May/June 2025 Holy Land Tour
(Exclusively for the Anderson Family & Friends)
May 29—June 8th, 2025
(Extension options thru June 15th to Jordan, Egypt, & Rome)
Directors: Dr. Ronald D. Anderson PhD
Price for Israel: $3,695
Day 1-2 (Thurs & Fri May 29-30th): FLY FROM USA to TEL AVIV
Today we fly from the USA to Tel Aviv. When we arrive we will go directly to the Mount of Olives for a view of ‘the Golden City’. We overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 3 (Sat May 31st): JERUSALEM CENTER / MT OF OLIVES (BETHESDA)
This morning we enjoy Church Services at the remarkable BYU Jerusalem Center for Near Eastern Studies. The view of Jerusalem during our Service is inspiring. Following lunch we will visit the Orson Hyde Park on the Mt of Olives. From here we will walk down to the traditional Garden of Gethsemane Church and then through the Jezreel Valley and up to the Golden Gate to view the graves there. Next we will visit the ancient site for the pool of Bethesda (St Anne’s). This afternoon/evening we will enjoy free time in Jerusalem. As we make our way back to the hotel we will be introduced to the shopkeeper that makes LDS scripture covers, necklaces, etc. and after dinner those interested can peruse olive wood carvings from the shopkeepers who have been making LDS Olive Wood pieces for over 30 years. We enjoy a relaxed evening and overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 4 (Sun June 1st): BEGINNINGS: BETHLEHEM / (TEMPLE MOUNT / MUSEUMS)
Our morning begins with a visit to the place where Jews believe is the Center of the Universe and where the Spirit of the Lord resides with a visit to the Tunnels at the Western Wall and the Temple Mount. We view the Dome of the Rock, the Wailing Wall, etc. and discuss the past, present and future of that significant site for all three major religions: Jews, Muslims, & Christians. Next we will take a walk through the flowing waters of Hezekiah’s Tunnel. We return to Jerusalem taking the underground tunnel leading to the pinnacle of the Temple. Next we will cross through ‘The Wall’ (20’ cement wall that separates Israel and Palestinian controlled land) and visit the traditional birthplace of the Savior in Bethlehem (Church of the Nativity). We conclude our day by visiting a local Shepherds’ Field near Bethlehem where we will review the account of the humble beginnings of the Saviors Life. In this setting we will review the Saviors Birth as well as consider Jesus as the ‘Good Shepherd’. We again overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 5 (Mon June 2nd): JESUS/MARY AS A TEENAGERS: NAZARETH (CAESAREA)
Today we consider Jesus and Mary during their teenage years as we visit Nazareth and the surrounding areas. We will drive up north and our first stop features the beautiful Mediterranean Sea and represents the spot where the first Gentile convert joined the Church and the Gospel spread to the world. Paul was imprisoned for 2 years here and also departed for his 4 historic missionary journeys. We will view the ancient theater and aqueducts before making our way north to Mount Carmel. On Mt. Carmel is a great view of the Jezreel Valley (Valley of Armageddon). From this vantage point we will discuss Armageddon, the 2nd Coming and the future of this Holy Land as well as reenact the remarkable story of Elijah and the Priests of Baal. Following lunch, near Carmel, we travel past Nazareth to Mt Tabor where we will take taxi’s to the top and discuss the important events of the Mt of Transfiguration. We then make our way to the Sea of Galilee and check into our hotel. This will be a joy as this hotel is the premier hotel in the region (The Setai). Every room is steps away from the Sea and you should also really enjoy the food!
Day 6 (Tues June 3rd): BEATITUDES / PETER’S PRIMACY / MAGDALA / YARDENIT
Today we spend our day seeing the sights and sounds surrounding the Sea of Galilee. We begin with a visit to a beautiful overlook of the Sea of Galilee on Mount Arbel. Next we visit Yardenite which is one of the possibilities for the baptism of the Savior. Next we visit the Mount of Beatitudes where the Sermon on the Mount was delivered. Lunch is a unique experience where those interested can enjoy St. Peter’s Fish. Next we visit Peter’s Primacy where we will discuss John 21. This afternoon we will visit Magdala (birthplace of Mary Magdalene). We then drive around the Sea of Galilee to our Hotel. This evening you can enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening strolling on the Sea shores, or taking a dip in the Sea, etc.
Day 7 (Wed June 4th): JESUS’ MINISTRY: SEA OF GALILEE / CAPERNAUM / DAN
Today we explore more of the Galilee area where Jesus spent the majority of His ministry as well as some other significant scriptural sites. Our first adventure of the day is boarding a small fishing boat and crossing the Sea of Galilee to Capernaum. On our way we cut the engines & have a short discussion. On shore we’ll visit Capernaum. Next we will drive to the very north border of Israel where we will look over into Lebanon and Syria. We will enjoy a short nature hike to view the ancient city and alter at Tel Dan. Our next stop is at Banias, the ancient site of Caesarea Philippi, where Peter was promised to receive the Keys of the Kingdom and is declares as ‘the Rock’. As we bus our way home we will travel on the Golan Heights where we can look over into Syria.
Day 8 (Thurs June 5th): JESUS’ FINAL DAYS: BETHANY (LAZARU’S TOMB / DEAD SEA)
Today we visit and consider the events leading up to the death of the Savior and the final days of His mortal ministry. As we make our way back to Jerusalem we pass through the Green Line and parts of the West Bank and will take this opportunity to discuss the current political situation, borders, and history. As we pass Bet She’an we will consider the ‘Fall of Saul’. We drive by Jericho and then make a stop at the Jordan River (Children of Israel River Crossing and Jesus’ baptismal site). Following lunch we will enjoy a quick visit to Qumran (discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls) and also have the unique experience of taking a float in the Dead Sea. You cannot sink! From here we make our way up to Jerusalem. Time permitting we will visit Bethany and Lazarus’ Tomb. We overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 9 (Fri June 6th): JESUS’ FINAL HOURS: (THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST!)
Today is one of our most significant as we venture through the wonders of the ‘Eternal City’ and retrace the events and sites of the final moments of the Saviors Life! We begin in the Upper Room where the Savior held the Last Supper. From here we visit Caiaphas’ Palace (St. Peter of Gallicantu) where Jesus went before the Sanhedrin and where Peter allegedly denied Christ thrice. Following lunch we will follow the Via Dolorosa (or Path of Suffering), the path Jesus carried His cross to Golgotha. Next we will reflect on the burial & resurrection of the Savior as we visit the two possible sites for Golgotha & Calvary. First we visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher [believed site for many Christians] and then the Garden Tomb [where others feel is the true site]. We will discuss the crucifixion and resurrection of the Savior and the majesty of the final moments of His mortal ministry! This evening those interested will view how the orthodox Jews bring in the Sabbath at the Western Wall. We overnight in Jerusalem.
Day 10 (Sat June 7th): MT OF OLIVES / MASADA
Today we conclude our tour with one final visit to the Mount of Olives. From the Mt of Olives Jesus officially concluded His mortal ministry on that continent (Acts 1) and fittingly we will in similar fashion conclude our visits here as well. Following our Mt of Olives visit those who would like will depart Jerusalem and go “down by the borders near the shore of the Red Sea” (1 Nephi 2:5) just as Lehi and his family. As we do so we will be traveling on the road from “Jerusalem to Jericho” and will reflect on a certain parable (Luke 10). On the way we pass Qumran (discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls) and stop for a picture of the natural spring and waterfall at Ein-Gedi (where David hid from King Saul) and where we most always see ibex. We visit the majestic Masada and gondola to the top and reflect on its remarkable story. From here the group will divide; those continuing on will head southward and cross the border into the Sinai (see below). Those returning home will make their way to the airport in Tel Aviv and begin their journey home.
Day 11 (Sun June 8th): FLY HOME!
Those returning home will be reunited with their loved ones.
SINAI Option: $1,293
Day 10 (Sat June 7th): SINAI
Following our Masada visit we will make our way to Taba and cross the border and enter the country of Egypt. We will bus our way through the Sinai and review the scriptural account of Moses and the Children of Israel in preparation for our climb up the ancient temple….Mt Sinai. We overnight near the base of Mt. Sinai.
Day 11 (Sun June 8th): EGYPT: CLIMB MT. SINAI / RED SEA
We wake very early in the morning and enjoy a moonlit hike up Mount Sinai (Camels are available for those interested in the adventure). On top we will enjoy a very special meeting before making our descent. Once off the mountain we will bus our way to one of the very best locations for snorkeling and deep sea diving in the world…Sharm El Sheikh (Ras Mohammed). Arriving at this luxurious resort is a very welcomed experience following our strenuous hike. We will enjoy all the amenities and comfort of this 5-star resort for the next day and a half. There will time for deep sea diving, snorkeling, swimming, reading, spa treatments, relaxing, etc. We overnight in Sharm.
Day 12 (Mon June 9th) RED SEA / SHARM
Today we are free to enjoy the Red Sea and all of the amenities of our 5-star resort. Those who desire can enjoy some of the world’s best snorkeling & deep sea diving and those who are not interested in getting in the water can relax at the resort hotel which has several beautiful pools, a lazy river, spa options, para-sailing, submarine, other boat adventures, etc. This afternoon those interested can participate in a 4 wheeling experience in the Sinai desert. Other options include a visit to Naama Bay for some shopping and night life, or one can enjoy retiring early and other various options at the resort. We once again overnight in Sharm.
Day 13 (Tues June 10th): FLY HOME
Those not participating in the Egypt Option will fly from Sharm to Cairo and from Cairo to their home city!
EGYPT Option: $1,653
Day 13 (Tues June 10th): LUXOR: EAST BANK (KARNAK TEMPLE)
This morning we will take a short flight from Sharm to Cairo and then from Cairo to Luxor. Luxor is known as the world’s greatest open air museum as 30% of the world’s ancient monuments reside in Luxor. It also represents 70% of all the monuments in Egypt. When we arrive we will explore the sites on the East Bank of the river Nile. Our first site is one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World and is also one of the largest temple structures in the world; the Karnak Temple. You will truly be amazed at this 64 acre temple. Following lunch we will enjoy a horse and buggy ride through the local streets and markets. Following dinner we will enjoy an evening visit to the impressive Luxor Temple. These structures are amazing and must be seen to be believed. We again overnight in Luxor.
Day 14 (Wed June 11th): LUXOR: VALLEY OF KINGS / TEMPLES
This morning those interested will be able to view the wonders of Luxor from a hot air balloon. After breakfast we will explore the sites on the West Bank where we will visit one of the most intriguing spots in the world; the “Valley of the Kings” (burial spot for the Egyptian Pharaohs & Queens). You will marvel at the similarities in Egyptian and LDS beliefs and rituals! We will next take pictures of the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, the Collosi of Memnon & Nobels as well as Pit Tomb #33 where the Book of Abraham in the Pearl of Great Price was discovered. We will explore the Hathor Temple (Temple of Ramses III) and then conclude our visit of the West Bank with a short visit to an alabaster factory. Alabaster is mined near Luxor and we will visit a factory that specializes in hand carved alabaster items. We again overnight in Luxor.
Day 15 (Thurs June 12th): CAIRO: PYRAMIDS & SPHINX / MUSEUM
This morning we take a short flight to Cairo and will enjoy a full day touring the sites in Cairo! We begin with the splendor of the famous Pyramids & Sphinx. Those interested can go inside the Pyramid as well as take a camel ride (these have a small extra cost). From here we will make a visit to the Egyptian Museum and explore all the unique items there (including a Rosetta Stone replica and the opportunity to view real mummies as well as King Tut items). This afternoon we will visit one of the largest mosques in the world; the Mohamed Ali Mosque. This evening we will enjoy our “last supper” together with a short program followed by a short rest in our hotel rooms before making our way to the airport to begin our journey home.
Day 16 (Fri June 13th): FLY HOME
Today we arrive at our homes and will be reunited with our loved ones!
COSTS AND DETAILS
PRICE for Israel Portion: $3,695 per person double occupancy
[These prices include all visas, fuel surcharges, 2 meals daily, entrance fees and transportation, service materials and tools. Not included would be lunches and airfare to and from Tel Aviv]
DEPOSIT REQUIRED: $500 per person.
ROOMMATES: Those traveling SOLO may sign up for accommodations on a share basis and will be assigned roommates as circumstances permit. If a roommate is unavailable, the participant will be notified of the adjusted price for single supplement prior to departure.
CANCELLATION FEES: A $25 fee will be charged by Anderson Tours, LLC for all cancellations until 60 days prior to departure, at which time the fee will be $100. In addition, all cancellation charges imposed by airlines, hotels, vendors, operators, etc., will be passed on to the participant.
TOUR INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING:
§ First-class, top quality Tour with experienced Tour Directors
§ All airline travel mentioned in the program (which includes all 3 in country flights in Egypt but does NOT include the international flight). If you would like us to help you arrange your international flights to Tel Aviv which is a free service we provide and also includes Travel Insurance in the price of the airline ticket. We can add the international flight to your total amount due.
§ Private, deluxe Air-Conditioned Motor Coach
§ Hotel Accommodations
§ Cold Bottled Water will be available for purchase on board bus
§ Two Meals Daily (breakfast and lunch or dinner) as indicated in the detailed itinerary
§ All Admission and Entrance Fees to sites specified in the itinerary
§ Country Visas, Airport as well as other Departure Taxes
REGISTRATION, DEPOSIT, PAYMENT, AND CANCELLATION:
Early reservations are strongly recommended, and a Deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due 60 days prior to departure. Applications received after this date should include full payment. Any payments made after this date should also include also include full payment. Any payments made 30 days prior to departure must be in the form of a money order. Checks should be made payable to Anderson Tours. All cancellation penalties are the responsibility of the participant.
Please send check payment and names of participants to:
Anderson Tours LLC
8661 Millpond PL
Riverside, CA 92508
OTHER ITEMS & DETAILS
Good Health is encouraged for our Israel Tours!
ITEMS NOT INCLUDED IN TOUR PRICE:
Items of a personal nature, such as souvenirs; excess baggage or portage charges; personal, trip, or baggage insurance; room service; laundry; phone charges; food or beverages not part of the group menu; gratuities for special services; expenses incurred on personal activities not included where group participation is not specified in the itinerary; international flight to TLV is not included but we are more than able to assist in arranging flights.
CURRENT PASSPORT REQUIRED FOR THIS TOUR
