours prioritizes the safety and well-being of our guests. We work with trusted local partners, monitor the security situation closely, and adjust itineraries if necessary to ensure a secure pilgrimage experience in Israel.
What currency is used in Israel?
The local currency in Israel is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). US Dollars and Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it’s advisable to have some local currency for smaller purchases. Credit cards are also widely accepted.
What kind of clothing should I pack for my Holy Land tour?
For your Christian tour of the Holy Land, we recommend packing comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees for visiting religious sites, and layers as temperatures can vary throughout the day. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, especially during warmer months.
What are the typical accommodations like on your Holy Land tours?
We partner with reputable hotels in Israel that offer comfortable and welcoming accommodations. Our tours typically include 4-star hotels, depending on the chosen package. All hotels are carefully selected for their quality, location, and service, providing a comfortable base for your Holy Land pilgrimage.
Will I have internet access during my tour in Israel?
Most hotels in Israel offer free Wi-Fi. Our tour buses also provide Wi-Fi access. You can also purchase local SIM cards or use international roaming for connectivity during your trip to the Holy Land.
Spiritual and Practical Aspects
Will there be opportunities for worship and spiritual reflection on the tour?
Absolutely. Our Christian tours to the Holy Land are designed to be spiritually enriching. We incorporate opportunities for prayer, scripture reading, reflection, and even communion at significant biblical sites. Many tours also include visits to local Christian communities and churches.
Are the tour guides knowledgeable about Christian history and the Bible?
Yes, our Christian Holy Land tour guides are highly experienced, licensed professionals who possess in-depth knowledge of Christian history, biblical narratives, and the local culture. They are all Born Again believers in Yeshua and are passionate about bringing the Bible to life and sharing insights at each site.
What kind of food can I expect on a Holy Land tour?
You’ll experience a variety of delicious local and international cuisine. Meals often include fresh salads, Mediterranean dishes, and traditional Israeli specialties (Buffet Style). Dietary restrictions can often be accommodated with advance notice.
What is the tipping etiquette in Israel for tour guides and drivers?
Tipping is customary in Israel for tour guides and drivers. While specific amounts may be suggested in your tour package, a general guideline is usually provided. Our team can offer precise recommendations closer to your departure.
One Day and Multi-Day Tours of Israel for Christians
What Christian Tours of Israel do you offer?
Why are your private one day tours a lot cheaper than others online?
We believe that visiting the Holy Land should be spiritually enriching and financially accessible. Our private Christian tours are more affordable than many others because:
- Ministry-Driven, Not Profit-Driven: As a Christian company, our mission is to serve fellow believers, not to maximize profit. We aim to make faith-based travel available to more people.
- Lean Operations: We operate with a small, efficient team and minimal overhead, which allows us to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.
- Direct Booking, No Middlemen: Unlike many companies that rely on third-party platforms or travel agencies, we manage everything directly. This eliminates extra fees and commissions.
- Transparent Pricing: Our prices are straightforward and inclusive. There are no hidden costs or surprise charges.
While our tours are more affordable, we never compromise on the experience. You’ll enjoy a deeply personal, spiritually meaningful journey led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing the land where Jesus walked.
Why are some One Day Christian Tours advertised online cheaper than your tours?
Many tours marketed as “Christian” vary widely in their approach to faith-based travel. Large group tours—sometimes with up to 40 participants—are often led by guides whose focus is primarily historical and archaeological. While these guides may offer valuable insights into the region’s rich past, their commentary may not always reflect the spiritual depth or biblical perspective that some Christian travelers are seeking.
Some itineraries include stops at sites rooted in local tradition or folklore rather than in Scripture or early Church history. For example, stories such as Jesus leaving a footprint on a rock at the Mount of Olives or the white stone in Bethlehem’s Milk Grotto—while cherished by many—are not based on biblical texts or widely accepted theological sources. These elements may be meaningful to some visitors, but may not align with the expectations of those looking for a more Scripture-centered experience.
In addition, some lower-cost tours include visits to commercial venues where guides or operators may receive commissions from purchases. While this is a common practice in the travel industry, it can shift the focus away from the spiritual purpose of the journey. Travelers may also encounter additional costs, such as entrance fees to key sites that are not included in the tour package.
At Elbow Holy Land Tours, we offer a different kind of experience—one that is private, personalized, and purpose-driven. Our tours are designed specifically for Christians who want to explore Israel through a biblical lens. Our licensed guides are committed to the Christian faith and bring both theological understanding and personal conviction to each site, offering reflections grounded in Scripture.
This is more than sightseeing—it’s a pilgrimage. If you’re seeking a spiritually enriching journey through Israel, led by guides who share your faith and values, Elbow Holy Land Tours is here to walk that path with you.