Biblical Samaria Tour
First Centers of Ancient Israel
Tour Overview |
Discover the biblical heartland of ancient Israel on this private Old Testament tour through the historic hills of Samaria. Travel beyond Jerusalem to explore the landscapes where Israel's early history unfolded, from the days of Joshua, the Judges, and Samuel to the powerful kings and prophets of the divided kingdoms. Throughout the day, you'll visit some of the Holy Land's most significant archaeological sites while uncovering the stories of the Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant, the prophets Elijah and Elisha, the kings of Israel, and the unique Samaritan community whose traditions have survived for more than two thousand years. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery, remarkable archaeological discoveries, and panoramic views over the biblical landscapes that witnessed many of the Old Testament's defining events. Whether you are passionate about biblical history, archaeology, or simply wish to experience a lesser-visited side of the Holy Land, this private tour offers a fascinating journey through the places where the foundations of Israel's history, faith, and monarchy were established before returning to Jerusalem. |
Biblical Samaria Tour Itinerary |
Our journey begins with a drive from Jerusalem through the hills of Benjamin and Samaria, following much of the ancient Patriarchs' Road. Along the way, we'll pass biblical locations such as Gibeah, associated with King Saul, and Bethel, one of the most significant worship sites of the Old Testament. Our first major stop is Ancient Shiloh, where the Tabernacle stood for nearly four centuries after the Israelites entered the Promised Land under Joshua. Here we'll explore the archaeological remains while discovering the stories of Hannah, Eli the High Priest, and the young Samuel, who first heard God's voice in this sacred place. We'll also discuss the Ark of the Covenant, Israel's earliest center of worship, and the events that eventually led to Shiloh's destruction. From Shiloh, we continue to Sebastia, the ancient capital of the northern Kingdom of Israel. Founded by King Omri and expanded by King Ahab, this remarkable archaeological site preserves remains from the Israelite, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. As we walk through its impressive ruins, we'll revisit the ministries of the prophets Elijah and Elisha, explore the remains traditionally associated with the Palace of Omri and Ahab, stroll along the Roman colonnaded street, and visit the traditional site of the Tomb of John the Baptist. Our final destination is Mount Gerizim National Park, the holiest place of the Samaritan community. Here we'll explore the remains of the ancient Samaritan Temple, learn about the beliefs and traditions of one of the world's oldest surviving religious communities, and enjoy spectacular panoramic views over biblical Shechem (modern Nablus), Mount Ebal, and the surrounding mountains of Samaria. We'll also discuss the significance of Mount Gerizim in both the Old and New Testaments, including its connection to the encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at Jacob's Well. After a full day immersed in the history, archaeology, and biblical traditions of ancient Israel, we return to Jerusalem with a deeper appreciation of the people, places, and events that shaped the Old Testament. |
Key Sites |
✔️ Gibeah (Drive By) ✔️ Bethel (Drive By) ✔️ Ancient Shiloh ✔️ Sebastia (Ancient Samaria) ✔️ Palace of Omri & Ahab ✔️ Roman Colonnaded Street ✔️ Traditional Tomb of John the Baptist ✔️ Mount Gerizim National Park ✔️ Samaritan Temple Ruins ✔️ Mount Ebal Viewpoint ✔️ Biblical Shechem (Nablus Panorama) |
Why Choose This Biblical Samaria Tour? |
Step beyond the traditional pilgrimage routes and discover the places where much of the Old Testament came to life. While Jerusalem often takes center stage, this tour explores the earlier spiritual and political heartland of ancient Israel, where the Tabernacle stood, prophets were called, kings ruled, and biblical history unfolded across the hills of Samaria. Combining remarkable archaeological sites with in-depth biblical storytelling, this tour offers a unique opportunity to understand the historical context behind many of the Old Testament's most important events. From the sacred remains of Shiloh to the royal city of Sebastia and the holy mountain of the Samaritans, each stop reveals another chapter in the story of Israel. Led by a licensed local guide, you'll enjoy a private and personalized experience with plenty of time to ask questions, explore at your own pace, admire breathtaking landscapes, and gain a deeper appreciation of the Holy Land beyond its most famous destinations. |
Why Travelers Love This Tour? |
✔️ Discover the birthplace of Israel's worship at ancient Shiloh, where the Tabernacle and the Ark of the Covenant remained for centuries. ✔️ Walk through the capital of the northern Kingdom of Israel while following the stories of Kings Omri and Ahab, and the ministries of the prophets Elijah and Elisha. ✔️ Explore some of the Holy Land's most impressive archaeological sites, spanning the Israelite, Roman, Byzantine, and Samaritan periods. ✔️ Visit the holiest site of the Samaritan community and gain a fascinating insight into one of the world's oldest surviving religious traditions. ✔️ Enjoy spectacular panoramic views over biblical Shechem, Mount Ebal, and the mountains of Samaria. ✔️ Experience a private tour at your own pace, with personalized explanations from a licensed local guide and plenty of opportunities for questions, photography, and exploration. |
Frequently Asked Questions |
How long does the Old Testament Tour of Samaria last? The tour typically lasts 8–9 hours, allowing enough time to comfortably explore each site, enjoy detailed biblical and historical explanations, take photographs, and admire the spectacular landscapes of Samaria before returning to Jerusalem. Is this a private tour? Yes. This is a private tour, allowing you to explore the biblical sites of Samaria at your own pace while enjoying a personalized experience tailored to your interests, schedule, and level of biblical knowledge. How much walking is involved? This tour involves a moderate amount of walking on archaeological paths, uneven stone surfaces, and gentle slopes at several sites. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. We also suggest bringing a bottle of water, especially during the warmer months. What should I wear? Comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. During the warmer months, we also advise wearing a hat, sunscreen, and bringing plenty of water. Since the tour includes archaeological parks and outdoor sites rather than active places of worship, no special dress code is required. Are entrance fees included? Yes. Entrance fees to Ancient Shiloh and Mount Gerizim National Park are included in the tour price. Is it safe to visit the West Bank? The sites visited on this tour are regularly visited by tourists as part of organized tours. Your itinerary is carefully planned based on current conditions, and your licensed local guide monitors the situation closely. If security conditions change and could affect the tour, the itinerary will be adjusted or the tour will be rescheduled with your safety as the highest priority. Do I need to bring my passport? Yes. We recommend carrying your original passport throughout the tour. Since this itinerary travels through parts of the West Bank, security checks may occasionally take place, and carrying valid identification is advisable for all participants.
Is this tour suitable for children? Yes. Families with children who have an interest in biblical history and archaeology are welcome. Please note that the tour includes several hours of driving and moderate walking between archaeological sites. In which languages is the tour available? This tour is available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Hebrew, and Indonesian, and is led by a licensed local tour guide. How can I book the First Centers of Ancient Israel Tour?
You can book your First Centers of Ancient Israel Tour directly through the contact form on this website, by WhatsApp, or by email. You can also click the "Request a Quote" button. I'll be happy to answer your questions and help you plan your visit to the Holy Land. |
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Herman Burke
One of the best Teachers with holy spirit wisdom , all the glory to Jesus Amen.
Maritess Diagmel Lapuz
Me and my family highly recommend Holy land steps. We have such an amazing experience! Each day of our 1 week tour is full pack of action, no wasted time. Tariq is an excellent and outstanding tourguide, very knowledgeable and we learned a lot from him. Very kind,considerate and took his group's welfare very seriously.
Msgr Larry White
I want to personally thank you for your excellent job as our guide. You are the best that I have had in all my trips to the Holy Land. I will keep you and your family in my prayers especially during this time of Advent and Christmas. I would certainly recommend you as a guide on any future pilgrimages.
