Just 45 minutes from the heart of Jerusalem lies a city so old, it makes ancient Rome seem modern. Welcome to Jericho — the oldest continuously inhabited city on Earth. Located in the Jordan Valley, near the northern edge of the Dead Sea, Jericho is a timeless oasis bursting with history, spirituality, natural beauty, and archeological wonders.
If you’re visiting Jerusalem, a day trip to Jericho offers a breathtaking change of pace — from the high-energy holy sites of the Holy City to the tranquil palm-lined landscapes of the Jordan Valley. Whether you’re a history lover, spiritual seeker, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, Jericho is an unforgettable experience that can easily be explored in just one day.
Ready to journey back 10,000 years? Here’s everything you need to know to book a day trip to Jericho from Jerusalem — and why this ancient gem deserves a spot on your itinerary.
Why Visit Jericho?
🏺 A City of Biblical Significance
Jericho is mentioned over 70 times in the Bible. It’s where Joshua led the Israelites and “the walls came tumbling down.” It’s where Jesus healed the blind, met Zacchaeus, and was tempted in the desert. For believers, Jericho is sacred ground.
🕰️ The Oldest City on Earth
Archeologists believe Jericho has been inhabited for more than 10,000 years. You’ll walk in the footsteps of Neolithic farmers, Canaanite kings, Roman generals, and prophets.
🌴 A Lush Desert Oasis
Located below sea level, Jericho’s unique climate and underground springs create a fertile green belt in the middle of the desert. It’s a stark, beautiful contrast to the dry hills surrounding it.
🧭 Easy to Reach from Jerusalem
A short and scenic drive through the Judean Desert takes you from Jerusalem’s bustling Old City to Jericho’s peaceful palm groves in less than an hour. Perfect for a half-day or full-day trip.
Top Attractions to See on Your Day Trip to Jericho
1. Mount of Temptation & Monastery
Perched on a cliff overlooking the city is the legendary Mount of Temptation, where Jesus is believed to have fasted for 40 days and resisted the devil’s temptations. Take the cable car (the longest below sea level in the world!) for sweeping views of Jericho and the Jordan Valley, then hike or climb the final steps to the Greek Orthodox Monastery built into the rock face.
📸 Don’t miss: Sunset views over the Dead Sea from the monastery terrace.
2. Tel es-Sultan (Ancient Jericho)
This archaeological site is the heart of ancient Jericho, where 10,000 years of history lie beneath your feet. See the remains of the oldest city walls, Bronze Age towers, and Neolithic dwellings that predate the pyramids.
🕰 Fun Fact: This is one of the most excavated archaeological sites in the world!
3. Tree of Zacchaeus
According to the Gospel of Luke, Zacchaeus — the short tax collector — climbed a sycamore tree to see Jesus pass by. A centuries-old tree believed to be descended from the original sycamore still stands in the center of Jericho, a symbol of faith and transformation.
4. Hisham’s Palace
Step into the remains of a magnificent 8th-century Umayyad palace complex, famous for its intricate mosaics. The “Tree of Life” mosaic is one of the largest and most beautiful in the Middle East. It’s a must-see for art and history lovers.
5. Elisha’s Spring
This fresh-water spring, associated with the prophet Elisha, has nourished Jericho for millennia. Visit the spring house and nearby canals — a peaceful spot that reveals how the desert came to bloom.
Booking a Day Trip: Your Options
You can book a guided day trip from Jerusalem or plan a self-guided journey if you prefer more flexibility. Here’s a breakdown of each option:
🚐 Guided Day Trips to Jericho from Jerusalem
Booking a tour is the easiest and most informative way to visit Jericho. Most include:
- Round-trip transportation
- Professional guide
- Entry fees to key sites
- Optional stops at the Jordan River (Qasr al-Yahud) or the Dead Sea
Recommended Tour Providers:
- Abraham Tours
- Green Olive Tours
- Bein Harim
- Local Palestinian operators offering cultural and religious tours
💵 Prices typically range from \$70–\$120 USD, depending on the tour inclusions.
🚗 Self-Guided Day Trip
If you prefer to travel at your own pace, you can rent a car and drive from Jerusalem to Jericho. The journey takes about 45–60 minutes via Route 1 and Route 90.
⚠️ Note: You’ll cross into Area A (Palestinian Authority). Israeli rental cars may not be insured to enter, so it’s best to:
- Hire a Palestinian driver
- Or park at the border checkpoint and use a local taxi into Jericho
You can also take a bus to Jericho from East Jerusalem’s bus station at Damascus Gate, though buses may be infrequent.
Best Time to Visit
Jericho is hot year-round, but the best months for a comfortable visit are:
- Spring (March–May) – Warm days, cool nights, flowers in bloom
- Fall (September–November) – Pleasant temperatures and clear skies
Avoid midday in summer, as temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F).
Cultural Tips & What to Bring
- Dress modestly if visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered)
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat — it gets very sunny
- Carry some cash in shekels or dinars, especially if entering shops or buying food in Jericho
- Buy fresh dates, herbs, or olive oil from local markets — they’re top quality
Optional Add-Ons for Your Day Trip
🛶 The Dead Sea
Float in the salty waters just 20–30 minutes from Jericho. Many tours include a Dead Sea stop after exploring Jericho.
✝️ Jordan River (Qasr al-Yahud)
This baptism site, near the border with Jordan, is where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. A deeply spiritual addition to your trip.
What Visitors Are Saying
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“Jericho took my breath away. The cable car ride to the Mount of Temptation was a highlight, and seeing the archaeological ruins gave me chills. So much history in one day!” — Samantha K., California⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Our guide was incredible — knowledgeable, kind, and passionate about Jericho. We even had fresh juice under a palm tree. An unforgettable experience.” — Yousef A., Amman⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Combining Jericho, the Dead Sea, and the Jordan River in one day was perfect. Book this trip if you’re in Jerusalem — it’s a must.” — Clara M., London
Final Thoughts: Step into Ancient Time
Jericho is not just a destination — it’s an invitation to step out of the present and walk into the cradle of civilization, where time seems to stand still.
From biblical stories to breathtaking views, from ancient ruins to desert serenity, a day trip to Jericho from Jerusalem offers a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, and wonder.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a pilgrimage, Jericho’s timeless beauty and sacred history will stay with you long after the day ends.