Holy Land Tour FAQs: Answering Your Most Pressing Questions

A pilgrimage to the Holy Land is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that brings the Bible to life. We understand you likely have a lot of questions as you prepare for this transformative experience. Below, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you feel confident and prepared for your trip.

Is it safe to travel to the Holy Land?

This is a valid question we hear often, and the short answer is yes. Israel’s security is globally renowned, making it one of the most secure countries in the world, with highly secure airports and travel infrastructure. The vast majority of Christian pilgrimage sites and tourist areas are incredibly safe. Our tours are carefully planned to prioritize your security, keeping you miles away from any conflict zones, which are often behind official checkpoints and not accessible to tourists. For more details, we also recommend reading our post on Is the Holy Land Safe? A Christian’s Guide to Security on Pilgrimage to put your mind at ease.

What are the spiritual benefits of a Holy Land pilgrimage?

A pilgrimage to the Holy Land offers a unique opportunity to deepen your faith. By seeing the places where biblical events occurred, the stories you’ve read your whole life become more tangible and real. It can lead to a deeper understanding of Scripture and a renewed passion for your walk with Christ. Our Multi-Day Christian Tours of Israel are designed to facilitate these powerful, personal encounters.

What is a typical Holy Land tour itinerary like?

Our comprehensive multi-day tours are designed to be a blend of spiritual sites and biblical history. While each tour is different, a typical journey includes visits to key locations from the life of Jesus. You will walk through the ancient streets of Jerusalem, explore Galilee, and visit sites of biblical miracles. Many of our trips also include special experiences like a “praise” boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. You can explore the types of tours we offer, from a One Day Jerusalem Tour to a One Day Nazareth / Galilee Tour and even a One Day Masada / Dead Sea Tour.

When is the best time to visit Israel & the Holy Land?

The best time to visit depends on your personal preferences. The spring and fall offer ideal weather for touring with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. The summer is hotter but is a great time to travel for those on a school break. The winter can be rainy but often provides a more intimate experience with fewer crowds. For a detailed breakdown, check out our post on The Best Time to Visit the Holy Land: A Christian’s Seasonal Guide.

What should I pack for a Holy Land tour?

Packing for the Holy Land is about comfort and modesty. Comfortable, well-worn walking shoes are essential as you’ll be on your feet for most of the day. For clothing, it is important to pack modest attire that covers your knees and shoulders, especially for visiting holy sites. Lightweight, breathable layers are perfect for adapting to the varied climate. For a comprehensive list, check out our What to Wear and Pack on a Holy Land Tour guide.

Is a Holy Land tour physically demanding?

A pilgrimage to the Holy Land involves a good amount of walking, often on uneven terrain and cobblestone streets, and some tours may include stairs. While our itineraries are paced to be accessible to most travelers, wearing comfortable, broken-in walking shoes is a must. It’s important to note that even though our tours are easy-going, individuals who have trouble walking unaided or over longer distances should speak with us beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable for their needs.

Do I need a special visa or passport to visit Israel?

For most visitors from the United States, Canada, and the European Union, a visa is not required for a short tourist stay. However, as of January 1, 2025, a pre-travel authorization, known as ETA-IL, is required for entry. You must apply for and receive this authorization before your trip.  More information can be found on the Israeli Governments website: https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/

Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of departure. Upon arrival, your passport will not be stamped; instead, you will receive an electronic gate pass, which you should keep with your passport.

What about money and currency?

The local currency is the Israeli Shekel, but you’ll find that credit cards are widely accepted almost everywhere. ATMs are also readily available for cash withdrawals. If you need to exchange cash, your guide can assist you in finding a reliable currency exchange location.  US Dollars & Euros are also accepted in some of the larger businesses.

What about tipping and gratuities?

Tipping is customary in Israel. While your tour package includes many services, it’s good to budget for tips for your guide, driver, and hotel staff. Your tour leader will provide a clear guideline on recommended daily amounts at the start of your trip, ensuring this process is seamless for you.

Do I need to speak Hebrew?

Not at all. While Hebrew is the official language, English is widely spoken in all tourist areas, hotels, and businesses across Israel. Your tour guide will be a fluent English speaker, and you will have no trouble communicating throughout your journey.

What type of meals should I expect on the tour?

Your trip will include a variety of dining experiences. Breakfast and evening meals are typically buffet-style at the hotel, offering a wide selection of food to suit every palate. For lunch, our guides will stop at local restaurants or takeaways, giving you the choice between popular Western options like McDonald’s or local Israeli cuisine, allowing you to experience the culture at your own pace.

Can I get baptized in the Jordan River?

Yes, many of our tours include the opportunity for a baptism ceremony at the Jordan River. It’s a powerful experience for believers to renew their faith in the same river where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. Our One Day Jordan River Baptism Tour is a dedicated option for those who want this specific spiritual experience.

Is it possible to attend a church service?

Yes, attending a local church service can be one of the most enriching parts of your pilgrimage. For many of our tour groups, if the dates and itinerary align, we arrange a visit to Kehilat HaCarmel (Carmel Assembly) to worship with a local, modern congregation. It’s a powerful way to connect with the “living stones” of the Holy Land and witness the vibrant Christian community in Israel today.

Can we renew our wedding vows at Cana?

Renewing your wedding vows in Cana, the site of Jesus’ first miracle, is a beautiful and meaningful request. This special ceremony is a service we offer exclusively to our bespoke church group tours that are arranged with specific congregations. It is not available on our standard multi-day group tours that are open to the general public.

Do you organize tours for church groups?

Yes, we specialize in organizing private, faith-based tours for church groups and ministries. We can help you build the perfect itinerary that suits your congregation’s spiritual goals and budget. We require a minimum of 20 passengers for a private multi-day Christian tour, which allows us to secure special group rates. For more information, please visit our page on Holy Land Tours for Church Groups.

What sets Elbow Holy Land Tours apart?

We are a Christian-owned and operated company with a deep commitment to providing a faith-based and Spirit-led experience. Our guides are not just historians; they are fellow believers who provide spiritual insight and leadership throughout the journey. To learn more about our commitment to your spiritual journey, please visit our Why Choose Elbow Holy Land Tours page. Still have questions? We’re here to help. Contact Us for a Christian Tour of Israel Quotation and let’s begin planning your life-changing pilgrimage.