The Ashdod Shore Excursion offers travelers a captivating private day trip that blends historical exploration and serene relaxation. Beginning with a stunning vista from the Mount of Olives, guests embark on a guided tour through Jerusalem’s diverse Old City quarters before tracing the footsteps of Jesus along the Via Dolorosa. The adventure then leads to the iconic Dead Sea, where visitors can float in the mineral-rich waters and indulge in therapeutic mud bathing, all while surrounded by the region’s breathtaking natural landscapes. This comprehensive experience provides a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage and natural wonders that make this destination so alluring.
Key Points
- This private full-day tour from Ashdod Port offers visits to the iconic Mount of Olives, the Old City of Jerusalem, and the therapeutic Dead Sea.
- The tour includes a panoramic viewpoint at the Mount of Olives, exploration of the cultural and religious quarters in the Old City, and a relaxing float in the Dead Sea.
- Guests can experience the historic significance and spiritual ambiance of Jerusalem, as well as the unique geological and therapeutic properties of the Dead Sea.
- The tour is led by a professional guide and includes air-conditioned transportation and all entrance fees, providing a seamless and comprehensive experience.
- With positive guest reviews highlighting the expertise of the guides and the overall highlights of the tour, this Ashdod shore excursion offers an immersive and memorable day trip.
Overview of the Excursion
Ashdod Shore Excursion: Private Jerusalem and Dead Sea Day Trip
Overview of the Excursion
This private full-day excursion from Ashdod Port provides an opportunity to explore Israel’s historic and holy sites in Jerusalem, as well as experience the therapeutic benefits of the Dead Sea.
During the tour, you’ll visit the Mount of Olives for panoramic views of the city and then explore the Old City’s Christian, Armenian, and Muslim quarters, including the iconic Western Wall.
After, you’ll travel through the Judean Desert to the Dead Sea, where you can float in the saltiest waters and enjoy a therapeutic mud bath.
With a professional private guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all entrance fees included, this excursion offers a comprehensive and hassle-free way to discover the highlights of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins at the Mount of Olives, offering panoramic views of Jerusalem’s historic skyline. From this vantage point, guests can gaze upon the Old City and its iconic landmarks.
Next, the tour explores the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim quarters of the Old City. Visitors will walk along the Via Dolorosa and visit the Western Wall, one of Judaism’s holiest sites. After touring the vibrant bazaars, the group travels through the Judean Desert to the Dead Sea.
Here, guests have time to float in the mineral-rich waters and enjoy therapeutic mud bathing, an unforgettable experience. This comprehensive excursion allows travelers to enjoy Jerusalem’s storied history and the natural wonders of the Dead Sea.
Mount of Olives Viewpoint
Towering high above Jerusalem, the Mount of Olives offers visitors a sweeping panorama of the city’s historic skyline. From this vantage point, one can gaze upon the Old City and its iconic landmarks, including the golden Dome of the Rock and the towering minarets of the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The highlights of this viewpoint include:
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Breathtaking 360-degree views spanning the Old City, the Kidron Valley, and the distant mountains.
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The opportunity to witness the city’s rich religious history, with sacred sites like the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations visible below.
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The chance to observe the daily life of the city, with the bustling streets and marketplaces of Jerusalem unfolding before your eyes.
Exploring the Old City
Typically, visitors explore the Old City’s vibrant quarters, seeing the diverse religious and cultural tapestry that characterizes this historic area. The guided tour takes travelers through the Christian, Armenian, and Muslim quarters, showcasing centuries-old architectural marvels and bustling marketplaces.
| Quarter | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Christian | Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Via Dolorosa |
| Armenian | St. James Cathedral, Armenian Quarter |
| Muslim | Al-Aqsa Mosque, Dome of the Rock, Bazaars |
| Jewish | Western Wall, Jewish Quarter |
Visitors can browse the lively bazaars, observing the intricate craft demonstrations and bargaining with local vendors, seeing the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas of this ancient city.
Travel to the Dead Sea
After exploring the historic and sacred sites of Jerusalem’s Old City, the journey continues through the Judean Desert towards the renowned Dead Sea. Travelers embark on this scenic drive, anticipating the unique opportunity to float effortlessly in the saltiest waters on Earth and indulge in the therapeutic properties of the mineral-rich mud.
The experience at the Dead Sea offers three key highlights:
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Floating in the buoyant waters, which are ten times saltier than the ocean, creating a one-of-a-kind sensation.
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Lathering up with the mineral-rich black mud, known for its skin-nourishing benefits.
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Relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun in this lowest point on Earth.
Floating and Mud Bathing
As travelers arrive at the renowned Dead Sea, they’re greeted by the shimmering surface of the saltiest waters on Earth.
Eager to experience the unique buoyancy, they waste no time shedding their clothes and gingerly stepping into the mineral-rich waters, which effortlessly support their bodies, allowing them to float weightlessly on the surface.
The Dead Sea’s high salinity creates a serene and rejuvenating experience, as visitors can recline, read a book, or simply bask in the tranquility.
After floating, many choose to slather the nutrient-dense black mud found along the shoreline onto their skin, believed to have therapeutic benefits for the body and complexion.
This mud bath offers a revitalizing conclusion to the day’s adventures at the lowest point on the planet.
Inclusions and Pricing
The package deal covers port pickup and drop-off, along with the services of a professional private guide and air-conditioned transportation, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience.
Food, drinks, toll and parking fees, as well as entrance fees to the various sites, are all included in the price.
Three key things to note about the inclusions and pricing:
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An extra charge of $125 applies on Saturdays and holidays.
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The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with infant seats available.
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Recommended items to bring include comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, towels, and sun protection.
This comprehensive package provides excellent value and convenience for those seeking a private, guided exploration of Jerusalem and the Dead Sea from the Ashdod Port.
Guest Reviews
Customers have overwhelmingly praised this private tour, awarding it an impressive 5.0 overall rating across 8 reviews. Guests highlighted the expertise and professionalism of the guides, with Gil and Ahmed receiving particular praise for their deep local knowledge. The thoughtfully curated experiences varied, but all left travelers with lasting memories. Any issues that arose were promptly addressed by the tour operator. The reviews paint a clear picture of this tour’s quality:
| Reviewer | Rating | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| John D. | 5 stars | "Ahmed was an outstanding guide." |
| Sarah P. | 5 stars | "Exceeded all my expectations." |
| Michael L. | 5 stars | "The Dead Sea was a highlight." |
| Cindy T. | 5 stars | "Would book again in a heartbeat." |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Excursion Privately for My Family or Group?
Yes, you can book this excursion privately for your family or group. The tour operator offers a private full-day trip from Ashdod Port to Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, with flexibility to customize the itinerary to your preferences.
Is the Excursion Suitable for Children or People With Disabilities?
The excursion is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and has infant seats available, so it’s suitable for children and people with disabilities. Most travelers, including families, can participate in the activities and experience the historic and natural sites.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Sites or Interests?
Yes, the itinerary can be customized to focus on specific sites or interests. The tour operator offers flexibility to tailor the experience based on individual preferences, ensuring an enriching and personalized day trip.
What Happens if the Weather Is Unfavorable During the Dead Sea Visit?
If the weather is unfavorable during the Dead Sea visit, the tour operator will adjust the itinerary to accommodate indoor activities or provide alternatives like visiting other attractions in the area. They’ll ensure travelers have an enjoyable experience despite the weather conditions.
Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Items or Equipment for This Excursion?
The traveler should bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sun protection for their visit to the Dead Sea. These items will ensure they can comfortably float, enjoy the therapeutic mud, and protect themselves from the sun during the beach leisure.
The Sum Up
The Ashdod Shore Excursion offers a captivating blend of historical exploration and relaxation.
Guests start at the stunning Mount of Olives, tour the Old City’s diverse quarters, and walk the Via Dolorosa before heading to the Dead Sea.
There, they can float in the mineral-rich waters and indulge in therapeutic mud bathing, all while experiencing the region’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.