incense route start point
off road tour incense routes
offroad tour incense route

Off-Road Tour Along the Incense Route

Off-Road Tour Along the Incense Route

The ‘Incense Route’ was a network of ancient roads that enabled transferring precious spices and perfumes across the Arabian Peninsula to the Mediterranean coast. Incense, spices, perfumes, and other luxury goods were carried on caravans of camel across thousands of miles, starting at the Southern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, and ending at the Mediterranean coast. Here, cargo ships distributed the valuable goods through the Mediterranean Sea. Part of this important route passed across the Negev, in the southern part of Israel. This special off-road private tour will follow some of these ancient trails. We will drive across enchanting wilderness landscapes and visit fascinating and mysterious archaeological sites, caravanserai of the ancient convoys.

The Incense Route and the Negev

The full length and exact path of the Incense Route is still not fully known. It began somewhere in Yemen, passed through Mecca, Medina, Petra, and ended in the ports of Gaza and El-Arish. The path from Petra to the Mediterranean coast is better documented. It passed the Aravah and the traversed through the heart of the Negev, including a difficult cross of the Ramon Crater. Its main rest stations along this part were at Moa, Horvat Katsrah, Metsad Nekarot, Metsad Saharonim, Metsad Mahmal, Avdat, and Haluza. All of these archaeological sites are today UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Except for Avdat, all the other sites along the ‘Incense Route’ in the Negev can only be reached by off-road vehicles. In cooperation with a off-road tour company, we can now offer an exciting two day journey along this historical route.

Day 1 – From Moa to Ramon Crater

On the first day, we enter the route from  Roar 90 in the Aravah and navigate to MoaHorvat KatsrahMetsad Nekarot, and Metsad Saharonim, and the steep ascent of the northern cliff of the Ramon Crater; we end the day with the stunning views from Metsad Mahmal, and head camp for the night, either in tents, in a Bedouin camp, or in a hotel in Mizpe Ramon.

Day 2 – From Avdat to Haluza

On the Next day we visit Avdat national park, and Remaliah Cisterns, and then navigate our way through sand dunes to ShivtaRuheibaHorvat Sa’adon and ending in Haluza. Aside the majestic desert landscapes, some of the sites we will visit are unbelievably well preserved, although they were all abandoned more than 1,200 years ago! Next to some of the sites, remains from agricultural farms can still be traced, attesting to the amazing ability to cultivate in the Negev in the Byzantine period.

It is also possible to set just one day of this tour, but we highly recommend executing both days.

Contact us to inquire more about a private off-road tour along the Incense Route:





















    MAP OF DESTINATIONS

    Within minutes it was clear to see that Danny's education and experience, coupled with his flare for detail and story-telling, would far outdo any other tour we could have chosen.

    Lizbeth S., USA

    We want to thank Danny “the Digger” Herman for helping is create this documentary concerning the brutal attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7.. It was eye opening to hear the truth about what happened to Israel.. It was sobering but it was needed.. Thanks Danny!

    Pastor Brandon Holthaus, USA

    Danny is hands down the BEST tour guide in all Israel.. 10/10 experience would do again and would recommend a friend..

    Kiera H., USA

    We booked a helicopter tour with Danny in March. Everything perfectly organized from A to Z!! It doesn't get any better! Thanks a lot for this! 100% recommended!

    Albert S,. Germany

    As I mentioned, I can’t say enough nice things about him.. You will have such a great time!..

    Brady S., USA

    Your tours have been amazing! ..My reading of the scriptures will never be the same because of this experience. Thank you so very

    Charles H., USA

    My husband and I just got back from an 8 day tour of Israel with Danny. It was fantastic!! Danny is incredibly knowledgeable and related so many interesting details and facts about his country. Every day was a great day. Danny is simply the best!!

    Robyn W. USA

    Danny is incredibly knowledgeable on the biblical, historical and political information surrounding all the sites… As a Christian, Danny has offered me so much insight into the life of Jesus as well.

    Richard E., USA

    Thank you so much for the tour yesterday. Was simply superb!

    Ofer A., Israel

    I’d been looking forward to this trip for years; it wouldn’t have been nearly the highlight it was w/o you, your knowledge, insight and friendship. I can’t thank you enough for that..

    Brit R., Canada

    I learnt more about the Bible with Danny in a day than I have ever had attending Sunday school or church. The tour was just excellent!

    John M., UK

    Seeing places like Tel Hazor and Tel Dan with an expert on archaeology explaining how we know what we know about these times long ago was a special treat.

    Jonathan G., USA

    We really enjoyed touring with you Danny. Your knowledge of all aspects was truly impressive and made the tours extremely interesting…

    Tom F., Intel VP

    Danny’s obvious love for Israel shines through his every word. Beyond the historical / archaeological / holy sites, Danny was more than willing to show us areas off the beaten path. He greatly enriched our Israeli experience and was worth every shekel!

    Hedy L., USA

    Thank you again for the fantastic day! You were excellent and we enjoyed ourselves very much!

    I.L., Citi Bank Managing Director

    The day with you actually inspired me so much and it was definitely one of the best trips I had ever!

    B.L., Galaxy Entertainment Group VP

    The best guide I ever had!

    John S., Wyeth CEO

    ..he is an excellent English speaking tour guide.. He is highly recommended… but call soon as he may get booked up!

    Jamie S., Israel

    Thank you so much for a fantastic and interesting 2 days seeing some of the most incredible places in Israel and in history. We really appreciated your knowledge and insight.

    Tom and Deborah A., USA

    Our private guided tour to Jerusalem in the night was unforgettable. Danny was awesome!

    M.S., Capgemini Consulting

    I found his references to the history of the land and its current politics very astute and interesting. He would be an ideal candidate for who may want a really in-depth and unforgettable experience.

    Myrna and Martin O., Canada

    Thank you very much for your guided tour and excellent archeological observations… Your expertise and laid-back manner really made for a wonderful evening.

    Ray W., USA

    I am still under huge impression from your tour! Thank you so much for it!!! You’re the best tour guide ever!!!!

    Elena P., Ukraine

    Hi Raphael. We are very happy to see that you had such a great experience… Danny: Thank you for providing our client such a great service!

    Marcel K., American Express Platinum Service

    …Jerusalem Tour… was an absolute thorough enlightening, and very pleasant Experience. Looking forward to our next excursion…

    Raphael S., Mira Nof Agencies

    Everyone — even the tired teenager Orly — agreed that our historical archaeological tour with you today was a major highlight of our trip. You are an extraordinarily gifted teacher.

    Pamela N., USA

    We had the extreme pleasure of being guided.. by you… Great memories of a great trip. Thanks for your good work.

    Thomas R., USA

    ..You are an excellent guide, probably way over qualified and for our purpose, just terrific…

    Ari R., USA

    We have really enjoyed our time with you.. I learned so much from your explanations… I really think I will remember this trip forever. Todah Rabbah!

    Dorit Sh., USA

    I would like to thank you once again for the really good time we had in Israel, thanks to you. The whole experience… had an amazing impact on me, it made me see things in a different light.. thank you!

    Mieke Van der V., Holland

    We had a glorious, eye-opening time, from Masada to the kibbutz… Your knowledgeable, incisive remarks and explanations made our time with you an experience to remember.

    Sandy and Tom H., USA

    I wanted to thank you for making our first trip to Israel such a spectacular one… You were the perfect guide... You really made the Bible come to life…

    Jennifer and Stuart Z., USA

    I wanted to thank you again for the perfect tour of Jerusalem! The conference guests were extremely impressed with your knowledge and found it to be a very interesting experience. It was a great success!

    Prof. Nisan L., Tel-Aviv University

    Danny, I truly enjoyed the tour of Jerusalem. You did an excellent job of getting through 4000 years of history in two hours – with excellent detail... Thanks again.

    Bruce B., Motorola VP

    ..my trip to the Holy Land will last my entire life…I really appreciated how you wove the history from the New Testament into our tours…You taught me so much. Please don’t think me presumptuous- I am very sincere. It was a privilege to spend time with you.

    Pam H., USA

    Thank you again for a wonderful, enlightening day yesterday. Leena and I truly appreciated you guidance through the Old City and will cherish the experience forever. I wish you all the best.

    Leena and Alan D., UK

    Danny is the best, believe me!

    Thierry D., Chief AUDI Test Driver

    I now understand what they mean when they say the right guide can make the country come alive. I certainly experienced that. I have already told some friends about how terrific you were.

    David and Joan L., USA

    Danny, what a wonderful two days we had with you in the Galilee!! My 13-year-old grandson now thinks he wants to be an archaeologist and my son-in-law now says he’s a “raging Zionist”

    Posy M., USA

    ..Danny the Digger on the other hand was simply outstanding. The tour of Jerusalem was perfect – his knowledge was the best of any guide I have had… it was probably the best tour I’ve had since I have been coming to Israel.

    James N., USA

    My parents cannot stop talking about how you made this trip so amazing!! .. We just loved how you made everything so interesting and educational. Thank you again for everything!!... Israel is lucky to have you.

    Dalia S., USA

    He is definitely NOT JUST ANY TOUR GUIDE. Danny plans, suggests alternatives, continually adjusting destinations according to his clients’ energies and interests… coming up with even more fascinating alternatives… He is ideal for VIP executive tours.

    G.H., Maus Frères VP, Switzerland

    Danny… the trip was fantastic. You were unbelievable. Your knowledge was only surpassed by your desire to tell us everything you know about a subject… I don’t think we could have had a better overall trip from anyone else no matter what.

    Robert L., USA

    You are not only the best (by far) tour guide we’ve ever had, but you are also a fine and admirable person. It’s wonderful how your passion for archaeology and for Israel shines from you. Your knowledge regarding all aspects of the tour is exemplary.

    Vivienne and Ari (Andrew) W., Australia

    Imah, Johanita and myself would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the outstanding hospitality and guidance that you gave us… Many thanks for a wonderfully memorable stay in Israel..

    Peter and Johanita E., New Zealand

    Danny, I cannot thank you enough for all the kindness you showed Anna and myself. You really outdid yourself and accommodated us with tremendous grace and poise.

    Ted and Anna K., USA

    We were EXTREAMLY fortunate to get Danny Herman as our PERSONAL guide. Danny Herman’s expertise contributed IMMENSELY to making this a SPECIAL, TRIP-OF-A LIFETIME.

    Dennis B., Texas Instruments cheif sceintist

    My experience with Danny exceeded all my expectations and provided me with a complex, informed perspective on what at the very least is a complex place… I will definitely engage Danny again–he’s terrific!

    Teri D., USA

    Thank you for such an amazing day. We had a great time and no doubt you are the best guide for Jerusalem!

    Chloe M., UK

    Not only are you a great maggid of the history of the Jewish people and their homeland but you are an awesome photographer. I know that the trip is not over, but it has already exceeded our expectations.

    Cliff K., USA

    I want to thank you for a truly wonderful and educational tour. The kids thought you were amazing!

    Jeff R., USA

    …from all the tour guides I meet in Israel, you were absolutely the best. Honestly you have a gift…

    Ehima S., India

    .. thank you for such a wonderful experience. You truly did an outstanding job!

    Mark G., Endochoice CEO

    With you as our guide, the history of our biblical origins indeed came to life. We learned so much from your knowledge, much too much to remember.

    Chris and Rose K., USA

    Thanks again for the great day out with my family… it was just one more great day on the road with new friends. You are a blessed man, congratulations.

    Paul F., USA

    ..it was a fabulous day. Thanks a lot!! We were all impressed by your knowledge, professionalism, and skill.

    Jorge, O. USA

    It was a pleasure to have met you, while the tour and the insights gleaned from it made for a very pleasurable day, one we will surely remember for the rest of our lives.

    Dr. Adrian G., Malta

    Just a note to thank you Danny for the MOST enjoyable time spent with you… we will never forget a memorable few days. Our thanks also to Freddie.

    Heather B., UK

    … We thoroughly enjoyed our time with you and listening to your extensive knowledge of history and present day in Israel. We will be forever changed by our trip.

    Julie S, Canada

    Thank you for your guide today around Jerusalem. It was very enlightening and made me ponder upon religion and ways of life…

    Yoon H., SVP Samsung

    Danny was fabulous! His English is flawless, and his historical and archaeological knowledge is unparalleled. We used several guides during our time in Israel. Danny was by far the best.

    Joseph K., USA

    Danny is an outstanding guide! It is an experience I will never forget.

    Randy B. USA

    Thank you for an amazing couple of days, we could not have seen half of what we wanted without you. Everything was perfect!

    Allison W,. USA

    Danny thank you again, that was a magical day. Everyone had a terrifc visit, I will highly recommend to anyone coming to use you!

    Jen F., Samsung NEXT

    Thanks very much for a really special day. I loved being able to go to the special places for Christians.. an everlasting experience for me… And thanks… for your professionalism and deep knowledge and dedication...

    Ann D., New Zealand

    Thank you so much for your time today, we loved every second! Also thanks too for extra effort to find my uncle 🙂

    Carolyn H., New Zealand

    He makes biblical history fascinating and the tour is very comfortable despite occasional heat and crowds… I would book Danny again if I’m lucky enough to return.

    Jane T., Australia

    We really enjoyed your knowledge and your company… to you and your family הרבה ימים מאושרים לבוא.

    Jeff B., USA

    Thank you for a remarkable day. You are a brilliant man

    Jonathan P., Antenna Media CEO

    My husband, Mordecai, and I recall with great pleasure the tour of the Stations of the Cross, which you led for a group of medical scientists…Your tour and the trip were both very memorable.

    Ellen B., USA

    ..You were great. You have the knowledge of both archaeology and tourism that made this a very special trip..You were a really good tour guide and I really enjoyed the trip.

    Claire F., USA

    I have to say Danny , that whirlwind trip to Israel was one of the best holidays of my life. Much of that is due to you..

    Jason I., Ireland

    ..I wanted to thank You once again for being such a wonderful guide and making our trip so meaningful.. I have already told some friends about how terrific you were..

    David and Joan L., USA

    ..His extensive qualifications and experience as an archaeologist give him a depth of knowledge beyond any tour guide. Added to that, his guides are provided with warmth and humor..

    Judge G.T., Australia

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