Visiting Jerusalem: A Complete Guide to Booking a Masada, Ein Gedi, and Dead Sea Guided Tour in the Southern District

Visiting Jerusalem is an experience that few travelers ever forget. From the vibrant and ancient streets of the Old City, to the beautiful and rugged trails of the Upper Galilee, to the religious sites of the Southern District—there is so much to see in Jerusalem that it can be hard to decide where to go.One popular day trip for travelers who are short on time is a guided tour of Masada, Ein Gedi, and the Dead Sea in the Southern District. While this is a very popular activity among tourists, there is surprisingly little information available on booking such a tour. Here, we’ll look at what you need to know before booking a guided tour in the Southern District and provide detailed advice on getting the most from your trip.

Why Visit Masada, Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea?

Masada and Ein Gedi are quintessential places in Jerusalem and are among the most visited locations in Israel. Masada is the site of an ancient mountain fortification built by King Herod and is the site of the legendary Siege of Masada by Roman forces.Ein Gedi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world and boasts stunning wilderness views, numerous archaeological remains, and a flourishing oasis with lush foliage and animal life. The Dead Sea is also a must see. At 420 meters below sea level, it is the lowest point on earth and its mineral-rich waters are said to contain therapeutic properties. It is also renowned for its exceptionally buoyant waters, which make it very easy to float—even for individuals who cannot swim!

Booking a Tour at Masada, Ein Gedi, and the Dead Sea

When it comes to booking a tour at Masada, Ein Gedi, and the Dead Sea, there are many different options available—but your best bet is likely to be GetYourGuide. This website offers a variety of activities and day trips around Jerusalem, tailored for different budgets and interests. One of GetYourGuide’s most popular tours is the “Southern District: Masada, Ein Gedi & Dead Sea Private Guided Tour.” This tour covers all three locations over a period of around 5 hours, with your own private driver and expert guide providing you with an insider’s look at the region’s history and culture. Prices start at around $175 USD per person but vary depending on the tour size and options chosen.The tour begins at Masada National Park, where your guide will show you around this iconic location and share stories about its varied history and fascinating archaeological remains. You will then move on to Ein Gedi, where you can explore the nature reserve as well as see some of the 2000-year-old archaeological remains before heading down to the Dead Sea for some relaxation time in its therapeutic waters. Here you will have time to float in the water, take photos with the stunning views of the Judean Desert, or even apply some of its rich mud on your skin for some mineral therapy.

What to Bring and Wear on Your Southern District Guided Tour

When visiting Masada and Ein Gedi, there are certain items that you should bring with you:

• Sun protection: Hats, sunblock, lip balm
• Comfortable clothing: As it can get hot in Jerusalem during summer months, make sure you wear loose clothing that covers your arms and head.
• Snacks/water: Bring along some snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated during your tour.
• Bathing suit/towels: In order to make the most of your visit to the Dead Sea, you should bring along a bathing suit so that you can float in its mineral-rich waters.

When visiting any religious sites in Jerusalem (including Masada and Ein Gedi) it is advised that visitors dress modestly—this means avoiding clothes that are revealing or excessively tight-fitting. The vast majority of visitors are respectful of local customs and dress codes so it’s important that visitors do too.

Make The Most of Your Tour

When visiting Masada, Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea, there are certain things you can do to make sure you get the most out of these extraordinary places:

• Don’t forget your camera! Make sure that you take plenty of photos along your trip and take some time afterwards to look back at them with friends or family.
• Get up early! Rising early will give you a head start on your tour and allow you more time to visit each site before any crowds arrive.
• Visit during sunset. If you are able to stay late into the evening at Masada or Ein Gedi then make sure that you take some time out to watch the sunset take place.
• Talk to your guide. Your guide will be able to local knowledge as well as an insider perspective on all of your destinations.
• Relax in the Dead Sea! Don’t forget to take some time out just to float in these soothing waters.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an unforgettable trip around Jerusalem then booking a guided tour at Masada, Ein Gedi, and the Dead Sea is a great choice. From captivating views of desert landscapes to sweeping sunsets over ancient ruins, this tour provides insight into some of Israel’s oldest and most sacred places. No matter what your budget or interests may be, GetYourGuide has plenty of tours available that will help you make the most out of each destination—and there is no better resource for finding all types activities around Jerusalem than GetYourGuide. To book your own guided tour at Masada, Ein Gedi, and Dead Sea right now, click here.