Let’s explore the heartland of biblical history together on this captivating group-guided tour. We’ll journey to the revered destinations of Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River, immersing ourselves in the rich cultural and spiritual legacies of these iconic sites. From the birthplace of Jesus at the Church of the Nativity to the ancient ruins of Jericho, we’ll uncover fascinating layers of the past that have shaped this remarkable region. With insightful commentary and comfortable transportation, this tour promises to be an enlightening and transformative experience. Are you ready to embark on this remarkable adventure?
Key Points
- Comprehensive tour exploring historic biblical destinations in Bethlehem, Jericho, and the Jordan River region, led by a knowledgeable guide.
- Visit to the Church of Nativity in Bethlehem, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ, and explore the ancient city’s rich history.
- Discover the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, Jericho, and uncover its fascinating archaeological sites and Hisham’s Palace.
- Gain insight into the spiritual significance and cultural heritage of these holy lands through immersive experiences.
- Opportunity to explore the sites at your own pace, allowing for a deeper understanding of the region’s captivating history.
Tour Highlights
Exploring the historic destinations featured in the Old and New Testament, this tour takes us to the Church of Nativity, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, and the ancient city of Jericho, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world.
We’ll visit these iconic sites and learn about their rich history and spiritual significance.
In Bethlehem, we’ll stand in awe at the Church of Nativity, a place of profound importance for Christians around the globe.
Then, we’ll journey to Jericho, where we’ll discover the ruins of some of the oldest structures ever found, offering a glimpse into the dawn of civilization.
This full-day excursion provides an immersive experience in the heartland of biblical history.
Visiting Bethlehem
We’ll first visit the iconic Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the sacred site believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. This ancient church, dating back to the 4th century, stands as a profound testament to the enduring faith of Christians around the world.
We’ll wander through its hallowed halls, admiring the Byzantine and Crusader-era architecture that have survived the centuries.
Next, we’ll explore the quaint streets of Bethlehem’s Old City, browsing the local shops and markets. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to interact with the friendly Palestinian people and gain a deeper understanding of their rich cultural heritage.
Throughout our time in Bethlehem, we’ll be captivated by the spiritual significance and timeless beauty of this holy land.
Exploring Jericho
After exploring the sacred sites of Bethlehem, we’ll head to the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world – Jericho.
Unlike our guided tour in Bethlehem, we’ll explore Jericho on our own as we wander through its ancient ruins and discover its rich history.
We’ll visit the impressive Hisham’s Palace, featuring stunning mosaics and archaeological remains dating back to the 8th century.
We’ll also stroll through the Old City of Jericho, marveling at its fortified walls and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
With ample time to explore at our own pace, we’re sure to uncover the fascinating layers of Jericho’s past as we explore this legendary ancient city.
Hisham Palace Tour
At the Hisham Palace, we’ll marvel at the stunning mosaics and uncover the archaeological remains dating back to the 8th century, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of this once-thriving Umayyad palace.
We’ll explore the impressive ruins, including:
- The intricate floor mosaics, showcasing the artistic brilliance of the Umayyad era.
- The well-preserved bathhouse, complete with remnants of its original heating system.
- The impressive audience hall, where the Umayyad rulers once received their guests.
- The stunning frescoes that still adorn the walls, providing a glimpse into the palace’s vibrant past.
This captivating site will transport us back in time, allowing us to imagine the opulence and significance of Hisham Palace during its heyday.
Old City of Jericho
From Hisham Palace, we’ll head to the Old City of Jericho, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, dating back over 10,000 years.
We’ll explore the ancient ruins and archaeological sites that reveal the city’s rich history.
We’ll see the famous Mount of Temptation, where Jesus was tempted by the devil, and the ancient Sycamore Tree, a symbol of Jericho.
The self-guided tour will allow us to wander at our own pace, taking in the sights and sounds of this fascinating place. With no guided tour, we’ll have the freedom to discover the city’s secrets on our own, immersing ourselves in its timeless charm.
Transportation and Pickup
We’ll kick off the tour with a pickup at the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem, where we’ll gather at 7:45 AM. From there, we’ll travel by air-conditioned vehicle to our first destination.
The transportation is comfortable and convenient, allowing us to sit back and enjoy the scenery on our way to Bethlehem and Jericho.
Along the way, we’ll:
- Receive bottled water to stay hydrated.
- Benefit from the expertise of a local guide in Bethlehem.
- Explore Jericho independently, at our own pace.
- Maximize our time by having all entry fees included.
The door-to-door service and efficient transportation ensure a seamless and stress-free experience as we embark on this unforgettable journey through biblical landmarks.
Tour Inclusions
This tour includes a comprehensive package of amenities and services to ensure an enriching and hassle-free experience.
We’ll have access to transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, as well as a local guide to provide expert commentary in Bethlehem.
Plus, bottled water will be provided to keep us hydrated throughout the day.
Entrance fees to the Hisham Palace and Old City of Jericho are also covered, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in these historic destinations without any additional out-of-pocket costs.
The self-guided tour of Jericho provides us with the flexibility to explore at our own pace, while the overall inclusions ensure a well-rounded and seamless journey through these renowned biblical sites.
Important Information
Pickup and drop-off for this tour are provided at the David Citadel Hotel in Jerusalem, with a scheduled departure time of 7:45 AM.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. For those using public transportation, the tour location is conveniently situated near public transit options.
Infants must sit on laps during the tour.
The maximum group size is 55 travelers.
A confirmation is provided at the time of booking.
The tour includes a guided experience in Bethlehem, while Jericho is self-guided.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
According to the information provided, the maximum group size for this tour is 55 travelers. We’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle and have a guide in Bethlehem, while exploring Jericho on our own.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?
We don’t need to bring our own water, as bottled water is included in the tour. However, we may want to pack some light snacks in case we get hungry during the day.
Can I Take Photos Inside the Church of Nativity?
We can take photos inside the Church of Nativity, but it’s important to be respectful and discreet. The church is a sacred site, so we should avoid using flash and obstructing others’ views. As long as we’re considerate, photography is generally allowed.
Is the Tour Fully Wheelchair and Stroller Accessible?
We’re pleased to say this tour is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible. The transportation provided is air-conditioned, and the historic sites allow for easy navigation for those with mobility needs. Just let us know if you’ll need any special accommodations.
Are There Any COVID-19 Related Restrictions or Requirements?
We recommend checking for any current COVID-19 restrictions or requirements before booking your tour. These may include mask mandates, vaccine documentation, or other safety protocols. We advise you to consult the tour operator or local authorities for the latest updates.
Recap
This captivating group-guided tour takes us on a journey through the heartland of biblical history.
We’ll visit the revered Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, explore the ancient ruins of Jericho, and marvel at the stunning Hisham’s Palace.
It’s an enriching and spiritual experience, providing insights into the region’s fascinating past.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the historic destinations that shaped biblical history.