Things To Do
in Jericho
Jericho, West Bank sits in the Jordan Valley along the Jordan River, believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its ancient ruins, palm-dotted oases, and desert scenery create a captivating backdrop for exploring millennia of history. Surrounded by rugged hills, the town blends archaeological wonders with a welcoming Palestinian community and scenic viewpoints over the Dead Sea region.
Today Jericho is a living hub of culture, craft, and hospitality that invites curious travelers to slow down and savor the landscape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting the archaeological site of Tell es-Sultan, one of the oldest inhabited sites in the world. Wander through the ancient structures, learning about their significance and the history of Jericho. Don't forget to capture stunning photos of the landscape and the impressive remains of the past.
After lunch, visit the Mount of Temptation, taking the cable car for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area. Explore the Monastery of the Mount of Temptation and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while absorbing the religious history. Spend your afternoon reflecting at the site, appreciating the blend of nature and spirituality.
As dusk approaches, return to Jericho and savor local cuisine at one of the traditional restaurants. Enjoy dishes like maqluba and fresh salads, while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town. End your day with a leisurely walk through the streets, enjoying the local shops and markets.
Start the day by visiting a local market, where you can experience the vibrant culture of Jericho firsthand. Engage with local vendors, sample fresh produce, and perhaps pick up some authentic handicrafts as souvenirs. This immersive experience will allow you to appreciate the daily life of the townspeople.
After the market, participate in a traditional cooking class, learning how to prepare local dishes from experienced chefs. This hands-on experience not only provides culinary skills but also deepens your understanding of Palestinian culture. Enjoy tasting your creations during a communal lunch with fellow participants.
In the evening, visit a local cultural center where you can enjoy traditional music or dance performances. Connect with the community through art and storytelling, gaining insight into the rich heritage of Jericho. Conclude your day by sharing your thoughts and reflections with new friends over coffee.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🫖Bottle of water or juice | $0.5-2 |
| 🥙Street food snack (falafel, shawarma) | $1-4 |
| 🚗15-minute taxi ride within Jericho | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ancient history and desert landscapes
- Warm hospitality and authentic Palestinian cuisine
- Limited nightlife and some transportation options
- Variable accessibility and border-related travel considerations
- "Marhaba" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Kam al-thaman?" - How much is this?
- "Min fadlak" - Please
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Jericho
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient city walls and desert backdrop offering a sense of ancient continuity and stark light.
Mud-brick palace ruins with palm groves and sweeping valley views ideal for expansive landscape photos.
Quiet bend of the river with golden hour reflections and nearby palm groves.
Rugged canyon with cliffside paths, cave dwellings, and a monastery perched above the gorge.
Rows of date palms and irrigated terraces provide lush contrasts against desert tones.
Food in Jericho
Jericho Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sumac-spiced roasted chicken served on taboon bread with onions and pine nuts; a quintessential Palestinian comfort dish.
Must-Try!
A layered rice, vegetable, and meat dish flipped onto the platter when served; often enjoyed with yogurt or garlic sauce.
Creamy chickpea dip with tahini, garlic, lemon, and olive oil, best paired with freshly baked pita.
Deep-fried chickpea patties served with tahini, salads, and flatbread; a staple street-food option.
Lentil and rice pilaf topped with caramelized onions; hearty and vegetarian-friendly.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market lane offering dates, olives, nuts, spices, bread, and fruit; great for tasting seasonal produce and snagging inexpensive snacks.
Small riverside stalls selling dried fruits, nuts, halva, and local sweets; ideal for picking up edible souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and traditional neighborhoods.
Greet with 'Salam' and a handshake; use your right hand for giving and receiving gestures.
Ask before photographing people or private homes; some places require consent.
Avoid discussing politics or security topics in public or with strangers on first encounters.
Safety
Tipping in Jericho
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect a tip of 10-15% if service is not included. Small tips to guides, drivers, and cafe staff are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is widely used; some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards. ATMs are available in Jericho, but card acceptance may vary at smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming valleys make it ideal for outdoor hikes and photographing the oasis and ruins.
Very hot and dry; start early, carry plenty of water, and seek shade during the heat of the day.
Warm days with cooler evenings; great for outdoor exploration and sunset photography.
Mild to cool with occasional rain; bring a light jacket and waterproof gear for canyon walks.
Jericho at Night
Hiking in Jericho
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic canyon route featuring dramatic cliffs, cave dwellings, and panoramic overlooks, best in cooler months.
Rugged hills with monastic ruins and viewpoints overlooking Jericho and the Dead Sea.
Airports
How to reach Jericho by plane.
Israel's main international gateway; driving distance to the Jordan Valley region is feasible with border crossing considerations. Some travelers arrange combined itineraries via Jerusalem or Tel Aviv.
Jordan's primary international hub; many travelers reach Jericho by crossing at Allenby Bridge from the West Bank and continuing by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of residents with deep roots in the Jordan Valley and Jericho area.
Small, traditional communities in surrounding hills with distinctive crafts and hospitality.
Archaeology enthusiasts, religious travelers, and cultural tourists exploring the historic valley.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport among locals, with community clubs and matches forming a social centerpiece.
A common recreational sport in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jericho.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Palestinian dishes are vegetarian-friendly; look for hummus, falafel, mujaddara, and salads. Ask for stock and meat-free preparations when ordering.
Opt for hummus, mutabbal, falafel, and plain mezze; avoid dairy-based sauces and clarify ingredients with staff.