Baptism Site · Mount Nebo · Amman · Madaba
Madaba, Mount Nebo and The Baptism Site
Overview
Begin your journey with a convenient hotel pickup in Amman, traveling in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and a private English-speaking driver. As you head south to Madaba, enjoy scenic views of Jordan’s desert landscapes and learn about various points of interest along the way.
Upon arrival in Madaba, immerse yourself in this ancient mosaic town, whose history dates back to the 2nd century. A highlight is the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, home to the 6th-century mosaic map of Jordan and the Holy Land, intricately marked with locations relevant to biblical stories.
While in Madaba, visit the St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, religious significance, and architectural beauty. Built in the 19th century, this historical landmark stands as a testament to Jordan's rich Christian heritage, with its elegant stone façade and stained-glass windows echoing the faith of generations. The church's design harmoniously combines Western and Eastern influences, showcasing Romanesque and Byzantine architectural styles through delicate arches, intricate entrance detailing, and a peaceful, greenery-adorned courtyard. Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, a pivotal figure in both Christianity and Islam, the church offers a serene space for contemplation and prayer to all visitors.
Next, ascend Mount Nebo, a sacred mountain in Jordan, approximately 817 meters above sea level. This important Judeo-Christian pilgrimage site is believed to be where Moses first saw the Promised Land and where he is said to have died. Visit the basilica at the summit, constructed by Egyptian monks in the 4th century, to admire a collection of well-preserved Byzantine mosaics depicting wildlife and hunting scenes. From the summit, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the Holy Land and the Jordan River Valley.
Continue to the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, located on the Jordanian side of the Jordan River. Known as Bethany beyond the Jordan in biblical times, it is considered one of Christianity’s three holiest sites. This significant pilgrimage site, where many prophets are said to have visited, offers an opportunity for prayer or exploration. Discovered only in 1996, 'Maghtas' in Arabic, it stands as one of the most important recent finds in biblical archaeology.
After experiencing these revered sites and enjoying the magnificent views, meet your driver for the return journey, concluding with a drop-off at your hotel in Amman.
Highlights
- ★Visit the ancient town of Madaba, known for its beautiful mosaics
- ★Mount Nebo, an important Judeo-Christian pilgrimage site
- ★Visit the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ
- ★You will be at the lowest point on earth while visiting the Baptism Site
- ★Considered as one of the three holiest sites of Christianity
Road map
Explore your journey
On the road in Jordan
Return itinerary
Route distance and driving time load with the map.
Itinerary preview from Amman. Exact hotel pickup, traffic, road closures and time spent visiting sites are not included. Final routing is confirmed by your chauffeur.
Selected package: Madaba, Mount Nebo and The Baptism Site
Driving legs & navigation
Amman → Madaba
Madaba → Mount Nebo
Mount Nebo → Baptism Site
Baptism Site → Amman (return)
Driving geometry & estimates: OSRM / OpenStreetMap. No live traffic. Report a map issue.
Itinerary
Discover a range of historical and religious sites on this private day tour. Visit Madaba and its Greek Orthodox Church, explore Mount Nebo, and discover the site where Jesus Christ was baptized.
- 1Amman
Meeting Point
The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel or desired location in Amman.
- 2Madaba
Mosaic Town
As you travel south to Madaba, take in Jordan’s stunning desert landscapes. Your driver will highlight points of interest and share relevant information along the way, though they will not serve as a guide. Upon arrival, explore Madaba, a town renowned for its ancient mosaics with a rich history dating back to the 2nd century. A must-see is the 6th-century mosaic map of Jordan and the Holy Land, located in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George, which features biblical historical references.
- 3Madaba
St George's Greek Orthodox Church
This 19th-century Roman Catholic church offers a unique attraction: you can climb its bell tower for a panoramic view of the city of Madaba.
- 4Madaba
Mount Nebo
Next, ascend Mount Nebo, a revered mountain in Jordan, approximately 817 meters above sea level. Mount Nebo holds deep religious importance as a significant Judeo-Christian pilgrimage site. It is believed to be the spot where Moses first saw the Promised Land and where he is said to have died. In the fourth century, Egyptian monks built a small monastery on the summit in Moses' memory, which was later rebuilt as a basilica. This basilica, still standing on Mount Nebo today, features a collection of well-preserved Byzantine mosaics depicting wildlife and hunting scenes. Beyond its historical appeal, the site offers panoramic views of the Holy Land and the Jordan River Valley from its summit.
- 5Baptism Site
The Baptism Site Of Jesus Christ
The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, known in the Bible as Bethany beyond the Jordan, is located on the Jordanian side of the Jordan River. Considered one of Christianity's three holiest sites, it marks a significant historical and religious event: the baptism of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist. This important pilgrimage site, where many prophets have walked, offers visitors the chance to pray.
In Arabic, the Baptism Site is called ‘Maghtas’ and represents one of the most important recent discoveries in biblical archaeology. Excavations began in 1996 but have already unearthed over 20 churches, caves, and baptismal pools dating back to the Roman and Byzantine periods. This historical site offers a unique experience, preserved exactly as it was over 2000 years ago, and is rich in flora and fauna.
- 6Church of the Apostles
Church of the Apostles
A 6th-century Byzantine church known for its extensive and well-preserved mosaic floor. The intricate mosaic carpet is a masterpiece of Christian art, featuring a diverse array of animals, plants, and scenes from daily life.
- 7Departure
The return back
After indulging & experiencing these holy sights & reveling in the panoramic views, reconvene with your driver for the return, ending with a hotel drop-off.
Included
- ✓Entry fees for the sites mentioned ( Optional )
- ✓Local Guide ( Optional )
- ✓Wi-Fi onboard
- ✓Private transportation
- ✓Licensed English-speaking driver
- ✓Bottled water is available onboard
- ✓Hotel pickup and drop-off from Amman
- ✓Phone charging is available during the ride
Not included
- ✕Gratuity
- ✕Personal expenses
- ✕Meals can be added according to your preference.
Good to know
- Meeting Point
- Amman
- Mineral Water
- Available onboard
- Wifi
- Onboard
- Admission Fee
- Optional
- Guide
- Optional
- Walking Hours
- 7-6 Hours
- Transportation
- Private Sedan / Mini-Van
Questions & answers
How is my booking confirmed?
Submitting a request does not confirm a reservation. You and our team receive the request details and quoted costs by email. Our team checks availability and sends a separate confirmation, booking invoice and travel voucher.
What are the deposit and payment terms?
A 25% non-refundable deposit secures your confirmed reservation and is applied to the total service price. The remaining balance is due at least 48 hours before the service. For last-minute bookings within 24 hours of service, full payment is due immediately. Online payment is not available yet; our team will provide the approved payment arrangements. All quoted booking amounts are in USD.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations 72 hours or more before service are refunded excluding the 25% non-refundable deposit. Cancellations between 24 and 72 hours before service incur a charge equal to 50% of the total service cost. Cancellations within 24 hours and no-shows are non-refundable. If we cancel the service, all payments, including the deposit, are refunded.
How long will my chauffeur wait?
Complimentary airport waiting is 45 minutes for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international flights, measured from the official landing time. Other pickups include 15 minutes from the scheduled pickup time. Additional waiting is USD 10 per 30 minutes.
What to bring
- Comfortable footwear
- Hat and sunglasses
Jordan Pass
To optimize your visit to Jordan and save money, a key recommendation is to purchase the Jordan Pass online before you travel. This pass offers significant advantages, primarily by covering the visa fee upon arrival, which is a considerable cost saving in itself. Beyond the visa, the Jordan Pass also grants you access to many of Jordan's most iconic and popular attractions.
Get it here at www.jordanpass.jo
Booking and Accessibility
- Your booking request is received instantly, and our team confirms it by email.
- The tour is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.
- Most travelers are able to participate.
Private and Personalized Experience
- This is an exclusive private tour/activity, meaning only your group will participate.
- Enjoy personalized attention and attentive service tailored to your specific needs.
- The itinerary is flexible, offering multiple options to customize the experience.
- We are happy to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Please add any dietary requirements in the "Special requirements" field when you book.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
Additional Info
- This is a private tour activity. Only your group will participate.
from $25 / person
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