Charleston, South Carolina – Beaufort, South Carolina – Savannah, Georgia
Southern Expedition – The Jews of the South
A One-of-a-Kind All-Kosher Southern Expedition Experience
All kosher, All-inclusive Southern Expedition
March 15-19, 2026
Enjoy real Southern hospitality while exploring historic Civil & Revolutionary War sites and 300 years of Southern Jewish history. If possible, superimpose text over a picture.
The Journey
Discover a region where Southern charm meets centuries of rich Jewish heritage. Once home to two of America’s most vibrant Jewish communities, Savannah and Charleston continue to preserve the traditions, stories, and spirit that shaped Jewish life in the early American South. Join Kosher X as expert guides bring this extraordinary history to life—through unforgettable experiences, inspiring narratives, and authentic cultural encounters.
Charleston, South Carolina: Step into Charleston, a city where the past truly lives on. Wander cobblestone streets lit by glowing gas lamps, explore secret gardens and hidden alleys, and soak in the timeless elegance of historic homes and waterfront vistas. From pirate lore to Civil War forts, ancient synagogues to centuries‑old public buildings, Charleston offers more than 330 years of charm, culture, and discovery.
Uncover the remarkable story of South Carolina’s early Jewish settlers—many with Sephardic roots who built one of America’s earliest congregations, Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim, in 1749. Charleston soon became the largest Jewish community in the country, influencing commerce, culture, and American history through the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.
Today, this vibrant community proudly preserves its unique blend of Sephardic and Ashkenazi heritage.
Savannah, Georgia: Welcome to Savannah—one of the most enchanting and hospitable cities in America. With moss‑draped oaks, elegant squares, and iconic mansions, Savannah invites you to slow down and savor its beauty. Named a top U.S. destination, it’s a city where every corner reveals another layer of Southern charm and timeless appeal. Savannah’s Jewish story begins in 1733, when 42 courageous settlers arrived carrying a Torah scroll that survives to this day. Their congregation, Mickve Israel, is now the third‑oldest in the United States and houses rare artifacts, including letters from early American presidents. The striking Gothic synagogue on Monterey Square anchors a Jewish community still proud, active, and deeply connected to its origins.
Beaufort, South Carolina: Beaufort feels like a Lowcountry fairytale—with gracious antebellum homes, giant live oaks, fragrant gardens, and serene coastal breezes. This captivating town blends natural beauty with rich layers of history, from early explorers to the Gullah culture that shaped the region. Jewish life in Beaufort dates to the 1760s, eventually leading to the creation of Beth Israel Congregation, dedicated in 1908. Still active in its original white‑clapboard synagogue, this enduring community reflects the resilience, warmth, and traditions of Jewish families who have made Beaufort home for generations.
| from $3,450 pp/dbl | 5 |
| days |
*Custom group departures with a minimum of 18 participants are available year round. Please call for details
Price Includes
- Round trip airport transfers
- Buses/van drivers for the tour duration
- All kosher meals
- Daily programs per itinerary
- 4 nights deluxe accommodation based on double occupancy
- Private guide for the duration of the program
- KX staff including tour leaders for the duration of the tour
- All touring, entrance fees and program fees
Not Included
- Airfare
- Travel Insurance
- Miscellaneous items
- Gratuities $200 per person
Itinerary
Historic city bus & walking tours: Explore these city’s Historic Districts, shaded by spreading live oaks draped with beards of Spanish moss, making the visitor feel almost as if time has stood still
Itinerary
Day 1 (Sun): Arrival & Introduction to Charleston, SC
Arrive in Charleston, SC, where you will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to the historic Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim (KKBE) Synagogue. Begin your journey with a guided tour and orientation as our expert introduces you to Charleston’s vibrant Jewish history and unique Southern charm.
In the afternoon, continue on a panoramic coach tour through Charleston’s cobblestone streets, historic districts, secret gardens, and stately homes. Discover iconic landmarks, antebellum architecture, and Revolutionary and Civil War heritage.
Evening at leisure or enjoy a relaxed stroll along King Street and the Charleston City Market.
Day 2 (Mon): Jewish Heritage & Southern Culture in Charleston
Begin the day with a visit to the Coming Street Cemetery, the oldest and largest Jewish cemetery in the South. Learn about the Jewish families who shaped Charleston during colonial and antebellum times. Continue to the Nathaniel Russell House, where a docent from the Historic Charleston Foundation will walk us through this elegant 19th-century mansion and the lives of its former residents—both free and enslaved.
In the afternoon, explore the College of Charleston, home to the Pearlstine/Lipov Center for Southern Jewish Culture. Professors and curators will share rare documents and insights from the Jewish Heritage Collection at Addlestone Library.
Evening activity: USS Yorktown Ghost Tour – Board the famed WWII aircraft carrier for a thrilling nighttime tour blending history, heroism, and haunting legends. A unique and memorable Charleston experience.
Day 3 (Tues): Day Trip to Savannah, GA & Beaufort, SC
Early morning departure by luxury coach to Savannah, Georgia, for a day filled with rich Jewish and Southern heritage.
Highlights include:
– Old Savannah Trolley Tour – A narrated citywide tour through Savannah’s historic squares and cobblestone lanes
– Guided visit to Congregation Mickve Israel – The third-oldest Jewish congregation in America, featuring the oldest Torah scrolls in the U.S. and priceless artifacts
– Delicious Kosher lunch and dinner in Savannah
– Scenic stroll along Savannah’s River Street, where historic cotton warehouses now house shops, galleries, and waterfront views
In the late afternoon, travel to Beaufort, SC for a brief walking tour and visit to Beth Israel Synagogue (built 1908), followed by free time to browse local boutiques before returning to Charleston in the evening.
Day 4 (Wed): Lowcountry Legacy & The Sound of Charleston
Start the day with a visit to Hobcaw Barony, a 17,500-acre estate once owned by Jewish financier Bernard Baruch. Learn about Belle Baruch’s vision for ecological preservation and enjoy a kosher picnic lunch on the scenic grounds.
Next, explore Boone Hall Plantation, one of the country’s oldest working farms. Walk the breathtaking Avenue of Oaks, and tour preserved slave dwellings while learning about the Gullah culture and the site’s complex past.
Evening activity: “The Sound of Charleston” Concert – Enjoy a stirring live performance featuring spirituals, gospel, Civil War anthems, jazz, and selections from Gershwin. This musical journey through Charleston’s history is an unforgettable cultural highlight.
Day 5 (Thurs): Charleston Farewell & Departure
Our final morning begins with a visit to Brith Sholom Beth Israel Synagogue, Charleston’s active Orthodox shul, for a closing reflection and group wrap-up.
Afterward, transfer to Charleston International Airport for departure flights.
Accommodations
Deluxe hotel and spa located in Charleston’s Historic District for the duration of the tour.
Ready to Plan Your Rainforest Adventure?
Tell us your dates, family or group size and interests and we’ll tailor the villa/condo/hotel.
Call: 800-923-2645
Email: info@kosherxtours.com
★★★★★
BEYOND our expectations
We could not believe what we were served. Chef Malcom is a GENIUS!!! Please tell the directors that we do not have words to express how pleased we were. I suppose that we will be recommending you to every friend we know.
Jose T, Miami FL
Rhone River Cruise 2019
★★★★★
Fabulous & flawless service
I have been totally spoiled for future vacations. Riverboat is the way to go. I’ve met such nice people, staff was great, food fantastic. A really well run and well thought out trip
Harriet S
★★★★★
Another successful experience
Our experience was unique in that we were able to tour a lot of territory and a variety of places with minimal inconvenience. The fact that our boat was always with us and there were no long bus rides or waits made this mode of travel extremely enjoyable.
