Experience Jordan & Israel on a GTI Signature Study Tour and you'll see Scripture in a new light.
A GTI Signature Tour creates a unique context in which you can see Scripture in a new light while enjoying the rich joys of international travel with like-minded community.
Aside from going with your own church, a GTI Signature Tour is the best way to experience the land and lessons of the Bible!
Done right, a study tour can be relaxing and fun! Together, we'll explore the past and present of Israel. Each day we'll unpack what we've learned in the context of biblical history as well as our daily faith.
In addition to visiting the ancient sites where Jesus lived and taught, we'll have the opportunity to dip our toes into the Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea and the Jordan River, not to mention the unique cultural experiences and conversation and fellowship over delicious meals. Along the way, we will experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of the region, immersing ourselves in the culture and hospitality of both Israel and Jordan. This tour offers not just an unforgettable adventure, but a chance to deepen your faith and walk the land where the stories of the Bible took place.
Jerrell has been involved in full-time ministry for over 25 years. His primary areas of focus have been spiritual formation and teaching. Jerrell has a BS in American Sign Language Interpreting, a MA in Spiritual Formation and Leadership, and is finishing a MA in Archaeology & Biblical History. Throughout his ministry, he has led over 100 trips, to more than 25 countries. For the past thirteen years, Jerrell has been leading study tours to Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Turkey, Greece, and Rome. His passion is seeing life-changing spiritual formation transpire as travelers gain a greater understanding of the Story of Scripture in its original context while engaging in the ancient practice of pilgrimage. His on-site teaching is a rich mixture of archaeological discoveries, biblical history, practical application, story-telling, and drama. In his free time, he enjoys reading, running, cycling, swimming, as well as helping to coach local high school wrestling teams. Jerrell and his wife Charissa have three children.
Welcome to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. After we arrive at the Amman airport and our luggage is collected, we will be met by our Jordanian hosts who will take us directly to our hotel for a good night’s sleep.
The enchanting rose-red façades of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, beckon, but not before we visit Mount Nebo, where God brought Moses to look into the Promised Land. You'll see the Madaba Mosaic Map that covers the floor of the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George and have the opportunity to watch local artists create beautiful mosaics. We arrive in Petra later that evening for a fantastic dinner at our hotel, where we'll spend the night before exploring this amazing site in the morning.
Today, we venture into the amazing Nabataean city of Petra, which features breathtaking canyons and rock-cut architecture. To finish up our time in this picturesque landscape, we enjoy a memorable donkey ride. After lunch, we will head south to the spectacular Wadi Rum. Once we check into our tents, we will go for a jeep ride, explore the sites, and watch an amazing sunset. Our Bedouin friends will have a traditional supper called Zarb (a roasted lamb and/or chicken feast) waiting for us when we return. We’ll say goodnight and make our way to our tents, where we’ll spend the evening “glamping” at Sun City Camp.
After a great night of stargazing and enjoying the amazing sunrise, we’ll make our way by motor coach from Jordan into Israel via the Arava border crossing. Once in Israel, we will be greeted by our Israeli hosts and make a stop to see the Tabernacle replica in the Negev Wilderness before heading to our hotel for a float in the Dead Sea. **This morning will have an optional sunrise hot air balloon ride in Wadi Rum. You must register ahead of the trip with GTI**
Today is spent in the Negev, where we’ll take a cable car to the top of Masada, the fortress where Jewish defenders made their last stand against the Romans in 73 AD. Next, we’ll visit Ein Gedi, where David hid from Saul and penned many Psalms. Continuing to Qumran, we’ll explore where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found and finish our day by arriving at Ein Gev Hotel, our home for the next three days. Fellowship, reflection, and relaxation will come easily over dinner and a beautiful sunset next to the Sea of Galilee.
Start the morning with breakfast overlooking the Sea of Galilee as we continue our Journey. Today, we’ll explore the region where Jesus performed over 90% of his miracles and teachings. Visit Capernaum (Jesus’ hometown) and the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus gave the famous Sermon on the Mount. Finish the day enjoying an evening boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.
Today, we journey to the northern reaches of Israel, where the stories of ancient Israel, the pagan empire, and modern borders converge. We begin with a cultural immersion at Katzrin, a reconstructed Talmudic village that offers insight into daily Jewish life in antiquity. We finish the day at Caesarea Philippi and Tel Dan, exploring the lush headwaters of the Jordan River and witnessing pivotal moments in Scripture unfold.
Today, we say farewell to the Galilee and begin our ascent to Jerusalem, but not before stopping at key moments in the biblical story. At Mount Precipice, overlook the Jezreel Valley and reflect on the bold beginning of Jesus’ ministry. Then travel to the Mediterranean coast to explore Caesarea Maritima—Herod’s magnificent harbor city, where Paul stood trial and the gospel first touched the Gentile world. We’ll finish the day at Azekah, where David faced Goliath, and God's power overcame man's strength. Next, we go to Jerusalem, the Holy City, where our next chapter begins.
Welcome to the Holy City of Jerusalem. We will walk the ancient alleyways for the next three days and visit its numerous Biblical sites. Be ready to step back into the first century as we explore our Bible and experience all Jerusalem and Bethlehem offer.
No trip to Israel would be complete without experiencing some of the famous archeological sites like the City of David and the Israeli Museum. Experience the tunnel Hezekiah built to bring water into the city and the famous Pool of Siloam.
On our last day of touring in Israel, we will continue to enjoy the fantastic sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of the Old City of Jerusalem and areas nearby as we walk from the Mount of Olives to the place of the crucifixion. We will cross back into Jordan to check into our hotel as we prepare for our flights home in the morning.
More than simply a statement about pricing, “All Inclusive” describes GTI’s holistic approach to facilitating purposeful travel and experiential learning in cooperation with our Ministry Partners.
Your tour leader, study materials, and even itinerary are biblically focused, creating a journey that will draw you more deeply into God’s Word with each step you take.
Each stop on your itinerary is selected because it provides an experience than brings meaning and emotional significance to the information you will be learning.
There’s no need to worry about wasting time and money haggling or being surprised by hidden costs. Except for souvenirs and optional upgrades, every part of your trip is covered.
Our secure online payment and registration system allows for payment plans and reminders, easy passport and document uploads, and confidence that your money and information is safe.
Friends and family can receive daily updates of text, photos, audio, and video from you and other participants to keep up with where you are and what you’re learning via the GTI Online Tour Journal.
We take care of everything so you can stay focused during your Study Tour, including providing you with a hydration backpack, study guide, plug adapter, and even a flashlight (when the trip calls for it).
We have spent years developing relationships with experienced guides and drivers because they are an integral part of a study tour. And if you already have a trusted guide/driver you prefer that’s ok too!
If you have questions, you're not alone! Use the following form to submit any questions you may have and we'll get back to you.
And of course, you can always give us a call during business hours at 616-396-1234 or 800-829-8234.