Dead Sea and Masada Private Day Trip
From Tel Aviv
Last Update: April 2025
Discover the Dead Sea and Masada on a fully customizable day trip! Explore the dramatic history of Masada and experience the unique sensation of floating in the mineral-rich waters of the lowest place on Earth
Day Trip Overview
- Begin your journey at Masada National Park, the ancient desert fortress dramatically perched atop a rocky plateau overlooking the Dead Sea. Ride the cable car or hike the winding Snake Path to reach the summit, where you’ll explore the remarkably preserved remains of King Herod’s palaces, storerooms, and fortifications. As you walk among the ruins, take in sweeping views of the desert landscape and the shimmering Dead Sea below, and reflect on the legendary last stand of the Jewish rebels against the Roman Empire.
- Next, descend to the shores of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth, where you can experience the unforgettable sensation of floating effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters. Pamper yourself with a therapeutic mud bath or simply relax along the shore, surrounded by the stark and striking desert scenery.
- If you wish to enrich your adventure with nature, visit the lush Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, a true desert oasis where waterfalls, springs, and green trails offer refuge to hikers and wildlife alike. Walk to David’s Waterfall or explore the diverse plant and animal life that thrives in this unique setting.
- If you wish to uncover more of the region’s ancient past, stop at Qumran National Park, home to the archaeological remains linked to the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls – some of the most important biblical texts ever found. Wander among the ruins and gaze at the caves where these scrolls lay hidden for centuries.
- If you wish to add a spiritual dimension to your day, visit Qasr el-Yahud, the traditional baptismal site on the Jordan River, believed by many to be the place where John the Baptist baptized Jesus. This peaceful and moving site draws pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
- As an added bonus, you can also stop at the AHAVA factory, where you’ll learn about the production of world-renowned Dead Sea skincare products. Join a short tour of the factory to discover how the region’s unique minerals are transformed into high-quality cosmetics, and enjoy the opportunity to shop AHAVA’s famous mineral-based products directly at the source.
- This private day trip offers a flexible and enriching itinerary, perfect for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers eager to immerse themselves in the wonders of the Judean Desert and Dead Sea region.
Sites and Landmarks
Highlights
What To Expect
This full-day journey from Tel Aviv into the Judean Desert takes you through ancient fortresses, natural wonders, and sacred sites along the Dead Sea shoreline. Highlights include the dramatic hilltop ruins at Masada National Park, the unforgettable experience of floating in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, and the option to explore the lush Ein Gedi Nature Reserve or the archaeological site of Qumran National Park. Covering approximately 350–400 km (217–250 miles) round-trip, this day trip offers a rich blend of history, nature, and spirituality – and can be customized with additional stops to suit your interests, such as the Qasr el-Yahud baptismal site or the AHAVA factory, where you can tour and shop world-famous Dead Sea skincare products.
The key to a great day trip lies in comfortable, reliable transportation and a well-planned itinerary. This ensures you visit the right places, at the right pace, with total flexibility – in order to get the most out of your day. While not a tour guide, your dedicated driver for the day is highly familiar with the area and will navigate you smoothly through all the sites on your preferred itinerary – whether by car or on foot. You can expect a well-coordinated, hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Thanks to guide apps and AI-based travel assistants, traditional guides aren’t quite as essential as they used to be – you have all the information you need right at your fingertips. This offers greater flexibility while saving you both time and money. However, if you prefer a fully guided experience, a large variety of licensed guides and local tours are widely available and can easily be arranged.
Additional Information
Opening Hours and Admission
- Masada: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (summer) and 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (winter). Sunrise hikes via the Snake Path start earlier (check times). Entry is 37 ILS (~$10) for adults and 21 ILS (~$6) for children. Cable car is 54 ILS (~$14.50) for adults and 32 ILS (~$8.50) for children (round-trip), or 32 ILS (~$8.50) for adults, 16 ILS (~$4.25) for children (one-way). Check the latest news and fares on the official Masada National Park website.
- The Dead Sea: Public beaches like Ein Bokek are free and open 24/7. Resorts charge for spa access.
- Ein Gedi Nature Reserve: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (summer), and 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (winter). Last entry is permitted one hour before closing time. Entry is 31 ILS (~$8.50) for adults and 16 ILS (~$4.40) for children. Check the latest news and fares on the official Ein Gedi Nature Reserve website.
- Qumran National Park: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (summer), and 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (winter). Last entry is permitted one hour before closing time. Entry is 31 ILS (~$8.50) for adults and 16 ILS (~$4.40) for children. Check the latest news and fares on the official Qumran National Park website.
- Qasr el-Yahud: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (summer) and from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (winter). Entry is free. Check the official Qasr el-Yahud Website for exact dates, as hours may vary during religious holidays.
What to Bring
- Breathable clothing to protect against the sun and heat, a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel
- High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, lip balm with sun protection
- Comfortable shoes for walking, beach shoes to protect your feet from sharp salt shards and crystals
- Water to keep yourself hydrated and snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day
- Camera for scenic desert landscapes and stunning sea views
- Small bills and change for local shopping and souvenirs
Safety Considerations
- Water Contact: Don’t submerge your face or eyes in the water (salt stings); avoid shaving before swimming to prevent stinging cuts or sensitive skin.
- Splashing: Avoid splashing – salt water in your eyes can irritate for hours; stay clear of others to prevent accidental splashes and rinse off at beach showers if needed.
- Delicate Items: Protect delicate items like cameras, phones, and watches from salt damage – take photos before entering and store them safely away, washing salt off your hands first.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated with fresh water, especially under the scorching sun, to counter the arid climate.
The Price for This Day Trip is: $539
Included
- Pick-up at your accommodation in Tel Aviv
- A full-day trip (9 hours) in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a dedicated driver at your service throughout the day
- Drop-off back at your accommodation in Tel Aviv
Not Included
- Guidance
- Entrance fees, parking fees, toll roads, tips
- Food and drinks
Notes
- All quoted prices are in U.S. Dollars and apply to groups of up to 4 passengers on weekdays.
- Trips scheduled on Saturdays and holidays are subject to a 15% surcharge.
- While this day trip itinerary begins in Tel Aviv, departures from other locations can be arranged upon request.
- The suggested itinerary for this day trip is fully customizeable and can be adjusted according to your interests, pace, and specific travel needs.
- Nine hours are more than enough to enjoy a full and this meaningful day trip, covering all the key highlights at a comfortable pace. However, extending this day trip is possible at the cost of $40 for each additional hour.
- The suggested itinerary features varying terrain, with some areas having uneven paths and stairs. Certain sites are accessible or partially accessible for travelers using wheelchairs. Please share any specific mobility needs in advance so we can plan the most suitable and comfortable route for you.
- A 20% deposit is required to secure your booking. The remaining balance is due on the day of the trip, payable in cash. If you prefer to pay the full amount in advance by card, please note this at the time of booking.
- Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the scheduled trip are eligible for a full refund of the deposit. No refund of the deposit for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled trip.
- All Bookings are subject to the terms of use.
Interested in booking this day trip?
Contact me with your details and any itinerary inquiries – I’ll be happy to help you plan the perfect, personalized experience.
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Your requested date and time of departure
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