The Lanier Center for Archaeology arranges weekend tours for those who are interested in exploring the biblical land of Israel. These tours are led by an experienced guide and are highly recommended if you have not visited Israel before or are looking to explore the country more thoroughly. These tours focus on the archaeology, history, and geography of Israel and will not only take you to nearly every major historical site but will also allow you special access at some sites  that are either not open to or known by the general public! 

The weekend tours are open to anyone attending the Khirbet 'Ether Archaeological Project. If you are interested in doing so, please contact the LCA Educational Coordinator Mrs. Marcella Barbosa Rigsby at mbarbosa@lipscomb.edu. 

Cost

The weekend tours are designed as a package deal including all four weekends and the price can vary depending on the year. The cost includes transportation, entry fees, lodging, and most meals.

For the 2025 season, the cost is $1000 per person.

Because the tours are designed as a package deal, this price does not apply to individual weekends.

Academic Credit

You can earn academic credit by participating in the weekend tours! 

The Lanier Center for Archaeology at Lipscomb University offers credit for the course Special Topics: History, Archaeology, and Geography of Ancient Israel (ARCH4113 Section 01 for undergraduates and ARCH5703 Section 01 for graduate students), the requirements for which include participation in the weekend tours.  For more information about receiving academic credit, please visit our Academic Program page. 

Typical Itinerary

Below you can find a generic itinerary example. These itineraries are subject to change as necessary. If you plan to take part in the weekend tours, you must arrive in Israel on the Friday before the dig starts!