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Israel Adventures: Behind the Scenes with Maranatha Tours

For over 50 years, Maranatha Tours has been leading travelers to experience the Holy Land in uniquely meaningful ways. What began as a missionary's vision to help pastors better understand Scripture has grown into a multi-generational ministry focused on making Bible lands accessible to believers.

The company's roots trace back to Greg Riley's grandfather, a missionary in India who, after health challenges prevented his return there, visited Israel and had an epiphany: every pastor and teacher of God's Word needed to experience the Holy Land firsthand. This conviction sparked a family legacy that continues today through third and fourth generations of relationships with local partners.

The Maranatha Difference

Unlike typical tourist experiences, Maranatha Tours prioritizes biblical immersion over vacation amenities. "You're touring, not vacationing," explains Greg Riley, current General Director. "We get you up early, get you fed, and want you in that Bible the entire time."

The company maintains special relationships with hotels, restaurants, and local partners built over decades. These connections, combined with their direct ownership of transportation assets, allow them to offer comprehensive packages at sustainable prices while maintaining high quality.

Their biblical focus extends to guide selection - each must demonstrate deep knowledge of Scripture and Israeli history. The tours are structured to maximize biblical sites and teaching opportunities while skillfully navigating the logistics of holy site visits.

Modern Israel Insights

Israel today presents fascinating contrasts and complexities:

Language: Hebrew stands as the only historically "dead" language to be fully revived as a modern national tongue
Immigration: Israel absorbs more immigrants per capita than any other nation, welcoming Jewish people from over 100 countries across five continents
Society: While all citizens have constitutional political rights, practical dynamics between Jewish and Arab populations remain complex
Security: Despite media portrayals, daily life generally proceeds peacefully for both residents and visitors

Planning Your Journey

For those considering a Holy Land trip, key practical considerations include:

Timing: Book well in advance as Israel's popularity means limited space availability
Coverage: Tours typically follow either clockwise or counterclockwise routes hitting major biblical sites
Cost: Package prices include most expenses except lunches
Insurance: Increasingly recommended for flexibility and peace of mind
Physical Demands: Be prepared for full days of walking and exploring

The impact of visiting Israel extends far beyond tourism. As Greg notes, "It's the only place in the world that gives me goosebumps when I hit the ground." Whether standing on the Southern Steps where Jesus taught, sailing the Sea of Galilee, or being baptized in the Jordan River, experiencing these biblical locations firsthand transforms Scripture from words on a page to vivid reality.

For believers seeking deeper biblical understanding or anyone interested in experiencing this unique land, Israel offers unparalleled opportunities to walk where prophets and apostles trod, bringing ancient texts to life in profound ways.