12-Day Catholic Pilgrimage Through Israel, Jordan, and Egypt: A Journey of Faith
Day 1 - Arrival in Cairo
Begin your Catholic Pilgrimage by arriving at Cairo Airport. After completing airport formalities, proceed to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Cairo.
Day 2 – Cairo
This morning, our Catholic Pilgrimage takes us to the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, where you’ll see the gold treasures of King Tutankhamen (King Tut). Then, visit the Pyramids of Giza and the nearby Sphinx, marveling at one of the wonders of the ancient world.
We’ll continue to the Hanging Church, dating back to the 4th and 5th centuries, built atop the Fortress of Babylon. The next stop is the Church of Abu Sergah, built on the cave where traditionally the Holy Family stayed. End the day with an exciting dinner cruise and show on a Nile Riverboat before returning to the hotel.
Day 3 - Cairo – Sinai
Our Catholic Pilgrimage continues with a visit to the world-famous El Khalili Bazaar for souvenir shopping. We then drive east toward the Sinai desert, passing the Suez Canal. Dinner and overnight at St. Catherine in Sinai or Dahab, on the shores of the Red Sea.
Day 4 - St. Catherine – Taba
Begin the day with an optional early morning mountain climb up Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments. Witness the breathtaking sunrise from the peak. After breakfast, visit St. Catherine’s Monastery and Moses’ Spring.
Then, cross into Israel at the Taba border, driving through the Arava Desert along the Dead Sea to Jerusalem or Bethlehem for dinner and overnight.
Day 5 – Jerusalem
Ascend the Mount of Olives for a panoramic view of Old and New Jerusalem, a highlight of our Catholic Pilgrimage. Visit the Church of Ascension, Pater Noster Church, and the Garden of Gethsemane, where we will celebrate Mass.
In the Old City, see the Pool of Bethesda, the Church of St. Anne, the Dome of the Rock, and the Western Wall. Follow the Stations of the Cross along the Via Dolorosa to a sacred time at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 6 – Jerusalem and Bethlehem
Our Catholic Pilgrimage brings us to Mt. Zion, where we visit the Tomb of King David, Dormition Abbey, and the Room of the Last Supper. Continue to the Church of St. Peter of Gallicantu, believed to be the house of Caiaphas. In Bethlehem, visit the Church of the Nativity and celebrate Mass. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 7 – Ein Karem and the Dead Sea
After breakfast, visit Ein Karem, the birthplace of St. John the Baptist, and the Visitation Church. Drive past Jericho to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Visit Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, and enjoy a float in the Dead Sea. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 8 - Jerusalem – Jaffa – Caesarea – Haifa – Tiberias
Departing Jerusalem, our Catholic Pilgrimage continues to Jaffa, an ancient port city. Walk through Jaffa’s stone alleyways and visit the House of Simon the tanner. Drive through Tel Aviv, then head north to Caesarea, where Peter baptized the house of Cornelius.
Continue to Mount Carmel and Haifa, home to the beautiful Bahá'í Shrine and Gardens. Dinner and overnight in Tiberias or Nazareth.
Day 9 - Galilee Area
Visit the Beatitudes Church, where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount, and the Church of the Primacy of St. Peter and Tabgha. Continue to Capernaum and take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.
In Cana, couples can renew their marriage vows at the Church of Cana. Visit Nazareth and the Church of the Annunciation before heading to Yardenit, a baptismal site on Jordan River. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 10 - Tiberias – Mt. Tabor – Amman, Jordan
Drive to Mt. Tabor to visit the Church of the Transfiguration. After crossing into Jordan, visit Madaba and Mt. Nebo, believed to be the burial site of Moses. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Amman.
Day 11 - Petra Excursion
Travel to Petra, the “Rose Red City,” and one of the Wonders of the World. Explore this ancient Nabatean city before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 12 - Departure
Conclude your Catholic Pilgrimage with a tour of Amman, Jordan’s capital, before heading to the airport for your return flight home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I expect on a Catholic Pilgrimage to Israel, Jordan, and Egypt?
Expect to visit key biblical and historical sites across three countries, participate in daily Mass, and deepen your faith through spiritual reflections.
2. What is the best time to take this Catholic Pilgrimage?
The best time is during spring or fall when the weather is mild, making it easier to explore the sites comfortably.
3. Are there any physical requirements for this Catholic Pilgrimage?
The pilgrimage involves moderate walking, including some optional hikes like Mount Sinai. It’s suitable for individuals in good health, but accommodations can be made for those with mobility concerns.
Final Words
Embark on this unforgettable Catholic Pilgrimage through Israel, Jordan, and Egypt, where you'll explore sacred sites, deepen your faith, and experience the rich history of the Holy Land. Don't miss this spiritual journey of a lifetime—secure your spot today and take the first step towards a transformative experience.