ISRAEL FAMILY JOURNEY
Treat your family to Israel’s rich history, modern culture and natural beauty on an 8, 10, or 12-day multi-generational tour with guaranteed dates offered during the summer and winter vacation seasons.
OVERVIEW
Discover the very best of Israel on this pluralistic Jewish travel experience designed for everyone in the family and welcoming to all.
Our carefully crafted itinerary covers Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, Masada, the Judean Desert, the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and Tel Aviv –with plenty of off-the-beaten-path discoveries and delicious meals your family will cherish along the way. Choose from an 8-day, 10-day, or 12-day itinerary, with the option to include a Petra day tour. Our fixed tour dates are scheduled throughout the summer and winter vacation seasons, and we guarantee no more than 30 travelers in a group.
Israel Family Journey is a joint program of BBYO and Authentic Israel (prior involvement with BBYO is not necessary). The program is organized in-house by our staff and led by our elite guides and counselors, allowing us to provide you with a higher level of service, a truly educational experience, and an exceptional value.
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
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- Israel Family Journey | Authentic Israel
CELEBRATING A BAR/BAT MITZVAH?
Traveling to Israel as a family is an especially meaningful way to mark a child’s coming of age. For those who wish to take part, there will be a brief and symbolic ceremony led by our staff in the Galilee (summer) or Masada (winter) to mark the occasion. This brief ceremony does not involve reading from the Torah, and no prior preparation is required. If you are interested in organizing a more traditional ceremony including Torah reading in Jerusalem or elsewhere, there are opportunities to do so before, during or after the tour. Contact us for planning advice, if you wish to be referred to a local rabbi who can design and lead a ceremony that fits your own family’s vision, or if you are seeking “mitzvah project” ideas. Keep in mind that becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah is simply about reaching this milestone age. No ceremony is required in Jewish tradition, and for many families, the mere act of traveling through the Land of Israel together is the most impactful way to celebrate this happy occasion. Mazal tov!
Dates | Cost | Included | Itinerary | FAQs | Register | Preparing
Sign up at least five months in advance to lock in your spot and receive a $100/person discount. All payments are fully refundable up to four months in advance, so your savings are absolutely risk-free.
More Than a Tour
We understand that travel to Israel is unlike any other destination, which is why we offer so much more than expected.
- Hands-on educational touring with a focus on more “experiences” and fewer museums
- Fantastic food! – Enjoy more genuine local flavor and fewer hotel meals
- Programming designed for a wide range of ages with activity options offered
- Led by passionate 24×7 staff and backed by an organization you can count on
- A focus on creating a sense of community and connection as part of a shared journey
- Absolutely no hidden costs, no surprises, and a near all-inclusive package
Program Highlights
For a more detailed view of the program, check out the Program Itinerary
Optional Add-Ons
DATES
HOTEL PACKAGE OPTIONS
CLASSIC HOTELS
- Offered on all dates
- 4-star equivalent hotels
- Centrally located hotels
- Max group size of 30
PREMIUM HOTELS
- Offered on select dates
- Mostly 5-star equivalent hotels
- Centrally located hotels
- Max group size of 30
- View the projected hotels we offer by date along with hotel extension rates
- When more than one hotel package option is offered on the same dates, travelers will be accommodated in separate groups with separate staff teams.
- We reserve the right to consolidate hotel package options on the same dates with a complimentary package upgrade
ROOMING NOTES
Double Occupancy Rooms
- Will be accommodated with either a double bed or two twin-sized beds depending on your rooming request.
Triple Occupancy Rooms
- At least one full-paying traveler is required in the room for the discount to apply for children ages 17 and under.
- Triple rooms are typically standard size rooms and can be configured with either two twin beds and a roll-away bed or one queen-style bed and a roll-away bed.
- No discount applies for triple rooms without a child who is age 17 and under, but in some cases, the room provided will be a larger-sized room.
Quad Occupancy Rooms:
- According to hotel rules, two full-paying travelers and two travelers age 13 and under must be present to qualify for a quad occupancy room and the associated discounts.
- Quad rooms are slightly larger than standard rooms, and they are subject to limited availability. Typical quad rooms have one bathroom and can be configured with either two twin beds and a two-person sofa bed or one queen-style bed and a sofa bed.
Families of four who prefer more space and/or an extra bathroom should opt for two adjoining double rooms, however, no child discounts will apply. - Some hotels may not offer a quad occupancy room, in which case, two double rooms will be provided, and the quad occupancy discount will still apply assuming the age rules are met.
- Quad occupancy rooms have limited availability and are not guaranteed.
TOUR DURATION OPTIONS
Israel Family Journey can be experienced as an 8, 10, or 12-day tour. Here’s how it works:
TOUR ARRIVAL DATE
The program begins at either 12:30pm or 6:30pm at our hotel in Jerusalem on Thursday. Travelers are encouraged to arrive on Wednesday to acclimate and participate in the early touring on Thursday – and an additional Jerusalem hotel night is available on Wednesday evening. A complimentary airport transfer is provided on Wednesday or Thursday for flights arriving between 6:00am and 4:20pm.
8-DAY PROGRAM
The 8-day itinerary covers Jerusalem, the Judean Desert, and the Galilee – concluding as we arrive to Tel Aviv on Thursday evening. No hotel in Tel Aviv is included on Thursday night unless it is requested as an extra booking.
10-DAY PROGRAM
The 10-day itinerary covers Jerusalem, the Judean Desert, the Galilee, and Tel Aviv. An optional tour of Rosh Hanikrah & Acco is also available as an add-on. The 10-day experience concludes on Saturday evening. No hotel in Tel Aviv is included on Saturday night unless it is requested as an extra booking.
12-DAY PROGRAM
The 12-day itinerary covers Jerusalem, the Judean Desert, the Galilee, Tel Aviv, and Eilat. An optional tour of Petra and/or Rosh Hanikrah & Acco is also available as an add-on. No hotel in Eilat is included on Monday night unless it is requested as an extra booking.
COST
Sign up at least five months in advance to lock in your spot and receive a $100/person discount. All payments are fully refundable up to four months in advance, so your savings are absolutely risk-free.
HOTEL PACKAGE OPTIONS
CLASSIC HOTELS
- Offered on all dates
- 4-star equivalent hotels
- Centrally located hotels
- Max group size of 30
PREMIUM HOTELS
- Offered on select dates
- Mostly 5-star equivalent hotels
- Centrally located hotels
- Max group size of 30
- View the projected hotels we offer by date along with hotel extension rates
- When more than one hotel package option is offered on the same dates, travelers will be accommodated in separate groups with separate staff teams.
- We reserve the right to consolidate hotel package options on the same dates with a complimentary package upgrade
ROOMING NOTES
Double Occupancy Rooms
- Will be accommodated with either a double bed or two twin-sized beds depending on your rooming request.
Triple Occupancy Rooms
- At least one full-paying traveler is required in the room for the discount to apply for children ages 17 and under.
- Triple rooms are typically standard size rooms and can be configured with either two twin beds and a roll-away bed or one queen-style bed and a roll-away bed.
- No discount applies for triple rooms without a child who is age 17 and under, but in some cases, the room provided will be a larger-sized room.
Quad Occupancy Rooms:
- According to hotel rules, two full-paying travelers and two travelers age 13 and under must be present to qualify for a quad occupancy room and the associated discounts.
- Quad rooms are slightly larger than standard rooms, and they are subject to limited availability. Typical quad rooms have one bathroom and can be configured with either two twin beds and a two-person sofa bed or one queen-style bed and a sofa bed.
Families of four who prefer more space and/or an extra bathroom should opt for two adjoining double rooms, however, no child discounts will apply. - Some hotels may not offer a quad occupancy room, in which case, two double rooms will be provided, and the quad occupancy discount will still apply assuming the age rules are met.
- Quad occupancy rooms have limited availability and are not guaranteed.
TOUR DURATION OPTIONS
Israel Family Journey can be experienced as an 8, 10, or 12-day tour. Here’s how it works:
TOUR ARRIVAL DATE
The program begins at either 12:30pm or 6:30pm at our hotel in Jerusalem on Thursday. Travelers are encouraged to arrive on Wednesday to acclimate and participate in the early touring on Thursday – and an additional Jerusalem hotel night is available on Wednesday evening. A complimentary airport transfer is provided on Wednesday or Thursday for flights arriving between 6:00am and 4:20pm.
8-DAY PROGRAM
The 8-day itinerary covers Jerusalem, the Judean Desert, and the Galilee – concluding as we arrive to Tel Aviv on Thursday evening. No hotel in Tel Aviv is included on Thursday night unless it is requested as an extra booking.
10-DAY PROGRAM
The 10-day itinerary covers Jerusalem, the Judean Desert, the Galilee, and Tel Aviv. An optional tour of Rosh Hanikrah & Acco is also available as an add-on. The 10-day experience concludes on Saturday evening. No hotel in Tel Aviv is included on Saturday night unless it is requested as an extra booking.
12-DAY PROGRAM
The 12-day itinerary covers Jerusalem, the Judean Desert, the Galilee, Tel Aviv, and Eilat. An optional tour of Petra and/or Rosh Hanikrah & Acco is also available as an add-on. No hotel in Eilat is included on Monday night unless it is requested as an extra booking.
INCLUDED
Benefit from our no-hidden-costs approach so that you can enjoy your experience to the fullest. Review the official Prep-Trip Prep Guide for even more program information.
What’s Included
Airport Transfer
An airport greeting and private transfer to our Jerusalem hotel is complimentary for travelers arriving by flight to Ben Gurion Airport on the:
- First day of the program (Thursday) between 6:00am–4:20pm
- Day before the program (Wednesday) between 6:00am–4:20pm
HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Centrally located with porterage included
Classic and Premium options offered – Learn More
EDUCATIONAL STAFF
A licensed Israeli guide accompanies the group on 24 x 7 basis*
A youth counselor joins groups with over 25 participants
TOURING BUS
Deluxe motorcoach with AC and an experienced Israeli driver
Saturdays in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv are walking tour days
Two Meals Daily
Including tax and tips at restaurant meals
For those adding the Eilat Extension, only breakfast is included
All Programming
Site entrance fees and all touring experiences noted in the itinerary
A tour of Rosh Hanikrah + Acco is offered as an add-on to Day #10
Israel Sources & Resources Booklet
Preview the booklet in advance of your trip
Applicable Taxes
An additional VAT (tax) applies for Israeli citizens at group hotels
*The Eilat Extension (i.e. Days 11-12) is generally not escorted apart from the optional Petra Day Tour.
What’s Not Included
Get peace of mind with a local health insurance policy and receive medical care without any co-pays, deductibles, or paperwork. LEARN MORE
Prepare for the unexpected with a travel protection plan where children age 17 and under are included at no additional cost with a paid adult. LEARN MORE
Book your flights via a travel agent
Suggested $100-$150 per adult traveler
HOTEL PACKAGE OPTIONS
CLASSIC HOTELS
- Offered on all dates
- 4-star equivalent hotels
- Centrally located hotels
- Max group size of 30
PREMIUM HOTELS
- Offered on select dates
- Mostly 5-star equivalent hotels
- Centrally located hotels
- Max group size of 30
- View the projected hotels we offer by date along with hotel extension rates
- When more than one hotel package option is offered on the same dates, travelers will be accommodated in separate groups with separate staff teams.
- We reserve the right to consolidate hotel package options on the same dates with a complimentary package upgrade
ROOMING NOTES
Double Occupancy Rooms
- Will be accommodated with either a double bed or two twin-sized beds depending on your rooming request.
Triple Occupancy Rooms
- At least one full-paying traveler is required in the room for the discount to apply for children ages 17 and under.
- Triple rooms are typically standard size rooms and can be configured with either two twin beds and a roll-away bed or one queen-style bed and a roll-away bed.
- No discount applies for triple rooms without a child who is age 17 and under, but in some cases, the room provided will be a larger-sized room.
Quad Occupancy Rooms:
- According to hotel rules, two full-paying travelers and two travelers age 13 and under must be present to qualify for a quad occupancy room and the associated discounts.
- Quad rooms are slightly larger than standard rooms, and they are subject to limited availability. Typical quad rooms have one bathroom and can be configured with either two twin beds and a two-person sofa bed or one queen-style bed and a sofa bed.
Families of four who prefer more space and/or an extra bathroom should opt for two adjoining double rooms, however, no child discounts will apply. - Some hotels may not offer a quad occupancy room, in which case, two double rooms will be provided, and the quad occupancy discount will still apply assuming the age rules are met.
- Quad occupancy rooms have limited availability and are not guaranteed.
ITINERARY
Israel Family Journey tells the story of Israel through the lens of Jewish history. We begin where it started in Jerusalem, we follow the path of the Exile to Masada and Galilee, and then we conclude in Tel Aviv celebrating the establishment of modern Israel.
FINAL ITINERARIES MAY VARY ONLY SLIGHTLY AND WILL BE RE-CONFIRMED ABOUT TWO MONTHS PRIOR. VIEW PROJECTED HOTELS BY TOUR DATE.
JUNE, JULY & AUGUST TOURS
Summers in Israel tend to be hot, and our itinerary features more opportunities for swimming, a hands-on archeological dig, rafting on the Jordan River, and more time in the Galilee.
VIEW SUMMER ITINERARY
DAY 1 > THURSDAY: Baruch HaBah – Welcome to Israel!
NOTE: To best acclimate for the journey ahead, travelers are encouraged to arrive at least a day early. Group rates are available at the Jerusalem hotel.
- Arrive at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on your self-booked flight
An airport VIP greeting and complimentary transfer to our Jerusalem hotel is included for all travelers arriving between 6:00am and 4:20pm today and the day before - A complimentary “pre-tour” is available for travelers already in Israel from the night before or travelers arriving to Ben Gurion Airport by 9:30am today
Notify us at least a month in advance if you plan to participate- Pick-up at 12:00pm from our Jerusalem hotel and travel to the bustling open-air Mahane Yehuda Marketplace for lunch on own
- Discover the foundations of Jerusalem at the City of David archaeological park and navigate the Hezekiah water tunnel, fed by a natural spring (pack water shoes, and prepare to get wet!)
- Evening: Get oriented over a welcome dinner at Joy Restaurant in the Mamilla Complex followed by the Tower of David Night Spectacular in the Old City
JERUSALEM
DAY 2 > FRIDAY: The Old City of Jerusalem
- Experience a panoramic introduction to Jerusalem from the Haas Promenade
- Enter the Old City via Zion Gate – Explore the rooftops, alleys and squares of the Jewish Quarter
- Free time for shopping and lunch in the Cardo area of the Jewish Quarter
- Reflections at the Kotel – The Western Wall — and go deep under the Old City in the Kotel Tunnels
- Return to our accommodations – Freshen up, relax, and experience the quiet that descends on Jerusalem before the start of Shabbat
- Option to attend a Kabbalat Shabbat experience at a local synagogue or at the Western Wall
- Evening: Enjoy a festive Shabbat dinner as a group at our hotel
JERUSALEM
DAY 3 > SATURDAY: Shabbat in Jerusalem
- Morning Option: Return to the Old City for a tour of the Christian Quarter and Arab Shuk (bazaar)
- Shabbat lunch is included at our hotel
- Afternoon Option: Jerusalem Beyond the Walls – Montefiore’s Windmill, Yemin Moshe, Mishkenot Sheananim, and the First Jerusalem Train Station Market
- Evening: Discover Jerusalem nightlife at Ben Yehuda Pedestrian Mall, the German Colony, the Russian Compound and beyond (on own)
JERUSALEM
DAY 4 > SUNDAY: Loss & Renewal in Israel
- Docent-led tour of the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Center
Children’s alternative: Tour of the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo - Visit the grounds of the Knesset – Israel’s Parliament Building — and stop for a photo-op at the famous National Menorah
- Pick up new skills on Dig-for-a-Day – A hands-on archaeological workshop at Beit Guvrin National Park
Less active alternative: Tour of Tel Maresha and the Bell Caves - Travel deep into the Judean Desert for a camel riding adventure and a memorable desert tent dinner feast at Kfar Hanokdim encampment
Camel riding is limited to ages 5-67 according to Kfar Hanokdim’s rules - Descend to the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, and check-in to our resort accommodations at Ein Bokek Beach
DEAD SEA
DAY 5 > MONDAY: Adventures in the Judean Desert
- Rise early and summit Masada — Hike the Snake Path or take the cable cars
- Explore and recount the story of Masada – Herod’s desert mountaintop fortress and the bastion of an ancient Jewish rebellion
- Descend Masada via the cable cars and return to our accommodations
- Experience the wonder of effortless floating on the Dead Sea while enjoying our deluxe resort hotel facilities (spa access is available for ages 16+)
- Take a short nature walk to the desert oasis at Ein Gedi National Park and view wild ibex in their natural habitat (time permitting)
- Travel northwards to the Galilee via the Jordan River Valley, part of the vast Syrian-African Rift
- Check-in and dinner at our kibbutz-based hotel accommodations located on shores of the Sea of Galilee
GALILEE
DAY 6 > TUESDAY: Mystics in the Galilee
- Walking tour of ancient Tsfat – The historic center of Jewish mysticism in the Galilee highlands
- Lunch on own and personal exploration time in the Tsfat artists’ colony
- Cool off with relaxed rafting down the upper Jordan River
Less active alternative: Tel Dan archaeological complex - View across Israel’s lush Upper Galilee and Golan regions from the Mitzpe Liran lookout point
- Cruise on the Sea of Galilee followed by a gourmet dinner at Decks Restaurant in Tiberias on the waterfront
GALILEE
DAY 7 > WEDNESDAY: Perspectives from the Golan Heights
- Ascend the Golan Heights, and explore this strategic region on a historical off-road jeep trek
- View Israel’s neighbors and navigate former IDF bunkers at the summit of Mount Ben-Tal, a dormant volcano in the northeast corner of the Golan
- Travel to Ein Kinya village to learn about Druze culture over a traditional lunch
- Free time and/or swimming in the Sea of Galilee and hotel pool
Participants celebrating a B’nai Mitzvah have the opportunity to take part in a brief ceremony here on the banks of the Sea of Galilee - Evening: Dinner on own and personal exploration time in the village of Rosh Pina
GALILEE
DAY 8 > THURSDAY: Along the Mediterranean Coast
- Travel westward from the Galilee toward the Mediterranean Coast
- View Haifa from the Bahai Temple Gardens on the slopes of Mt. Carmel
- Tasting, tour, and lunch at Binyamina Winery with a separate activity for children
- Explore Caesarea – Herod’s Roman-era amphitheater and grand palace ruins along the rugged Mediterranean Coast
- Arrive to Tel Aviv in the early evening, Israel’s cultural and commercial capital
- 10-day tour travelers will check-in to our resort hotel on the coast and enjoy a free evening with dinner on own
- 8-day tour travelers will have limited free time prior to a scheduled transfer to Ben Gurion Airport leaving from our Tel Aviv hotel at 7:30pm
Accommodations in Tel Aviv are not included tonight for 8-day travelers unless otherwise requested (group rates available)
TEL AVIV
DAY 9 > FRIDAY: Building Modern Israel
- Visit the Ayalon Institute – Learn about the story of the Haganah and the quest to create a modern Jewish State at this secret ammunition factory
- Tour the ancient port city of Jaffa and browse the Jaffa Flea Market
- Continue on to explore Tel Aviv’s trendy Rothschild Boulevard, and view Independence Hall where the modern State of Israel was founded
Independence Hall is currently closed for renovations and will re-open in 2020 - Spend the rest of the afternoon celebrating the Tel Aviv spirit at the Nahalat Binyamin street festival and Carmel Market in the historic Neve Tzedek neighborhood
- Program wrap-up and farewells on the beach
- Option to attend an outdoor Kabbalat Shabbat (pluralistic) at the Tel Aviv Port
- Evening: Enjoy a festive Shabbat dinner experience as a group at our hotel
TEL AVIV
DAY 10 > SATURDAY: Shabbat on the Beach
An optional day tour of Acco & Rosh Hanikrah is also offered this day
- Relaxed morning to explore Tel Aviv on your own or enjoy the city’s Mediterranean beach culture
- Shabbat lunch is included at our hotel along with late check-out till 2:00pm
Accommodations are not included tonight unless otherwise requested (group rates available) - Walking Tour — Rabin Square Memorial, HaBimah Theater Grounds, and the classic Bauhaus architecture of Tel Aviv
- Included evening airport transfers:
- Pick-up at 7:30pm for a transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for those traveling home on an overnight return flight
- Pick-up for a transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for those including the Eilat Package (Days #11-12)
Flight schedules vary and typically depart from Tel Aviv between 5:30pm-7:30pm
Acco (Acre) & Rosh Hanikrah Day Tour (Optional)
Eilat & Petra Extension (Optional)
DAY 10 > SATURDAY: Depart for Eilat
- Evening: Travel on a domestic flight to Eilat
- Arrive at Eilat Airport and transfer to our resort accommodations on the Red Sea
Herods Palace, Eilat | Classic & Premium
DAY 11 > SUNDAY: Optional Petra Tour
- Option #1: Relaxed day to enjoy Eilat and the Red Sea
- Option #2: Guided day tour of Petra including lunch (not kosher)
Herods Palace, Eilat | Classic & Premium
DAY 12 > MONDAY: Red Sea Relaxation
- Relaxed day to enjoy Eilat and the Red Sea
Check-out is at 11:00am, however, guests will retain access to hotel facilities all day - Transfer from the hotel to the Eilat Airport for a domestic flight to Ben Gurion Airport*
Accommodations are not included tonight unless otherwise requested (group rates available)
EILAT FLIGHT LOGISTICS
The Eilat Extension (Days #11-12) begins with a 50-minute domestic flight from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on Saturday in the early evening (Day #10), and it ends with a return domestic flight on Monday. If you are departing from Israel immediately after the Eilat Extension, we encourage you to book an international flight that departs between 10:30pm (Monday) and 1:00am the next day (Tuesday).
Unless otherwise requested by the traveler, your domestic flight will be selected by our office according to a schedule that will bring you to Ben Gurion Airport’s international terminal 3-5 hours ahead of your scheduled international flight. If no such domestic flight exists we will contact you with alternate options. Domestic flight delays and airport transfer delays are infrequent but can occur. Any such delay resulting in a missed international flight is the responsibility of the traveler alone, and travel insurance is recommended accordingly.
If you are considering an international return flight that departs Ben Gurion Airport before 1:00pm, keep in mind that there are limited or no early morning flights from Eilat to Tel Aviv, and you will almost definitely need to spend the night before at a Tel Aviv hotel or at a hotel near the airport such as Sadot. Ground transportation is not provided by the program in such scenarios.
We can only book your domestic flights after we first receive your connecting travel plans. Since domestic flight availability is limited, we encourage you to send us your post-Eilat travel plans as soon as possible. If you have any questions about coordinating your international flights, please do not hesitate to contact us. Shortly before the start of the program, we will provide you with a logistics plan based on your personal travel arrangements to and from Eilat.
DECEMBER TOURS
Winters in Israel range from cool to mild, and our itinerary features extra time exploring Haifa, additional experiences in Jerusalem, and a ‘safari tour’ in the Hula migratory bird reserve.
VIEW WINTER ITINERARY
DAY 1 > THURSDAY: Baruch HaBah – Welcome to Israel!
NOTE: To best acclimate for the journey ahead, travelers are encouraged to arrive at least a day early. Group rates are available at the Jerusalem hotel.
- Arrive at Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on your self-booked flight
An airport VIP greeting and complimentary transfer to our Jerusalem hotel is included for all travelers arriving between 6:00am and 4:20pm today and the day before - A complimentary “pre-tour” is available for travelers already in Israel from the night before or travelers arriving to Ben Gurion Airport by 9:30am today
Notify us at least a month in advance if you plan to participate- Pick-up at 12:00pm from our Jerusalem hotel and travel to the bustling open-air Mahane Yehuda Marketplace for lunch on own
- Discover the foundations of Jerusalem at the City of David excavations
- Evening: Get oriented over a welcome dinner at Joy Restaurant in the Mamilla Complex followed by the Tower of David Night Spectacular in the Old City
JERUSALEM
DAY 2 > FRIDAY: The Old City of Jerusalem
- Experience a panoramic introduction to Jerusalem from the Haas Promenade
- Enter the Old City via Zion Gate – Explore the rooftops, alleys, and squares of the Jewish Quarter
- Free time for shopping and lunch in the Cardo area of the Jewish Quarter
- Reflections at the Kotel – The Western Wall — and go deep under the Old City in the Kotel Tunnels
- Return to our accommodations – Freshen up, relax, and experience the quiet that descends on Jerusalem before the start of Shabbat
- Option to attend a Kabbalat Shabbat experience at a local synagogue or at the Western Wall
- Evening: Enjoy a festive Shabbat dinner as a group at our hotel
JERUSALEM
DAY 3 > SATURDAY: Shabbat in Jerusalem
- Morning Option: Return to the Old City for a tour of the Christian Quarter and Arab Shuk (bazaar)
- Shabbat lunch is included at our hotel
- Afternoon Option: Jerusalem Beyond the Walls – Montefiore’s Windmill, Yemin Moshe, Mishkenot Sheananim, and the First Jerusalem Train Station Market
- Evening: Discover Jerusalem nightlife at Ben Yehuda Pedestrian Mall, the German Colony, the Russian Compound, and beyond (on own)
JERUSALEM
DAY 4 > SUNDAY: Loss & Renewal in Israel
- Docent-led tour of the Yad Vashem World Holocaust Remembrance Center
Children’s alternative: Tour of the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo - Visit the grounds of the Knesset – Israel’s Parliament Building — and stop for a photo-op at the famous National Menorah
- Learn about the leaders who shaped the story of modern Israel at Mt. Herzl National Cemetery
- Travel deep into the Judean Desert for a camel riding adventure and a memorable desert tent dinner feast at Eretz Breisheit encampment
- Descend to the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, and check-in to our resort accommodations at Ein Bokek Beach
DEAD SEA
DAY 5 > MONDAY: Adventures in the Judean Desert
- Rise early and summit Masada — Hike the Snake Path or take the cable cars
- Explore and recount the story of Masada – Herod’s desert mountaintop fortress and the bastion of an ancient Jewish rebellion
Participants celebrating a B’nai Mitzvah have the opportunity to take part in a brief ceremony on the summit of Masada - Descend Masada via the cable cars and return to our accommodations
- Experience the wonder of effortless floating on the Dead Sea while enjoying our deluxe resort hotel facilities (spa access is available for ages 16+)
- Take a short nature walk to the desert oasis at Ein Gedi National Park and view wild ibex in their natural habitat (time permitting)
- Travel northwards to the Galilee via the Jordan River Valley, part of the vast Syrian-African Rift
- Check-in and dinner at our kibbutz-based hotel accommodations located on the shores of the Sea of Galilee
GALILEE
DAY 6 > TUESDAY: Mystics in the Galilee
- Explore the Hula Valley migratory bird reserve on a safari wagon tour
- View across Israel’s lush Upper Galilee and Golan regions from the Mitzpe Liran lookout point
- Walking tour of ancient Tsfat – The historic center of Jewish mysticism in the Galilee highlands
- Lunch on own and personal exploration time in the Tsfat artists’ colony
- Sunset cruise on the Sea of Galilee with Israeli dancing followed by a gourmet dinner at Decks Restaurant in Tiberias on the waterfront
GALILEE
DAY 7 > WEDNESDAY: Perspectives from the Golan Heights
- Ascend the Golan and explore the region on a historical off-road jeep trek
- View Israel’s neighbors and navigate former IDF bunkers at the summit of Mount Ben-Tal, a dormant volcano in the northeast corner of the Golan
- Travel to Ein Kinya village to learn about Druze culture over a traditional lunch
- Continue west to Haifa, and check-in to our hotel on the slope of Mount Carmel
- Evening: Dinner on own in the historic German Colony neighborhood of Haifa
HAIFA
DAY 8 > THURSDAY: Along the Mediterranean Coast
- Explore the port city of Haifa and tour the Bahai Temple and Gardens on the slopes of Mount Carmel
- Explore Caesarea – Herod’s Roman-era amphitheater and grand palace ruins along the rugged Mediterranean Coast
- Tasting, tour, and lunch at Binyamina Winery with a separate activity for kids at the solar garden
- Arrive to Tel Aviv in the early evening, Israel’s cultural and commercial capital
- 10-day tour travelers will check-in to our resort hotel on the coast and enjoy a free evening with dinner on own
- 8-day tour travelers will have limited free time prior to a scheduled transfer to Ben Gurion Airport leaving from our Tel Aviv hotel at 7:30pm
Accommodations in Tel Aviv are not included tonight for 8-day travelers unless otherwise requested (group rates available)
TEL AVIV
DAY 9 > FRIDAY: Building Modern Israel
- Visit the Ayalon Institute – Learn about the story of the Haganah and the quest to create a modern Jewish State at this secret ammunition factory
- Tour the ancient port city of Jaffa and browse the Jaffa Flea Market
- Continue on to explore Tel Aviv’s trendy Rothschild Boulevard, and view Independence Hall where the modern State of Israel was founded
Independence Hall is currently closed for renovations and will re-open in 2020 - Spend the rest of the afternoon celebrating the Tel Aviv spirit at the Nahalat Binyamin street festival and Carmel Market in the historic Neve Tzedek neighborhood
- Program wrap-up and farewells on the beach
- Option to attend a Kabbalat Shabbat in Tel Aviv
- Evening: Enjoy a festive Shabbat dinner experience as a group at our hotel
TEL AVIV
DAY 10 > SATURDAY: Shabbat on the Beach
An optional day tour of Acco & Rosh Hanikrah is also offered this day
- Relaxed morning to explore Tel Aviv on your own or enjoy the city’s Mediterranean beach culture
- Shabbat lunch is included at our hotel along with late check-out till 2:00pm
Accommodations are not included tonight unless otherwise requested (group rates available) - Walking Tour — Rabin Square Memorial, HaBimah Theater Grounds, and the classic Bauhaus architecture of Tel Aviv
- Included evening airport transfers:
- Pick-up at 7:30pm for a transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for those traveling home on an overnight return flight
- Pick-up for a transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for those including the Eilat Package (Days #11-12)
Flight schedules vary and typically depart from Tel Aviv between 5:30pm-7:30pm
Acco (Acre) & Rosh Hanikrah Day Tour (Optional)
Eilat & Petra Extension (Optional)
DAY 10 > SATURDAY: Depart for Eilat
- Evening: Travel on a domestic flight to Eilat
- Arrive at Eilat Airport and transfer to our resort accommodations on the Red Sea
Herods Palace, Eilat | Classic & Premium
DAY 11 > SUNDAY: Optional Petra Tour
- Option #1: Relaxed day to enjoy Eilat and the Red Sea
- Option #2: Guided day tour of Petra including lunch (not kosher)
Herods Palace, Eilat | Classic & Premium
DAY 12 > MONDAY: Red Sea Relaxation
- Relaxed day to enjoy Eilat and the Red Sea
Check-out is at 11:00am, however, guests will retain access to hotel facilities all day - Transfer from the hotel to the Eilat Airport for a domestic flight to Ben Gurion Airport*
Accommodations are not included tonight unless otherwise requested (group rates available)
EILAT FLIGHT LOGISTICS
The Eilat Extension (Days #11-12) begins with a 50-minute domestic flight from Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport on Saturday in the early evening (Day #10), and it ends with a return domestic flight on Monday. If you are departing from Israel immediately after the Eilat Extension, we encourage you to book an international flight that departs between 10:30pm (Monday) and 1:00am the next day (Tuesday).
Unless otherwise requested by the traveler, your domestic flight will be selected by our office according to a schedule that will bring you to Ben Gurion Airport’s international terminal 3-5 hours ahead of your scheduled international flight. If no such domestic flight exists we will contact you with alternate options. Domestic flight delays and airport transfer delays are infrequent but can occur. Any such delay resulting in a missed international flight is the responsibility of the traveler alone, and travel insurance is recommended accordingly.
If you are considering an international return flight that departs Ben Gurion Airport before 1:00pm, keep in mind that there are limited or no early morning flights from Eilat to Tel Aviv, and you will almost definitely need to spend the night before at a Tel Aviv hotel or at a hotel near the airport such as Sadot. Ground transportation is not provided by the program in such scenarios.
We can only book your domestic flights after we first receive your connecting travel plans. Since domestic flight availability is limited, we encourage you to send us your post-Eilat travel plans as soon as possible. If you have any questions about coordinating your international flights, please do not hesitate to contact us. Shortly before the start of the program, we will provide you with a logistics plan based on your personal travel arrangements to and from Eilat.
FAQS
You have questions? We’ve got answers! Our most frequently asked questions are answered below, and you can access the official Pre-Trip Prep Guide for even more background about the tour. Contact us if you have additional questions.
How do the 8, 10 or 12-day options work?
Although not formally offered, a 9-day program is possible including a full day of touring in Tel Aviv on Friday. Contact us for additional details.
Who staffs the tour?
NOTE: The Eilat Extension (i.e. Days 11-12) is generally not escorted apart from the optional Petra Day Tour.
How active is the touring?
NOTE: Travelers who wish to take a break can opt-out as needed after coordinating with the guide, and in some cases, we offer less active programming alternatives for those who wish. Travelers requiring walking support or with mobility constraints will not be well accommodated on this program.
How can I incorporate a Bar or Bat Mitzvah as part of the experience?
Traveling to Israel as a family is an especially meaningful way to mark a child’s coming of age. There will be a brief ceremony led by our staff in the Galilee to mark the occasion for those who wish to participate (scheduled during free time). No preparation is required before the tour, and there is no extra cost. If you are interested in organizing a personalized ceremony, there are opportunities to do so before, during or after the tour.
Contact us for planning advice, if you wish to be referred to a local rabbi who can design and lead a ceremony that fits your own family’s vision, or if you are seeking “mitzvah project” ideas. Finally, keep in mind that becoming a Bar or Bat Mitzvah is simply about reaching this traditional Jewish milestone age. No ceremony is required by Jewish law, and for many families, the mere act of traveling through the Land of Israel together is the most appropriate way to celebrate this happy occasion. Mazal tov!
What's the age composition of the group?
How is this a Jewish experience?
How much of a group experience is this?
How all-inclusive is the experience?
How are special dietary needs accommodated?
What's the suggested staff gratuities?
- 1/2 for the guide
- 1/4 for the driver
- 1/4 for the counselor (if applicable)
How do I get ready for the trip?
How should I arrange my travel to and from Israel?
TRAVEL TO ISRAEL
- All participants are expected to make their own air travel arrangements to and from Israel (book your flights via a travel agent). The only international airport in Israel is “Ben Gurion” (airport code: TLV), located just 40 kilometers from Jerusalem (approx.25 miles) and 15 kilometers (approx. 9 miles) from Tel Aviv. Non-stop flights are available from several major North American cities, including NYC, DC, Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Newark, Miami, and Toronto. Many connecting flight options are available via Europe.
- An airport greeting and a private transfer to our Jerusalem hotel are complimentary for anyone arriving at Ben Gurion Airport by flight as follows:
- NOTE: The transfers are private for Israel Family Journey travelers with a maximum wait time of 30 minutes if travelers on multiple flights are to be accommodated together. Due to logistical considerations, this transfer service is only available to travelers arriving at the airport by flight.
- Those travelers arriving outside of these covered times can receive the same airport greeting and transfer service to our hotel in Jerusalem for an additional fee depending on the size of the party (note: the cost of a standard taxi to Jerusalem is $80-$100)
- Travelers arriving at Ben Gurion Airport after 4:20pm on the first day of the program will likely miss the welcome dinner and programming this evening and will be responsible for their own transportation to the restaurant. We do not recommend it!
- Those travelers arriving in Israel early (which we recommend for acclimating in advance of the tour) can be accommodated by prior arrangement at our Jerusalem hotel based on our group rates, which includes breakfast and our standard cancellation terms.
TRAVEL FROM ISRAEL
- At the end of the core program (Thursday or Saturday night), participants will be escorted back to Ben Gurion Airport in time for overnight flights departing between 10:30pm and 1:00am the next day. No hotel is included this evening unless arranged separately.
- Participants booked on return flights outside of this window can be accommodated with an airport transfer by special arrangement, and additional fees will apply (note: taxis from Tel Aviv to Ben Gurion Airport are inexpensive, ubiquitous, and reliable).
- Those travelers extending their stay in Tel Aviv can be accommodated at our beachfront hotel based on our group rates, which include breakfast and our standard cancellation terms.
TRAVEL WITH THE EILAT EXTENSION
For those taking part in the Eilat Extension, we will arrange your connecting domestic flight from Eilat back to Ben Gurion Airport according to your connecting flight departure time. We encourage you to book an international flight that departs between 10:30pm and 1:00am the next day. If you are booked on a flight that departs Ben Gurion Airport after 1:00am you will likely need to spend the night at an airport hotel (additional cost applies) or make separate arrangements.
Those travelers extending their stay in Eilat can be accommodated at the Herods Palace Hotel based on our group rates, which include breakfast and our standard cancellation terms
Can I have a professional book my flights?
What are the passport and visa rules for Israel?
NOTE: If you’re including the Petra in your travels with us, a Jordanian visa and all border crossing fees are included as part of the day tour package.
How do we approach safe travel in Israel?
- Traveling on private transportation only
- Traveling with a licensed Israeli guide at all times who has been trained in security response
- Avoiding travel to areas of heightened concern
- Use of hotels with a guard and a secure area
- 24/7 support from our headquarters office in Israel
- Close coordination with the Israeli security services via the “Situation Room”
- Willingness to modify our programming, staffing structure, and/or overall protocols as needed based on actual conditions where we travel in Israel.
Finally, in the rare event of an acute security event in Israel, we have issued full refunds at our own discretion in the past, and we will continue to do so in the future should we deem the situation appropriate.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us to learn more about our approach to providing travel experiences that are safe, meaningful, and joyous.
REGISTER
Sign up at least five months in advance to lock in your spot and receive a $100/person discount. All payments are fully refundable up to four months in advance, so your savings are risk-free.
Enrollment Terms
Be sure to review these simple enrollment steps and terms
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- To reserve your spot on the program, a $250/person deposit is due at the time of your registration
All program costs are listed in US Dollars - The deposit is fully refundable up to four months in advance of the program start date, after which it is non-refundable
- The balance of payment is due no later than two months in advance of the program start date, after which it is non-refundable
- Cancellations must be made in writing, and we encourage you to consider purchasing travel insurance
Must be issued before your final trip payment is made. Some benefits are only available if your policy is purchased within 21 days of your initial trip registration. - Payment for the deposit may be made by check or credit card, and no credit card fees apply
- Payment for the balance of program costs may be made by check or credit/debit card, however, a 3% processing fee applies for credit/debit card payments, and credit card fees are not refundable
- All program dates are guaranteed, however, participation is subject to limited availability, and excess hotel rooms are typically released within 60 days of the program start date
- Authentic Israel reserves the right to consolidate package options offered on the same dates according to its sole discretion – in such situations, complimentary upgrades will be offered
- Authentic Israel reserves the right to deny acceptance to the program according to its sole discretion
- Special terms apply to the Rosh Hanikrah & Acco Day Tour and the Petra Day Tour as follows:
- Day tour availability is guaranteed up to 60 days prior to the program start date; within 60 days of arrival availability is not guaranteed
- Participants withdrawing from a day tour within 60 days of the program start date will receive a 50% refund provided a cancellation notification is made in writing to Authentic Israel at least five days in advance of the day tour
- To reserve your spot on the program, a $250/person deposit is due at the time of your registration
