The Ultimate Guide to Getting Baptized in Israel

If you are considering being baptized in Israel and are wondering where to start, finding the right place, especially in a foreign country, can be daunting.
For thousands of years, people have sought out this spiritual and symbolic experience and dreamed of being immersed in the same waters that Jesus or other heroes of the faith were immersed, on their way to change the world.
To thoroughly enjoy one of the most important days in the life of a believer, it is essential to make sure you are prepared and able to check off all the things on your ‘baptism day wishlist’ in advance. The last thing you want is to stress over logistics.

And so the dilemma remains: where should you get baptized?

Here are a few diverse options to make your special day effortless, memorable, and meaningful.

The Jordan River – The ‘Yardenit’

One of the more popular places is the Yardenit, which is one of the locations thought to be where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. On the calm and serene bank of the Jordan river, at the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee, pilgrims and tourists fulfill their ultimate baptismal dream. There are 12 different pools to choose from; a gift shop and restaurant; and, to top it all off, entry to the site is free. Visitors may rent or purchase white baptism robes on-site, and groups can gather in quiet areas for prayer or contemplation.

You can’t lose with this convenient location, and it is so special to know that countless millions have shared the same wonderful experience as you.

Qasr al-Yahud – What the Desert has to Offer

Qasr al-Yahud, meaning ‘Castle of the Jews’, is another location considered to be the original baptism place of Jesus. To this day there is a debate about whether the Jordan River from the north is the place or this location that is further south; nonetheless, both areas are important to the ministry of Jesus. Situated on the east bank of the Jordan River, nine kilometers north of the Dead Sea, it is close to the ancient road and river ford connecting Jerusalem to Jericho. The peaceful desert setting, scattered with tall palm trees, is the perfect place for reflection and prayer before your immersion. Near the river can be found the Church of Saint John the Baptist, ancient Roman and Byzantine remains, a monastery, and caves used by hermits.

The site is designed to provide a calm environment that encourages you to be fully present and soak in the moment.

The Sea of Galilee – Comfort in Simplicity

If you are looking for a simple and intimate environment, the Sea of Galilee presents the perfect setting. The options are limitless – just choose any beach on the shoreline and enjoy a tailor-made and personal baptism on your terms. That way, you can guarantee comfort for all the loved ones who accompany you and build your schedule with no time restrictions.

The Sea of Galilee is full of faith-based history. These are the same waters on which the disciples of Jesus set out to fish and the same shores on which Jesus would teach the multitudes in the New Testament.

In our experience, your baptism is best enjoyed when custom-made to fit your individual preferences. With our daily tours, we can help make your special day as smooth and comfortable as possible. We pay attention to the small details – and the big ones – that will make it a memory to cherish.

All you have to do is dream, and we’ll get to work making your baptism dream come true.