👤About Me
Hi, I’m Hani, your friendly guide with a passion for turning stones and stories into unforgettable memories. Born and raised in Jerusalem, I know the Holy Land like the back of my hand (and I’ve got the sunburn to prove it). Whether you’re chasing ancient history, biblical wonders, or the best hummus in town, I’m here to guide you with heart, humor, and just the right dose of holy ground.
Areas of Expertise
Christian
Specialized knowledge and expertise in Christian topics and sites.
Historical
Specialized knowledge and expertise in Historical topics and sites.
Cultural
Specialized knowledge and expertise in Cultural topics and sites.
Nature
Specialized knowledge and expertise in Nature topics and sites.
🧭Tours by this Guide
The walk across Civilizations
We begin our journey at Damascus Gate, one of the most iconic entrances into the Old City. From here, we make our way through Khan al-Zeit, a historic marketplace that has served as a vital artery of Jerusalem’s trade and life for centuries. As we continue, we follow in the footsteps of pilgrims along the Via Dolorosa, pausing by several Stations of the Cross, each marking a powerful moment in the Passion of Christ. Our path leads us to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, but we enter not through the front — instead, we take the more secluded roof entrance, where we’ll uncover some of the lesser-known corners of this sacred space. Inside, we’ll explore the many layers of history, architecture, and Christian denominations that coexist within this structure — a physical reflection of Jerusalem’s complex and sacred tapestry. From there, we step into the bustling market once again, where scents, sounds, and colors swirl around us. Our journey then leads into the Jewish Quarter, where we visit the restored Hurva Synagogue. We continue to the southern lookout point, offering panoramic views of the City of David, Mount Zion, and the surrounding hills — a moment to pause and take in Jerusalem’s breathtaking landscape. From here, we ascend to the Cenacle (Upper Room), traditionally believed to be the site of the Last Supper. As we stand on Mount Zion, we reflect on the Crusader and broader Christian presence in the Holy Land, particularly within the nearby Armenian Quarter, one of the oldest Christian communities in the world. We then descend to the sacred stones of the Western Wall, where Jewish prayer and tradition continue to this day, deeply rooted in the city’s ancient past. Finally, we end our tour with a moment of peace and perspective at the Austrian Hospice. From its rooftop, we enjoy one of the most stunning views over the Old City.
The cuisine corner
We begin the morning by entering the Old City of Jerusalem through Damascus Gate. Inside, we’ll stroll through narrow alleys lined with multi-generational, family-owned food shops and restaurants, each carrying stories passed down for centuries. Our first taste will be halva (halawa, in Arabic) - perfectly sweet, sometimes mixed with cashews or flavored pastes, offering a traditional treat to start the day. From there, we’ll stop by a small juice stand for a refreshing glass of orange, pomegranate, or tamarind juice, while learning how these fruits have nourished people of this land for countless generations. Before lunch, we’ll share a light bite of hummus and falafel at one of Jerusalem’s oldest family establishments, proudly serving locals and travelers alike since the late 1800s. Then, we’ll take a detour into the spice market, where vibrant colors and rich aromas tell the story of this region’s culinary heritage. At a family shop that has been operating for six generations, you’ll have the chance to smell, taste, and buy spices that have flavored local kitchens since ancient times. Finally, after walking and taking in the city’s flavors and history, we’ll make our way up to Jaffa Gate and settle into a restaurant for a full-course Palestinian meal, complete with appetizers, salads, and traditional dishes that will crown the experience with a memorable taste of the diversity and richness of local cuisine. Along the way, as we weave through the streets of the Old City, we’ll also pause at historical landmarks, sharing stories and highlights that bring Jerusalem’s layered past to life — always at the pace of the group.
The Desert and the lowest point on earth
The day begins with an early morning hike to the Monastery of Saint George at Wadi Qelt, a dramatic cliffside monastery that has stood for centuries as a place of solitude and prayer. From there, the group continues to Jericho, the oldest city in the world, to see the ancient ruins at Tel al-Sultan, visit the Zacharreus tree, and continue to the Mount of Temptation, where Jesus fasted and prayed for forty days. In the afternoon, the journey descends to the lowest point on earth—the Dead Sea. Here, pilgrims can experience the therapeutic waters and mineral-rich mud, a unique and unforgettable experience. The evening returns to Jerusalem for dinner and an overnight stay.