The early morning hours offer us the best opportunities for memorable photos of Jerusalem. This is why we start before sunrise – the exact hour depends on the time of the year. We start at the Haas promenade near the former British High Commissioners palace, now the UN headquarter in Israel. This location offers us a beautiful panorama view of the southern city wall, an ideal location for a Jerusalem photo at sunrise.
We continue to the Mount of Olives with a breathtaking view of the Temple Mount, the Dome of the Rock, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, the City of David, the Old City, the Golden Gate, and the ancient Jewish cemetery just below. We descend toward the Garden of Gethsemane (with a short visit upon request), then walk into the Old City via the Dung Gate. To enter the Temple Mount (closed on Friday and Saturday) we need to stand in line for a security check which can take a while, but once we are in we are compensated with the most splendid Omayyad and Mameluke architecture. Please note that non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque. As an alternative to the Temple Mount we can visit the Archaeological Park and the Ophel located south below the Temple Mount.
Our tour takes us into the Chain street with its beautiful Mameluke-period facades, then into the Via Dolorosa and the picturesque Souq or market. After a lunch break we visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (or the Tower of David Museum), climb the city walls at the Jaffa Gate and walk south, then east into the Jewish quarter to visit the Yohanan ben Zakai synagogue. Finally we walk to a viewpoint across the Western Wall or Kotel to make use of the afternoon sun shining onto the monumental retaining wall built by Herod the Great.
Optional: Visit of the Mahane Yehuda market (week days including Friday until ~3 p.m.).
Recommended photo gear:
- Camera (SLR, mirror-less, P&S)
- Long telephoto lens or telephoto zoom (70-200mm)
- Wide zoom (for example 24-70mm, 16-35mm etc.) or a wide lens and a normal lens
- Tripod (optional) – I will be able to supply a tripod
Duration: Full day, starting before sunrise.
Difficulty: Medium. We will be walking most of the time so I recommend comfortable shoes. We will make a lunch break as well as short breaks upon request.
Dress code: We are entering some of the holiest places in the world. Modest dress is mandatory. I’ll be happy to advise.
Important items:
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunscreen or sunblock with sufficient UV protection
Best time: All year round, during the winter we need to keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Prices
Full day: $530*
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.