Tel Aviv – Jaffa

Located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Tel Aviv is Israel’s largest city as well as its cultural and financial hub. Affectionately known as the ‘city that never sleeps’, Tel Aviv offers a vibrant nightlife scene, fantastic accommodation options, an abundance of shops, and amazing restaurants and food markets. The oldest part of Tel Aviv is Jaffa, an ancient port city where people of all ages, cultures and religions live side by side. Renowned for its artists, craftsmen and vendors, visitors are warmly invited to enjoy Jaffa’s colorful, unique atmosphere. We highly recommend a visit to Tel Aviv and Jaffa as part of your trip to Israel.

Jerusalem

Situated in the Judaean Mountains between the Mediterranean and the Dead Sea, Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the world, and is considered holy to the three major Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The combination of ancient and modern times that can be observed throughout Jerusalem, together with the historical and biblical stories that enshroud it, contribute to the special ambiance of this unique city. Popular attractions and religious sites, such as the Old City, Dome of the Rock, Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, attract approximately 3.5 million tourists annually, making it the most-visited city in Israel… so remember, if you haven’t been to Jerusalem, you haven’t been to the Land of Milk and Honey.

Haifa and Acre

Located on the shores of the Mediterranean, 90 km north of Tel Aviv, and built on the slopes of Mount Carmel, Haifa is not only the third largest city in Israel, a major seaport, and the north’s regional center, it also boasts a history spanning more than 3000 years, and is considered a haven where Jews and Arabs coexist harmoniously. Furthermore, Haifa offers its guests an array of attractions, accommodation and cuisine, and is only a short drive away from many interesting areas such as the Sea of Galilei, Acre and the Golan Heights. It is also home to the Baháʼí World Center of the Baháʼí Faith, which comprises the Shrine of Baháʼu’lláh near Acre, the Shrine of the Báb and its breathtaking gardens on Mount Carmel, an experience that should not be missed.

Acre, also known as Akko, is among the oldest, continuously-inhabited settlements on Earth, and its Old City was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Due to its location on a natural harbor at the furthest point of Haifa Bay, its importance as a coastal trading station and waypoint enroute to the Jezreel Valley, Acre has endured conquest and destruction numerous times, surviving as little more than a large village for centuries at a time. Acre’s history can be traced back to the Early Bronze Age, starting at about 3000 BC, and continuing through every known era since then, including the Iron Age, Persian, Byzantine, Crusader, Malmuk and Ottoman periods. Needless to say, Acre is considered a highlight for history and archeology enthusiasts, offering many places of interest such as the City Walls, Al-Jazzar Mosque, Acre Citadel, Hamam al-Basha, Hospitller Refectory and other medieval sites.  

 Nazareth and Sea of Galilee

Located in the Lower Galilee region, with a predominantly Arab population comprising of both Muslims and Christians, Nazareth is considered the “Arab capital of Israel”. According to the New Testament, it is believed to be the place where Jesus spent his childhood and is therefore a center of Christian pilgrimage. Its fascinating culture, gorgeous location, traditional Arab market, and of course numerous religious sites are what make Nazareth such an attractive tourist location. Among the many churches and shrines relating to the various religious streams are venues such as the Church of the Annunciation, the Nazareth Nuns’ Convent, the Church of Saint Joseph, the Synagogue Church and the White Mosque. For those seeking a more authentic, adventurous and educational experience, the Jesus Trail is an absolute must! A 65km hiking trail following in Jesus’ footsteps and connecting important religious sites from his life. The trail begins in Nazareth, passes through the stunning, yet rugged, Galilee landscapes, and ends in Capernaum on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.  

 The Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Tiberias and Kinneret, is the lowest fresh water lake in the world. In addition to being fed by underground springs, its main source of water comes from the Jordan and Yarmouk rivers to its north. The Sea of Galilee plays and important role in the New Testament as the place where Jesus recruited four of his apostles and performed many of his miracles. During the rainy season the lake’s water flows into the continuation of the Jordan River on its south, where, every year, thousands of pilgrims from around the world come to be baptized. The Sea of Galilee is surrounded by agricultural settlements and archeological ruins, with Tiberias, a large city and holy Jewish center, situated on its western shore. Visitors to this area can enjoy an array of accommodation, cuisine, markets and attractions including ancient pools filled with water from natural hot springs, massage and mud treatments and watersports.  

 Dead Sea and Masada

Lying in the Jordan Rift Valley, between Jordan and Israel, with shores at 430 meters below sea level, and a depth of 304 meters, the Dead sea is not only Earth’s lowest place on land, but is also the deepest and saltiest lake in the world – 10 times saltier than sea water. The name “Dead Sea” derives from the scarcity of flora and fauna, which cannot survive in this harsh, arid environment caused by high levels of salinity, low rainfall, and extreme climate. Despite these severe, yet breathtaking surroundings, or perhaps due to them, people have been attracted to the Dead Sea for centuries. Renowned for its natural resources and healing properties, the Dead Sea was one of the world’s first health resorts and is still famous today, attracting visitors from all corners of the earth who flock there annually to float on its waters, pamper themselves and treat a number of ailments with its mineral rich black mud. Herod the Great was also aware of the value and strategic importance of this unique area, and built his palaces and fortress on top of a mountain on the shores of the Dead Sea, known as Masada

Masada- A Herodian fortress built in the first century B.C. which, following the destruction of the second temple and the Roman conquest of Jerusalem, became a stronghold for Jewish rebels and their families who fled from Jerusalem between 70-73 A.D. Masada is a World Heritage site recognized by UNESCO and one of the most visited historical and archaeological sites in Israel. Visitors are welcome to use the cable-car or hike up the snake trail to the mountain top, where ancient stories of martyrdom, courage and heroism come to life against the breathtaking background of the Dead Sea and Jordanian mountains. A half day tour of this magnificent place is hight recommended, especially for those traveling from Jerusalem to Eilat, Aqaba and the Red Sea.

Jericho

With unearthed remains of over 20 successive settlements, dating back to the end of the last glacial period, approximately 10,000 B.C, Jericho is considered one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, holding immense historical and religious significance for both tourists and locals. Located in the fertile Jordan Valley, near the Jordan River, Jericho, also known as the “city of palm trees”, offers its guests a calm, inviting atmosphere, fantastic Middle Eastern food, spectacular views of the desert, and, of course some iconic sites, including the Mount of Temptation, where it is believed Jesus Christ spent 40 days praying and fasting before entering Jerusalem. 

Qumran

The archeological site of Qumran is about half an hour drive from Jerusalem. This ancient settlement, believed to be the home of the Essenian sect, has received much recognition and attention since the discovery of the famous Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947.

Ein Gedi

A natural oasis just north of Masada, Ein Gedi is considered one of the most beautiful venues in Israel. Boasting a number of hiking trails, stunning landscapes and spectacular botanical gardens, Ein Gedi Nature Reserve invites its guests to revel in nature at its best. One of the most popular hiking trails is the lower part of Wadi David that leads to David’s Waterfall and fresh water pools, offering a break from the desert heat and perhaps a glimpse of the animals that flourish in the area. 

Negev Desert tours

Sprawling between the ancient city of Beersheba and the southernmost city of Eilat, the Negev desert spreads over half of Israel, quietly revealing its magical beauty to all. The unique Ramon Crater, hospitable local Bedouins, desert farms producing wonderful wines from locally grown grapes, and delectable homemade goat cheeses, not to mention the stark desert landscape and intoxicating sunsets, are just a sample of what awaits those who decide to discover the enchanting Negev desert. Highly recommended to whoever travels by land from Tel Aviv to Eilat.   

Eilat

King Solomon built this city, the only one on the shores of the Red Sea. Today Timna Park, the world’s oldest copper mines, offers its visitors a glimpse into the past. Mentioned in the Bible as Ezion Geber Eiloth, and rebuilt by King Solomon to serve as a trading post with the ancient African and Arabic kingdoms, Eilat is still Israel’s southernmost city situated between stark desert mountains and the sublime blue waters of the Red Sea. Sharing borders with both Jordan and Egypt, Eilat is the perfect gateway to all three countries, making it the ideal location for the Red Sea Triangle Operation Center’s home base. In addition, Eilat is the ultimate tourist location catering to every type of traveler. Choose from unlimited types of accommodation be it camping or 5 star hotels; dine at restaurants offering everything from local cuisine to delicacies imported from around the globe; find what you’re looking for in the numerous street stalls, shopping malls and exclusive stores; enjoy the buzzing night life or stroll along the seaside promenade; walk through history at Timna Park, the world’s oldest copper mines; discover nature at its best through delightful desert tours, snorkeling and scuba diving; get your adrenaline rush while participating in the many water sports available; pamper yourself in one of the numerous beauty and massage parlors; or simply soak up the sun on one of the beautiful beaches while listening to the gentle lapping of the water as it strokes the shore – Whatever your choice, Eilat is for you. 

Points of interests while in Eilat:

 Underwater Observatory and Sharks Pool

Located on Eilat’s south beach, the Underwater Observatory is home to over 800 species of marine life. Visit the turtle and stingray pool, walk around the 360-degree aquarium, learn about the oceans’ wonders in the rare fish exhibit, stroll through a glass tunnel as sharks gracefully glide above you, descend underwater to peak out the windows at the busy marine life in its natural environment, sail on the glass-bottom boat along Eilat’s stunning reefs, and then stop for a drink and some delicious food at the park’s restaurants. The Underwater Observatory is a fabulous way to spend at least two and a half hours and is suitable for all ages. 

 Dolphin reef

One of Eilat’s major tourist attractions, the Dolphin Reef provides its guests the opportunity to see, learn about and interact with bottlenose dolphins that are free to do as they please.  Observe these majestic marine mamals from beautifully designed rafts and bridges, or meet them face to face while snorkeling or diving with a specially trained team member. You are also invited to relax on Dolphin Reef’s sandy beach, swim in the specifically allocated area, and enjoy delicious meals from one of the two restuarants.

Timna Valley and Eilat Mountains 4×4 tours

Sharply rising up to over 800 meters above sea level, the Eilat mountains, a declared nature reserve, offers its visitors an unforgettable desert experience. Join one of our 4×4 trips departing daily from Eilat and drive up the rugged rocky terrain that leads us to observation points from where, on a clear day, Israel, Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia can be seen. The Arava Valley sprawls out from the foot of the Eilat Mountains, a magical desert brimming with mystery, flora and fauna, as well as natural and historical sites, the most acclaimed of which is Timna Park, an ancient copper mine and place of worship, encompassed by an abundance of recreational activities, hiking trails and wondrous rock and sandstone formations including the famous Solomon’s Pillars, Mushroom and the Arches.  

Water Sports

Due to the wonderful weather and the calm waters of the Red Sea, Eilat is a paradise for all type of water sports, including water skiing, parasailing, wind surfing, sailing and swimming. Daily cruises on yachts and glass bottom boats depart from the local marina and most include water sports, lunch and great atmosphere. For more information on water activities, click on the “Underwater Activities”  bar below.

Accommodation
Whether on a budget or ready to splurge, you will find something suitable from Eilat’s extensive range of accommodation options. All you have to do is choose between staying in the buzzing city center, on the north beach promenade, or the quiet south beach which is less crowded and closer to the diving facilities.    

Eilat Snorkeling

Just a short walk from the comfort of your hotel an aquatic wonderland awaits just below the surface of the crystal blue sea. So, don your mask, snorkel and fins, step into the water, and after just a few kicks you will discover the breathtaking beauty of an underwater world teeming with fish, corals and indigenous marine life – the very reason why Eilat is a renowned snorkeling location.

Please note that most of Eilat’s beaches are nature reserves and the city council has strictly forbidden the use of plastic near the sea.

Eilat Learn to Dive

For those of you who are over the age of 12 and wish to venture further into the magnificent realm of this aquatic fantasia, the “Learn to Dive” course is highly recommended. Earn your international diving certificate in only a few days from one of Eilat’s professional diving schools, most of which are located on the beach, only a couple of meters away from the underwater classroom. So, what are you waiting for? The “Learn to Dive” course is suitable for individuals, groups of friends or as a perfect family activity. 

Eilat Scuba Diving

For the certified divers, Eilat is an underwater paradise with dive sites galore easily accessible from the shore or a diver’s boat. Our dive center offers daily guided dives to some of the best diving sites in the area including the nature reserve and the Satil Wreck, a navy missile vessel especially sunken for scuba divers. The guided dives are suitable for divers at all levels, and a full range of top class diving equipment is available at the diving center.

For more information about Eilat, please click on the “Land Activities” bar above.

Entry Visa

on arrival, most tourists will receive a tourist visa up to 3 months. Please check according to your nationality if you need a visa. for this information please contact the nearest embassy in your country. Additionally, please check for updates prior to your departure.

Personal Documents

• A passport with at least 6 months validity.
• Travel and diving insurance– can be purchased on this site.
• A credit card is accepted in most places, saving the need to carry excess cash.
• Diving certificate, valid diving insurance and a diving log.
• Photocopy of your passport, diving certificates and travel insurance.
  * Make sure to keep it in a separate file from the original documents.

Diving Regulations

Please note that in Israel diving regulations are strict and controlled by statutory law. If you have not been diving in the past six months, you must perform a refresher dive with an instructor before going back for fun dives or any other diving activity. Please bring your log book to prove when you last went diving.

Diving Equipment

It is recommended to bring your own equipment with which you are accustomed to using, especially a mask and a dive computer. Check your diving equipment prior to your departure.  Rented scuba diving equipment must be booked in advance. The average water temperature throughout the year is about 25C, and we recommend a 3-5 millimeter wetsuit, depending on the season you visit.

Photography

This is certainly a destination to document. You do not have to be an expert photographer in order to take superb photos to capture some amazing, unique and unforgettable moments. Diving packages are available for most kinds of cameras, for photography above and under water. Easy-to-use extreme cameras are also a popular choice. Our instructors are experts on the subject, and we will be happy to advise and assist in purchasing an underwater photography kit and training prior to the trip.

Clothing

It is unnecessary to pack a lot of clothing on a summer-beach holiday. A light garment to wear in the day between dives is recommended. If you are planning to travel in the desert, or visiting Israel on winter time, pack warm clothing and appropriate hiking shoes.
Some places around Israel, mostly in Jerusalem, are holly and populated by religious people. it is advisable to consider the sensitivities in terms of clothing, especially in public places, markets and restaurants around the old city.

Medication and First Aid

Pre-equip yourself with enough personal medication. Pack a high factor sunscreen, hat and long light clothing to protect you from prolonged exposure to desert weather. There are not special vaccine requirements for visiting Israel, however, we recommend you keep updated with your local Ministry of Health website.

Transportation and Arrival by Land

Jordan- There are few land borders between Israel and Jordan. Arava border, between Aqaba and Eilat, opens midweek at 07:00 and 08:00 on weekends. The border closes every evening at 20:00. The border crossing can get quite busy during opening hours due to a great deal of tourists travelling to Petra on day trips.
Border tax on the Israeli side is 105 shekels per person and 10 Jordanian Dinar on return to Israel on the Jordanian side. If you stay 3 nights or more, there is no need to pay the Jordanian tax. This information, as in the past, may be modified by the Jordanian government  without prior notice.
After crossing the Jordanian side, it is necessary to walk about 150 meters to the Isareli side of the border for passport control, money exchange etc. Our shuttle will await you as soon as you exit the border crossing ready to transfer you to the destination of your choice, diving club, hotel or excursion. 

Sinai- The Taba border crossing is carried out in an orderly manner in order to pass the border efficiently and quickly. The dive bags do not need to be carried, there are free trolleys available. The dive bags will be x-rayed, so be sure thoroughly. X-raying the bags on both sides may take time and patience is needed, impatience creates additional delays. Upon arrival to Eilat, transfer to your hotel can be arrange, and public transportation is available and comfortable.

Flights

Israel can be reached by international flight for Ben Gurion Air Port (Tel Aviv, Jerusalem) or to Ramon Air Port, Eilat.. When you receive your flight ticket, please ensure that your name is spelled exactly as in your passport! Whilst checking in, make sure that the label on your suitcase shows TLV as the final destination of your trip. You must arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. The number of bags and their weight should comply with airline restrictions to avoid overweight charges. Weight regulations are strict on domestic flights and entail a nominal fee for every extra kilo.

Communication

Communication from Israel is easy and accessible, wifi is available at the hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, bars, diving shops etc. You may purchase a local sim or buy a communications package from your local operator.

Weather

Central and north– the winter may be rainy, but it is not extremely cold. Spring time is comfortable and, for the most part, a beautiful time for traveling in nature. The Israel summer is hot and humid, providing the perfect opportunity to relax on the beach in Tel Aviv.

Jerusalem- due to the city’s high altitude, winter can get rather cold, rainy and sometimes even snowy. Spring time is chilly, yet comfortable, while the summer can reach some high temperatures, it is not too extreme.

Negev Desert- covering 60% of our country, the beautiful desert is mostly dry, with very few days of rain during winter and fall. However, floods can occur during these seasons. In winter time, temperatures vary dramatically between day and night- with the nights being quite cold and dry. Summer time is extremely hot, though swimming and diving surely makes it better!

Sea Conditions

The northern region of the Gulf of Eilat offers wonderful sea conditions throughout the year. Compared to other diving destinations around the world, the area is similar to diving in an aquarium with hardly any currents, amazing visibility, calm sea waters and ideal diving conditions. Between seasons southern winds can develop into storms that cause waves and also impair visibility. It is recommended to always keep up to date with the sea conditions before traveling. The average water temperature throughout the year is about 25C

Electrical Supply

230V- The sockets are three associated plug types, C, H and M. We recommend to bring a universal adapter, to avoid problems.

Money

The local currency is the New Israeli Shekel. It is advisable to pay for activities prior to your arrival in order to save carrying unnecessary amounts of cash with you. Credit cards are accepted by all tourism service providers and at hotels.

Local Taxes

Entrance to Israel via the southern Jordanian or Sinai border is tax free. this information, as in the past, may be modified by the government without prior notice.

Emergency Numbers and Decompression Chambers

Police- 100
Ambulance- 101
Fire- 102
decompression chamber in Eilat, Yoseftal Hospital- 08-6358067
decompression chamber in Haifa, Rambam Hospital- 1-700-50-51-50

Land Activities FAQ

What are the advantages of booking with us?

When you choose to book a Red Sea Triangle tour, you can sit back and relax while we design your all-in-one package deal tailored especially for you. After years of experience and personal familiarity with the people and places, we can guarantee that your 3-country trip (or 2, or 1..) is planned using the best local operators and tour guides. We will take care of all your logistics, sparing you the time and hassle of coordinating things in languages and places you are less familiar with. In addition, we are happy to book your international flights and accommodations, so all you will have left to do is pack, arrive and enjoy!

So what do I have to take care of?

We are more than happy to book everything for you from A to Z 🙂 

Do I have to book all of the trip with you?

You are most welcome to book everything with us, from A to Z! You are also very welcome to book some parts of your vacation with us and book the rest on your own. Our menu is flexible – you can plan a trip tailored specifically for your exact needs and desires. We believe every trip is like a personal puzzle which we are happy to build for you piece by piece. You can also complete any missing pieces on your own. 

Are the tours guided?

Yes, all of our tours are accompanied by professional and experienced English-speaking guides. These also include our water-oriented tours – snorkeling and diving activities. In some cases, we can also provide guides who speak your own language – French, German, Spanish and more.

Is accommodation included? How will we know to choose the best accommodation for us?

Accommodation is not included in our offered trips. However, you can book your accommodation with us either for all or some destinations according to your preferred personal standard.

Are transfers included?

Yes! Our offered tours include transfers, in comfortable a\c cars. Domestic flights (or any flight in between the 3 countries) are also included depending on your chosen plan.

Are these trips family oriented? suitable for children?

Yes! A big part of what we offer is family oriented and definitely suitable for family with kids – youngsters and teenagers – including our water-oriented activities.  Introductory dives can be done from the age of 8, and the Open Water Diver course is available for children from the age of 12.

We booked a trip including land border crossing. Will we be doing this on our own?

There will always be an agent present at each of your pre-booked land border crossing. Our agents will assist you and ensure you cross safely and efficiently.

Should we be aware of anything important regarding clothing?

All three countries are hot year-round, it is advisable that you dress accordingly. The desert sun is strong, and it is advisable to use sun protectors (for more information please read the “Know before you go” section).

The capital cities – Jerusalem, Cairo and Amman – are mostly populated by a religious public and modesty is a very important value in their way of life. You are requested to respect the locals and avoid wearing tank tops revealing your shoulders and\or belly. In addition, short pants and dresses should not be worn unless covering below your knees.

For us ladies, please note that it is considered culturally inappropriate and unacceptable to go topless at the beach, in any of these 3 countries, in any of the water sources.

I am a vegan\ vegetarian\ have some special food or diet choices or allergies. Should it be a problem?

The middle-eastern kitchen is well known for its richness and variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Deliciously spiced veggie stews and a wide variety of legumes are traditional and street food. As part of our good service, we are aware of various types of diet preferences, in all 3 countries. Moreover, Israel is one of the most vegan countries around the globe, advanced and open-minded regarding different kinds of diets, with a rich variety of foods from around the world. Hence, no diet request should be an obstacle for you. While booking a trip with us, please let us know of any special food request you may have and remember to come with an open mind to try some special middle eastern delicious food!

Water Activities FAQ

Is the visit to Eilat also suitable for non-divers?

The answer is definitely yes! The visit to Eilat is a pleasant experience for everyone. Beach lovers can sunbathe and snorkel in almost all of the southern dive sites and beaches, the hotels offer good standards of service and facilities and there are also top-notch resorts with a variety of attractions for all ages, facilities and swimming pools.

The comfortable conditions and the colorful and shallow dive sites make Eilat the perfect destination to experience an introductory dive, or better yet, take part in a full diving course and learn how to dive!

Eilat offers amazing full and half day trips to the exceptional desert. A Jeep tour in the mountains and a visit to the spectacular Timna park, are both highly recommended for all ages.

For how many days should you plan a scuba diving trip to Eilat?

We recommend you book a 3-day trip at least. This will include a minimum of 6 dives. Eilat is the perfect place to relax, a feeling of complete serenity will flow within you and you will quickly get used to the slow pace of life. It is recommended to combine above and under water activities, along with enjoying the beautiful desert as well.

Do I need to be an experienced diver to participate in such a trip?

The diving sites are comfortable, relatively simple and suitable for all divers. The comfortable conditions and the colorful and shallow dive sites make Eilat the perfect destination to experience an introductory dive, or better yet, take part in a full diving course and learn how to dive!

In addition to the beautiful shallow reefs, there are also shipwreck dives, making Eilat an interesting diving destination for experienced divers as well.

Am I required to dive Nitrox?

The answer to this is no. Most dive shops offer 32% enriched oxygen. On intensive days while performing consecutive dives, it is highly recommended to use Nitrox. Nitrox can be used to increase safety ranges by using the computer in normal air mode. Moreover, there is no dramatic effect on the overall bottom time in the water as it is derived from the amount of air in the tank. The use of nitrox is at the diver’s consideration. You can also take part in a nitrox course in Eilat.

Do I Need Medical Approval to Dive?

In principle, the requirement for a medical approval is international and an accepted medical statement approved by diving organizations is available. If the answers to all the questions on your health declaration are negative, then there is no problem. If there are positive answers, consult with your diving doctor and receive an approval to dive. If you are over the age of 45, a medical approval is required.

Should I Purchase My Own Diving Equipment?

This really depends on to the number of dives you are planning to do. Naturally, when planning a scuba diving trip, you can decide to purchase full or partial scuba equipment. We recommend that you purchase your own mask and personal dive computer. We would be happy to be at your service and offer advice on purchasing equipment. 

Do I Need Booties?

As a rule, you should dive as you are used to. However, in this destination, it is very recommended to use booties as most dive sites are accessible from the shore. It is best to protect your feet as the beaches are extremally hot, might have small pieces of broken glass in between the tiny stones, rocks might be sharp and sea urchins may be present in the shallow waters at the entrance of the dive site.

Are there Offshore Dives in Eilat?

Most dive sites are accessible from the beach. Never-the-less, we recommend incorporating a day of boat-based diving. Diving from a boat will allow you to reach the “Japanese Garden” dive site which is a beautiful wall, very impressive and suitable for all diving levels. The slope is approximately 18m deep and the wall descends down to 33m.