Travel to Bethlehem, Jericho and Qaser Al Yahud – Guided Tour From Jerusalem

If you’re looking to step beyond Jerusalem’s city walls and explore some of the most revered biblical sites in the West Bank, this guided tour promises a full day of meaningful moments. We haven’t personally taken it, but from what travelers share, it’s a well-organized, enriching experience that balances comfort with authenticity.

What truly stands out are the knowledgeable guides who bring history to life, the chance to see iconic landmarks like the Church of the Nativity, and the convenience of air-conditioned transport that keeps you comfortable throughout the day. Plus, the opportunity to visit the Jordan River’s baptismal site adds a spiritual dimension that many find unforgettable.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include visits to Mount of Temptation or cable car rides, which might be a disappointment for those hoping for panoramic views. Still, this tour is best suited for travelers eager for a comprehensive, guided visit with a mix of religious significance and archaeological intrigue—ideal for those who want an authentic experience with minimal hassle.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Covers Bethlehem, Jericho, and Qaser Al Yahud, blending religious sites and historical landmarks.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Elias and Johnny make history come alive with engaging stories and humor.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles ensure a relaxed journey with groups limited to 55 people for an intimate feel.
• Value for Money: At $80 per person, including guided tours of Bethlehem, the tour offers a lot of meaningful sightseeing with convenient logistics.
• Limited Access: Some sites, like the Hisham’s Palace entrance, require extra fees, and certain locations like Mount of Temptation are not included.
• Authentic Experience: From the Church of the Nativity to the Jordan River, the stops are carefully curated to maximize spiritual and cultural insights.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Bethlehem: The Birthplace of Jesus

The tour begins with a walk through the Church of the Nativity, one of the oldest active churches worldwide. Built in the 4th century by Roman Emperor Constantine, it marks the spot where Mary gave birth to Jesus. The guided tour inside offers historical context and a chance to see its iconic grotto, although reviewers note that getting into the grotto can involve waiting 30-90 minutes on busy days.

Next, you’ll visit the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria, built atop the site of Christ’s appearance to St. Catherine. This site adds layers of religious history, especially since it is linked to early Christian traditions.

The Milk Grotto is another highlight, with its story of the Holy Family seeking refuge during Herod’s massacre. The story about a drop of Mary’s milk changing the cave’s color to white adds a personal, almost tender touch to the visit.

For those interested in the shepherds’ story, the Shepherd’s Sanctuary (or Chapel of the Shepherd’s Field) marks where angels announced Christ’s birth. It’s a peaceful spot that echoes with the biblical narrative of divine announcement.

Moving to Jericho: The Oldest City

From Bethlehem, the tour travels to Jericho, often claimed as the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Here, the stops are a mix of biblical sites and archaeological wonders.

First, there’s the Monastery of Saint Gerassimos (Deir Hajla), a Greek Orthodox monastery. While entry isn’t included, it offers a glimpse into the religious history of the region.

The story of Zaccheus’ Tree allows visitors to connect with the biblical story of Jesus passing through Jericho. A brief stop at the sycamore tree where Zaccheus climbed to see Jesus makes for a fun and meaningful photo opportunity, with reviewers noting that this site is completely free and easy to access.

Hisham’s Palace, an early Islamic archaeological site from the 8th century, provides insight into the region’s layered history. While entry costs are extra, the ruins are impressive, and travelers enjoy imagining the grandeur of the Umayyad dynasty.

The Jordan River: Spiritual and Scenic

The final stop is at Qasr al-Yahud, where travelers can witness the Jordan River, famous for Jesus’ baptism. The site offers about 15 minutes of free time to take photos or reflect by the river. Many reviewers appreciate this moment, describing it as a spiritually significant experience.

Optional and Not Included Stops

While the tour covers many highlights, some locations like Mount of Temptation are not part of this itinerary, mainly because the tour doesn’t include cable car rides or visits to the mountain itself. Entrance fees for sites like Hisham’s Palace and Tel Jericho are additional, so travelers should budget accordingly.

Transportation and Group Size

The journey is comfortably managed with air-conditioned vehicles that shuttle visitors between sites. The maximum group size of 55 keeps the experience intimate enough to ask questions and engage with guides like Elias, who reviewers praise for their humor and depth of knowledge.

Travelers consistently mention that the transportation makes a significant difference in maintaining energy levels, especially given the long day and multiple stops involved.

Guides and Commentary: Making History Come Alive

The guides, such as Elias and Johnny, are noted for their engaging storytelling and humor, making the day both educational and entertaining. Reviewers like Karla mention Elias as “hilarious” and “wonderfully informative,” which keeps the bus chatter lively and the day enjoyable.

Many appreciate the rich context provided during the Bethlehem tour, which enhances the spiritual and cultural understanding of each site. The guides’ ability to balance facts with stories brings the ancient locations into clearer focus.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $80 per person, this tour includes transportation, a guided tour of Bethlehem, and visits to key sites. Additional fees apply for certain entrances like Hisham’s Palace or Tel Jericho, which travelers should plan for.

Compared to organizing separate visits, this package simplifies logistics, saving you from navigating public transport or hiring taxis to each site. The guided element adds value by providing historical insights you might miss exploring solo.

Reviewers repeatedly mention that the tour offers great value for money, especially considering the comfort of the transport and the expertise of the guides. It’s a package that delivers a meaningful glimpse into the biblical and archaeological richness of the West Bank.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring cash for entrance fees at sites like Tel Jericho and Hisham’s Palace, as they are paid on-site.
• Prepare for potential waits at the Nativity Grotto on busy days; flexibility is key.
• Dress modestly and comfortably, especially for religious sites.
• Bring water and snacks for the day, as the tour is long and some stops have limited options.
• Comfortable shoes are a must as some sites involve walking and uneven surfaces.
• Be aware that the tour does not include visits to Mount of Temptation or cable car rides—if those are priorities, plan separately.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour from Jerusalem offers a well-rounded experience of some of the most significant sites in the West Bank, blending religious, historical, and archaeological highlights. The expert guides and comfortable transport make it a practical and rewarding choice for those wanting to explore the region without the hassle of organizing multiple visits on their own.

If you’re fascinated by biblical history, enjoy learning from passionate guides, and want a seamless way to see Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River, this trip delivers on all fronts. It’s especially ideal for travelers seeking a meaningful, structured day with plenty of opportunities for reflection and photo-taking.

While it might not cover every site, what it does include is thoughtfully curated, offering a true taste of the ancient and spiritual significance of this land. The combination of ease, value, and depth of experience makes this tour a compelling option for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, the tour price does not include lunch, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to eat at one of the stops with local options.

How long does the tour last?
It generally runs between 8 to 11 hours, offering a full day of sightseeing and exploration.

Are entrance fees included?
No, some sites like Hisham’s Palace and Tel Jericho have additional entrance fees that travelers need to cover on-site.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 55 travelers, making it manageable and allowing for interaction with guides.

Does the tour visit Mount of Temptation?
No, the tour does not include Mount of Temptation or cable car rides up the mountain.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for additional entrance fees, comfortable shoes for walking, water, and modest clothing suitable for religious sites.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers of all ages can participate, but consider the length of the day and walking involved when planning for family members.

This guided journey through Bethlehem, Jericho, and Qaser Al Yahud provides a meaningful, hassle-free way to connect with some of the most sacred sites in the Holy Land. With insightful guides and convenient transport, it’s a great choice for those eager to explore these historic locations comfortably and authentically.