Bethlehem, Jericho, & Jordan River: Guided Tour -small group
Dead Sea, Jerusalem
Experience a guided tour of Bethlehem's old city with added hotel pickup. Enjoy the Judean Desert, old City of Jericho, the ancient walls of Jericho, and the Baptismal Site of the Jordan River.
Overview
This guided full-day tour explores Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River in Israel and Palestine, ideal for travelers interested in biblical history and local culture.
Highlights
- Discover the culture of the Holy Land's people in Bethlehem and Jericho.
- Experience the baptism sites along Jesus' path at the Jordan River.
- Follow Jesus’ journey through Bethlehem and Jericho with a local guide.
Description
Begin with a visit to Bethlehem’s Nativity Church, the world’s oldest Christian church marking Jesus' birthplace. A local Christian guide presents insights and leads you to see Banksy street art on the separation wall. Enjoy Arabic coffee and tea at a local souvenir shop.
Travel through the Judean Desert to Jericho, considered the oldest city in the world. Take in views from the Dead Sea level point and explore the ancient city walls near Mount Temptation. Visitors have the option to take a cable car (additional $20 fee) and walk 15 minutes uphill to the Greek Orthodox cave.
Stop at a refreshment point featuring snacks, coffee, toilets, and a Dead Sea products center. Then, visit the sycamore tree tied to the story of Zacchaeus before proceeding to the Jordan River's baptismal sites, where you can optionally participate in a baptism experience based on John the Baptist’s tradition.
Return to Bethlehem to visit Manger Square and enter the Nativity Church (4th century AD), though cave access can be restricted due to masses or queues. The tour also includes a visit to an olive wood souvenir factory and the Banksy Hotel area to view graffiti art on the separation wall. A brief optional visit to the Banksy Museum is available (entrance approximately $8).
Itinerary
- Pick-up from Tel Aviv (David Intercontinental Hotel) 06:30–06:45 am
- Pick-up from Jerusalem (David Citadel Hotel) 07:45–08:00 am
- Rest and photo stop at Dead Sea level point (10 minutes)
- Explore Jericho and the Spring of the Prophet Elijah with a local guide
- Optional cable car ride to Mount of Temptation (additional fee)
- Refreshment stop with snacks, coffee, toilets, and Dead Sea products (30 minutes)
- Visit sycamore tree and Jordan River baptism sites
- Visit Bethlehem: Manger Square and Nativity Church
- Olive wood factory visit with coffee break
- View Banksy graffiti and optional Banksy Museum visit
- Return drop-off in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv
Includes
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Wi-Fi onboard
- English-speaking guided tour in Bethlehem and Jericho
Excludes
- Personal travel insurance
- Food and drinks
- Cable car entrance fee at Jericho (approx. $20)
- Banksy Museum entrance fee in Bethlehem (approx. $8)
- Tips
Important Information
- Accessing the Greek Orthodox cave requires a 15-minute uphill walk.
- Grotto areas inside Nativity Church may be closed or have long waits during masses.
- All timings are approximate and depend on traffic and weather conditions.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and bring a hat and water for desert stops. Book early to secure your preferred pick-up location and time.
