From Tel Aviv: Masada Sunrise, Ein Gedi & Dead Sea

Exploring Israel’s natural wonders from Tel Aviv is an unforgettable experience. This captivating full-day tour takes adventurous travelers on a sunrise hike to the ancient fortress of Masada, followed by a lush oasis escape at Ein Gedi and a relaxing float in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. With an early morning departure and a range of included activities, this comprehensive excursion offers the perfect opportunity to take in the breathtaking landscapes and rich history that make Israel a renowned travel destination. What awaits beyond this enticing overview is a day filled with stunning vistas, cultural discovery, and rejuvenation.

Key Points

1. Set out on a full-day tour from Tel Aviv to explore the ancient fortress of Masada, the lush oasis of Ein Gedi, and the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.

2. Witness a breathtaking sunrise over the Judean Desert by hiking to the top of Masada, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Discover the natural beauty of Ein Gedi, featuring dramatic canyons, refreshing waterfalls, and opportunities to spot wildlife like ibex and rabbits.

4. Spend 1.5 hours floating and relaxing in the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea, known for their high mineral content.

5. Enjoy air-conditioned transportation, knowledgeable guides, and included entrance fees for Masada, Ein Gedi, and the Dead Sea beach.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Tel Aviv provides the opportunity to explore three of Israel’s iconic destinations: Masada, Ein Gedi, and the Dead Sea.

The tour includes a 90-minute hike to witness the stunning sunrise at the ancient fortress of Masada. Visitors will then venture to the lush oasis of Ein Gedi, featuring canyons and waterfalls.

The final stop is the Dead Sea, where guests can enjoy 1.5 hours of relaxation in the mineral-rich waters.

The tour is capped at approximately 55 travelers and is operated by Eliaa Tours, offering air-conditioned transportation and knowledgeable guides.

Tour Logistics

The tour departs at 2:00 AM from the Textile and Fashion Building on Kaufmann Street 2 in Tel Aviv-Yafo, and returns to the same meeting point.

The group size is capped at approximately 55 travelers and is operated by Eliaa Tours.

The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transport, and covers the entrance fees for Masada (NIS 31 / USD 9), Ein Gedi (NIS 28 / USD 8), and a private Dead Sea beach (NIS 35 / USD 10).

Gratuities and personal travel insurance aren’t included.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transport to the various locations.

Entrance fees are included – Masada costs NIS 31 (approximately $9 USD), Ein Gedi is NIS 28 ($8 USD), and access to the private beach at the Dead Sea is NIS 35 ($10 USD).

However, gratuities and personal travel insurance aren’t covered.

The good news is that free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Traveler Experience

Rated 5.0 based on 5 reviews, the tour has received no negative ratings, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and friendly service.

The tour includes a mix of hiking, sightseeing, and free time, without any enforced meal stops. Participants appreciate the ability to explore at their own pace and enjoy the natural wonders of Masada, Ein Gedi, and the Dead Sea.

The early morning departure allows guests to witness the stunning sunrise at Masada, while the visit to Ein Gedi’s freshwater oasis and the relaxation time at the mineral-rich Dead Sea round out an immersive and memorable experience.

Preparation Tips

Two key preparation tips are recommended for this tour.

First, travelers should bring snacks like granola bars to fuel up during the 90-minute hike to Masada’s summit for the sunrise views. The hike can be strenuous, so having easy-to-eat energy sources on hand is advised.

Second, appropriate footwear is crucial for the visit to the Dead Sea. The mineral-rich mud can be quite slippery, so wearing sandals or water shoes is recommended for comfort and safety.

Plus, packing personal items like flip flops and bathing suits will allow visitors to fully enjoy the relaxing time floating in the Dead Sea’s buoyant, therapeutic waters.

Sunrise at Masada

Visitors embark on the 90-minute hike to Masada’s summit well before dawn, eager to witness the breathtaking sunrise over this ancient Jewish fortress.

The trek is moderately challenging, but the rewarding views from the top make it well worth the effort. As the sun’s first rays peek over the horizon, the group is treated to a stunning display of light and shadow across the dramatic landscape.

Silhouettes of the iconic snake path and ancient ruins come into focus, creating a magical atmosphere. This sunrise experience offers a powerful, spiritual connection to the site’s rich history and natural beauty, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness it.

Exploring Ein Gedi

After departing Masada, the tour group continues its journey to the lush oasis of Ein Gedi. Nestled between the Judean Desert and the Dead Sea, this natural wonder offers a serene respite from the arid surroundings. Visitors can explore the verdant canyons and cascading waterfalls, spotting wildlife like ibex and rabbits along the way.

Feature	Description
Landscape	Dramatic canyons, lush vegetation, and refreshing waterfalls
Wildlife	Variety of desert animals like ibex and rabbits
Activities	Hiking, swimming in natural pools, and sightseeing

The tour allows ample time to immerse in the tranquil atmosphere of Ein Gedi, providing a perfect contrast to the upcoming visit to the mineral-rich Dead Sea.

Relaxing at the Dead Sea

The final leg of the tour brings travelers to the iconic Dead Sea, a natural wonder famous for its mineral-rich waters and therapeutic benefits.

After the energetic hike at Masada and exploration of Ein Gedi’s lush oasis, visitors can now relax and unwind in the soothing waters of the Dead Sea.

Guests are allotted 1.5 hours to float effortlessly, soak in the sun, and even cover themselves in the rejuvenating mud.

The experience is truly one-of-a-kind, as the Dead Sea’s high salt concentration allows people to simply lie back and enjoy the buoyant, therapeutic waters.

With ample free time, travelers can fully enjoy this unique natural spa before heading back to Tel Aviv.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Different Date?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a different date. The tour operator, Eliaa Tours, offers flexibility in scheduling and allows customers to select their preferred tour date based on availability.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Food and Water?

The tour includes entry fees, but travelers should bring their own snacks and water to keep energy levels up, particularly during the hike at Masada. Bringing personal items like flip flops can also add to the comfort of the experience.

Is There a Discount for Senior or Student Travelers?

The tour does not offer discounts for senior or student travelers. The pricing is fixed for all participants, and there are no special rates available based on age or student status.

How Long Is the Drive From Tel Aviv to the Sites?

The tour drive from Tel Aviv to the sites takes approximately 90 minutes each way. Travelers can expect a total round-trip drive time of around 3 hours as part of the full-day excursion.

Can I Extend My Time at the Dead Sea?

Travelers can extend their time at the Dead Sea beyond the 1.5 hours included in the tour. The tour operator allows for additional time to relax and enjoy the mineral-rich waters at the Dead Sea’s private beach.

Recap

This full-day tour from Tel Aviv offers an unforgettable experience. Witness a breathtaking sunrise at Masada, explore the stunning oasis of Ein Gedi, and relax in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. With early departure and included transportation, travelers can make the most of this exceptional opportunity to enjoy Israel’s natural beauty and history.