From Jacob's dream of a ladder connecting heaven and earth, to the dream of Jerusalem that has dwelled in the hearts of believers, thinkers, worshippers, pilgrims, crusaders, scholars, writers and poets — Jerusalem has always been a magnet, a force of attraction, and a place that connects the heavenly and the earthly, religions and faiths, customs and worldviews.
My name is Rachel Afarsemon, a licensed tour guide certified by the Ministry of Tourism, guiding in Jerusalem for over 20 years, including at the Tower of David Museum, the Western Wall Tunnels, Beit Shmuel, Knesset Israel, Isha Tours, and a variety of agencies and private companies, business people, pilgrims and families.
I am pleased to offer a selection of immersive in-depth tours combining visits to sacred sites, participation in ceremonies, viewpoints, guided walks, lectures, and the opportunity to walk and observe the beauty, uniqueness, holiness, people, landscapes and remarkable story of Jerusalem.
We begin with a breathtaking panoramic view from the top of the Mount of Olives, overlooking the Old City, its sacred structures, houses of prayer, minarets, towers and the walls that surround it and form the 'Holy Basin' — held dear in the hearts of more than half the world's population!
We will embark on a tour tracing the defining events and beliefs that shaped the sanctity of Jerusalem in the hearts of Jews across the Diaspora throughout the generations. The Binding of Isaac and Mount Moriah, the City of David and Solomon's Temple, Herod's Temple and the pilgrimage experience, the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple, the experience of exile, and Jerusalem in the modern era.
We will embark on a tour tracing the last week in the life of Jesus — the Holy Week, SEMANA SANCTA — during which the events took place that shaped the sanctity of Jerusalem and transformed it into the 'Holy City' and a magnet for billions of Christian believers around the world who seek to come here and walk in the footsteps of Jesus.
We will explore the sanctification of Jerusalem in the Muslim world. We will visit the Temple Mount compound, Haram al-Sharif, considered the third holiest site in Islam. We will take a close look at the magnificent Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque,
A magical stroll through the alleyways of picturesque Ein Karem, among monasteries, galleries and ancient stone houses. We will discover the story of Jerusalem's most beautiful neighborhood.
A fascinating visit to the tranquil Beit Jamal Monastery, getting to know the work of the sisters of the "Bethlehem" Order and their unique way of life.
A rare glimpse into ultra-Orthodox life in the heart of the Mea Shearim neighborhood. We will wander among synagogues, bakeries and ancient courtyards.
A journey tracing the Ark of the Covenant — from the Sinai Desert to Jerusalem. We will uncover the mysteries, symbols and profound meanings of this sacred vessel.
A fascinating journey into the Dead Sea Scrolls. We will visit the Shrine of the Book, understand the story of their discovery and uncover the secrets of the Judean Desert sect.
A unique Purim experience in the walled city. We will walk through the decorated alleyways of Mea Shearim, encountering the joy and special customs of Shushan Purim.
In-depth experiences in Jerusalem and the surrounding area, personally tailored for every group and traveler
The holiday is a day of fasting, purification and renewal in anticipation of renewing the covenant between the people and their God.
We will meet at the 'Armon HaNatziv' promenade overlooking the Old City and the site of the Temple, and witness an ancient, biblical ceremony that was and remains unique to the Ethiopian Jewish community — the 'Beta Israel' community.
The Feast of Epiphany (Theophany) marks, according to the Orthodox Christian Churches, the day on which Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River.
It was then that Jesus was first revealed to the world as the chosen Son of God.
We will travel to the baptism site on the Jordan River to celebrate with dozens and hundreds of believers arriving from around the world the baptism of Jesus by John, and together with them we will feel the resurrection of Jesus, the renewal and rebirth!
Fascinating enrichment sessions for groups, organizations, and families. An intellectual and emotional journey through stories, archaeology, geopolitics, and art – presented in clear language, with great passion and love for the land.
A fascinating series of sessions on Judaism, Christianity, and the Kingdom of Ethiopia.
