Bethlehem and Jericho
From the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem to the oldest city on earth at Jericho, arranged with a trusted local guide.
Part of Classic Israel: a week across the country →
The shape of the day
This is a day I arrange rather than guide myself. As an Israeli guide I’m not allowed to guide inside the Palestinian-controlled cities.
It’s technically possible for me to apply for permission, but I think that it’s a more authentic experience for you to be guided by a local, so I set it up with a trusted Palestinian colleague.
In Bethlehem you visit the Church of the Nativity and the surrounding Manger Square. The church is one of the oldest in the world, and is believed to be built over the birthplace of Jesus.
For those interested, you can get a close look at the structure known as the Security Barrier or Separation Wall (depending on which side of it you live on), and visit Banksy’s The Walled Off hotel.
After a delicious local lunch you’ll travel to Jericho, considered the oldest continuously inhabited city on earth, with excavations going back some ten thousand years.
You’ll explore the ruins of resplendent winter palaces and may be tempted to ascend the Mount of Temptation, where it’s believed Jesus was tested while in the desert.
It’s an easy day to enjoy and a rich one historically and politically; the crossing is straightforward with the right arrangements, which I take care of.
Sites we visit
- The Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem
- Manger Square
- Banksy’s Walled Off hotel & the barrier wall
- Jericho (the ancient tel)
- Herod’s winter palaces
- The Mount of Temptation
Who it’s for
This day suits Christian pilgrims drawn to Bethlehem, and any traveller curious to cross into the West Bank and see Jericho’s astonishing antiquity.
Because I arrange it rather than guide it, you get a knowledgeable local guide on the ground and me handling the planning and the fit with the rest of your itinerary.
Tell me your interest, faith, history or the political picture, and I’ll brief the guide accordingly.
FAQ
Do you guide this day yourself?
No. As an Israeli guide I don’t work inside the Palestinian cities, so I arrange the day with a trusted Palestinian colleague who guides you on the ground, while I handle the planning and the connection with the rest of your trip.
You get local expertise where it matters and a seamless plan around it.
Is it safe, and how does the crossing work?
For guided visitors it’s straightforward, and the crossing is handled as part of the arrangement; bring your passport.
I keep an eye on conditions and will be candid with you in advance if the day doesn’t look right.
Can it combine with Jerusalem?
Easily. Bethlehem is only minutes from Jerusalem, so this sits naturally alongside a Jerusalem day or two.
Can you arrange other West Bank sites, like Hebron?
Yes, other sites such as Hebron can also be arranged in the same way. Tell me what you’d like to see and I’ll put it together with the right people.
Make this itinerary yours
Tell me who’s travelling, your dates and where you want to focus. I’ll put together a personalised proposal.
For urgent bookings, send me a WhatsApp
If you are going to Israel, you would be mad not to give him a call.
Amol Rajan, BBC presenter and broadcaster
Having been on trips in Israel with seven different tour guides, Samuel stood above all the rest.
Seasoned Israel traveller
Samuel is one part walking encyclopedia, one part storyteller, one part stand-up comedian.
Berkeley Haas Business School student