Traveling from Jerusalem to explore the ancient city of Jericho, the birthplace of biblical stories, can be a captivating experience. This tour by Bein Harim Israel Tours offers a chance to see some of the most iconic landmarks rooted in history and faith, all packed into a well-organized day. With a solid rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 14 reviews and a price of $116 per person, it seems like a good balance of value, comfort, and authentic insight.
What we really love about this experience is the chance to stand where Jesus was baptized, visit the biblical Jericho with its ancient ruins, and float on the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea—all in one day. The knowledgeable guides, like Daniel and Dan Porges, are often praised for their depth of knowledge and personable approach. We also appreciate how the tour mixes history, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it suitable for a wide range of travelers. One potential consideration is that the tour’s stops can feel somewhat rushed, especially if you want to spend more time at the Dead Sea or explore Jericho’s modern streets.
This tour is ideal for history buffs, those interested in biblical stories, or anyone seeking a day of relaxing and inspiring sights near Jerusalem. If you’re after a comprehensive, guided experience that hits all the highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or entry fees, this could be a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Historical & biblical significance: Visit Jericho’s ancient ruins and learn about the city’s role in biblical history.
- Stunning views & iconic sites: Ride the cable car to Mount of Temptation and enjoy breathtaking vistas.
- Natural wonder: Dip into the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth, and experience its unique floating sensation.
- Authentic insights: Guides share detailed stories and context, making the sites come alive.
- Value for money: At $116, the tour covers transportation, guides, and entrance fees, offering good value.
- Limited free time: Expect a full schedule, with some reviews mentioning the Dead Sea stop could be longer.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Starting with Jerusalem
The tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup, often early in the morning, in an air-conditioned vehicle. The group size tends to be manageable, ensuring a friendly atmosphere conducive to questions and interactions. Expect your guide to set a lively, informative tone from the start.
Jericho: The World’s Oldest City
The highlight for many is the visit to Jericho, which dates back to around 9000 BC. While the tour doesn’t allow for wandering through the city streets freely—since it focuses on key sites—you’ll get a close-up look at some of the most significant ruins and landmarks.
You’ll see the famous sycamore tree, linked to the biblical story of Zacchaeus, who climbed it to see Jesus over the crowd. It’s a tangible connection to stories you’ve read about. Guides share insights into how Jericho’s ancient walls fell in the biblical Battle of Jericho, though the tour doesn’t include wandering through the modern city itself.
Authentic reviews mention that the guide, such as Dan Porges, is skilled at weaving stories that help visitors understand the significance of these ruins. One traveler noted, “The guide told a lot and you could learn a lot,” though another mentioned the experience felt somewhat superficial, emphasizing the importance of expectations.
Mount of Temptation
Next, you’ll head up the Mount of Temptation via cable car—an experience many find memorable. The monastery perched on the cliffs feels like a small fortress and offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. According to reviews, guides like Daniel are well-informed about the monastery’s history and biblical connections, making the ride up both fun and educational.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Jordan River & Jesus’ Baptism
One of the day’s emotional highlights is standing at the spot on the Jordan River where John is believed to have baptized Jesus. The site attracts thousands of visitors seeking spiritual renewal, and the tour offers a chance to witness this iconic location.
While the water may not be suitable for swimming—due to high salinity and minerals—many choose to dip their hands or feet, experiencing the healing properties firsthand. It’s a moment that adds a profound touch to the day. Some reviews mention that the guides explain how this is a popular site for baptism, giving visitors context.
The Dead Sea: The Ultimate Relaxation
The day concludes at the Dead Sea, famous for its mineral-rich, salty waters. Floating effortlessly and slathering yourself with mineral mud is often the highlight, and the reviews show this is a favorite part of the trip. Visitors often comment on how relaxing and unique it is to lie back and float without any effort.
The tour typically allows for around an hour at the Dead Sea, which some find sufficient, though others, like Christian, wish for more time to enjoy and explore the beach area. Don’t forget essentials like swimwear, a towel, and sunglasses—some reviewers mention they enjoyed soaking up the sun after their float.
Return to Jerusalem
After a rejuvenating experience, you’ll head back to Jerusalem for hotel drop-off, concluding a long but fulfilling day. The transportation is generally comfortable, with air-conditioning and a well-planned schedule.
Practical Tips for the Tour
- Bring your passport — some border crossings or check-ins might require it.
- Dress comfortably and bring sun protection — hats, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing work well.
- Pack swimwear, a towel, and mud if you want to maximize your Dead Sea experience.
- Arrive with an open mind — some stops may feel brief, especially if you want more time to explore or relax.
The Value and Who Should Consider This Tour
At $116, this tour offers a lot of value for those interested in biblical history, stunning scenery, and natural wonders. The inclusion of hotel pickup, transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide makes it a stress-free way to explore these sites without the hassle of planning logistics.
It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a structured day of sightseeing with rich stories and picturesque views. Families with older children, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a mix of history, spirituality, and relaxation in one package will find this tour appealing.
However, if you’re looking for extensive free time at each site or wish to explore Jericho’s modern streets in depth, you might find the schedule slightly restrictive.
The Sum Up
This tour from Jerusalem packs a meaningful punch, offering a blend of biblical landmarks, breathtaking vistas, and natural healing experiences. Guided by passionate, knowledgeable leaders like Dan Porges and Daniel, you’ll gain insights that bring these ancient sites to life. The floating in the Dead Sea, visiting Jericho’s ancient ruins, and standing at the Jordan River are moments that will stay with you.
While some may find the day a bit hurried—especially the limited time at the Dead Sea—most will appreciate the ease of having a guided experience that covers all the essentials. The trip balances history, spirituality, and leisure, making it a well-rounded choice for those eager to connect with the stories and landscapes that have shaped religious and cultural traditions for thousands of years.
If you’re after an authentic, organized, and reasonably priced way to see some of the most iconic sites near Jerusalem, this tour is worth considering. It’s a chance to step into history, relax in nature, and create memories that merge faith, adventure, and awe.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a guide, and entrance fees to the sites.
How much does it cost?
It costs $116 per person, offering good value when considering transportation, guide, and entry costs.
Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy meals on your own during the day.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport, sunglasses, hat, swimwear, and a towel—especially for the Dead Sea experience.
How long is the tour?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, expect a full day trip, with a typical stop at the Dead Sea lasting around an hour.
Is it suitable for children or wheelchair users?
The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years or wheelchair users, mainly due to site access and physical constraints.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Keep your plans flexible by booking with the “Pay Later” option.
What’s the best part of the tour?
Most travelers love the combination of historical sites like Jericho, the cable car ride to Mount of Temptation, and floating in the Dead Sea—each offers a unique experience.
Do guides share detailed stories?
Yes, guides like Dan Porges and Daniel are praised for their storytelling and explanations, making the sites more meaningful.
This tour offers a practical and enriching day out for those eager to connect with biblical history and natural wonders near Jerusalem. Expect a well-organized trip, friendly guides, and memorable sights that stay with you long after you leave.
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