Jericho: Day Trips and Tours from Jerusalem

With a history that spans 11,000 years, the city of Jericho is full of historic monuments and is well worth a visit from nearby Jerusalem.

This ancient city is home to several biblical landmarks and is the site of the supposed battle between the Israelites, and the Philistines.

On a day trip to Jericho from Jerusalem, you’ll explore archaeological finds from the Holocene epoch and discover the events that shaped the city.

Here's all you need to know about Jericho, one of the most exciting day trips from Jerusalem.

How to get to Jericho from Jerusalem?

Jericho is located in the West Bank of Palestine, approximately 40 kilometers from Jerusalem.

From Jerusalem to Jericho by car

Leaving Jerusalem in a northerly direction, you’ll make the journey to Jericho by car along Route 1. This takes around 40 minutes in total.

From Jerusalem to Jericho by bus

Another option is to make the jaunt to Jericho via the Line 961 bus from Jerusalem’s central bus station. This takes just 45 minutes and costs less than US$10 per ticket.

Guided tour to Jericho from Jerusalem

Alternatively book a guided excursion to Jericho, which lasts between 8 and 10 hours, and begins around 8 AM.

What is the typical itinerary?

After you’ve met your tour guide, you’ll set off toward the ancient city for your Jericho day tour. Along the way, you may visit Bethlehem and tour the Church of the Nativity, where it is thought that Christ was born.

You’ll stroll through several of the holiest landmarks in the city before journeying to Jericho via the Jordan River.

Alternatively, some Jericho day trips visit the Palestinian city first, where you can explore its archaeological site, wander ancient streets and admire the long-standing botanicals.

From here, you may continue on to the Jordan River and the Dead Sea before returning to Jerusalem.

What kinds of tours are available?

There are several Jericho day tours on offer for you to choose between.

Day tour to Jericho plus Bethlehem and the Jordan River from Jerusalem

This Jericho day trip begins by journeying to the birthplace of Christ — Bethlehem. Discover the spot where Mary is said to have given birth, as well as the shepherd’s field where Jesus’ birth was first announced by angels.

Travel through the vast Judean Desert to Jericho, passing the famed Mount of Temptation and the Jordan River. When you reach this ancient city, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of its biblical and historical landmarks.

Day trip to Jericho plus the Jordan River and the Dead Sea from Jerusalem

Alternatively, explore the lowest point on earth in this Jericho day tour that travels to the Dead Sea. First, you’ll visit Jericho to see its historic highlights. These include Zaccheus’ Tree and the Tell es-Sultan archaeological site.

Moving on, you’ll explore the holy Monastery of the Temptation before witnessing the baptism of many pilgrims at Qasr al-Yahud, where Jesus himself is thought to have been baptized. End your excursion by relaxing in the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea.

How much does a day trip to Jericho from Jerusalem cost?

Day trips to Jericho, Bethlehem and the Jordan River cost between US$80, and US$110 per person. This includes a licensed tour guide and round-trip transportation.

If you wish to discover the natural phenomenon of the Dead Sea, you’ll pay approximately US$120 each for a tour that works this natural wonder into its itinerary.

What will you see and do?

The two most celebrated monuments in Jericho are Zaccheus’ Tree and the Tell es-Sultan archaeological site.

Zaccheus’ tree is mentioned in the Bible as the sycamore that a tax collector climbed in order to see Jesus passing by. It is one of the oldest trees in existence, estimated to have been growing for over 2,000 years.

The Tell es-Sultan archaeological site is a UNESCO-listed landmark, which shows the 11,000-year history behind Jericho. Here, archaeologists have uncovered an assortment of ancient artifacts, including statues and microlith tools.

When is the best time to visit Jericho?

The best time to plan a day trip to Jericho is outside of the peak tourist season of July and August. Visit during the spring or fall months to enjoy milder conditions and a more peaceful experience.

Are there any tours to Jericho from other cities in Israel?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Israel:

• Day Trips to Jericho from Tel Aviv

Travel tips

• Bear in mind that many residents of Jericho observe Shabbat each week and as such, the majority of businesses are closed every Saturday.
• Take your passport with you on your Jericho day tour to cross the border into Palestine.