Mavis L.China
We had a great experience in Herodium! Shmuel is a wonderful tour guide. He is so friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely would recommend this tour!
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Private tour in Jerusalem Shmuel B
Herodium - King Herod's palace/fortress
5.0
(12) reviews
-
5 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
5 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Shmuel B.
4.9
Guide rating
127
Reviews
Tours delivered
3 hrs
Avg. response time
I'm knowledgeable, experienced and passionate about Israel and would be delighted to show you the country. I was born in Israel but grew up in Ottawa, Canada, so I am a native English speaker. I have lived in Jerusalem with my family for more than 25 years and have been a licensed guide for more than 15 years. Click on "Read Reviews" below to hear what other clients have said about touring with me. Covid-19: I have had 2 vaccine shots plus a 3rd & 4th booster as recommended by the Israel Ministry of Health. Israel is a deeply fascinating and varied country, as your guide I'll make sure you get the most out of your trip. I have created a set of special tours for ToursByLocals combining Archaeology, Art and Architecture; Religion, History and Culture. Here is a list of tours that I specialize in (if you can't find them on the TbL site please message me for more information). Jerusalem - 4 quarters & 3 religions Mount of Olives Jerusalem's Haram el-Sharif/Temple Mount, Religion & Politics City of David/ancient Jerusalem & Hezekiah's tunnel Jerusalem's Israel museum Herodium Masada En Gedi & Dead Sea Beit She'an - Roman Decapolis city Sussita/Hippos Around Sea of Galilee where Jesus lived & taught Caesarea, King Herod's port city Akko/Acre Mount Gerizim Crusader sites like Appolonia, Belvoir, Castelet, . . . Jericho Susiya Makhtesh (craters in Negev) Nabatean Spice Route I also take people "off the beaten track" into unique nature sites in Israel, walking and hiking , like Nahal Og, Wadi Qelt, Nahal Peratzim. I am also a photographer so if you are interested in seeing the country through a camera lens I can take you to unique and special places where you will be able to get great photos. I'm flexible and orient each tour to your interests. When you hire me as your guide it's your tour and it is at your pace. I am happy and able to explain Jewish, Christian and Muslim customs and traditions whatever your religious beliefs. Licensed tour guide, Israel Ministry of Tourism Licensed chauffeur
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Shmuel B.
Discover Herod's monumental architecture and tomb in a half day private tour
Overview of your Jerusalem tour
No one guides Herodion like I do. I've actually excavated at the site - it's my passion! Most people don't stop to explore the ruins of the lower palace complex outside of the park, with its large pool, Monumental building, remains of a Byzantine Church, but we do. I'll make sure we don't miss any of the amazing sights. We continue with Herod's mountain-top palace/fortress, and I'll show you how it is really fit for a king. We will learn about how water was brought to this isolated spot, how an entire administrative complex with palaces and gardens was built and why Herod chose to be buried there. We will see the remains of a mausoleum on the side of the mountain (discovered in 2009 by Prof Ehud Netzer) and a small theater where Herod entertained. I will put the life of King Herod, the history of the Second Temple period, just before the time of Jesus in perspective and explain the architecture and archaeology of an incredible site. A tour not to be missed!
Recent Reviews
Stan H.United States
Shmuel was extremely knowledgable and enthusiastic about showing us the Herodium. It was a highlight of our trip to Israel. I would recommend him without reservation.
Susannah D.United States
Shmuel was definitely the best guide for this trip. Very knowledgeable about the history and archaeology of the site, as well as several other topics that only served to enrich the experience. Would definitely recommend this tour and this guide for anyone interested in the rich history of Israel far beyond your usual tourist experience!
Joan P.Canada
For people who have seen the major sites in Jerusalem and are looking to do something different and exciting, this is a total treat. It is not only about King Herod but also delves into Bar Kochba. Shmuel is extremely knowledgeable and we highly recommend this tour with him.
Neil P.Australia
Shmuel gave us a great tour with additional stops that were almost as amazing as the Herodium complex. This is certainly not a run-of-the-mill tour. Definitely recommended.
Edward S.United States
Shmuel was a great guide giving us a fantastic picture of the place and spending time not just in the park, but in the ruins outside the park. He was willing to climb and scramble to show us more. We would recommend him to others and would use him again for other visits.
Your Jerusalem tour itinerary
Meet up at agreed location - Drive to Herodion (1/2 hour) - Tour of lower palace complex outside the park: pool, Monumental building, Roman bath house, mosaics, remains of Byzantine church (~1 hour) - Palace/fortress on mountain top: Triclinium/synagogue, ritual bath, Roman bath with 2000 year old dome (~1 hour) - Tomb area, glacis and newly discovered theater (~1/2 hour) - Water system, tunnels from Great Revolt (66-70CE) and Bar Kokhba revolt (132-135CE) (~1/2 hour) - Drive back to Jerusalem (1/2 hour) Drop off at agreed location This tour can be customised, so please click the 'message guide' button if you would like to discuss further.
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Crossover
I am a licensed chauffeur and transportation to the archaeological park is included in my private car, 2012 Skoda Yeti with air-conditioning or similar. The tour of the site itself is a walking tour of a fascinating archeological site.
What's included
Private Guide
Private Transportation
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Entrance fee to national park: 29 NIS adult, 15 NIS child
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location
Jerusalem, Jerusalem District, Israel
Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide:
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
History
Religious Sites
Tour reference number
984
Languages
English
HebrewActivity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Traveller reviews
5.0
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Jerusalem best suited for?
This private tour in Jerusalem is perfect for travellers who are interested in history, archaeology, and monumental architecture. It's especially suited for those who want to explore King Herod's palace/fortress with a guide who has firsthand excavation experience at the site. The tour is also kid-friendly, making it a great option for families.
Can this private tour in Jerusalem be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
5 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
5 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-3 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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Book with a deposit
If your tour is valued over $200 USD and booked at least 45 days before the tour date, you can book with a deposit!
How it works
- Your credit card will be authorized only for the deposit amount.
- Funds will not be withdrawn until your tour booking is fully processed.
- 30 days before your tour date, the remaining balance is automatically charged.