Monasteries of the Judean Desert: Private Full Day Tour of Historical 4th Century Monasteries

Explore the ancient monasteries of the Judean Desert on a private full-day tour. Discover the rich history and culture of the region while marveling at the stunning desert landscape and beautifully preserved 4th-century monasteries.

Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Mar Saba Monastery - Your guide will meet you at Bethlehem 300 Checkpoint and you will drive to the largest monastery in the Jerusalem Wilderness, Mar Saba Monastery dates back to the fifth century AD and perches amid the southern cliffs of the Kidron Creek. Founded by Saint Sabas (Mar Saba in Arabic), it’s been extensively expanded and fortified over the years. Please note: women are not allowed to enter the monastery. Everyone will enjoy a panoramic view of the site, but only men will be allowed to go inside and tour the monastery.
What's Included
  • Bottled water provided for your convenience
  • Complimentary hotel or checkpoint pickup in Bethlehem
  • Comfortable travel with in-vehicle air conditioning
  • Explore the serenity of 4 ancient monasteries
What's Not Included
  • Lunch
  • Gratuities
  • Cable car fees
  • Public transportation to the meeting point
Additional Information

This is an all-day tour with a personal guide, specifically centered on the four surviving monasteries in the Judean Desert from the 4th century. The breathtaking views of the desert and architecturally impressive monasteries will surely captivate you. Moreover, you’ll get insights into the historical and cultural significance of the region and learn about the intriguing tales of these monasteries.

Location
Checkpoint 300/Bethlehem Road
Once you get off the bus or the taxi, walk through the checkpoint building (Follow the sign) to cross to Bethlehem's side where I'll meet you. Everyone there is either crossing to Bethlehem or coming from Bethlehem so it's easy to find your way. You can always ask anyone for help if you need it.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
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(3 Ratings)
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Alfredoi290
Sep 27, 2023
Extraordinary tour in the Judean Desert - Michael is an excellent guide, fully knowledgeable on the history and geography of the Judean Desert and the West Bank in general. He has carefully chosen the places to visit, to stop, etc. He gives very useful information, but to the point, without excesive chatter. The whole trip was an extremely enjoyable experience. I emphatically recommend him.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Williameugenef
Jul 28, 2023
Excellent tour and tour guide. The best. - Fantastic tour. The best. I would highly recommend taking this tour with Michael Tours. The sights you see are incredible. The information that Michael provides is extensive. He is one of the best tour guides I have experienced in my life. And super nice person. Everything about the tour is completely professional, safe, and comfortable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Elizabeth
Jul 23, 2022
One of the best travel days of my life! - I have traveled all over the world and have to say that the day my husband and I spent with Michael was one of the most memorable, informative, and enjoyable days of my life. Michael has an encylopedic level of knowledge about the region's history and of the evolution of the various religions (and by extension, politics) of the region and we learned so much. He let us customize our tour by swapping out Mar Saba (which I can't go in anyway because I'm female) for Hisham's Palace, and I am so glad we did that. The mosaic remains at Hisham's Palace are incredible and unlike anything I've seen anywhere else. (We did still stop by to see the outside of Mar Saba so I don't feel like we gave anything up to do that!). Michael was so open to all of our questions and is just a kind, open-hearted person whose company we genuinely enjoyed. My husband is hard to wow, and he was wowed by our day with Michael. Michael, wishing you all the best with your wedding and hope your honeymoon is wonderful!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 4 guests
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September 2024
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