For thousands of years humans used caves as shelter, habitat, hide-out, and as final resting place. In this fascinating photo tour we discover some of the most impressive natural and man-made caves found in Israel.
In the morning we visit the Avshalom stalactite cave, considered to be one of the most beautiful of its kind in the world. We then drive to Tel Maresha (Marissa) to visit the columbarium, the labyrinth, the ancient oil press carved into rock, and the Sidonian burial caves. The final highlight of the Maresha visit is the Bell Cave, an enormous man-made cave carved into chalk. Just opposite Maresha lies Beit Guvrin with its well-preserved Roman amphitheater. There we enter the dungeons where the gladiators awaited their next and often final fight against human or beast.
Last stop is Hurvat Midras (also known as Khirbet Madras), where we visit the burial caves as well as the hiding caves used during the Bar Kochba revolt in 132-135 CE.
Optional: Drive to the St. Etienne monastery in Jerusalem and visit of the burial caves from the First Temple period. (This option depends on getting a permission from the St. Etienne monastery, as the site is not open to the public.)
Recommended photo gear:
- DSLR with interchangeable lenses
- Wide angle lens
- Tripod
- Flash
- Remote control (optional)
- Small camera bag and/or dust cover (if you enter the hide-out caves at Hurvat Midras you are going to need some gear protection, as this is going to be extremely dusty)
Note: This tour is also recommended to non-photographers.
What to wear: Hiking boots/shoes or good walking shoes, long comfortable trousers that can take a rub as well as dirt and dust. You are likely to get dirty.
Important items:
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunscreen or sunblock with sufficient UV protection
Best time: All year round
Prices
From Jerusalem: $490*
From Tel Aviv: $490*
Additional quotes – for different locations, group or VIP tours – upon request!
* All prices are daily fees that cover planning and guiding.
Not included are transportation, entry fees (where required), meals, and any other personal expenses. I will be happy to organize a car or minibus with driver.