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 4-hour trip. 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, take a tour of the riverbanks and the key excavated ruins while 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. Soak 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.
Upgrade your trip to include a visit to Iraq Al Amir, the home to numerous cliff-side caves dating to the Copper Age. Drive through olive groves and pine trees, and after viewing the caves, continue to nearby Qasr al-Abad, a restored pre-Roman building dating from the 2nd or 3rd century B.C. Admire the exterior, pillars, and animal carvings as you walk around the age-old edifice, thought to have been a villa or minor palace.
Then, rejoin your driver and conclude your tour with an Dead Sea hotel drop-off.