From Jerusalem: Bethlehem, Jericho and Jordan River Tour
Old City, Jerusalem, Jerusalem
Combine history with religion as you tour the cities of Bethlehem and Jericho. Explore Bethlehem, a UNESCO-listed city for its religious significance, and discover many important sites in Jericho.
Bethlehem, Jericho & Jordan River Full-Day Guided Tour from Jerusalem
This full-day guided tour from Jerusalem visits Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River, suited for those interested in biblical history and ancient sites.
Highlights
- Visit Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity, the birthplace of Jesus
- Stop at the Jordan River and Saint Gerasimos Monastery
- Explore Jericho, the oldest and lowest city in the world
- See Elisha’s Spring and the ancient Sycamore Tree
- Visit Hisham’s Palace, home to one of the world’s largest mosaics
Description
Begin your day with pickup from Jerusalem and travel south to Bethlehem, where you meet your licensed local guide in the historic old city. Visit the Church of the Nativity, built over the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to the Milk Grotto Church, a site of spiritual significance for pilgrims.
Next, visit Beit Sahour, known as the City of the Shepherds. Explore the Shepherds’ Field, where the angels are believed to have announced Jesus’ birth. Stop at a local olive wood factory and community store to observe artisans crafting religious items; purchases are optional.
Travel through the Judean Desert to Jericho, the lowest and oldest continuously inhabited city on earth. Enjoy photo stops at the sea-level point overlooking Jericho. Visit key landmarks including the Sycamore Tree linked to Zacchaeus’ story, Elisha’s Spring, and Hisham’s Palace, which features one of the largest ancient mosaic floors in the world.
The tour continues to the Jordan Valley to visit Saint Gerasimos Monastery, known for its early Christian monastic roots. Conclude with a stop at the Jordan River, traditionally regarded as Jesus’ baptism site.
Return to Jerusalem in the late afternoon after a day focused on biblical history, archaeology, and landscapes.
Includes
- Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Licensed guide in Bethlehem only
- 1 bottle of water
Excludes
- Food and drinks
- Entrance to Hisham’s Palace (10 NIS per person)
- Entrance to Jericho old city (10 NIS per person)
Important Information
- Pickup and drop-off at the David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem
- A vehicle change is required entering Bethlehem to join the licensed local Palestinian Christian guide
- Access to the Nativity Grotto depends on crowd levels and local conditions
- The Bethlehem portion is guided; visits to Jericho and the Jordan River are self-guided with the driver present
- Modest dress is required for visits to churches and religious sites
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Israeli passport holders are not permitted on this tour per Israeli regulations
- The tour takes place in Palestinian Authority-administered areas and is safe for visitors
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book in advance and bring modest clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Morning departures are recommended to avoid afternoon heat and crowds.
