Private Tour: Bethlehem, Jericho & the Baptism Site (Qasr El-Yahood)
A journey to the Judean Desert’s most significant Christian sites, where the Bible comes to life.
Tour Overview and Logistical Essentials
This private, full-day tour takes you to three pivotal Christian locations in the Judean Desert and West Bank area. Prepare for a unique experience that blends history, spirituality, and stunning desert landscapes.
ℹ️ Important Tour Information
Duration: Full Day (Approx. 9-10 hours)
Focus: Christian History, Biblical Archaeology, West Bank
Mandatory Requirement: Passport is required. This private tour enters Palestinian Authority areas and must be conducted with an Arab/Palestinian licensed guide and a tour car insured accordingly.
What to Bring: Passport is mandatory, modest attire for Holy Sites, comfortable walking shoes, water.
1. Bethlehem: The Nativity and the Shepherds
Bethlehem (“House of Bread” in Hebrew) is located just 15 km south of Jerusalem. Though historically significant as the hometown of King David, the Christian world primarily associates it with the birth of Jesus.
The Church of the Nativity: This marvelous church, first built in the 4th century CE, is said to be over the exact spot where Jesus was born. We will visit the Church and the Grotto of the Nativity itself.
Shepherds’ Field: East of the city, a small but remarkable Roman-Catholic church is built over the site of the Shepherds’ Field, where the angels announced the birth of Jesus.
Optional Stop: The Milk Grotto: A more humble church in a nearby alley associated with the breastfeeding of the infant Jesus.
2. Jericho: The Oldest City & The Temptation
A beautiful scenic ride through the Judean Desert will lead us toward Jericho. Inhabited for over 10,000 years, Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
The Mount of Temptation (Monastery of Quarantal): Ascend by cable car to the cave where Jesus resisted the Devil’s temptations after his baptism.
Tel es-Sultan (Biblical Jericho): The mound famously associated with Joshua and the tumbling walls. We will review the site’s rich archaeological past.
Zacchaeus’ Sycamore Tree: We will drive by the sycamore tree associated with the biblical tax collector Zacchaeus.
Optional View: Herod’s winter palaces (Tulul abu el-alayiq) or the 8th Century CE Hisham’s Palace.
3. Qasr El-Yahood: The Baptism Site on the Jordan River
Near Jericho, on the bank of the Jordan river, lies the Baptism site, one of the most significant sites in the Christian world.
The Moment of Baptism: This site, called Qasr El-Yahood, is said to be where Jesus met John the Baptist and was baptized by him. It is from this moment on that Jesus began his public ministry as Christ.
Immersion Opportunity: The site is open for visits and allows pilgrims to be baptized in the river.
Panoramic Views: From the Baptism site, you can also see in the distance the Qumran Caves (Dead Sea Scrolls) and Mount Nebo.
Customization and Return
Optional Scenic Stops
Time permitting, on the way back, we could stop for some stunning views of the Judean Desert at:
Saint George Monastery (Wadi Qelt Viewpoint)
The Good Samaritan Inn (Mosaic Museum)
➡️ Book Your Private Tour Now!
Ready to walk in the footsteps of Jesus? Contact us today to customize and book your unforgettable journey.
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