Explore Jericho’s ancient walls, visit the Jordan River baptism site, tour the Qumran ruins where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found, and float in the mineral-dense Dead Sea on an 8-hour day tour from Jerusalem.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A morning begins on cracked highland air as the van slips out of Jerusalem and the landscape opens toward the Rift Valley. Olive-scarred hills give way to the ochre terraces above Jericho, where the palm-fringed oasis and the ancient tell appear like an archaeological stage set. The tour threads through biblical places—the Zacchaeus sycamore and the Jordan’s calmer reaches—before descending to the mirror-slick surface of the Dead Sea.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most travellers who can manage short, ungraded walks and getting in and out of a vehicle several times.
Wildlife
History
Jericho’s settlement history stretches back over 10,000 years; Qumran gained global attention after the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in mid-20th century caves.
Conservation
High visitor numbers and saline shoreline use have driven local efforts to manage waste and protect fragile archaeological strata; respect posted trails and avoid removing artifacts.
Reserve your spot on the Dead Sea Jordan River Baptism Site Jericho and Qumran today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early to beat heat
Leave Jerusalem at first light to avoid midday temperatures on open desert stretches and to get softer light at archaeological sites.
Bring a change of clothes
The Dead Sea’s salt will crust clothing and gear—pack a dry set and plastic bag for wet items.
Protect your skin and eyes
High UV and reflective water make sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat essential; avoid getting Dead Sea water in your eyes.
Footwear for varied terrain
Wear sturdy sandals or light hiking shoes for uneven ruins, riverbanks and sandy shorelines—flip-flops are not ideal for walks.
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Protects skin from strong desert sun and reflective salt flats.
summer
Quick-dry swimwear
Comfortable for Dead Sea floating and dries faster after a salt soak.
summer
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
Protects feet on rocky ruins, riverbanks and salty, slippery shores.
Reusable water bottle (1.5–2L)
Hydration is critical in the Rift Valley—refill when possible between stops.