Day Tour to Bethany Baptism Jordan River Site, Madaba & Nebo Visit from Dead Sea

Jordan , Jordan

Day Tour to Bethany Baptism Jordan River Site, Madaba & Nebo Visit from Dead Sea

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(6 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Stand beside the Jordan River where Jesus was baptized on this private 8-hour trip from Dead Sea. Travel to the Bethany Beyond the Jordan Baptism Site, also known as “El-Maghtas”, and tour the riverbanks and ruins of ancient churches, wells, and baptismal pools. Proceed to Madaba’s mosaic city to visit Saint George’s Church, home to beautiful Byzantine mosaic map depicting the Holy Land and Jordan; besides other mosaics at Madaba’s Archeological Park, as well as visit Saint John Church with its Bell Tower. Continue to Mount Nebo to enjoy panoramic views over the Jordan Valley to Jericho and Jerusalem. Explore the ruins of a Byzantine church that once stood on the hilltop, and gain insight into biblical legend for which this ancient corner of the world is famous.

Available options

Bethany, Madaba & Mount Nebo

Day Trip to Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Jordan Bethany Baptism Site from Dead Sea. <br/>Pickup included

Tour with Lunch

Day Trip to Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Jordan Bethany Baptism Site from Dead Sea with lunch at a local restaurant<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English-Speaking Driver

Local English-Speaking Guide at Bethany (collective), and Madaba Saint George Church (in private)

Entrance to Madaba Archaeological Park

Entrance to Madaba Saint George Church and Saint John Church

Private Transfer by air-conditioned leisure new vehicle according to number of participants

On board WI-FI

Entrance to Bethany (Baptism Site at Jordan River)

Hotel pick up and drop off

Entrance to Mount Nebo Memorial Church of Moses

Detailed itinerary

Meet your driver at your Dead Sea hotel, and travel by private, leisure air-conditioned vehicle to the River Jordan. On route, soak in views of Jordan’s barren landscapes, and pull up at Bethany Beyond the Jordan River, known as “El-Maghtas” in Arabic, the site on the eastern bank of the river where it’s believed Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.Meet up with a local guide, and take a tour of the riverbanks and key excavated ruins, learning how the site was sanctified as the place of Jesus’ baptism by the Vatican and a visit by Pope John Paul II in 2000.

Stop 2

Drink in the powerful sense of spirituality, and see the remnants of Roman and Byzantine churches, caves, wells, and baptismal pools. As you walk, listen as your guide explains why archaeologists believe that it was here that John the Baptist lived, preached, and performed baptisms. Hear more about this famous Christian pilgrimage spot and how it is held holy in all three major religions — Christianity, Judaism, and Islam for being the believed site of the Prophet Elijah’s ascension to heaven. Please note: the Bethany in this trip should not be confused with Bethany in Jerusalem, where it's believed that Mary Magdalene lived and Lazarus rose from the dead.

Travel to Madaba, known for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics. Arrive in Madaba and head inside Saint George’s Church with a local guide. This 19th-century Greek Orthodox Basilica is home to the famous Madaba Mosaic Map, a 6th-century A.D. floor mosaic that depicts the ancient Holy Land and Jordan. Gaze at this masterpiece and its richly detailed renderings of Jerusalem, Jericho, the Dead Sea and other biblical sites as your guide explains how it was unearthed in 1897 A.D A.D.

Proceed to the open-air museum known as the Archaeological Park, which houses a collection of ruins and mosaics like the Church of Virgin Mary and other floor house mosaics. Visit the historic Catholic Church of Saint John the Baptist, with its beautiful Bell Tower for a breath-taking view of Madaba.

Visit its underground museum memorial of Saint John the Baptist. Having admired the mosaic.

Stop 6

drive to Mount Nebo, the hill where, according to the bible, Moses was not only granted a view of the Holy Land but also died. Take in the stunning views from the summit that extend over the Jordan Valley, and on a clear day, can stretch as far as Jericho and Jerusalem. Go inside the excavated remains of the Byzantine church that once graced the hilltop. Here, archaeologists have uncovered a series of floor mosaics dating from between the 4th and 6th century A.D. Marvel at these intricate artworks with their still-vivid illustrations of peacocks, soldiers, horses and hunters, as your guide shares facts about their creation and discovery. After your visit of this marvelous Franciscan Monastery of Mount Nebo, return to your vehicle and make the drive back to Dead Sea. Your tour concludes with a drop-off at your Dead Sea hotel.

What's not included

All type of meals, unless option with lunch selected (Vegetarian meal by request)

All type of beverages

All type of gratuities (Tips to the Driver, Local Guide) – Recommended

Personal Expenses

Any other service not mentioned

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.

Airport Pick-up and Drop-off by request.

Contact your local operator (office phone number, emergency mobile number – out of office hours, or email address) a day before to reconfirm pick-up arrangements provided in your voucher.

Tour activity is provided in English. For other languages by request.

Clients with mobility issues, please contact us.

Strollers and car seats for infants, please contact us.

Most local tourist restaurants in Jordan do not serve alcohol, if you do not want a dry restaurant that does not serve alcohol, please contact us.

Clients are advised to bring hats, sun screen, and comfortable walking shoes.

Dress code at Churches: Modest.

Indicate special dietary requirements at the time of booking.

Important notes

•Your local contact is Zaid Tours and Travel on + 962 6 4622197.
•Zaid Tours and Travel opening hours are between 09:00 and 17:00 hours, Saturday to Thursday except Friday the weekend and local holidays.
•For emergencies you can contact the 24-hour mobile number on + 962 79 5635222.
•By email at info@zttint.com
•You can present either a paper or an electronic mobile voucher for this activity.
•Complimentary pick-up is offered for this tour activity from your centrally located hotel in Dead Sea
•At least 24 hours prior to your tour activity date to verify your pick-up time and pick-up location. If you are not arriving within the specified time frame, please contact Zaid Tours and Travel prior to your travels, or immediately upon arrival at your destination.
•If your hotel has changed from the original schedule advised, please contact Zaid Tours and Travel emergency mobile at least up to 12 – 6 hours in advance.
•We are following hygienic- safety measurements and procedures required in Jordan by the Ministry of Health at the sites and during the visits.

About Jordan

Jordan is a country in the Middle East known for its ancient historical sites, stunning desert landscapes, and the Jordan River. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Petra

Petra is an ancient city carved into the red sandstone cliffs. It is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical 1-3 days 50-100 JOD

Wadi Rum

Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape known for its red sand dunes, rock formations, and ancient petroglyphs. It has been used as a filming location for several movies, including 'The Martian' and 'Lawrence of Arabia'.

Nature 1-2 days 20-50 JOD

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is the lowest point on Earth and is famous for its high salt concentration, which allows swimmers to float effortlessly. The mud from the Dead Sea is also known for its therapeutic properties.

Nature Half day to full day 10-50 JOD

Amman Citadel

The Amman Citadel is an ancient fortress located in the heart of Amman. It offers panoramic views of the city and is home to several historical structures, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.

Historical 1-2 hours 3-5 JOD

Jerash

Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the world. It features impressive ruins, including the Oval Forum, the Temple of Artemis, and the South Gate.

Historical Half day to full day 5-10 JOD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mansaf

Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, made with lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce, served with rice and pine nuts. It is traditionally eaten with hands and served on a large communal platter.

Main Dish Not vegetarian, contains dairy and meat

Falafel

Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. It is often served in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.

Snack Vegetarian, contains gluten (from pita bread)

Hummus

Hummus is a creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It is typically served with pita bread or vegetables.

Appetizer Vegetarian, contains sesame (from tahini)

Maqluba

Maqluba is a traditional Jordanian dish made with rice, vegetables, and meat (usually chicken or lamb), cooked in a pot and then flipped upside down to serve. The name 'Maqluba' means 'upside-down' in Arabic.

Main Dish Not vegetarian, contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Wadi Rum Canyoning in Wadi Mujib Jeep tours in the desert Floating in the Dead Sea Spa treatments at Dead Sea resorts Enjoying the views from Mount Nebo Exploring Petra Visiting Jerash

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Crowds are higher during these periods.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

Time Zone

GMT+3

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Jordan is generally considered safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and a welcoming local population. However, it is important to stay informed about the political situation and follow local advice regarding travel to certain areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist sites

Getting there

By air

Queen Alia International Airport • 35 km from Amman

By bus

Amman Abdali Bus Station, Amman Tabarbour Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to travel within Jordan. They are often crowded and may not be comfortable for long journeys.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Careem, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Amman Jabal Amman Wadi Al-Seer

Day trips

Mount Nebo

35 km from Amman • Half day

Mount Nebo is a significant religious site, believed to be the place where Moses saw the Promised Land. It offers panoramic views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.

Ajloun Castle

70 km from Amman • Half day to full day

Ajloun Castle is a 12th-century Islamic fortress built by Saladin to protect the region from Crusader attacks. It offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a great spot for history enthusiasts.

Umm Qais

110 km from Amman • Full day

Umm Qais is an ancient Roman city known for its well-preserved ruins, including a theater, a colonnaded street, and a nymphaeum. It offers stunning views of the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee.

Festivals

Jerash Festival • July to August Amman International Film Festival • September Dead Sea International Music Festival • June to August

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and authentic experience, especially when visiting historical and cultural sites
Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions to avoid unwanted attention and show cultural sensitivity
Carry plenty of water and sunscreen, especially when exploring outdoor attractions and desert regions
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and souks, as it is a common practice and can often result in better prices