Travel to the Bethany Beyond the Jordan Baptism Site, also known as 'El-Maghtas', and stand beside the Jordan River where Jesus was baptized on a private 8-hour trip. You'll visit the Bethany Baptism Site, Madaba and Mount Nebo with transportation from Dead Sea. On route, soak in views of Jordan’s barren landscapes until you arrive at the Bethany Beyond the Jordan River, or 'El-Maghtas' in Arabic. This site located on the eastern bank of the river is where it’s believed Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.
Meet with your local guide, and take a tour of the riverbanks and the key excavated ruins. Along the tour, you will learn how the site was sanctified as the place of Jesus’ baptism by the Vatican and a visit by Pope John Paul II in 2000. Soak in the powerful sense of spirituality, and see the remnants of Roman and Byzantine churches, caves, wells, and baptismal pools.
Then, head to Madaba, known for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics and enter 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. 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 and journey inside its underground museum memorial.
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 in the excavated remains of the Byzantine church that once graced the hilltop and marvel at the intricate artworks of peacocks, soldiers, horses and hunters.
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.
Local guide at Bethany, and Madaba Saint George Church
Lunch (If Tour is selected at checkout)
