Why Jericho
Nestled in the Jordan Valley, Jericho offers archaeological depth, biblical narratives, and dramatic desert landscapes. It forms a natural stop between Jerusalem and the Dead Sea, combining tel explorations, monastic climbs, and river baptism sites with date-palm hospitality.
Top Highlights by Theme
- Tel es-Sultan: ancient walls, Neolithic tower, and Bronze Age ruins
- Mount of Temptation (Jebel Quruntul): cable car ascent, Greek Orthodox monastery, panoramic views across the valley
- Zacchaeus sycamore site (Tell es-Sycamore) and Elisha’s Spring (Ein es-Sultan)
- Qasr al-Yahud baptismal spot on the Jordan River and nearby monasteries (St. Gerasimos, Deir Hajla)
- Dead Sea add-ons: Mineral beach time, Qumran caves, and Ein Gedi nature reserve within 30–40 minutes
Sub-areas / Nearby
- Hisham’s Palace (Khirbat al-Mafjar) with Umayyad mosaics
- Wadi Qelt monasteries (St. George’s) for desert hikes or scenic viewpoints
- Jericho cable car plaza with market stalls and local cuisine
Trip Length & Pacing
Half-Day to Full Day
- Morning: Tel es-Sultan, Zacchaeus sycamore, Mount of Temptation cable car and monastery
- Afternoon: Jordan River baptism at Qasr al-Yahud, optional Dead Sea float or Ein Gedi hike on the return to Jerusalem
Best Time to Go
October through April offers pleasant temperatures. Summer can exceed 100°F (38°C); schedule early departures and carry ample water. Occasional winter rains may close desert trails temporarily.
Group Logistics
- Security checkpoints: coordinate permits for entering PA-administered Jericho
- Coaches: park near the tel or cable car base; local shuttle vehicles handle final ascents if needed
- Dress modestly for monasteries and baptism sites; bring water shoes for the Jordan River or Dead Sea
- Meals: pre-arrange lunches at local restaurants or resorts; consider date tasting at Jericho vendors
Extensions & Combos
- Combine with Masada, Qumran, and the Dead Sea for a full desert day
- Add a stop in Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Jordan side) when itineraries cross the Allenby Bridge
- Link to Galilee by continuing north along Route 90 through the Jordan Valley
Safety & Stewardship Notes
Stay with licensed guides, respect monastic quiet zones, and heed signage at archaeological sites. Leave natural areas as you found them and support local economies through responsible shopping.
FAQs
- Q: How long is the cable car ride to Mount of Temptation?\n A: About 5 minutes each way; walking paths are steep, so most groups use the cable car.
- Q: Can we conduct baptisms at Qasr al-Yahud?\n A: Yes—coordinate with ETS for permits, clergy, and modesty guidelines; water levels vary seasonally.
For Churches
How Churches Use Jericho
- Tel Jericho teaching on faith and perseverance with time for reflection at Elisha’s Spring
- Mount of Temptation cable car ascent for discussions on spiritual resilience and scenic prayer
- Jordan River baptisms or renewal services at Qasr al-Yahud, supported by worship and testimonies
- Quiet time or desert journaling in nearby wadis before returning to Jerusalem or Galilee
What Works Well
- Half-day stops en route between the Galilee and Jerusalem or combined with Dead Sea and Masada
- Coordinate baptisms to avoid midday heat; ETS arranges robes, towels, and clergy requirements
- Offer alternative activities (sycamore tree, cable car café) for guests not participating in baptisms
Sample Ministry Focus
- Morning: Zacchaeus devotion at the sycamore → Tel Jericho walk → Mount of Temptation reflection
- Afternoon: Qasr al-Yahud baptism service → Dead Sea float and fellowship before evening debrief
What ETS Tours Provides Here
- Licensed Palestinian guides and ministry partners in Jericho and the Jordan Valley\n- Baptism logistics at Qasr al-Yahud, including permissions, robes, and photographers\n- Coach routing through checkpoints with backup timing plans\n- Water, shade structures, and first-aid support for desert conditions
We’ll manage the desert logistics so your leaders can stay focused on shepherding and celebration.
See also: Israel — Fundraising for Churches