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Tours to the Holy Land: Trips & Israel Tour Packages 2024, 2025

"Every place we visited was breathtakingly beautiful, with stunning landscapes and rich historical and cultural heritage. We highly recommend visiting Israel to anyone who wants to experience an unforgettable journey. We had a life-changing time there and are already planning to return." Simon L. and Beatriz G. – Tour to Israel/Egypt/Jordan February 2024 "I had a wonderful time in Israel. I felt while I was there the precautions that were taken for our safety were well in hand. I still got to experience many holy sites and be blessed by walking the path that Jesus walked. Every day was started in prayer, singing, or scripture reading which also extended the blessing of the trip." Quincie L. – Tour to Israel/Egypt/Jordan February 2024

Our Israel tours & Holy Land tours of 9-24 days for the Evangelical Protestant Bible believer are what Pilgrim Tours does best. Prepare yourself for a life-changing journey to walk where Jesus walked and visit Jerusalem, Galilee, & Samaria. Each of our Israel tours is led by a local guide who is an experienced expert on the historical, cultural, scenic, and spiritual history of the Holy Land. If you travel with 10 or more people, a private group tour can easily be arranged. Pilgrim Tours can customize an itinerary to fit your group needs with many options to choose from.

Concerned about safety? As a Christian tour operator, the staff at Pilgrim Tours takes a Biblical perspective regarding the current situation in the Middle East. We do not believe that peace in Israel is something that will occur until the Prince of Peace comes to restore His kingdom. Please do not make a reservation with us based on the hopes of a calm future. If you long for the special blessings only available in Israel, we will take you there. An expert driver and guide will carefully keep you from any areas that could present a problem and treat you to the riches of Israel as our special guest.

Below is a large variety of Israel tour packages departing in 2024 and 2025 year-round.

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Reserve your tour at least 6 months in advance for an early booking discount, groups and parties of 6 or more click here for special rates, scheduled 2024 & 2025 israel tours.

View our Israel tours ranging from 9-24 days.

Take a tour of a lifetime and bring the Bible to life.

Hosted Group Departures

Featured sites in israel.

Explore a vast selection of beautiful historical and Biblical locations throughout Israel with our Israel Holy Land tour. You can visit Jerusalem, Galilee, and parts of Samaria, getting the life-changing opportunity to see where Jesus and many other Biblical figures lived and walked. We even offer Holy Land tours that allow you to see the Dead Sea, the Garden Tomb, and the Jordan River Baptism Site. Like all of our Europe tours , our Israel Holy Land tours are led by local guides who have extensive knowledge of the area and its history. If you want to experience the history of Israel and see the Bible come to life, our Holy Land tours give you that opportunity.

The city of Jerusalem offers a unique convergence of Judaism, Christianity, and the Muslim faith. For Christians who visit Jerusalem, you will learn about many stories of the Bible while walking her streets. Many actors in the Bible such as Abraham, King David, King Solomon, the twelve disciples and Jesus all lived, visited, or spent time there. The Passion week of Christ will be highlighted during our stay as we visit the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Western Wall, the Way of Suffering, and the Garden Tomb.

Sea of Galilee

Nowhere in Israel does the Bible come to life more than along the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Pilgrims who visit the Galilee region have the opportunity to imagine what life was like 2,000 years ago and what Jesus and the twelve disciples experienced while fishing on the Sea of Galilee. The peaceful setting and the natural wonders of the Golan Heights to the east and Mt. Arbel to the west make for a great way to start your morning in quiet reflection. During our tour, we explore the Biblical towns of Capernaum, Magdala, and Nazareth and take a meaningful cruise on the Sea of Galilee.

The Dead Sea is not only the lowest and most lifeless lake in the world, but also nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean. Travelers will enjoy the beautiful colors of the blue water and the red mountains of Jordan to the east. Take time to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime Dead Sea “float” either in the sea itself or at one of the warm salt water pools at our hotel. The Dead Sea experience is truly a bucket list visit you won’t want to miss!

Garden Tomb

Our visit to the Garden Tomb and its surrounding gardens is normally one of the highlights of our tour to Israel. The Garden Tomb is a rock-cut tomb in Jerusalem that was unearthed in 1867 and is considered by some Protestants to be the site of the burial and resurrection of Jesus. Our visit offers a unique time of prayer, reflection, communion, and praise, which will be a special life-long memory for many travelers.

Jordan River Baptism Site

The Jordan River Baptist Site or “Yardenit” is a baptism site located along the Jordan River just south of the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel. This site is frequented by Christian Pilgrims who enjoy imagining the setting of the baptism of Jesus. For anyone who would like to be baptized in the Jordan River, Yardenit has been developed to be a peaceful setting with beautiful gardens, clean colored water, changing facilities, showers, and a nice souvenir shop.

Caesarea Philippi

To many Pilgrim travelers, Caesarea Philippi is a special surprise while on their tour. Located along the rushing springs of Mt. Hermon, the beautiful and natural setting is where Jesus asked his disciples “Who do men say that I am?” He asked this question while observing the pagan worship of the god Pan as worshipers offered their sacrifice at the “Gates of Hell.” Our time at Caesarea Philippi is one of many opportunities throughout our tour to see the lessons and message of the Bible come to light in a special way.

Israel Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month for the Holy Land tour?

Taking a trip to Israel during the spring or fall offers the most enjoyable weather of the year but normally has the largest crowds. If you want to enjoy a peaceful tour with fewer crowds, consider visiting between December and February or June and August. We offer Israel and Jordan tours throughout the year, so you can select a trip that works for your schedule.

How many days do you need for a Holy Land tour?

We offer several types of tours of the Holy Land, so the duration of your tour depends on the tour package you choose. The Best of Israel Tour is our most basic offering and includes a Sea of Galilee boat ride, a trip to the Jordan River Baptism Site, the Dead Sea, and many opportunities to walk on the same land Jesus walked on. This is our shortest trip at just 9 or 10 days. Our most involved trips allow you to experience a wide range of historical locations over the course of a few weeks. Egypt tours are included in some of these packages, as well as tours in Greece and other countries. These tours can take up to 24 days, giving you the chance to spend an extended period of time learning about and visiting different parts of the world. From our Turkey tours to all of our Israel Christian tours, all of our tours feature a first-class hotel rating for the country you visit. We do offer some upgraded tours that offer better lodging options. You can review our hotel categories at https://www.pilgrimtours.com/company/hotelcomparison.htm . Check out any of our tours to view a day-by-day itinerary and see what amenities are included with each tour.

What is the dress code in Israel?

The dress code in Israel is different from other parts of the world. There are a few dress code basics you should understand before booking Israel tours: When you’re in Israel, there is no strict dress code. You can wear what you feel comfortable wearing. However, both men and women should try to dress conservatively and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting any of the religious sites throughout Israel. Generally speaking, it’s best to avoid tank tops and shorts. Men need to cover their heads when visiting the Western Wall. Pilgrim Tours provides a Pilgrim Tours ball cap upon arrival in Israel, but you might consider purchasing an affordable kippa that you can bring when you visit Jewish sites. Some places may offer a free kippa, but these are generally low quality. (Women are not required to cover their heads at any sight.) You can figure out what you need to pack and how to dress each day by looking at the itinerary for our Holy Land tours. Guides normally offer guidance on how to dress for the next day while on tour. We also suggest looking at the extended weather forecast as you prepare and pack for your trip.

Is there a lot of walking involved on an Israel Tour?

Our Israel tours do require a significant amount of walking each day and you should be able to walk unassisted 3-4 miles per day on average. Make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes that provide adequate support. While there are bus and boat rides during these tours, you have to walk quite a bit to explore some of the Biblical sites. Our tour guides normally give the group a few options at sites for those that have physical limitations. One thing to keep in mind is that there are many hills and valleys in Israel which can make walking even more taxing. The amount of walking you have to do may vary based on the tour you take, so look at the itinerary before choosing your tour. The good news is that Israel is a beautiful country to see on foot, and you’ll have several opportunities to sit down and give your feet a rest. As long as you have a good pair of shoes and comfortable clothes, it’s easy to forget about all the walking you’re doing and enjoy the tour.

What passport & visa information do I need for your Israel tours?

U.S. citizens need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity beyond their intended stay to enter Israel. Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one copy at home and carry the other separately from your original. Israel: U.S. and Canadian Citizens do not need a Visa when entering Israel. Non U. S. /Canadian Citizens are responsible to fulfill appropriate entry requirements of destination. Contact your Consulate office for requirements.

What common languages will be spoken during your Israel tours?

Hebrew, Arabic and English.

What currency can I use on your Israel tours?

The U.S. dollar is widely accepted across Israel, and we suggest bringing about $30 for each day you’ll be on tour. U.S. dollars are recommended for use for small purchases and lunches. Lunches typically cost $15-20. It is important to bring about 20 $1 bills as some bathrooms charge a small fee for use. Credit cards may also be used for larger purchases. ATMs in Israel are all connected to European and American banking systems. Please be advised that the ATM machines dispense money in SHEKELS – NOT U.S. DOLLARS. Please notify your bank before traveling overseas.

Do I need to bring a converter for the Israel tour?

Israel uses the European plug with two round pins. You will need to bring along the necessary converters and adapters to operate any 120 volt appliances such as hair dryers and electric razors as well as camera and cell phone chargers. Electricity in Israel is 220 volts 50 Hz.

What is the time zone for your Israel tours?

The time zone for Israel is seven hours ahead of EST and two hours ahead of GMT.

What climate should I expect during your Israel tours?

In Israel the climate is temperate, and temperatures all year-round are reasonable. Israel has two main seasons: winter (from November to March) is cold and rainy in most parts of the country; summer (from April to October) is hot and dry with little or no rainfall. The desert areas can be extremely hot in summer time.

Recent Reviews on Trustpilot, BBB, & Google

View what others are saying about our Israel tours on Trustpilot , BBB , and Google !

"Pilgrim tours is who I'll be recommending people to travel with. We've been trying to get to Israel for two years and finally made it!! Great company from booking to on the ground with great guides. All details taken care of with great hotels, bus, and the best guides!! Wonderful experience!"

"We had a great experience in Israel with Pilgrim Tours. Everything went very well and there were no glitches or problems of any kind. The bus and driver were top notch as were the hotels and daily breakfast buffets. Our tour guide was great as his depth of knowledge of the people, history and languages Israel was quite amazing. We will very likely use Pilgrim again in the future."

"We have toured with Pilgrim Tours three times and what a blessing. Accommodations, excursions, information and food were all high quality. Post pandemic, we were so thankful to return to Israel."

"I couldn't have asked for more for a trip to the Holy Land than what Pilgrim Tours provided me. It was the perfect balance of spiritual reverence, history, geography, and social issues. I am so grateful for the experience that I had on this trip."

"Our church group just returned from taking a "Best of Israel" ten day tour. It was one of the best experiences of my life. I am so glad we chose Pilgrim tours. From our excellent hotel accommodations, to our wonderful tour guide, we enjoyed everything. Our trip exceeded our expectations. I would recommend Pilgrim Tours to anyone who is planning a trip to the Holy Land. We definitely plan to travel with them again."

View some of the sites from our Israel tours!

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Bringing the living word of god to sites across israel and jordan..

What makes our tour different?

Unlike most Holy Land tours, at almost every site we visit, we preach a message specifically pertaining to that site, bringing the Word of God alive. A Bible-Believers Baptist tour, we only visit biblical, prophetic, and historical places.

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THE GALILEE   BAPTISMAL SITE ON THE JORDAN RIVER

We   are   open   for   scheduled   groups   visit   only. please   contact   [email protected].

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Baptismal Site

Yardenit is situated on the banks of the Jordan River , at the Southern tip of the Sea of Galilee.

Each year we welcome over half a million tourists and pilgrims, who come to experience the tranquility and spiritual beauty of the waters in which Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.

Jesus practiced and preached across this part of the Holy Land which hosts a plethora of sites with biblical significance.

Yardenit provides pilgrims and tourists with modern comforts in the biblical setting of the Holy Land, offering a serene and spiritual setting for those wishing to baptize in the River Jordan:

“In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of water, immediately he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove, and a voice came from heaven; ‘Thou art my beloved Son, with thee I am well pleased.” Mark 1:9-11

Visitors to Yardenit are greeted by this very verse from Mark’s account of the baptism of Jesus in over 80 languages and dialects, depicted in hand painted tiles by Armenian artist Hagop Antreassian on the Wall of New Life.

• Entry to the site is free.
• Visitors may rent or purchase white baptism robes on site.
• There are quiet areas for group prayers and contemplation.
• We take pride in respecting the religious sensitivities of all our visitors.
• The river banks themselves retain their pastoral landscapes, with rich greenery and wildlife.
• Otters and fish swim freely in the river.

OPENING HOURS

Summer: March – November Saturday – Thursday: 8:00am till 5:00pm (Baptism Ceremonies until 4:00pm) Friday: 8:00am till 4:00pm (Baptism Ceremonies until 3:00pm) Please notice: Baptism can be done up to 1 hour prior to closing.

Winter: December – February Saturday – Thursday: 8:00am till 5:00pm (Baptism Ceremonies until 4:00pm) Friday: 8:00am till 4:00pm (Baptism Ceremonies until 3:00pm) Please notice: Baptism can be done up to 1 hour prior to closing.

SERVICES & FACILITIES

Baptismal Pools The site offers 12 separate baptismal pools, enabling different groups to comfortably conduct private worship ceremonies.

Baptism in the Jordan River Baptisms are only allowed while wearing the special white robes, which can be rented or purchased on site.

Restrooms and showers The site provides spacious change facilities with showers, toilets and change rooms for your convenience.

Ohalo Manor hotel is located on the shore of the Sea of Galilee facing the Golan Heights. You will find the holiday Hotel – Ohalo, set in a beautiful and pastoral site, with expansive lawns and lush and well-kept gardens.

It’s location next to road 90 makes it a perfect place that is easy to reach many holy sites that surround the Sea of Galilee.

To those who wish to lodge near by, we offer Ohalo Manor , our modern hotel a five minutes walk from Yardenit.

At Yardenit site you will find a spacious and comfortable souvenir shop with a hospitable staff that will give you an answer to any question.

In our store, you can purchase gifts, special jewelry, food from Israel, holy water, Cana wine, anointing oil, Christian books and hundreds of other quality products, most of which are handmade by well-known local artists.

Yarden - Kinneret Camping

Yarden – Kinneret Camping, a beautiful campsite on one of the most magnificent spot of the See of Galilee.

You can camp in beautiful coves where the Jordan River flows from the Sea of Galilee towards the Degania Dam and from there to the Yardenit baptismal site.

In Yarden-Kinneret  Camping you can enjoy both the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River and you will be close to all the holy places around the Sea of Galilee.

At the campsite you can order tents with mattresses, or bring your own tents and place them close to the Sea of Galilee. There are also air-conditioned tent complexes and caravan complexes.

Tnuvat Kinneret store

The Tnuvat Kinneret store offers a large variety of dates, pure honey, olive oil, silan and date spread, natural cosmetics and also gifts full of fine Israeli food.

The store is located in Kibbutz Kinneret close to the Sea of Kinneret Galilee and the holy sites around the Sea of Galilee, stop at the store to purchase fresh, high-quality dates that can be eaten with pleasure or brought as healthy gifts to friends and family back home.

Now you can also purchase products in the digital store of Tnuvat Kinneret. Delivery in Israel only.

Modern Facilities

for Pleasant Baptism and ceremonies

Jordan River Baptismal Site

Flowing forth from the Sea of Galilee

Clean Flowing Water

Just as they were in Biblical times

Handicapped Access

An Official Baptism Site

Built by the Israeli Ministry of Tourism

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TESTIMONIALS

Read the testimonials of people who visited Yardenit, and were baptized just like Jesus Christ, in the Jordan River.

A Unique Baptismal Experience

Yardenit offers a unique spiritual opportunity like no other… The site is well maintained and very well run…. If in Galilee, try and include Yardenit and you won’t be disappointed.

Dina Rhodes

Amazing experience

This was a great experience. The facility was well taken care of & organized. Very nice extra that the baptism was videoed & available for sale.

Toby Leonard

Very moving experience

We were there on a beautiful day, with the sun dappling through the trees onto the slow moving river… A few ducks paddled by reminding all that this is not an “attraction” but a real river, and we had a minister who took his time with us, calling each congregant by name, praying over them individually, asking for their affirmation of their need for God’s forgiveness, and carefully immersing them in the water…

June 8, 2019

Sia Galindo

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Baptism in The Jordan River | Yardenit Baptism Site Guide

In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of the water, immediately He saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove, and a voice came from heaven; ‘Thou art my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.’

- Mark 1:9-11

An important experience for many of our guests visiting Israel on faith pilgrimages for the last 25 years of SAR-EL’s work, is to participate in a baptism service at the Jordan River .

The practice of baptism is rooted in rich biblical references from Israel’s Red Sea crossing all the way to the Lord’s commandment, saying, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them …” (Matt 28:19). And while most Christians visiting Israel have already been baptized at some point throughout their life of faith, many of them, nevertheless, look forward to going down to the waters of the Jordan River as a renewal of their vows and reaffirming of their faith in the Messiah.

Of the few baptismal sites our groups enjoy while visiting Israel, the largest is Yardenit .

Wisely located on the shore of the Jordan River at the southern end of the Sea of Galilee, the site combines the natural beauty and tranquility of the area with modern and comfortable facilities.

Offering spacious changing rooms, hot showers, a great restaurant, and a well-stocked gift shop, nearly half a million pilgrims each year enjoy special times of worship, prayer, and devotion to the Lord in Yardenit.

At the entrance to the site, visitors are greeted by Mark’s account of the baptism of Jesus inscribed in over 80 languages and dialects, reflecting the global appeal of the story of Jesus and the importance of the site.

Indeed, at any day of the year, a visitor could hear songs of worship and prayers of adoration rise up to heaven in many languages by different people groups throughout the private and separate baptism pools.

It is a profound experience to witness the nations of the world, represented through their pilgrims, come down to the Jordan River to draw near to the ONE TRUE GOD who alone can heal the fractured and hurting human family.

Entry to the Yardenit site is free and visitors who wish to be baptized can rent (or purchase) baptismal gowns.

The quiet areas for group prayers and worship are well designed and marked, with handrails and wheelchair ramps leading down into the water to ensure safety and comfort.

Even the waters are monitored for quality and health, making sure the site provides an excellent setting for every person of faith to draw near to God in a beautiful biblical setting.

This is a site you do not want to miss while on your next Israel pilgrimage , and our Sar-El team is looking forward to serving you when you arrive.

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Yardenit Baptism Site

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About this place

The Dan , Hermon ( Banias ) and Snir rivers originate in the Golan Heights and come together to form the Jordan River which flows south for 250 km. The Jordan’s course takes it from the north through the Sea of Galilee and down through the Jordan Valley to its termination point at the Dead Sea . In the north, the Jordan runs through lush vegetation and idyllic landscapes. In the summer months, northern Jordan comes alive with thousands of visitors having fun on the river in inner tubes, kayaks rafts. The Jordan River is a significant religious site mentioned many times in the Bible. The People of Israel crossed over the Jordan to enter the Promised Land and later Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the waters of the Jordan.

The Jordan River in the Bible 

The Jordan is mentioned in the Old Testament and called the Garden of the Lord (Genesis 13:10); Jacob crosses the Jordan heading for Haran (Genesis 32:11); the river is named as the border between two tribes in Numbers 34:15 and the same book refers to the Jordan of Jericho. In Judges we read about the Ephraimites being slain by Jephthah at the Jordan and in Judges Gideon waits at the Jordan to ambush the Midianites. The Jordan River is mentioned again as the place where Solomon had his brass foundries and as the place where Elisha performed miracles. Crossing the Jordan - After wandering for forty years in the desert the Jewish people reached the Jordan. Moses stood at Mount Nebo and looked towards the Promised Land but it fell to Joshua to lead the tribes across the Jordan River (Josh 3:14- 4:24). In the New Testament, we read of John the Baptist performing baptisms and it is mentioned several times that Jesus crossed the Jordan during his ministry in the Galilee. However, the most significant event that occurred on the Jordan was the baptism of Jesus.

Baptism of Jesus

The Book of Matthew does not describe where exactly Jesus was baptized by John (Mat 3:13-17) and there are different traditions. Some believe that Jesus was baptized in Galilee where Yardenit is today; others consider Al-Maghtas on the Jordanian side as the true site and others hold Qasr el Yahud near Jericho to be the true baptismal site. However, all traditions agree that the baptism took place at some point in the Jordan River.

The Yardenit Baptism Site

Yardenit is one of the traditional sites where Jesus could have been baptized. At Yardenit, where the Sea of Galilee flows into the southern Jordan River, steps and handrails have been provided so that Christian pilgrims can be baptized in the Jordan River safely. Christian pilgrims clad in white robes enter the river to the sound of prayers and hymns. The site has showers, restrooms, a restaurant and a gift shop.

Qasr el Yahud

For those who believe that Jesus was baptized in the southern wilderness near the Dead Sea; there are two sites, one on the western bank (Qasr el Yahud) and one on the eastern bank (Al-Maghtas). Qasr el Yahud (Castle of the Jews) is thought to be where the Jews crossed over the Jordan and where Elijah the Prophet ascended to heaven. Qasr el Yahud is in the West Bank, southeast of Jericho and is not as easily accessible as Yardenit in the north. The site has been made more tourist-friendly with the addition of rails and steps into the water plus a visitor center. Want to visit the Yardenit and get baptized? Join our Nazareth and Sea of Galilee Tour.

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Visit Yardenit: the Jordan River Baptism Experience

A visit to Yardenit, where you can enter the Jordan River to ... be baptized, will be a defining moment in your Israel experience.

Baptism in Jordan River, Israel

Entering holy waters of the Jordan River for full body immersion

Baptism in Jordan River, Israel, is practiced by many sects and in different formats.

At the newly opened baptism site at the Jordan River, Israel,    Qasr El Yehud,  where the distance between Israel and Jordan is a mere 8 meters, clergy from the Armenian Church aid the high priest Elia to immerse in the Jordan River for baptism. The clergy entered the holy waters from the Jordanian side of the river. Their entourage of clerics and priests also entered the fairly shallow waters of the river. A strong current was visible and only strong swimmers dared to let go of supporting rails.

This site along the banks of the Jordan River is of significance to Christians and Jews.

According to Christian tradition, Qasr El Yehud is where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist , and the site of the spiritual birth of Jesus.

In Jewish tradition, it is also believed to be the place where the Children of Israel crossed the Jordan River and entered the Holy Land after their 40 years of wandering in the desert.

A drive in the area, reveals glorious monasteries and churches, mainly of the Greek Orthodox Church. In the picture above, note the Do Not Enter sign in the lower right hand corner, warning of live mines.

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One Day Jordan River Baptism Tour

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• JORDAN RIVER BAPTISM SITE TOUR

The Jordan River baptism site today has become one of the mandatory items of pilgrimage tours of Christians of various faiths.

THE JORDAN RIVER BAPTISM SITE TOUR 

However, even a simple tourist, whether he is a Catholic, Orthodox, or Protestant, arriving in Israel for an ordinary tourist purpose, also seeks to visit the original Baptism site in Israel called Qasr Al-Yahud and perform a great sacrament - Baptism in the Jordan River .

For several millennia, since the time of the First Jewish Temple, the waters of the Jordan were considered sacred and purifying the soul, but the river received the greatest fame after the Baptism of Jesus Christ.  

I am a tour guide in Israel  and I want to make your visit to Israel not only full of historical events, mystical legends, and fascinating contemplation of centuries-old attractions but also filled with spiritual values ​​of this truly Holy Land.

During the Jordan River Baptism site tour , we will visit the Judean desert with its ancient monasteries, including the monastery of St. Gerasim, as well as participate in the ceremony of baptism in the Jordan River with the opportunity to plunge into its sacred waters.

Qasr Al-Yahud is located directly on the border with Jordan and today is the site of the annual mass pilgrimage of Christians from all over the world to the great feast of the Epiphany. Every year on January 19, during the celebration of the Prayer of the Patriarch of Jerusalem, pilgrims observe an amazing phenomenon - the reversal of the current of the Jordan.

This section of the river is considered by all Christian denominations to be the true site of the Savior's baptism. Today, anyone who wishes can plunge into the sacred waters of the Jordan any day in a specially equipped Yardenit, where all conditions for safe entry into the holy river are created, this site was opened as an alternative to the original one since Qaser Al-Yahud was closed and mined by the Israeli military protecting the border from the Jordanians after 1967.

The original baptism site in Israel is completely safe to visit these days so you don't have to worry.

I am your tour guide in Israel and I will do my best to make your pilgrimage  Jordan River Baptism site tour as comfortable and safe as possible thanks to the main advantages of being a licensed guide:

For tourists arriving by sea to the port of Haifa and Ashdod, the car is served directly to the ladder of the liner at the port terminal;

For the duration of the tour, all tourists are insured.

 I will help you feel all the power and sanctity of this sacred river for more than half the population of our planet.

SLAVA BAZARSKY PHONE:   +972 53 4779797

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The Baptismal Site of the Jordan River

by Michael Jackaman | Feb 11, 2020 | Judean Desert

A mere hour from Bethlehem and 40 minutes from Jerusalem, a journey to the baptismal site of Christ at the Jordan River near the city of Jericho is a descent to the lowest point of elevation in the world.  It is also one of the most sacred places in Christianity. The Jordan River holds a special place in Christian tradition, for it is here that Christ was baptized by his cousin, John the Baptist, as recalled in Matthew 3:13-17 , after which Christ fasted in the Judean Desert for 40 Days.  In many ways, this moment marked the beginning of the ministry, and is so commemorated on the Feast of Epiphany in the Catholic and Protestant traditions, and as Theophany in the Orthodox Christian tradition; with both feasts being held in January.   The specific location of this baptism along the Jordan River has been known in local tradition since at least the early Byzantine era, and has been referred to by its Arabic name, Qasr al-Yahud. Throughout over a millennium and a half of Christian pilgrimage to the Holy Land, the tradition of symbolically renewing the rite of baptism in the Jordan River has been an essential part of this journey. Pilgrims at the time of the Crusades were known to have brought back phials of water from the Jordan River, while a continuing tradition in Greece and the Balkan Chrisitian communities is to add the prefix “Hadji” or Hatzi” – pilgrim – to one’s family name once the symbolic baptism had been conducted. 

Many contemporary pilgrims are familiar with the Yardenit baptismal park located near the mouth of the River Jordan at the southern bank of the Sea of Galilee.   While the site is impressive and also gives its visitors a better idea of what the size of the Jordan River near Jericho would have looked like in ages past, when the water table was much more substantial, the park was constructed for the benefit of pilgrims during the years when access to the traditional baptismal site of Qasr al-Yahud was inaccessible.  From 1948 to 1967, the site was administered by the Kingdom of Jordan (then sometimes referred to as Transjordan). Following the Six-Day War of 1967, the state of Israel took over control of the West Bank, including the literal “west bank” of the Jordan River, including the baptismal site. Several monastic communities and churches belonging to different denominational communities were abandoned, and pilgrimage to the site was restricted to the Feast of Epiphany and Theophany for the Catholic and Greek Orthodox Churches of the Holy Land due to the security situation between Israel and Jordan.   However, as relations normalized between the countries, plans to reopen the site began to take form. Following the Papal visit of Saint Pope John Paul II in 2000, this process accelerated until the site was opened under the management of the Israeli government in 2011. Today, pilgrims can visit the location on a daily basis, where they can conduct the ritual of baptism in their own language, cultural and religious tradition in a special cordoned-off section of the river, or find a place in the shade of the many sitting areas at the site to look at the River and reflect. Any visitor will also be interested to note how narrow and shallow the Jordan River is, with the Jordanian side just a few meters to the east.  Also visible at the site is the ambitious development project that the Kingdom of Jordan has undertaken to increase pilgrimage tourism to their partition of the Jordan River; allowing virtually every Christian community to build a church and visitor center or guesthouse along an allotment of land parceled to their denomination. The result has been a view of the different architectural styles of each denomination in this unique desert setting.  

To visit the baptismal site is to partake in one of the most important Christian traditions, and to witness the merger of many people and traditions from different lands, but all with the same purpose: to be renewed in their faith through the waters of the Jordan River. 

 Michael Tours offers guided private tours to the baptismal site of Qasr al-Yahud and the surrounding area; to book this tour or other Holy Land destinations, contact us .  

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A Visit to Yardenit: Baptismal Site on the Jordan River

February 15, 2023 by momfluential 8 Comments

Baptism is a sacred and meaningful rite of passage for many Christians around the world. The act of being submerged in water is symbolic of a spiritual rebirth, a washing away of sins, and a renewed commitment to living a life in accordance with the teachings of Christ. While there are many places where one can be baptized, few locations are as historically significant and spiritually meaningful as the Jordan River, where Jesus himself was baptized by John the Baptist.

One of the most popular locations for baptisms in the Jordan River is Yardenit, a picturesque site located near the southern end of the Sea of Galilee. Yardenit is a Christian baptismal site that offers visitors the opportunity to be baptized in the same waters where Jesus was baptized over 2,000 years ago. The site features modern amenities and facilities, including changing rooms, prayer areas, and a large area for congregational gatherings.

On my last trip to Israel I had the opportunity to stop and see  Yardenit,  a baptismal site at the tip of the Sea of Galilee, and the mouth of the Jordan river.

Every year Yardenit offers over half a million tourists and pilgrims the opportunity to be baptized in the same waters that John the Baptist baptized Jesus in. But if you are not part of a tour group, you might not be aware of this opportunity.

Even if you just want to stop and have a look, Yardenit is a lovely and peaceful park-like place, with flowers and paths. It’s open daily and admission is free.

You can’t just jump in and declare yourself baptized however! If you wish to be baptized you will need to bring or rent a white baptismal robe, and BYO Clergy.

This is not an issue for faith based tour groups but if you are on your own, and determined to be baptized, check the website and/or call ahead. The staff at Yardenit can help you make arrangements for yourself or your group by providing some references.

If you are planning on getting baptized in the Jordan River at Yardenit in 2023, there are several things that you should know to ensure that your experience is safe, meaningful, and memorable.

First and foremost, it is important to prepare yourself spiritually for the experience. Baptism is a significant event in the life of a Christian, and it is essential to approach it with the right mindset and heart. Spend time in prayer and reflection leading up to your baptism, seeking guidance and clarity from God about what this experience means for you and your faith.

Once you have prepared yourself spiritually, it is essential to make practical preparations for your trip to Yardenit. This may include booking travel arrangements, securing accommodations, and ensuring that you have all the necessary documents, such as a valid passport, visa, or travel insurance. If you are traveling from outside of Israel, it is also essential to research the local customs, laws, and regulations to avoid any potential cultural misunderstandings or legal issues.

Yardenit is well marked and easy to find from the road. There are wheel chair ramps so this baptismal site is easily accessible to all.

From the Yardenit website:

Yardenit provides pilgrims and tourists with modern comforts in the biblical setting of the Holy Land, offering a serene and spiritual setting for those wishing to baptize in the River Jordan: “In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of water, immediately he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove, and a voice came from heaven; ‘Thou art my beloved Son, with thee I am well pleased.” Mark 1:9-11 Visitors to Yardenit are greeted by this very verse from Mark’s account of the baptism of Jesus in over 80 languages and dialects, depicted in hand painted tiles by Armenian artist Hagop Antreassian on the Wall of New Life . Entry to the site is free. Visitors may rent or purchase white baptism robes on site. There are quiet areas for group prayers and contemplation. We take pride in respecting the religious sensitivities of all our visitors. The river banks themselves retain their pastoral landscapes, with rich greenery and wildlife. Otters and fish swim freely in the river.

If you visit Yardenit there is a lovely gift shop that sells a wide variety of the usual semi-religious tourist goods including pottery, crosses, rosaries and olive wood items. Probably the most popular things to purchase, however, are simply the small bottles of water to bring home with you. This is a very popular and inexpensive gift for many people. You don’t even have to get wet.

The water can be brought home in checked luggage, to be used when children or other family members are baptized.

If you like this idea but cannot make it to Yardenit, or simply don’t want to pack water in your suitcase, you have another option. Holy water from the Jordan river can also be purchased online from the Yardenit gift shop and shipped abroad.

When it comes time for your baptism, it is important to be prepared for the physical experience of being submerged in water. While the waters of the Jordan River are generally calm and shallow, it is still essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Follow the instructions of the baptismal guide or pastor, who will help you navigate the waters and ensure that you are comfortable and secure throughout the experience.

What surprised me at this Yardenit was the number of fish in the water. Little fish and great big catfish which do not seem particularly afraid of people. You need to be prepared for the fish if you are planning to be baptized here. They are harmless but they are plentiful!

There are also adorable otters spotted in the area, but we did not see them on our brief visit.

The park-like atmosphere is a draw for locals as well as tourists. It’s a peaceful place to sit and reflect for a bit, no matter what your religion.

Although I’ve been to Israel several times, I had not been to Yardenit before. I was really happy to discover how lovely it was. I would love to return with my relatives or friends who were interested in being baptized while in on a future trip!

If being baptized while you are in Israel is on your bucket list, make sure to check out Yardenit.

Wondering what to wear? Check out this helpful post about what to pack for a trip to Israel .

February 25, 2018 at 6:12 am

Hello, greetings from Norway! We are headed to Israel March 29th to April 2nd. We would like to get baptized in the Jordan river, there are 3 of us, born again Christians. Is this possible?

Thanks in advance, best regards.

March 9, 2018 at 7:39 am

Hi Axel – yes you will be able to arrange this in Israel or from home.

May 26, 2018 at 10:56 pm

Must you have a reservation to get baptized? How early can you be baptized? What is the fee?

May 31, 2018 at 1:36 pm

Tracey you can find more details online or via a reputable Israeli tour guide. I do not think there is a fee for using the park, just if you are renting robes and having them hire someone to do the baptism.

February 21, 2020 at 12:58 pm

I am coming to Isreal in late March and would like to be Baptized in the Jordan River. Will I need to make a reservation to confirm someone or a pastor will be available?

September 7, 2020 at 2:27 am

Hi I would like to be baptised in the Jordan I am a Irish Hebrew Christian I have never been baptised are you taking people i don’t know what way COVID-19 is in Israel but I would like to come God will protect me against the Virus Regards David

January 25, 2023 at 3:20 am

I’m coming. To see holy land with my sister and we both Christians we want to get babtised

January 28, 2023 at 2:04 am

Hi I would like to get baptise in Jorden river please give me more details

kind regards Hema

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