The Mount of Temptation, along with the historic Saint George and Saint Saba Monasteries, offers a captivating one-day tour from Bethlehem. Visitors can explore the revered Mount of Temptation, where Jesus was tempted, and experience the rich heritage of these ancient monasteries. The tour also includes a visit to the Church of the Nativity, believed to be Jesus’ birthplace, providing an immersive cultural experience in these iconic biblical sites. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a spiritual seeker, this tour promises to unveil the region’s profound and intriguing past.
Key Points
- This full-day tour takes visitors to the biblical sites of Bethlehem and Jericho, including the Church of the Nativity and Mount of Temptation Monastery.
- The tour offers an optional cable car ride in Jericho for desert views and provides insights into the region’s religious history through knowledgeable guides.
- The tour is accessible by air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off at central locations, but is not wheelchair-friendly and has limited group size.
- The tour includes a guided experience in Bethlehem, with additional fees for the Tel Jericho Ancient City and the optional cable car ride.
- Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour takes visitors to the biblical sites of Bethlehem and Jericho, offering a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich history and religious significance.
The key locations on the itinerary include the Church of the Nativity, which is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, and the Mount of Temptation Monastery.
In Jericho, travelers have the option to take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the desert landscape.
The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to explore the area’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
With knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops, this tour promises an insightful and memorable journey through these iconic biblical destinations.
Key Locations
The tour visits several key locations in Bethlehem and Jericho that hold immense biblical and historical significance. The Church of the Nativity, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, is the first stop on the itinerary. Next, visitors explore the Mount of Temptation Monastery, where Jesus is said to have been tempted by the devil.
| Location | Significance |
|---|---|
| Church of the Nativity | Believed to be the birthplace of Jesus |
| Mount of Temptation Monastery | Site where Jesus was tempted by the devil |
| Saint George Monastery | Centuries-old Greek Orthodox monastery |
| Saint Saba Monastery | Ancient monastery founded by Saint Saba |
These sacred sites provide a unique opportunity to explore the rich religious history of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the biblical events that took place here.
Transportation and Accessibility
Travelers can reach the tour’s starting point in central Jerusalem or Tel Aviv via an air-conditioned vehicle provided as part of the experience. The tour also offers convenient meeting points for pickup, and the same location is used for the end of the tour.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, though infants must sit on laps. The group size is capped at a maximum of 55 travelers per tour, ensuring a personalized experience.
The key transportation and accessibility details are:
- Air-conditioned vehicle transport from central Jerusalem or Tel Aviv.
- Pickup and drop-off at the same location.
- Stroller accessible, but not wheelchair accessible, with infants sitting on laps.
Tour Inclusions and Fees
Along With the transportation and accessibility details, the tour includes a guided experience in Bethlehem and several entrance fees.
The guided tour in Bethlehem is provided, while visitors pay a separate entrance fee of 10 NIS per person to access the Tel Jericho Ancient City.
Plus, those who wish to take the cable car in Jericho for panoramic desert views will need to pay a fee of 60 NIS per person.
The tour taxes are included in the overall cost, and travelers can benefit from a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the experience.
Visitor Experience
Confirmation is received upon booking the tour, allowing travelers to prepare for the experience. Some locations may be closed due to unforeseen circumstances, though tour operators make efforts to visit as many sites as possible. Plus, access to the Nativity Cave in Bethlehem may vary due to potentially long wait times.
Visitors can expect:
- A well-organized and educational experience with knowledgeable guides.
- Breathtaking desert views from the optional cable car ride in Jericho.
- Insightful cultural insights throughout the tour of Bethlehem and Jericho.
The tour offers a chance to explore biblical sites and take in the rich history and spiritual significance of the region.
Reviews and Feedback
The tour has received 11 reviews, earning an impressive rating of 4.5 stars. Positive feedback highlights the tour’s strong organization, knowledgeable guides, and the insightful experiences in Bethlehem and Jericho. Travelers particularly enjoyed the breathtaking views and the cultural insights gained during the tour.
| Positive | Neutral | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Organized | Limited | Accessibility |
| Knowledgeable guides | Closed sites | Long wait times |
| Insightful experiences | – | – |
Booking and Cancellation
Travelers receive confirmation upon booking the tour, and they’re allowed free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled experience. This tour offers a convenient and flexible booking process, catering to the needs of various travelers.
The key booking and cancellation details include:
- Confirmation received immediately after booking.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
- Tour taxes are included in the listed prices, providing a hassle-free experience.
This flexibility allows travelers to plan their itineraries with confidence, knowing they can make adjustments if necessary.
The tour’s accessibility and hassle-free booking process make it an appealing option for those seeking a memorable biblical exploration in Bethlehem and Jericho.
Additional Information
Besides the tour’s flexible booking and cancellation policies, there are a few additional details worth highlighting.
The tour guide’s services are only provided in Bethlehem, allowing visitors to explore other locations, like the Mount of Temptation Monastery and Saint George Monastery, independently.
Plus, an optional cable car ride in Jericho offers panoramic desert views, though this incurs an extra 60 NIS per person fee.
It’s important to note that access to the Nativity Cave in Bethlehem may vary due to long wait times.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infants must sit on laps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Bring for the Tour?
Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a small snack, and any required medications. It’s also advisable to bring a camera to capture the stunning biblical sites and desert landscapes.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s important to note that there may be limited opportunities to purchase refreshments along the way, so planning ahead is recommended.
Is Photography Allowed at the Sites?
Photography is generally allowed at the sites on this tour, though visitors are advised to respect any restrictions or rules in place. It’s best to check with the tour guide or staff upon arrival.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour generally requires modest, conservative attire to respect the religious nature of the sites. Visitors should avoid revealing clothing and wear long pants or skirts. Some sites may have stricter dress code requirements.
Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?
Yes, travelers can purchase souvenirs during the tour. The tour includes stops at biblical sites and local shops, providing opportunities to browse and purchase traditional handicrafts, religious items, and other mementos to take home.
Recap
The Mount of Temptation, Saint George Monastery, and Saint Saba Monastery offer a comprehensive one-day tour that immerses visitors in the region’s rich spiritual heritage.
Exploring these iconic biblical sites provides a unique cultural experience, highlighting the significance of Bethlehem’s history.
With transportation and accessibility considerations, the tour ensures a comfortable and insightful journey through these captivating destinations.
