Private Christian Tour: Madaba, Mount Nebo, and Mukawer Day Trip from Amman
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Madaba's ancient mosaics
- Visit Mount Nebo's panoramic views
- Discover Mukawer's historical ruins
- Experience Jordan's rich Christian heritage
- Enjoy a personalized, private tour
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Entrance to Machaerus Fortress
- Hotel pick-up and drop -off
- Entrance to Madaba Archaeological Park
- English Speaking Driver
- Entrance to Madaba Saint George Church and Saint John Church
- Private Transfer by air-conditioned leisure new vehicle according to number of participants
- On board WI-FI
- Entrance to Mount Nebo Memorial Church of Moses
- Local English-Speaking Guide at Madaba Saint George Church
- All type of meals, unless option with lunch selected (Vegetarian meal by request)
- All type of beverages
- All type of gratuities (Tips to the Driver , and Local Guide) – Recommended
- Personal Expenses
- Any other service not mentioned
Itinerary
After pick-up from your Amman hotel, journey by a private, air-conditioned vehicle to the city of Madaba, known for its early medieval mosaics. The most famous is the 6th-century Mosaic Map of the Holy Land, housed in Madaba’s 19th-century Orthodox Saint George’s Church.
On arrival, join up with a local guide and, after admiring the church’s deceptively simple exterior, head inside to view the interior and mosaic. Wander around the richly detailed map, and learn how it depicts the Holy Land and Jordan of its time. Admire the colorful renderings of the Dead Sea, Jericho, and Jerusalem, note the references to biblical locations.
Next, drive to Mount Nebo, heading to the top of this mountain ridge where it’s believed Moses saw the Holy Land before he died. Admire the views over the Jordan Valley, and on a clear day, across to the Holy Land; and see the modern sculpture depicting Moses. Tour Mount Nebo Franciscan Church, a modern shrine that houses floor mosaics from around the 6th century. Gaze at the still-vivid scenes of soldiers, horses, hunters, and animals like peacocks and lions, and hear fascinating facts about the mosaic’s discovery.
Afterward, continue to Mukawer (Machaerus); a fortified hilltop palace to the east of the Dead Sea, founded by Herod the Great. According to 1st-century Romano-Jewish scholar, Flavius Josephus, the fortress was where John the Baptist was imprisoned and beheaded in 32 A.D., with his head presented to Herod’s son, Herod Antipas, on a plate by Princess Salome. View the ruins of this once-palatial and impregnable fortress, making out the walls, baths, and even the hall where it’s believed that Salome danced. Then, rejoin your vehicle, and return to Amman, where your day finishes with a hotel drop-off.
Important information
Know before you book
- Confirm your booking at least 24 hours in advance.
- Provide any special requests or interests to customize the tour.
- Be aware that some sites may have limited accessibility.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.
- Airport Pick-up and Drop-off by request.
- Contact your local operator (office phone number, emergency mobile number – out of office hours, or email address) a day before to reconfirm pick-up arrangements provided in your voucher.
- Tour activity is provided in English. For other languages by request.
- Clients with mobility issues, please contact us.
- Strollers and car seats for infants, please contact us.
- Most local tourist restaurants in Jordan do not serve alcohol, if you do not want a dry restaurant that does not serve alcohol, please contact us.
- Clients are advised to bring hats, sun screen, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Dress code at Churches: Modest.
- Visits to churches are not allowed during prayer times.
Traveler reviews
Historical and Scenic Beauty at Mukawir and Mount Nebo
During our time in Jordan, we visited Mukawir (Machaerus) and Mount Nebo, two sites rich in history and breathtaking views. Mukawir, the site of Herod Antipas’ fortress, is famous for being the location where John the Baptist was imprisoned and executed. Our visit was especially memorable because we had the site entirely to ourselves, adding to its mystique. The hike up to the ruins was rewarding, offering panoramic views of the Dead Sea and surrounding landscapes. Though little remains of the fortress beyond its foundations, standing atop the hill and imagining its historical significance was an incredible experience. Mount Nebo, a short drive from Madaba, holds deep biblical significance as the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. The highlight here was the Memorial Church of Moses, which features stunning Byzantine mosaics dating back to the 6th century. The Brazen Serpent Sculpture, symbolizing Moses’ staff, is another striking feature. However, the most breathtaking aspect was the panoramic view from the summit, which stretched across the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and, on a clear day, Jerusalem. The peaceful and well-preserved site made for a moving and contemplative visit. Both locations offer unique historical insights and spectacular scenery, making them worthwhile stops for those interested in Jordan’s rich past. While Mukawir is more remote and requires a bit of a climb, it provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience. In contrast, Mount Nebo is easily accessible and ideal for both religious pilgrims and history enthusiasts. If you're visiting Madaba or traveling along the King’s Highway, both sites are must-visit destinations for their history, spirituality, and unforgettable views. This tour also included a trip to St. George's Church, which we planned to visit on another day. We asked our driver, Basel, if we could see something else instead. Basel was very accommodating recommending that we visit the Shrine of the Beheading of John the Baptist. It proved to be an extraordinary visit and one that I would recommend over St. George's. While the latter has the famous historical mosaic map of the Holy Land, John the Baptist features an ancient acropolis and Moabite Well. Both were interesting. Basel was exceptional.
So much fun because of the driver...
<p>So much fun because of the driver, Amr - the mosaic workshop was incredibly disappointing as it was really just a store.</p>