Masada & Dead Sea Adventure
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port
Ashdod (Jerusalem), Israel
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activityLevel
Moderate Activity
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excursionType
Information Not Currently Available
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wheelchairAccessible
No
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startingAtPrice
$270
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minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
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duration
Approximately 11 Hours
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mealsIncluded
Meals included
Masada
Masada is a rugged natural fortress, of majestic beauty, in the Judaean Desert overlooking the Dead Sea. It is a symbol of the ancient kingdom of Israel, its violent destruction and the last stand of Jewish patriots in the face of the Roman army, in 73 AD. It was built as a palace complex, in the classic style of the early Roman Empire, by Herod the Great, King of Judaea, (reigned 37 -- 4 BC). The camps, fortifications and attack ramp that encircle the monument constitute the most complete Roman siege works surviving to the present day.From the lofty heights of Masada to the lowest point on earth at the Dead Sea, this tour takes you to the heart of Israel.
From the lofty heights of Masada to the lowest point on earth at the Dead Sea, this tour takes you to the heart of Israel.Leave Ashdod port and drive to the Masada Fortress via Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.
High above the Dead Sea's desolate landscape, the fort of Masada was King Herod's luxury refuge, complete with magnificent palaces and excavated rock cisterns to supply water. Around AD 73, after a prolonged Roman siege, more than 950 Jews took their own lives at Masada rather than face a future of slavery. A cable car will convey you to the summit for a walk around the site of this last stand. Among the fascinating sights are the wall, bathhouses, northern palace, synagogue, western palace, Roman ramp and siege camps.
After your cable car descent, you will have time to shop and then you will drive to the shores of the Dead Sea for lunch.
Later, you might want to swim/float in the unique, mineral-rich waters that are so salty, you can't sink! After a day steeped in history and fun, you will return to Ashdod.
Please note: Travel time to Masada is approximately 2½ hours each way. Bring sunscreen and a hat. If you plan to take a dip in the Dead Sea, bring an old swimsuit as the water can cause discoloration; wear aqua shoes. Towels and lockers are provided at the hotel.