Discover Jerusalem and the Dead Sea on a faith-centered journey designed especially for Latter-day Saint travelers. This tour highlights scriptural places, modern archaeological discoveries, and meaningful connections to the Book of Mormon and the Bible. Each day blends sacred experiences with history and breathtaking landscapes, creating a journey that deepens testimony and strengthens understanding.
The journey begins at the Mount of Olives, where the sweeping view of the Old City unfolds like a living map of biblical history. An optional short camel ride provides both a lighthearted cultural moment and a taste of ancient travel. Beneath it, at Orson Hyde Memorial Garden, you could pause where the early Latter-day Saint apostle dedicated the land of Israel for the gathering of God’s people. At the foot of the mount, visit the Garden of Gethsemane and the Grotto of Gethsemane, where the Savior prayed and suffered in His great atoning sacrifice. Crossing the Kidron valley, continue to the Room of the Last Supper, recalling where Jesus gathered His disciples and introduced the ordinance of the sacrament. Inside the Jewish Quarter, explore the Broad Wall, an eighth-century defense wall from the days of Hezekiah, mentioned in scripture and preserved through excavation. Some scholars connect nearby ruins with what may be Nephi’s secret gate, offering intriguing connections for Latter-day Saints heritage.
Next, walk through the Herodian Quarter, with lavish priestly homes, possibly the place of Jesus’ interrogation before Caiaphas and Annas. East of it, reach the Western Wall, Judaism’s holiest site, before tracing the Via Dolorosa, the way of sorrows. Finally, arrive at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, venerated for centuries as the place of the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of the Lord.
Begin with the Temple Mount, where the ancient temples once stood. Here Abraham was tested, Solomon built the First Temple, and Jesus visited daily. Nearby are the Pools of Bethesda, where Jesus healed the infirm man, showing His power to restore both body and spirit. Next, pass through Damascus Gate, and reach the Garden Tomb, where many Christians, including Latter-day Saints, reflect on the Savior’s death and resurrection in a serene garden setting.
In the afternoon, visit the Israel Museum, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls and a large model of Second Temple Jerusalem. These exhibits connect the scriptures with archaeology, offering insights into the very world of the prophets and the Savior.
Enter the Southern Wall Archaeological Park, where ancient steps still lead to the Temple Mount. These are likely the very steps where Jesus and His disciples ascended to worship. Continue into the City of David, the oldest part of Jerusalem, linked to King David’s reign and later prophets. At the Melchizedek Altar site, tradition recalls the meeting of Abraham with Melchizedek, priest and king of Salem, foreshadowing Christ’s eternal priesthood. At the bottom of the Kidron valley, see the Gihon Spring, Jerusalem’s original water source, where Solomon may have been anointed king. Adventurous visitors can wade through Hezekiah’s Tunnel, which ends at the Pool of Siloam, known as where Jesus healed the blind man.
For a change of pace and a special lunch experience, stroll through Mahane Yehuda Market, absorbing the lively colors, aromas, and tastes of Jerusalem’s modern culture. In the afternoon, visit Ein Karem, the traditional home of Zacharias and Elisabeth, and the birthplace of John the Baptist. It is a peaceful village set among hills and vineyards, echoing with gospel beginnings.
Travel down from Jerusalem toward the wilderness, pausing for an optional camel ride at Sea Level, a fun way to mark the dramatic descent toward the Jordan Valley. Next, visit the baptismal site on the Jordan River, where John baptized and where Latter-day Saints recall the example of the Savior entering the waters of obedience.
Continue to Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were hidden for centuries, a witness of the preservation of sacred scripture. At Ein Gedi, drive through the desert oasis where David once hid from King Saul, marveling at ibex and desert cliffs. Ascend the fortress of Masada, where Jewish rebels made their last stand against Rome, and end the journey at a Dead Sea resort, floating effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters.
