The purpose and focus of an Ancient Paths Adventure is to give you a deeply experiential study tour to the land of Israel and Jordan that is intricately planned and all-inclusive in its needs for the ease and worry free adventure of a lifetime. While some destinations we will visit on this tour are popular tourist attractions, many are well off the beaten path and each site has been carefully selected because of its ability to transport the student into the text of the Bible. Our intention is that after visiting each sight you will be better versed in the history, geography, and biblical significance of the location. Each stop we make is designed to bring Scripture to life in a way that it enriches and impacts the way you read it. After all, it’s been said that there are 5 gospels—Mathew, Mark, Luke, John, and the land of Israel.

We believe the best way to create a personal and meaningful memory is by engaging all five of the senses. Each site we visit on these study tours is full of opportunities to see, hear, touch, smell—and yes, sometimes even taste—the same things as David, Jesus, and others from the Bible. Biblical knowledge combined with the testimony of the Spirit and the first hand experience of a Ancient Paths Adventure will truly transform your view of the people, places, and events of the Bible.

 

 

Is it Safe to Travel to Israel?

This is inevitably one of the first questions that will be asked. If there were not an enormously high degree of safety, I would not lead any trips to Israel. I would not want to shoulder that kind of weight. Although it is impossible to promise 100% safety, travel in Israel is very safe. We will always be traveling with an Israeli guide who will serve as my assistant. He will always be aware of what is going on in the country. If there is even a hint of potential danger, we will simply avoid the area. We will not take chances! Overall, the likelihood of any kind of danger is very, very slim. In fact, everyone who returns from these trips remarks, “I never once felt unsafe.”

 

What does a typical day look like?

A normal day begins with a wake up call at 6:00 a.m., breakfast at 6:30, devotions at 7:00 and by 7:10 we are on our way! In order to accomplish what God sets out for us to experience, the majority of our days involve moderate to strenuous hiking. We travel to our various sites by bus where our hikes will begin. It is during these hikes and at these sites where God’s word is studied in its historical, cultural, geographical, and Jewish contexts. Lunch tends to fall between 1:00-2:00pm, and will be served on location. Since lunch can come late in the day, it is highly recommended that you carry snacks with you. Eating small snacks throughout the day is best for keeping energy stored up in the body. It is recommended that snacks (without chocolate – it melts) like trail mix, granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, crackers, or protein/energy bars be purchased and taken with you on the trip. At the end of the day, we will arrive at our hotel between 6PM and 8PM for a wonderful dinner and welcomed sleep. We will stay at hotels with wonderful breakfast and dinner buffets and very comfortable rooms. At the end of a long day, I want you to have a great meal, a soothing shower, and a much-needed night of rest. You will need to be able to regroup because we are going to do it all over again the next day. Generally speaking, you should be able to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night if you desire.

 

Do I need to train physically for the trip?

Yes. As you get ready for the trip, please understand there is no level ground in Israel, and you should prepare for 4 to 7 miles of moderate to strenuous hiking/climbing/walking each day of the trip. Physical training (long before our departure) is a must for this trip.I can’t emphasize this enough. The first thing that goes when you become physically tired is your mind. The more physically prepared you are, the better your mind will be. The trip will be more meaningful, educational and fun if you prepare in advance for the activity level you will experience. I highly recommend physical training that includes cardio and strength training. Stair climbing (actual stairs or machine), lunges, bike riding, running, and long walks are all very good. I realize this information on the physical demands may be intimidating for some of you. Please don’t be overwhelmed by this. Yes, the days are difficult, we will work together and we will all get through it. The point is not the destination, but the journey. So get in the best shape as you can, and then let the group carry you along.

You should consult your physician concerning these requirements and any medications or conditions which may have an impact on your ability to participate fully. Prescription drugs you anticipate using during the trip should be packed both in your suitcase and your carry-on. We suggest you bring along a written prescription as well, it can be filled if needed. Please contact your health provider to check your coverage when traveling outside the United States. Traveling to the lands of the Bible requires no immunizations though you’ll want to be sure your tetanus shot is current.

 

How long can I wait to register?

You can wait as long as you like but trips can fill up quickly. It is encouraged to lock in your spot by registering as soon as possible. You will also miss out on the $100 discount if you wait too long.