Day 1- Via Ferrata, Bungee Swoop
Via Ferrata Adventure with Rappelling and Rock Climbing
Via Ferrata is a treasured cliff found at the top of the Ramim Cliff, right above Kiryat Shemona. This unique site is most favored because it is the only cliff in Israel that one can experience the Italian sport called Via Ferrata.
We start our expedition with a short downhill hike towards the magnificent cliff nicknamed “Liar Cliff” by its many rock climbing and sports enthusiast fans (ask your tour guide why!).
Just standing at the top of the cliff is a visual sensation, with one of the most breathtaking views in all of Israel. After taking in the view, we start our adventure by rappelling down the cliff all the way to the bottom. Since the rappelling is not too intimidating, it is a great place to step into your confidence.
Once we have all rappelled to the bottom of the cliff, we will continue on to a very unique activity called Via Ferrata. Via Ferrata, (“Iron Path”) is an Italian term for an extremely fun sport that is new to Israel and can only be done here at this site! After receiving special equipment from your guide, you will walk on the face of the rock by using cables, rungs, and metal handles, using an already built-in climbing course that is full of fun and adventure.
The Via Ferrata path leads us to a spacious lookout that gives you a bird’s eye view of the scenery around and gives you visual access to hills many tourists have never seen before.
You will feel like a flying bird as you look down towards the Hula Valley below, the Mount Hermon in front of us, and the Golan Heights expanding endlessly towards the south. It is truly an awe-inspiring experience that will make this tour the highlight of your time here in Israel.
When we finish the Via Ferrata course, we will find ourselves at the bottom of the cliff and will have free rock-climbing time where you can rock climb at any level and pace you choose. The cliff has so many different routes you can choose from, which is great for both beginners and/or rock-Climbing professionals.
The best part is that you can meet other rock climbers and enjoy the extreme atmosphere all around you. After this great adventure, we will continue on with a short drive to a nearby fortress built by ancient crusaders called the Hunin Fortress (“Castellum Novum”).
You will have the option to enjoy the very hidden and impressive fortress with big rooms and giant stones with lots of ancient history. During the summer, we have the option of climbing down a ladder to the water tank that is hidden under the fortress where you can even go for a swim! What cooler ending is there to a hot summer’s day?!
Estimated time: 4.5 -7 hours.
*Since all three different activities are optional and not dependent on each other, it makes this cliff a perfect choice for everyone!
Bungee Swoop
You will be surrounded by a panoramic view of Israel in all of its beauty. Placed over the Jordan River about 9 miles north of the Sea of Galilee and about 10 miles east of Rosh Pina on Route 91, this special Bailey bridge is an Israeli landmark. Off of this bridge we will bungee swoop through the air with a stunning view of the flowing Jordan below, the mountains of the Galilee and the Golan to either side of you.
The bungee swoop is easy but VERY exciting as you are suspended in midair, not facing a rock cliff. No experience is necessary. The activity is completely optional and can be done repeatedly.
While some are doing the bungee swoop, others can walk around, hike the paths, relax by the water in the shade, or swim in the Jordan river. This site is perfect for a BBQ or picnic lunch. Please let us know if you would like us to arrange this for your group.
What is the Bungee Swoop?
Real Adrenaline junkies – For those who are EXTREME at heart, we offer you the option of doing the bungee swoop off of the bridge. You will be harnessed and you’ll bungee off while attached to the other side of the bridge, giving the jump a huge swoop and swinging motion. Even just watching the bungee swoop is an adrenaline rush! There is nothing else like this in all of Israel. Fun, fun, fun!
The bridge is of strategic military importance, as it is one of the few fixed crossing points for the Jordan River enabling access from the Golan to the Galilee.
In the past, this bridge was a major crossing point between Acco and Damascus, and was utilized in the 12th century for trade and also in wars. In 1179, Saladin captured the holy land from the Christian King Baldwin IV at the Battle of Jacob’s Ford, which was at this same site. In 1918, Turkish forces retreating from the British in World War I destroyed the bridge. The bridge was destroyed again on June 16-17, 1946 by the Haganah on the night of the bridges. After the Israeli War of Independence, the bridge was part of the demilitarized zone. In 1967, during the six-day war, the Israeli army constructed a temporary Bailey Bridge at the site.
By 2007, there were two Bailey bridges there, one for traffic in each direction. A wide modern concrete permanent bridge was completed in 2007, and one of the Bailey bridges was dismantled. The second Bailey bridge was left for emergency purposes, but has been blocked from vehicles.
Day 2 - Rosh Hanikra, Keshet Cave
Rosh Hanikra
Rosh Hanikra is a geologic formation in Israel, located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, in the Western Galilee. An amazing place, it is a white chalk cliff face which opens up into spectacular grottos that are cavernous tunnels formed by sea action on the soft chalk rock.
The total length is some 200 meters. They branch off in various directions with some interconnecting segments. In the past, the only access to them was from the sea and experienced divers were the only ones capable of visiting. Today a cable car takes visitors down to see the grottos.
(Rosh Hanikra entrance fee not included in the cost for your private guide for the day).
Keshet Cave
Visit the most beautiful view in Israel from the highest point in the Western Galilee, with a vista of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the entire Galilee.
Once a real cave, the ceiling of the cave collapsed millennia ago leaving only an arch which gives the site its name. You can rappel off the mammoth natural stone arch bridging the mountains, sailing through the air with an amazing panoramic view surrounding you.
This is very exciting as you are suspended in mid-air. We will use cables to take the beautiful, adventurous and challenging 35-minute hike backup, often accompanied by many curious mountain goats.
The site is accessible to all, even strollers and wheelchairs. All the extreme activities are optional. The rappelling is easy and no experience is necessary. The minimum age is 10 years old.
Day 3 - Nachal Jilabun
Rappelling at Nachal Jilabun
Nachal Jilabun is one of the most famous streams in the Golan Heights. With its steep descent from the Golan Heights Ridge into the Hula Valley, the water makes its way into the Jordan River. Nachal Jilabun is a high stream with a flow of water that runs vigorously all year round. Along the stream is thick vegetation such as oak trees, figs, river hawthorns, and more. The view itself attracts avid hikers from all over the country.
Once we are well up the stream, we’ll find two spectacular and robust waterfalls. The first is called “Deborah’s waterfall”. Awaiting at the bottom is a large and deep pool between the lava walls of the canyon. For the thrill seeker – this site is perfect for you! You can swim under the pummeling water, and enter a small cave just behind the falls. The second waterfall, ‘Jilabun waterfall’, is a jaw dropping 140 feet high and is the highest flowing waterfall in all of Israel. Ready for the true adventure now?! Now we get to rappel down this massive running waterfall! As we make our way rappelling down the ropes, and through the waterfall, prepare to get soaked! If you are looking for a completely authentic experience, we invite you to take the challenge of this raw ‘canyoning’ experience! Once we reach the bottom, we will detach from our ropes, and swim across the cool pool.
This is a unique experience and a rare opportunity for extreme rappelling/abseiling in a clear and cold waterfall. It is a charming route on the western slopes of the Golan Heights, and is suitable for the entire family.
There is no obligation to rappel at the Jilabun waterfall. For anyone who does not wish to rappel – they can opt to go down the marked path to the bottom. From there they can take pictures and watch the other participants rappel down the falls!
Day 4 - IDF Jeep Tour, Banias Hike
IDF Jeep Tour
This tour takes you along the Lebanese border in the eastern Galilee. This is a tour not found in any visitors’ guide or tour book of Israel! It’s is a very special tour where your guide is a local resident, with many personal stories to share of life along the border of Lebanon and Israel.
This is a journey behind the scenes, a look at life on the Lebanese border, “living an ordinary life under threat”. You also will have the unique and rare opportunity to meet with IDF combat soldiers, who are guarding the nearby Lebanese border. We will spend time getting to know the combat soldiers and watching them in action up close and personal. Depending on the circumstances, we will see some combat vehicles, such as tanks, D9 (huge army bulldozer), hummers and ATMOS vehicles. Sometimes we get invited by the soldiers to climb on!
This unique and amazing tour will give you a better understanding of the conflict, the lives of the soldiers protecting our land, and everyday life at the border from an up close and personal perspective.
While riding on the jeep, you will experience exhilarating steep ascents and descents through the mountains. Along the way we will drive through breathtaking panoramic views of the Golan Heights, Hula Valley, and Mount Hermon (covered in snow during the winter months). Throughout your adventure you will hear about the history, geology, flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem.
We will also review the geopolitical situation at the observation points, tour the local agricultural orchards, and depending on the season, we will plant fruit trees near the border fence, and/or taste the seasonal fruit (in the summer and autumn).
The Level 1-tour – we will focus on the Lebanese border and our tour will be centered around Metulla and the nearby Naftali mountains.
The Level 2 tour – we will start in the same region as Level 1, and then continue on in the jeep through the Hula Valley, all the way to the east to climb up the Golan Heights partway. We will visit some historical Syrian bunkers that were still in use until 1967.
We’ll hear stories from the Six Day War that will come alive in front of our eyes, and hear about the current situation vis-a-vis nearby Syria today. In the summertime, we will stop by one of the local streams to refresh with a short swim!
Note: each jeep can seat up to 7 passengers.
Hiking Banias
The Banias Hike is located in a special part of the Banias River known mostly to the locals. (Note: This is not the well-known Banias Nature Reserve, it is a more hidden and remote part of the river).
This trek takes you from Kibbutz Snear to Sha’ar Yeshuv Village. You will be hiking mostly downhill with the river to your side throughout your journey and you will begin very close to the source of the river which will continue all the way to the Jordan River.
It is a gorgeous hike with various types of beautiful trees. In the season, you may have the joy of being able to eat some of the delicious fresh grapes and dates from the wild vines.
We will cross the river over the lovely wooden bridge. Together with the stunning nature and flowers, we will spot some reminders of the old Syrian army such as an old tank tossed in the river, as well as a Syrian bunker located in a strategic point just above the settlements around the area.
We will have many options to play in the water and even to walk into the stream (not for the youngsters). In the last part of the hike, we will cross a Bailey bridge designed by the British and climb a bit uphill until we reach Sha’ar Yeshuv entrance.
Please keep in mind that this is not a round-trip hike. Estimated Time: 3-5 hours
Day 5 - Western Galilee Hike
Zip-Line Via Ferrata Western Galilee
Join us for the new and more challenging attraction of “Zip-Line Via Ferrata”, or “The Iron Road” in English, is a challenging and unique climbing adventure that is carried out along the cliff when we are secured to a steel cable connected to the cliff and accompanied by a breathtaking view of trees, mountains, and sea.
A special and challenging sports field that is gaining momentum, popularity and great interest in the world. This adventure of “Via Ferrata” is the second out of three in Israel, and is considered to be of a higher technical and challenging level than the first.
This adventure additionally combines Via Ferrata as a way to pass from cliff to cliff, also cliff rappelling and omegas (zip-lining) as a way to pass from the top of the cliff to the cliff!
We do 4 different activities on this site, some of the activities are independent of each other, meaning that you can choose to do all of them or only some of them, all according to the interest and the time available to us.
- Via Ferrata – this is a section of about 900 meters in which we will climb cliffs, descend in ravines, hold on to iron handles, cross suspension bridges and be constantly secured to a steel cable that accompanies us along the route. We will use special equipment that ensures that every second and moment we are secure – the equipment that allows us to reach points on the cliff that were never accessible to humans!
- Zip-Lines – two zip-line sections – we will zip-line the steel cable at speed while looking at the amazing view and the sea!
- Rappelling – in the middle of the Via Ferrata, when everyone is secured to the cable, ropes will be anchored and you will be able to rappel over the cliff.
- Rock climbing – after we finish rappelling, the way back to the Via Ferrata route is by “rock climbing”, of course there are several different levels of climbing that will be adapted to your ability.
After we finish climbing the cliffs, we will continue on the “Via Ferrata” adventure back to the starting point where we will say goodbye to the site which is considered one of the most beautiful and special in the State of Israel!
Estimated time: 4-5.5 Hours
Day 6 - Judean Desert Hiking, Rappelling and Jeeping
Jeeping Tour in the Judean Desert
This will include two to four hours of exhilarating steep ascents and descents through the Judean Desert, with panoramic views of the Dead Sea, Jordan, and the Jerusalem mountains. Experience the beauty of the desert wilderness and the spectacular desert landscapes.
We will see the nomadic life of the Bedouins, desert birds and animals, and hear about the history, geology, flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem.
During the summer months there is a beautiful stream that we can stop by and take a dip to freshen up. (Available on the 4 hour tour)
Note: Each jeep can take up to 7 passengers
Nachal Kumran Hiking and Rappelling
A famous national archaeological natural canyon, Nachal Kumran is a remarkable desert hike that includes rappelling, spectacular views, unique birds and desert animals.
This hike is a round-trip hike, which means we finish where we started. We start the hike uphill towards the top of the canyon. Along the way we follow a dry riverbed and rappel down four water-less waterfalls.
The upper Kumran River Canyon merges with the Schacha River Canyon, joining together as the Lower Kumran River Canyon. It continues westward for two kilometers to the Atekim Cliff and to a stunning canyon stream with several waterfalls.
This hike and rappelling is on the simpler side, with short rappels making it appropriate for beginners. There are a number of ancient archaeological sites and ruins in the area including Dir al Katar, Garznik, and HaRikyana, as well as a partially reconstructed ancient Kumran site.
Estimated Time: 4-6 hours.
Price does not include Nachal Kumran entrance fee
Day 7 - Dead Sea Salt Wonder
Spelunking Hike Salt Cave
An underground natural phenomenon, the Salt Wonder is one of the most unique, adventurous and exciting tours in Israel. With a desert hike scaling sheer cliffs using ladders and stairs, breathtaking scenery, dramatic rappelling and spelunking in the sublime underground salt cave, this tour leads you through an incredibly diverse range of activities.
Our adventure will start at the lowest spot-on earth 1,370 feet below sea level with a steep, uphill hike to the top of a natural salt mountain. As we make our way up, we will marvel at the awe-inspiring views of the Dead Sea spread out beneath our feet and the Mountains of Jordan just beyond.
Our hike will reach a cozy canyon, where a mysterious and substantially sized hole will lead us deep into the belly of the earth. Here, your guide will set up ropes to belay each person – one at a time – nearly 300 feet down through a gradually widening chimney made of pure salt to the cave floor. One of the most unique rappels – if not the best – in Israel, your eyes will pop with wonder at the multi-hued salt-crystal walls.
Once everyone has gathered at the bottom, a real spelunking hike begins into the depths of this huge natural salt cave. Natural salt caves are a rare geological phenomenon that exist only in one other place in the world besides Israel – Iran!
Unlike limestone caves, where stalactites and stalagmites form into nearly shapeless cones, the salt crystals of this cave grow into beautiful and extraordinary shapes sparkling with different colors in the beam of your headlamps.
During our adventurous spelunking through this unique cave, we will crawl through tight spots, climb into huge chambers, and see rare sights that limited humans have seen. You will even need to crawl on your belly in two short spots! Our exploration of the Salt Wonder’s surreal underground beauty will end when we eventually pop out of the cave by the beach of the Dead Sea.
(Each person who is going to do the caving will need a headlamp. You can either bring them with you, or we can purchase them for you here. There are three types; the less expensive ones are 57 NIS each, and the better ones, with more LEDs, are 75 NIS each. We also have high quality, waterproof, professional Petzl Tactikka XP headlamps that come with a lifetime warranty for 310 NIS.)
The rappelling is mandatory. Caving is challenging but anyone in decent shape can do it. No experience is necessary.
This tour can be done as a day hike, as an amazingly beautiful night hike, or for a special treat, at sunrise. During the day you have the full impact of the panoramic desert views.
At night you feel the mystery of hiking by starlight and moonlight, and if we start at about four in the morning, we get to the peak of the mountain just at dawn. We will stop for tea or coffee and watch the glorious blues, oranges, pinks and greens of the sunrise over the desert. After sunrise we will enter the cave.
Estimated time for the day: 4 ½ – 6 hours
Note:
During the months of May – September, this tour must be done either as a sunrise/sunset hike, or started no later than 6:30 am. It is also possible do it as a night hike
Day 8 - Desert Tour Sandboarding and Star Gazing
Sandboarding + Dune Buggies
Sandboarding on the stunning Desert Dunes of the Negev!
Anyone can become a professional sandboarder! No previous experience is required. This is suitable for all ages! Throughout the activity there will be a shaded rest area with herbal tea and coffee for you to enjoy!
You can surf the sand standing, sitting, or lying down.
Everyone at their own level of FUN!
You can now combine sandboarding with a longer tour such as driving in sand buggies. The buggies are built for sandy terrain and are so much fun!
This whole tour lasts about 3-4 hours and includes a stop by the Egyptian border, you will learn about what is happening along the border, you will also stop by an ancient Nabatean Cistern and learn about the history of that area.
We will explore the largest sand dune there is in the Negev. We will stop along the way to serve you warm drinks and light snacks…
Star Gazing in the Desert
A unique experience under the beautiful night skies of Israel. Together, with your guide, you will observe the stars, hear fascinating stories, and see magnificent sights through the lens of a telescope.
- Gazing at the skies to understand the Earth.
- Perfect activity for your trip in Israel!
- Activity is suitable for all ages.
- Convenient outdoor sitting arrangements included.
There are also meal options:
Appetizer:
- Eggplants and onions hot from the flames
- Tahini with a lot of Lemon
- Spicy tomato salad
The main course:
- The Israeli classic- Poyke stew- a rich dish, containing mushrooms and coconut
- Rice
- Cabbage salad with a special sauce
- Lettuce salad with nuts and vinaigrette sauce
Desert:
- Fresh fruits
- Hot Tea and Coffee
- Cakes
Wine will be served alongside the meal.
It is possible to ask for specific modifications of the meal, according to your taste.
All dishes are vegetarian and, therefore, Kosher, though we do not hold a Kosher certificate. For the meal’s settings I will supply field carpets and pillows.
The simple option:
- The Israeli classic- Poyke stew- a rich dish, containing mushrooms and coconut
- Rice
- Hot Tea and Coffee
- It is possible to ask for specific modifications of the meal, according to your taste.
All dishes are vegetarian and, therefore, Kosher, though we do not hold a Kosher certificate.
For the meal’s settings I will supply field carpets and pillows.
Day 9 - Desert Tour Ramon Crater Hiking and Jeeping
Ramon Crater Hike
We start the trek hiking towards an outlook over the Ramon Crater. We will pass through Minsara, where there is an amazing geological phenomenon.
the rocks appear like symmetrically cut wood. From there we will go to Saharonim and Parsat Nikarot, where we start climbing on the south wall of the canyon, with amazing panoramic scenery and views of the crater.
We descend to Nachal Nikarot, a wide canyon with many huge boulders, with beautiful desert landscape as far as the eye can see. Experience the desert here in all its beauty! If it has rained recently there may be water in the Nachal. Then we will go to Ein Saharonim, a dry spring with Nabatean ruins that used to be part of the famed Spice Route!
Estimated time: 4-6 hours
Ramon Crater Jeep Tour
You will experience exciting steep ascents and descents as we travel and explore the Ramon Crater and the Negev Desert dunes. There are spectacular panoramic views of the Ramon Crater, which is considered the heart of the Negev Desert.
We will see the desert life of the birds and animals that inhabit the area, and hear about the history, geology, flora and fauna of this unique ecosystem.
You will also hear about the history and life of Israel’s Bedouin culture who reside in the desert wilderness. You can arrange either a 2 or 4 hour jeep tour.
Keep in mind, as this adventure takes place in a Nature Reserve, the jeep tour is only available during the day.
Each jeep holds up to 7 people.
Day 10 - Skydiving Tendam
Skydiving at the Dead Sea
High above the lowest point on all of Planet Earth, you now have the rare opportunity to take the plunge and skydive like no one else before!
Our new drop zone is the only place in the entire world where you can jump out of a plane and land at the lowest point on all of Planet Earth, while experiencing the vivid blues of the Dead Sea, and glancing at the glittering contrasting colors of the desert – all while taking in two countries at once – Israel and Jordan!
Majority of people have traveled to Masada and climbed its treacherous slopes; but how many people do you know that have skydived at Masada and experienced its ancient beauty from the sky?!
Our experienced, English-speaking staff who focus on customer service, we will escort you through your skydive from start to finish. As you make your way up to the desired altitude, your pilot, who is handpicked for his perfect safety record, patience, and cordiality, will start with an auditory tour of the Judean Desert, Masada, Jordan, and the Dead Sea until we make our way to the drop zone where you will get ready to jump…
Once the door opens and you plunge downward, your Free Fall begins! A sense of freedom and adrenaline will rush through your entire system. You will become ALIVE! The fun continues once your guide pulls the parachute.
Afterwards, you will fly and land safely onto the warm sand of the Dead Sea. Our skydiving gear is also from the cream of the crop: brand-new, clean, and the most comfortable and luxurious models on the market.
If you’re going to jump, do it in style…
Author: Gateway to Israel Tours
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