Masada & Dead Sea Tour from Tel Aviv
- 1 Day
- Maximum Capacity: 50
- non-refundable
Adult
Child
Description
This Masada Dead Sea tour combines two of Israel’s most iconic experiences in one unforgettable day. Ascend by cable car to Herod’s ancient fortress perched atop a desert cliff, then descend to the lowest point on Earth to float effortlessly in the mineral-rich Dead Sea. With hotel pickup from Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or Herzliya, this is the essential day trip for anyone visiting Israel.
The journey itself is part of the adventure. You’ll travel through the Judean Desert wilderness, pass the ancient city of Jericho, and cross the “sea level” marker as you descend 400 meters below sea level to a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.
What Makes This Masada Dead Sea Tour Unforgettable
Our Masada Dead Sea tour from Tel Aviv isn’t just sightseeing. It’s a journey through 2,000 years of dramatic history, followed by one of nature’s most unique experiences. You’ll stand where Jewish rebels made their last stand against Rome, then float in waters so mineral-dense that sinking is physically impossible.
Tour Highlights:
- Scenic drive through the Judean Desert wilderness
- Pass the Inn of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37)
- View of ancient Jericho, one of the world’s oldest cities
- Cable car ascent to Masada (optional Snake Path climb)
- Explore Herod’s palace complex and Roman siege remains
- Learn the story of the 960 Jewish zealots
- Pass Qumran caves where Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered
- Float and relax at a Dead Sea beach resort
- Natural mineral mud treatment included
Who Should Book This Masada Dead Sea Tour?
This Masada Dead Sea day trip is perfect for:
- History enthusiasts fascinated by ancient civilizations and dramatic stories
- First-time Israel visitors wanting to see iconic sites efficiently
- Wellness seekers interested in Dead Sea minerals and floating therapy
- Photographers capturing desert landscapes and ancient ruins
- Families with older children (the story and experience engage all ages)
- Active travelers who want the option to hike the Snake Path
Fitness Level: Easy to Moderate. The cable car eliminates climbing. Walking at Masada is on uneven terrain with some stairs. Dead Sea floating requires no fitness.
Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9-11 hours total |
| Departure | Daily (except April 1, Sept 11, 20, 21, 2026) |
| Group Size | Small group, max 25 |
| Languages | English + Spanish/French/German (varies by day) |
| Cable Car | Included in tour |
| Dead Sea Entry | Included in tour |
Book Your Masada Dead Sea Tour
Float in waters where nothing sinks. Stand where heroes made their last stand. Our Masada Dead Sea tour delivers two bucket-list experiences in one perfectly planned day.
Duration
1 Day
Tour Type
Day Tours in Israel
Group Size
50
Language
English,Spanish, French, German
Popular Features
- AC BUS
Highlights
- Scenic drive through the Judean Desert wilderness
- Pass the Inn of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29-37)
- View of ancient Jericho, one of the world's oldest cities
- Cable car ascent to Masada (optional Snake Path climb)
- Explore Herod's palace complex and Roman siege remains
- Learn the story of the 960 Jewish zealots
- Pass Qumran caves where Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered
- Float and relax at a Dead Sea beach resort
- Natural mineral mud treatment included
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected areas)
- Air-conditioned touring vehicle
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Masada cable car (round trip)
- Dead Sea beach entry and facilities
- Bottled water
Excluded
- Personal expenses and tips
- Meals and snacks
- Towels and swimwear
- Masada Snake Path entry (free, but cable car included)
- Travel insurance
- Items not listed under inclusions
Travel Itinerary
(07:00–09:30) - Early Morning: Departure & Desert Drive
Early Morning: Departure & Desert Drive (07:00–09:30)
Your Masada Dead Sea tour begins with hotel pickup in Jerusalem (08:30), Tel Aviv (07:15), or Herzliya (07:00). As you travel south, the landscape transforms dramatically from green hills to stark desert wilderness.
Your guide will point out the Inn of the Good Samaritan, the traditional site of Jesus's famous parable. Watch for the "Sea Level" marker as you descend into the Great Rift Valley, with views of ancient Jericho in the distance, where Joshua's army famously brought down the walls.
The drive itself reveals the dramatic geography that made this region both a refuge and a battleground throughout history.
External Resource: Israel Nature and Parks Authority - Masada
(09:30–12:00) - Mid-Morning: Masada Fortress
Mid-Morning: Masada Fortress (09:30–12:00)
The centerpiece of this Masada day tour is the UNESCO World Heritage fortress rising 400 meters above the Dead Sea. You'll ascend by cable car (the Snake Path climb is available for the adventurous) to explore one of the ancient world's most dramatic sites.
What You'll See at Masada:
Herod's Northern Palace – Built into the cliff face on three terraces, this engineering marvel featured frescoed walls, bathhouses with hypocaust heating, and stunning views that still impress 2,000 years later.
The Western Palace – Herod's largest structure on Masada, covering 4,000 square meters with throne rooms, service quarters, and elaborate mosaics.
Roman Siege Works – From the summit, you can clearly see the Roman camps and siege ramp, the most complete Roman siege system anywhere in the world.
Ancient Synagogue – One of the oldest synagogues ever discovered, where the zealots gathered during their three-year stand against Rome.
Water Cisterns – Herod's ingenious system collected flash flood water, storing enough to sustain 10,000 people, with enough left over for bathhouses and a swimming pool in the desert.
The Last Stand Story
In 73 CE, after Jerusalem fell, 960 Jewish men, women, and children held Masada against 15,000 Roman soldiers for three years. When the Romans finally breached the walls, they found the defenders had chosen death over slavery. The story, recorded by historian Josephus, has made Masada a symbol of Jewish resistance and national identity.
Today, Israeli soldiers take their oath here: "Masada shall not fall again."
Internal Link: Jerusalem Full Day Tour – Visit where the story began
(12:00–12:30) - Midday: Qumran Viewpoint
Midday: Qumran Viewpoint (12:00–12:30)
Descending from Masada, your Masada Dead Sea tour passes the Qumran caves, one of the 20th century's greatest archaeological discoveries. In 1947, a Bedouin shepherd found clay jars containing scrolls that had been hidden for 2,000 years, including the oldest known biblical manuscripts.
Your guide will point out the caves visible in the cliff face and explain how the Essene community lived and worked here, preserving texts that would reshape biblical scholarship.
External Resource: Israel Museum - Dead Sea Scrolls
(12:30–15:30) - Afternoon: Dead Sea Float Experience
The second half of your Masada Dead Sea tour from Tel Aviv delivers a completely different experience. At 430 meters below sea level, the Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth, and its waters are almost ten times saltier than the ocean.
What to Expect:
The Float – You've seen the photos. Now experience it yourself. The mineral density makes sinking physically impossible. Lean back, lift your feet, and float effortlessly while reading a newspaper (we recommend waterproof phones for photos instead).
Mineral Mud – The black mud along the shore is rich in minerals that have drawn visitors seeking therapeutic benefits since Cleopatra's time. Slather it on, let it dry in the sun, then rinse in the sea for skin that feels remarkably smooth.
Beach Facilities – The beach includes changing rooms, showers (essential for rinsing the salt), restrooms, and typically a café. Bring your own towel and swimsuit.
Important Tips:
- Don't shave 24 hours before (the salt stings)
- Keep water away from eyes (extremely painful)
- Don't splash others
- Limit immersion to 15-20 minutes
- Shower thoroughly afterward
- Stay hydrated in the desert heat
Internal Link: Dead Sea Relaxation Tour – More time at the beach
(15:30–18:00) - Late Afternoon: Return Journey
Your Masada Dead Sea tour concludes with the scenic drive back through the desert, arriving at your hotel between 17:00-19:00 depending on your pickup location.
Internal Link: Bethlehem & Jericho Tour – Explore more of this region
Want to read it later?
Download this tour's PDF brochure and start your planning offline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Masada Dead Sea tour depart?
Pickup times vary by location: Herzliya 07:00, Tel Aviv 07:15, Jerusalem 08:30. Exact pickup time and location confirmed 24 hours before departure.
Is the cable car included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip cable car to Masada summit is included. If you prefer to hike the Snake Path (approximately 45-60 minutes up), inform your guide.
Can I climb the Snake Path instead of taking the cable car?
Yes, the ancient Snake Path is available for those wanting an early morning challenge. Most tours use the cable car to maximize time at the summit. Discuss options with your guide.
How long do we spend at the Dead Sea?
Approximately 2.5-3 hours, allowing time to float, apply mud, shower, change, and relax. This is not a rushed stop.
Do I need to bring a towel?
Yes, towels are not provided. Bring a towel you don't mind getting muddy (the mineral mud is difficult to wash out completely).
Is the Dead Sea safe for children?
Yes, but supervise closely. Children should not splash or submerge their heads. The high salt content makes eye contact extremely painful. Recommended for children 6+ who can follow instructions.
What if I have sensitive skin or cuts?
Small cuts or recently shaved skin will sting intensely in the Dead Sea water. Avoid shaving 24 hours before. Those with eczema, psoriasis, or other skin conditions should consult their doctor, though many find the minerals beneficial.
Is the tour suitable for seniors?
Yes, the cable car eliminates climbing, and floating in the Dead Sea is effortless. Walking at Masada involves some uneven terrain and stairs but is manageable at a relaxed pace. Seniors in reasonable health will enjoy this tour.
What languages is the tour conducted in?
All tours include English. Depending on the day, a second language may be offered (Spanish, French, or German). Check your specific date at booking.
What happens if it rains?
Tours operate in all weather conditions. Rain is rare in this desert region. In the unlikely event of severe weather affecting safety, alternative arrangements will be made.
Can I book a private Masada Dead Sea tour?
Yes, private tours are available for families, couples, or groups wanting flexibility with timing, pace, and itinerary. Contact us via WhatsApp for private tour pricing.
What is the cancellation policy?
- 48+ hours before: 10% cancellation fee
- 24-48 hours before: 25% cancellation fee
- Less than 24 hours or no-show: 100% (non-refundable)
From 113.00 $
Book This Tour
Have a question in mind
Looking for more info? Send a question to the tour agent to find out more.
You might also like
Travel is my life. Since 1999, I have been traveling around the world nonstop. If you also love travel, you are in the right place!
