Answered: Which Birthright Israel trip should I choose?

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There’s not much better than a free trip to Israel. But you only get one, and there are a ton of trip options to choose from. And the organizer of the trip impacts the other people on the trip, where you go, the style of travel, and much more, which makes a big difference in your experience. So how do you figure out the best Birthright trip for you?

There are almost 600 different trips available from 9 organizers! The good news is that there are some easy ways to narrow this down to a manageable number of choices. Don’t get overwhelmed with all of the trip providers and styles of Birthright trips. Instead, start simple by looking at the some of key logistics. Also remember that trips fill up and new trips are added all of the time, so this is a snapshot of the current trips and how the availability might help you choose the right one, and even if things are a little different over time, the same principles apply.

Summary: How Choose a Birthright Israel Trip

When you’re starting to think about your ideal Birthright trip, keep these factors in mind. They’re all important, but you might not be able to find your perfect match. So know that as you’re going through the guide below to help hone in on the right trip, as you make one choice, you may rule out other options — so keep an open mind:

  • Age: How old are you? There are trips targeted towards college students and young professionals (up through age 32, as of 2017, but with limited options)
  • Departure: Where is most convenient to leave from (and does your trip choice offer this departure location?
  • Speciality: Many trip organizers offer trips geared towards specific campuses, communities, professions, outdoor activities, culture, arts, adventure, and religion.
  • Trip Length: Most Birthright trips are 10 days (“the standard”), but all trip organizers also offer 7-day expedited trips. There are also a few organizers who offer extended study abroad trips for 13 days (which include college credit and more in-depth activities)
  • Trip Organizer: There are 9 different organizers to choose among. Some offer similar trips (such as outdoor adventure trips), but others offer something unique. They also each bring their own flavor to the style of trip overall.

Why don’t you start with trip organizers? All my friends talk about their organizer! You’ll notice that we put the trip organizer lasts in this list, and we did it on purpose. BirthrightGuru recommends not starting with the trip organizer — but don’t skip over reviewing completely. We just think that the best way to choose a trip from the hundreds of options is to narrow down the selection with a few basic preferences, see what organizers match up with the smaller pool of choices, and then review them to make a match. You’ll likely find that if you pick a trip that works for you the organizer will be great! There are very few “red flags” with the organizers overall. And if you pick something specialized, like a trip with your campus, community, or personal passion, you’re likely to jive with the organizer too. That said, there are some that have a religious or academic slant, which might not be your top pick, and you might decide it’s worth getting to a different departure city or even traveling without your college friends to try something different.

Oy! So much to consider — but don’t worry

In the end, there is certainly a trip that will match your style! The organizers and the Birthright program overall are interested in making people comfortable on their trip and stress the openness and acceptance of this program to people from diverse backgrounds.

Before you go on, please note! This is a guide focused on US-based travelers, so if you’re thinking about traveling from one of the many other countries with Birthright Israel programs, please don’t limit yourself to this information. Also, no one person has gone on every single Birthright trip with every organizer, so what might seem overly academic to one participant might be just what another is looking. Seek out lots of information, ask questions of the organization, and make sure you find a great fit — we’re here to help with an unbiased, simple guide, and hope you find it useful.

How old are you?

First, start with something really easy: How old are you? All organizers currently offer trips for people who are between 18 and 32 years old (a big jump in 2017 from the previous cutoff of 26), but the choices are limited. There are only 12 trips out of the hundreds of options that cater to people ages 27-32. So if you’re in that range, you have a much easier choice, but also fewer options. If you’re between 18 and 26 you have many more options, so read on to find the best one.

Where do you live (and want to leave from)?

The advantage of having 9 organizers and hundreds of trips across the United States means that there are trips leaving from many big cities, including one that’s likely close to you. It’s a nice improvement over the past where most trips left only from NYC and Miami (and you have to pay to get yourself there)! Plus, it’s an easy way to narrow down the options (with the slight exception of the most specialized trips — more on that later).

Birthright trips leave from 13 different major US cities, covering both costs and the midwest:

  • Los Angeles
  • Philadelphia
  • San Francisco

See a city close to you? Start by checking out the trips that leave from there (and fit your age). You’ll likely save a good amount of money getting to the official Birthright departure location. Don’t always expect a direct flight from your departure location (Chicago, for example has literally no direct flights to Israel). Even without a direct flight, leaving some somewhere close and convenient will give you a much more enjoyable travel itinerary and save a many headaches should some travel problems arise — it’s much better to be traveling with the group and have the resources of Birthright and your trip organizer to reroute and rebook as needed than to be trying to make it to the departure location by yourself (you might get left behind!).

Even with all of those advantages, don’t rule out heading to a different city to leave on your trip. All of the organizers have trips leaving from LA and NYC and many from Miami and Chicago. This is especially true for the speciality trips, so if you’re thinking about a foodie trip or a trip designed specifically for filmmakers from LA, don’t limit by departure!

How long do you have to travel?

Most Birthright trips are 10 days, which is a sweet spot length to see a ton of the country, participate in diverse activities, and make it back in time for classes to start up again after spring break or get back to your office. If you are limited on time, there are also a smaller set of 7-day trips that compress the itinerary. 10 days is ideal because it expands the range of activities and gives more time to experience the local culture, but don’t miss out if 7 days fits best. It’s a small country and you can see a lot in that amount of time. Plus, you’ll be back! You can be out of the office for just one week of work and experience a whole new world before you’re back at your desk.

There are also a few trips from organizers that offer an extended, immersive 13 day experience as a type of mini study abroad. These trips typically have a specific focus and include spending an extended amount of time focused on that topic rather than the typical frenetic pass of a Birthright trip and are also often in partnership with a local Israeli educational institution that is renowned for the topic at hand. A really special choice if you have the time and the interest!

Who do you want to go with?

If you know that you want to travel with other kids from your campus, there are options for many universities (and all are likely to have great departure destinations close to your school!). If you’re a young professional, you also have options to go with other people from your current city. This is a great option if you have friends at school you want to travel with to Israel and means that there are more options to meet and get to know people before your trip and more chances to continue to hang out with people after the trip, compared to a general trip that draws nationally. Finally, there are a few affinity trips, such as those for alumni of particular youth groups. If you have a strong bond with a group of people and you know you want to travel with them, check these out!

Pro tip: Don’t rule out leaving your campus friends behind and traveling on a trip to meet new people — especially if one of the speciality trips matches your interest and works for your logistics. Having a trip match your interests with like-minded people is often the better choice than friends that you see all the time. Use your Israel experience to make some new friends in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Beyond the basics: Speciality Trips

In addition to campus and community trips, many Birthright organizers offer tons of speciality trips. If you find a match with your interests, this is a really special way to travel on Birthright. Speciality trips give you the advantage of going beyond the typical Birthright itinerary with activities that match your passions, and you do it all with like-minded peers.

Worried about missing out on some “must see” stuff in Israel? For better or worse, you’re not going to see it all. If you spend more time relaxing in a Tel Aviv cafe and on the beaches, you’ll have less time to see the sites. If you wait in every line at every historical site, you’ll spend less time soaking up the local culture. It’s a balance. YOu won’t see it all, so don’t try. Birthright Israel is an incredible intro to Israel. Hopefully you’ll want to come back (that’s definitely something the program hopes to achieve!), and when you do, you’ll have the advantage of being there before, having a little more comfort in a foreign country, and you’ll also have checked off a few of the key sites, so you can spend more time on future trips going to the places that you like to visit the most and maybe some off the beaten path.

Important note: Speciality trips are the most likely to change over time, with the few available filling up and maybe even organizers adding a few. Classic trips from each organizer are much more likely to always be available. Check the Birthright website for the most updated availability.

One of the most amazing things about Birthright is that the program is open and accepting of all people who want to travel to Israel, and that includes trips specifically designed for people with any kind of special need. Trips include tours led by guides in sign language, speciality equipment and staff to accommodate comfortably those with special physical needs, and trained staff to ensure the trip is a wonderful experience for all who attend. There is also a trip open to those who are in recovery from addiction, and offers an itinerary through Israel without alcohol but without sacrifice of the spiritual, religious, cultural, and adventures available in the country, along with a unique chance to visit recovery centers in Israel and meet Israeli peers fighting the same challenges.

Outdoor and adventures

One of the most common types of speciality trips amps up the adventure and outdoor activities. Typical activities include hiking (more than the typical trip), rappelling, rafting, paintballing, and biking. There’s even a SCUBA diving trip where participants dive with the Israeli Navy!

Arts & Culture

These trips take the opposite approach from the adventure speciality options and cut back on the outdoor adventures to spend more time in cultural institutions (if you like being inside, this might be a great choice!) and within city limits. You’ll still hit a few of the major sites outside the cities (Israel is a small country, so travel time won’t limit you), but the focus stays on the cultural centers, and substitutes in activities such as jam sessions and workshops with Israeli artists.

The Birthright spiritual speciality trips range from a focus on religion to mysticism to yoga. Trips targeted towards Orthodox Jews offer more time in the most holy sites as well as accommodation for religious travelers (including single-gender trips for participants who feel more comfortable traveling this way)

These trips offer participants the chance to travel with people in the community, including both other participants and the Israelis involved in the programming, and specialized programming, including meeting community activists in Israel, trips to LGBTQ+ organizations, and even a chance to participate in and meet with the organizers of the Tel Aviv Pride Parade!

Israel is an amazing country for foodies, especially if you love the fresh and light flavors in classic mediterranean cuisine.

Professional

Many organizers offer industry-focused trips that cater to young professionals who want to experience Israel with industry peers and a more refined focus than the typical itinerary. Some trips draw from locations across the country with a shared interest, such as the trips focused on social justice and startups and entrepreneurship. Other trips are even more narrow, and take participants from a specific industry in a specific place, such as political insiders from DC, Wall Street bankers, and entertainment pros from Hollywood and LA.

Extended Study Abroad

Study abroad trips are a lesser-known option for Birthright Israel, but worthy of your consideration. These trips are 13 days long, involve a more intensive and focused itinerary, with the opportunity to get deep into a specific topic of interest and the connection to Israel, while earning 3 college credits. There is something here for lots of areas of interest, including diplomacy in the Middle East and counter-terrorism for those interested in geo-politics and the future of the Jewish state in a volatile region, archeology for participants looking to get their hands dirty in the soil of the State of Israel while working alongside historians and anthropologists uncovering the mysteries of the land, and innovation and entrepreneurship for budding startup founders or tech geeks who want to look to the future of Israel and it’s incredible prowess in new technology and product development.

Meet your trip organizer

Now that you know what you’re options are, consider closely the organizer planning the trip. This is critical for every Birthright traveler: Whether you’re limited to a 7-day trip leaving from NYC because you’re 32 and that’s the only option or you’re set on a speciality trip focused on the outdoors, you’ll have multiple trip organizers with similar trips available. And even if you don’t seem to have a lot of choices, make sure you check out the organizer and understand the vibe of the trip before committing 100%. If it’s not a good match, it might be worth waiting or changing plans to find a new trip to go on. The organizer makes a huge impact on the trip, and it’s not always clear right up from from the organizer’s name and trip name how the trip will feel once you’re there. It’s worth a few minutes of review.

(Yes, there are some speciality trips that literally only have one trip organizer as an option. Still, check out the organizer a bit more to learn how the trip will go to be sure that the specialized focus is worth any potential downsides. If they’re the only one offering a special trip and you feel strongly about that topic, there’s a good chance that you’ll get along great! Still, check it out below).

First, check out our organizer guide for an unbiased snapshot of the trip organizers and their trip options. Also, keep checking back as we grow our collection of interviews and guest posts from people who travel with the Birthright organizers and report back on their trips as well as our own original research as we learn more about organizers from stories from around the web (we’ll bring them all into one, easy-to-ready place). Also, check out reviews on Facebook, ask friends (and friends of friends about their experiences), and read the marketing materials provided by the organizers. And finally, ask questions of the organizer. All of their contact information is available from the Birthright website, and you’ll be glad you got to know them early on, whether you go on the trip or don’t.

Amazing Israel

Amazing Israel is a seasoned trip organizer and tour company based in Jerusalem. Their focus is on memorable Birthright trips, and they bring their expertise from planning tons of tours in Israel for B’nai Mitzvot, family trips, conferences, and more. Their claim is for “out of the box” Israel trips, but their itinerary is typical of the standard version. Not a problem, but don’t get sold by the marketing only. In reality, they’re a professional tour operator at heart, and should be trusted to provide an excellent trip. Amazing Israel is not affiliated with any religious movement and is vocal about accepting participants from all backgrounds on their trips.

Facebook Reviews: 4.8/5 stars (44 reviews)

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Outdoors/Adventures Entertainment Professionals Urban and Culture

Departures: Boston, Dallas, LA, NYC

Ezra World has roots in a youth movement focused on connecting Russian Jews to their community, and their Birthright trips grew out of the organization as it expanded to new avenues of connecting Jews to their heritage. Now, they points out especially that their staff are all Americans who made the choice to come to Israel, who are now immersed in Israeli society, and who attended the best Israeli tour guide educational programs. Technically, Ezra world is affiliated with the Orthodox Judaism movement, so expect more than the average amount of time spent on religious connections to Israel and Zionism, though the organizers clearly point out that they are open to all participants. Ezra World also offers speciality trips, including a foodie-focused itinerary and a trip organized around world-renowned startups and entrepreneurship in Israel.

Facebook Reviews: 4.3/5 stars (43 reviews)

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Outdoors/Adventures Foodie Startups and Entrepreneurship Single Gender

Departures: Austin, LA, New York

Hillel is a campus-based organization, so their focus is on college students and university-specific trips. If you want to travel with friends from school, there’s a good chance that Hillel is planning a trip leaving from campus (and departing from a nearby big city, unless you’re in the midwest!). They are not limited to college campuses, and offers speciality trips and trips for all ages like the other trip organizers, including one of the most adventurous trips in the entire program: Israel Underwater, which takes participants SCUBA diving in Israel with Israeli Navy divers! Hillel is non-denominational, but definitely a religious organization. They also have a reputation during classic and campus trips for taking more time for deep conversations and learning, rather than focusing on adventure or experiencing the culture. Mostly expect a typical itinerary, with that slight extra focus on religion and activities designed (and sometimes feeling forced) to create meaningful connections among participants and to Israel, in addition to the speciality trips offered by this organizer.

Facebook Reviews: Not reviewed

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Campuses (many!) Underwater: SCUBA dive with Israel Navy divers LGBT Pride Trip to Tel Aviv Pride Parade Yoga and Mindfulness American Sign Language

Departures: Atlanta, LA, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Diego

Israel Outdoors

Israel Outdoors lives up to their name, but also goes so far beyond. On an Israel Outdoors Israel by Foot or Israel by Bike trip, expect more time outdoors, breaking a sweat. They also offer many speciality trips, including multiple extended study abroad, cultural, campus, and accessible trips (the most offerings of any provider). They even offer a one-of-a-kind USA-Argentina joint trip. And all of these trips are offered with departures from the most cities out of all trip organizers. Israel Outdoors is an experienced Israeli tour operator based in Tel Aviv (with offices in Washington, DC), and have earned a reputation for participants who want to travel to Israel and take extra advantage of the incredible natural beauty of the country and the spirit of adventure. As expected, they’re non-denominational and open to participants from all backgrounds.

Facebook Reviews: 4.7/5 stars (98 reviews)

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Campus Study abroad extended trips (diplomacy, archeology) Outdoors/Adventures (biking and hiking) Culture (film and food) Mindfulness and Spirituality LGBTQ Special Needs USA-Argentina Joint Trip Social Justice

Departures: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, LA, Miami, NYC, San Diego, San Francisco, Washington

Mayanot Israel

Mayanot is a unique trip organizer — they’re affiliated with both the academically-oriented Mayanot Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem and the religiously-inclined Chabad. This overlap is definitely their niche: Expect a wonderful tour of Israel on your Birthright trip, with a consistent theme of deep learning and a spiritual connections to the land and to Judaism. You’ll definitely see this priority in their choice of staff. In addition to traditional Israeli tour guides, Mayanot Israel Birthright trips include Jewish educators and rabbis. They’re affiliated with the Orthodox Judaism movement, but open to all participants. This organizer does not offer the most departure options, but they cover the east coast, west coast, and midwest, making their distinctive portfolio of trips very logistically accessible to all those interested.

Facebook Reviews: 4.4/5 stars (116 reviews)

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Campus Extended Study Abroad (counter-terrorism and conflict resolution) Innovation and Entrepreneurship Outdoors/Adventures Vegans and Vegetarians / Animal Rights Single Gender

Departures: Chicago, LA, Miami, NYC

OU Israel Free Spirit

OU Israel Free Spirit is an offshoot of the Orthodox Union, which is the largest Kosher certification organization in the world. But don’t think that all of their trips are about traditional religion and prayer. In fact, Israel Free Spirit is another trip organizer vocal about their acceptance of all participants from all Jewish affiliations, with an extremely diverse selection of trips (with the only downside of only leaving from 3 departure cities). This trip organizer is the only one to offer a trip specifically built for those young adult Jews recovering from substance addiction. In addition to providing a sensitive completely sober experience for the entire trip, this itinerary goes deeper and offers participants a chance to visit and learn about treatment centers in Israel and engage with Israelis going through the same experience. It’s a special opportunity for those who may otherwise feel excluded from Birthright Israel trips. Israel Free Spirit also offers special medical needs trips with special staff, equipment, and itineraries. Fitting with their name, there is also a Kabbalah and Mysticism trip, offering a noteworthy experience for those seeking a spiritual connection to Israel outside of the traditional religions. And if a traditional religious experience is more your speed, there are trips for Modern Orthodox men and women (single gender). Or if your religious experience was connected to the JSU/NCSY youth group movements, they offer an alumni trip to reconnect with friends! Not to be left out, they too offer an adventurous trip and an itinerary focused on arts and culture. Don’t let the name fool you, and be sure to check out OU Israel Free Spirit that may be a great match for you.

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Renewal and Recovery Medical Special Needs Outdoors/Adventures Modern Orthodox Single Gender Kabbalah and Mysticism JSU/NCSY Alumni Arts, Music, and Entertainment

Departures: LA, Miami, NYC

Sachlav Israel on the House

Sachlav Israel on the House is a straightforward, unaffiliated, Israel-based Birthright trip organizer. They fit in a sweet spot for adventurous travelers who shy away from extreme adventure trips, but are looking for a really exciting itinerary. Sachlav Israel on the House has clearly thought through their trip timing, logistics, and plans very well to deliver wonderful experiences. They don’t offer a ton of specialized trips, but they do offer some unique options, including their own take on the LGBTQ experience and a special all-women Modern Orthodox trip with all female IDF soldiers, plus an amped-up adventure option for those looking for more hiking, rappelling, and camping. They also only leave from 3 cities on the coasts, so they might not be the most logistically friendly for all participants.

Facebook Reviews: 4.7/5 stars (106 reviews)

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Outdoors/Adventures LGBTQ All Women Modern Orthodox

Shorashim offers the unique opportunity to spend the entire trip with Israelis by your side. They’re also known for creating top-rated itineraries across a number of speciality trip options and their classic itinerary. Combine their reputation, trip options, and the second highest number of departure cities, and you’re looking at a solid trip organizer for many trip participants for Birthright Israel! Shorashim is another provider to offer extended study abroad options, in this case, focused on Israeli Multiculturalism. Definitely a great option to enhance your learning and overall experience in Israel (plus pickup a few college credits, if useful). They also offer trips focused on LGBTQ with a trip to Tel Aviv Pride Parade, food, outdoor adventures, spiritual self-discovery, and regional industries (including DC politics and Wall Street finance).

Facebook Reviews: 4.7/5 stars (57 reviews)

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Outdoors/Adventures LGBTQ Foodie Culture Spiritual Self-Discovery Regional/Industry Communities (DC politics, Wall Street finance)

Boston, Chicago, LA, Miami New York Washington

Yael Adventures

Yael Adventures has the distinction of being a tour company not just for Israel but for Israelis. In fact, their claim to fame is that they are one of the largest tour companies in Israel for Israeli schools and other institutions. This experience can serve them well when planning Birthright Israel trips, especially if you’re looking for a classic itinerary (they only offer a few specialized trips) with the knowledge that they are not catering to only to the basic touristy spots, but rather to travelers who want a true Israel travel experience with some lesser-known spots. This organizer offers only one specialized trip, designed for those looking for even more adventure on the itinerary (plus the same extreme adventure for women only). They also don’t offer many departure cities.

Facebook Reviews: 4.3/5 stars (38 reviews)

Trips: Classic (10-day and 7-day) Outdoor/Adventures Outdoor/Adventures (women-only)

Departure cities: LA, Miami, NYC

What are you waiting for?

Mazel tov, you made it to the end! You’re now a Birthright Israel expert. So what are you waiting for? We hope this guide was helpful in making a selection about a trip. Now that you have these insights, we hope you feel more prepared to choose a trip. If you are curious about more aspects of traveling to Israel, check out our other blog posts — and share them with your mom or nana if they’re worried about the trip. And don’t delay! A free trip to Israel is an incredible experience, even if you don’t end up on the “perfect” trip. You’ll see a fascinating country, meet amazing people on your trip and Israelis, and eat delicious food. And when you get back, get in touch and tell us how it was!

Ready to sign up? Once you know which trip you want to join, head over to the main Taglit Birthright Israel page and get started.

Answered: Do I need to speak Hebrew to go on a Birthright Israel trip?

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Hillel International

Hillel: birthright israel faqs.

Do you have questions? Get them answered before applying for a life-changing adventure with Hillel: Birthright Israel.

types of birthright trips

Multiple trips depart every week from May–July and December–January. Summer and winter trips leave from New York, Philadelphia, Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles. If you’re traveling with your campus, connect with your Hillel professionals regarding dates. 

You’re responsible for finding and paying for any domestic travel, but not for international travel. Don’t book any domestic travel until you receive a confirmation email from us.

types of birthright trips

Yes, the $360 deposit is fully refundable. The $25 deposit processing fee isn’t refundable. Shortly after your Birthright Israel trip, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to request a refund for your deposit. You’ll also receive a refund if you’re waitlisted or you withdraw prior to the refund deadline for accepted participants (50 days prior to departure). 

Due to the limited number of spots on each trip, we need to ensure that all chosen participants will show up. When an applicant pays the $360* USD deposit, this lets us know that you’re serious about traveling with Birthright Israel and covers any fees that we might incur in the event of a late cancellation. It also helps guarantee that you follow Birthright Israel safety and behavior standards. In extreme cases in which participants violate these guidelines, their deposit may be confiscated.

Read more here

Fill out this form to request a refund, which may take up to two weeks to be processed. For other deposit issues from the United States, email [email protected] with the word DEPOSIT in the subject line and a detailed explanation of the issue in the message.

Besides the $360 refundable deposit and $25 processing fee, travel accommodations are cost-free because of generous donors. However, we suggest bringing $200–$500 USD on the trip to cover the following:

  • One meal a day (roughly $10 USD)
  • Tip for the tour educator, bus driver, and guard (Participants customarily leave a $100 USD tip at the end of the trip.)
  • Gifts and souvenirs

Yes, you can transfer your deposit for up to THREE seasons in the future. For example, if you can no longer make your winter trip, your deposit can go toward a trip next summer or next winter.

There’s no catch. You are only responsible for a $360* USD deposit—which you can kindly donate to support future Birthright Israel educational activities or request a refund after successfully completing the program.

Learn more about the gift of Birthright Israel,  click here

types of birthright trips

Traveling with friends

We won’t know who you want to travel with unless you indicate it in your application. Under TRAVEL PREFERENCES (in the Birthright Israel application), list the name of the friend you want to travel with. If your friend has registered for Birthright Israel with Hillel, then their name will automatically populate in the section regarding travel buddies. If their name doesn’t automatically populate, use the space below to provide us with your friend’s name and email so we can be in touch with them about registering with Hillel. 

types of birthright trips

There’s a lag time between adding and updating information. This issue should be resolved within 24 hours. If not, submit a help request or call 202-449-6695.

Yes, you can still complete the application. Remember, the passport process takes a few weeks, so build in enough time. As soon as you have your passport information, add it to your application. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your scheduled departure date from Israel .

An important note: The name on your Birthright Israel application MUST MATCH the name on your passport. Exactly. 

Review our “ Extend ” page for more information.

There is a common myth that Birthright Israel programs are funded by just a few donors, but in reality, they are funded by nearly 40,000 donors annually, including tens of thousands alumni, their families, and individual donors from around the world who believe in our mission. The program is also funded by the people of Israel through the government of Israel, The Jewish Agency for Israel, and Jewish communities and Federations.

Absolutely. There is no gift too small to make a difference. The future of the Jewish people is a shared responsibility, and every dollar counts and contributes to a stronger future for us all. To make a donation in support of Birthright Israel, please click  here.

This trip is a gift from Birthright Israel

This trip is a gift from Birthright Israel. The gift of a Birthright Israel trip is made possible thanks to tens of thousands of donors including individual donors and foundations, and alumni and their families that support Birthright Israel Foundation in the United States as well as the people of Israel through the Government of Israel, and Jewish communities and Federations around the world.

clock This article was published more than  2 years ago

Birthright to Israel and beyond: 7 trips to explore your roots

Travelers can apply for funding to visit everywhere from west africa to croatia.

types of birthright trips

Travel restrictions are easing around the world, but the coronavirus pandemic continues to shape decisions on where, when and how to travel. Sarah Kline, the owner of the travel agency Time For Travel , said the emotional weight of the past few years has brought on an uptick in requests for trips that feel more significant than the average getaway.

“[Clients] would like experiences that renew their sense of well-being,” she said. “We all want to engage in personally meaningful things and not just walk the beaten path.”

Traveling to learn more about your roots is one example. Depending on your heritage (and often your age) you may even qualify to travel free — or with a big discount. “Birthright” trips are government- or nonprofit-funded programs that aim to strengthen foreign ties to a country’s culture and history. That means participants will see a place through the lens of the sponsor — which could be a pro or a con depending on personal politics.

Here are seven programs that cover costs for people interested in learning more about their ancestral cultures.

8 ways to find free or subsidized travel in 2022

For many people, the “birthright” trip is synonymous with Israel. Birthright Israel has been organizing partially and fully subsidized travel to the country since 1999, and it has inspired cultures around the world to launch similar programs. More than 750,000 members of the Jewish diaspora (defined as having one Jewish birth parent or having converted to Judaism) have since traveled with the program. Participants must be between 18 and 32 years old, among other eligibility requirements .

For seven to 10 days, travelers can visit Jerusalem, where they will see the Western Wall, experience nightlife in Tel Aviv and float in the Dead Sea, among other tours and experiences. Beyond the classic trip, which promises a quintessential experience visiting historic sites, there are trips with themes such as LGBTQ and arts and culture.

Africa (Ghana)

Americans of African descent who are between 13 and 30 can apply for a free 10-day educational trip through Birthright AFRICA . The program encourages participants, called Scholars, to explore their cultural roots while fostering confidence and creativity in an effort to build the next generation of world leaders and entrepreneurs.

Each trip is unique, but they usually include 10 to 16 participants — with a 5-to-1 ratio of scholars to staff — on trips to Ghana, with South Africa also being listed on the website. The program also includes a domestic follow-up trip to key destinations in the United States, such as D.C. or New York.

You aren’t be eligible if you have traveled to an African country after the age of 12. You must also follow @birthrightafrica on Instagram.

People with at least one Croatian-born grandparent can apply to travel with the Domovina Birthright Program , a 16-day subsidized trip that takes those ages 18 to 30 to Croatia . Organized by the Croatian government, the program takes groups of up to 44 people to explore the domovina, or homeland.

There are different themed trips, such as “Narratives of the Croatian People” and “Contemporary Croatia.” The program invites Croatian peers to the tour so participants can learn more about the culture from locals. The trip is partially funded by the government; it costs $1,250, not including airfare, insurance for travel and medical expenses, and incidentals.

Diversifying the face of travel, one TikTok at a time

For members of the Armenian diaspora, Birthright Armenia offers the opportunity to combine travel and volunteering. For nine weeks to one year, participants live with a local family, can take biweekly Armenian-language classes, go on weekend excursions, and attend organized gatherings with program peers and locals.

The program offers a travel reimbursement for your “voluntourism” trip. Depending on how long you stay, you may be eligible for a 100 percent refund.

Applicants must be between 21 and 32 years old and have at least one fully Armenian grandparent, among other requirements .

ReConnect Hungary organizes two-week birthright trips every summer for Americans and Canadians with Hungarian heritage. Focused on culture, traditions and history, the program includes airfare between New York and Budapest , accommodations and meals, plus experiences such as educational lectures and cultural attractions.

Participants will visit thermal baths, Holocaust memorials and synagogues; meet with local business leaders and politicians; take Hungarian language classes; and go on boat tours. They will also have free days.

Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 28. For an older crowd, there is ReConnect Hungary 29+ . To continue their adventure, participants can add on a week through ReConnect Transylvania, an excursion for connecting with the largest Hungarian minority community outside Hungary.

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Let By The Way help you navigate travel dilemmas

Looking for a summer internship? Birthright Macedonia arranges a three-week stay and an internship for people of Macedonian descent. Participants will visit the capital city of Skopje along with Bitola, one of the country’s oldest cities, dating back to the 4th century B.C. They will also take weekend heritage trips to explore areas of the country such as Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Participants must be at least 18 years old and pay for their airfare to Macedonia, travel and medical insurance, and a $750 application fee (applicants who are not accepted will receive a refund). Unless you opt to stay with relatives or pay for alternative accommodations, the program includes housing and meals with a local family.

5 tips for making a postponed trip feel extra special

Greek American college students are welcome to apply for the Heritage Greece Program (HG) , a two-week cultural and educational immersion trip focused on language, history and traditions. Founded by the National Hellenic Society, HG takes place on a 65-acre campus in Agia Paraskevi, a suburb of Athens . Participants will study Greek, visit archaeological sites and museums, travel to an island, and take dancing and cooking classes.

The program covers expenses for tuition, meals and transportation within Greece. Candidates must be American or Canadian citizens of Hellenic descent who are between 18 and 26. According to the application website , that means one or more parents, grandparents or great-grandparents were born in Greece or Cyprus. To be eligible, you must be enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student with a 3.0 GPA and be fully vaccinated for the coronavirus.

More travel tips

Vacation planning: Start with a strategy to maximize days off by taking PTO around holidays. Experts recommend taking multiple short trips for peak happiness . Want to take an ambitious trip? Here are 12 destinations to try this year — without crowds.

Cheap flights: Follow our best advice for scoring low airfare , including setting flight price alerts and subscribing to deal newsletters. If you’re set on an expensive getaway, here’s a plan to save up without straining your credit limit.

Airport chaos: We’ve got advice for every scenario , from canceled flights to lost luggage . Stuck at the rental car counter? These tips can speed up the process. And following these 52 rules of flying should make the experience better for everyone.

Expert advice: Our By The Way Concierge solves readers’ dilemmas , including whether it’s okay to ditch a partner at security, or what happens if you get caught flying with weed . Submit your question here . Or you could look to the gurus: Lonely Planet and Rick Steves .

types of birthright trips

What to Expect from a Birthright Israel Trip

If you’re thinking about applying for a Birthright Israel trip, there might be a heap of questions on your mind. Things like: What’s included in this free trip? Who will be in my group? And is there such a thing as too much hummus? Well if details are what you want, keep reading to find out all you need to know about this free trip to Israel.

How Long is a Birthright Israel Trip?

Great question! Most of our trips last 10 days. We feel that’s plenty of time to explore the country (more here). Short on time? We also offer 7-day trips. If you want to spend more than 10 days in Israel, it’s also possible to extend your trip.

Who Will I Be Traveling With?

You’ll be traveling with other Jewish peers in your age group. We like to bring a range of participants from different places around the USA so you can make new friends you wouldn’t have otherwise had the chance to meet. However, you can also choose to go with your local community or campus. One of the highlights of a Birthright Israel trip is the opportunity to meet Israeli locals who will also join you for a portion of the trip. And of course your bus wouldn’t be complete without staff members, a medic, and a tour educator who will help you make the most of this experience.

What’s on the Itinerary?

There’s so much to do, see, and eat when you’re in Israel. That’s why each day is jam-packed with activities. You’ll explore the bustling street markets in Tel-Aviv, go for a night hike in the desert, and take selfies as you float in the Dead Sea. Some of the highlights also include hiking Masada, visiting the Old City in Jerusalem, and gorging on falafel and hummus. We offer classic trips and themed trips. All trips include the essential sites in Israel, but some experiences and attractions differ depending on the trip organizer and type of trip you choose. Visiting the trip organizer’s website is the best way to learn more about what you can expect on a specific trip.

What’s Included?

Roundtrip airfare, room accommodations, and admission tickets are all included with your Birthright Israel trip. We also cover transportation and two meals a day. All we ask is that you bring along some extra cash for one meal, and of course- any souvenirs to remind you of your amazing trip to Israel. Are you ready for an adventure in Israel? Get started on your application today.

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About the Trip

Since Taglit-Birthright Israel began in December 1999, the program has sent over 650,000 Jewish young adults to Israel from 67 countries, all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and from over 1,000 colleges and Universities.  This gift connects Jews 18-32 around the world to the history, people, and culture of Israel and Judaism.

The gift is made possible thanks to the generous support from many sources:

  • Thousands of individual donors including parents of trip participants, alumni of the program, the program’s founders and other philanthropists, and thousands of individuals donors from around the world who believe in the mission
  • The State of Israel
  • The Jewish Federation system and Keren Hayesod, and the Jewish Agency for Israel.  The Jewish United Fund (JUF) of Metropolitan Chicago is a partner in funding the Birthright Israel trips, and a strong believer in its values.

About Chicago Community Trips

Taglit-Birthright Israel trip organizers offer a number of community trips each round to accommodate the unique interests and talents of the applicants.  Since Birthright’s inception, Chicago has been a pioneer in the concept of community trips, working with our local partner and trip provider,  Shorashim . Shorashim is the provider of the JUF Chicago Community trips, and offers a ten day Mifgash experience.

Mifgash, means encounter  in Hebrew and refers to the meeting between Israeli participants and Diaspora (worldwide) participants. Every Taglit-Birthright Israel trip incorporates Israelis of the same age who join the trips for five to ten days and experience Israel along with their peers from the Diaspora. More than 70,000 Israelis have taken part – 87% of them Israeli soldiers. The rest of the young Israelis who participate are students as well as young professionals as well.

Taglit-Birthright Israel is an umbrella organization that provides the gift of the trip, accredits individual Trip Organizers to run Taglit-Birthright Israel-approved programs and sets down the basic guidelines, standards and security policies by which Trip Organizers must operate. There are usually 12 Taglit-Birthright Israel-accredited Trip Organizers running trips each session (2 sessions each year- Summer and Winter) and you are encouraged to choose the program which best suits the type of experience you're looking for.

Our Trip Organizers represent a variety of religious movements and Zionist ideologies. All Taglit-Birthright Israel programs will provide opportunities for participants to celebrate Jewish life together.

Trip Organizers are organizations, institutions and establishments who are approved by Taglit-Birthright Israel to operate trips.  You can view all other  trip organizers .

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This trip is a gift from Birthright Israel.

The gift of  a Birthright Israel trip is made possible thanks to tens of thousands of donors including individual donors and foundations, and alumni and their families that support Birtright Israel Foundation in the United States as well as the people of Israel through the Goverment of Israel and Jewish communities and Federations around the world. 

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Israel Outdoors - Free Trip to Israel - With Taglit Birthright Israel

Quest Essentials [7 Days]

Short on time? Experience the must-see highlights Birthright Israel with Israel Outdoors in seven (7) adventure-packed days on Israel Quest Essentials!

Quest Essentials is our solution for travelers who are short on time and long on ambition. Through the course of this 7-day journey, you’ll cover all of the must-see/must-do highlights of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Masada, the Dead Sea, the Galilee, and the Mediterranean Coast — and you’ll be inspired by the remarkable history, beauty and culture of this storied land.

Return home from this rich vacation experience with new cross-cultural friendships and a deeper sense of perspective and meaning.

LAUNCH YOUR REGISTRATION

You’ll be taken to the Birthright Israel website to register. Remember to select Israel Outdoors  as your trip organizer!

UPCOMING DATES

Explore our trips.

  • Ancient and modern Jerusalem
  • Negev and Judean Deserts
  • Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights
  • Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean Coast
  • The Dead Sea and Masada
  • The mystical city of Tsfat
  • Watch the sunrise from Masada
  • Gain a new perspective at Yad VaShem
  • Celebrate an Israeli-style Shabbat
  • Be inspired by models of co-existence
  • Experience floating in the Dead Sea
  • Tap into the innovative spirit of Tel Aviv
  • Camel trek and desert tent dinner
  • Raft down the Jordan River (summer)
  • Explore archeological tunnels
  • Beach time and night life in Tel Aviv
  • Browse colorful open-air markets
  • Cool off under a desert oasis waterfall
  • Bond with fellow travelers from home
  • Forge friendships with local Israelis
  • Gain insights from your staff team
  • Discover a rich culture and diverse people
  • Experience current events first hand
  • Develop a deeper sense of perspective

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Each itinerary is unique according to your exact dates, the time of year and so many other factors. Browse the sample itinerary below for a taste of the journey that awaits you

types of birthright trips

You’ll meet your group at one of our gateway airports and spend the night above the clouds — and headed to Israel. It won’t be easy, but try to get some rest for the journey ahead!

types of birthright trips

Shalom! And welcome to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport! Today you’ll meet your staff team and the Israelis who will be traveling with your group for the next 7 days, and begin traveling south towards the Negev Desert. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a nature walk to the ancient cisterns and natural springs, and later you’ll go spelunking through a labyrinth of caves in Hirbet Mideras. .

OVERNIGHT: Kibbutz Guest House in the Galilee

types of birthright trips

Wake up long before the sun comes up for your pre-sunrise ascent to Masada via the Roman Ramp (it’s worth the early hours). Explore the desert mountaintop fortress, and then cool off swimming under the desert waterfalls at the Ein Gedi oasis reserve.

And no trip to Israel is complete without a surreal float in the Dead Sea. You’ve got to feel it to believe it! Then travel westwards through the Negev Desert wilderness where you’ll get to ride a camel, enjoy a traditional hafla dinner feast, and then spend the night in an open-air Bedouin tent.

OVERNIGHT: Bedouin Tent, Negev Desert

types of birthright trips

Get ready for a round of selfies, Israel-style – you’re going to be camel trekking! You’ll leave your new dromedary friends and hike into the dramatic landscapes of Eni Avdat before we board the bus to head into the spiritual center of Israel, Jerusalem. You’ll visit the Begin Center and learn more about Menachim Begin’s legacy, and discuss the complex geopolitical situation in Israel.

OVERNIGHT: Jerusalem Hotel

types of birthright trips

You’ll tour the legendary Jewish Quarter and have time for personal reflection at the Western Wall, also known as the Kotel. If it’s summer, you’ll visit the City of David complex and discover the joy of splashing through Hezekiah’s water tunnel; if you’re traveling in winter, you’ll go to the Davidson Center and the Southern Wall excavations.

As the day comes to a close, there’s no better place to get a feel for Jerusalem than the hustle and bustle of the Machane Yehuda open-air market. Local Jerusalemites fill the market just before Shabbat begins. Explore, eat, shop. Take it all in!

Friday night marks the beginning of Shabbat, and we’ll celebrate it together in Jerusalem, the historic center of Jewish life.

types of birthright trips

It’s Shabbat in Jerusalem! If you choose, you can partake in a Shabbat service at a Jerusalem synagogue or celebrate the Day of Rest sleeping in. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon taking a walking tour of Jerusalem’s colorful neighborhoods and having some fun at a local park. You’ll also be able to visit the amazing Israel Museum, home of the Dead Sea Scrolls, and end Shabbat with a Havdallah ceremony to mark the start of the new week.

The stars are out now, and it’s time for a group night out to the famous Ben Yehuda Street pedestrian mall as Jerusalem comes alive.

types of birthright trips

Today begins with a somber visit to the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and Museum, then continue on to Mt. Herzl – Israel’s National Cemetery. You’ll then begin the short drive to Tel Aviv, Israel’s thriving metropolis and home to some of the best nightlife in the world.

OVERNIGHT: Tel Aviv Hotel

types of birthright trips

Before you head home, you’ll learn more about Israel’s dynamic entrepreneurial future at the Birthright Israel Innovation Center and stroll along Tel Aviv’s famous and cosmopolitan Rothschild Street. You’ll visit Independence Hall to get one last perspective on the complexities and history of the founding of the state of Israel before heading off to the Jaffa Seaport. There, ancient vistas and the warm Mediterranean will relax and soothe you, allowing you to absorb all the learning, fun and perspectives from the past week.

Because tonight is also your farewell dinner and closing session, where you’ll have a chance to process everything that you’ve experienced – and make plans to keep in touch with all the amazing people you’ve met on your time in Israel.

OVERNIGHT: Bedouin Tent, Negev Desert

types of birthright trips

You’re flying over the sea now and back home after 10 amazing days with Israel Outdoors. During your time in Israel, you’ve been challenged by new ideas, discovered an extraordinary culture, and are returning home with a renewed understanding of your history.

And once you’re home, there’s still more to discover.   Explore your post-trip options .

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Ten things i’ve learned by staffing 10 birthright trips.

  • | September 26, 2019

types of birthright trips

I’m a practicing attorney with a fire in my soul that burns for the Jewish people and Israel. And I’m obsessed with Birthright. Taglit-Birthright Israel is famous for offering a free trip to Israel for any Jew ages 18-32. Each Birthright group of approximately 40 participants is assigned a tour guide, two American staff, a medic/security guard and bus driver. Over the course of the past six years in addition to managing Rosenblum Law, I’ve had the merit to staff more than 10 Birthright trips as a volunteer, bringing groups of young Jews to Israel for seven to 10 days at a time. I’ve staffed several trips of each age group (18-22, 22-26, 27-32) across multiple trip providers. I’m also a Birthright Fellow. Here are some of my takeaways from the varied experiences that I’ve had:

1. It’s not all about having fun. Birthright Israel has often gotten a bad rap for being a “party trip,” nothing more than an opportunity for Jewish youngsters to party hard on a free trip. While it’s undeniable that certain participants do come on the trip with this as a motive, in general there are many (low-cost, if not free) options that college students have if that’s their primary goal. Birthright trips are structured to give participants a good time, but the majority of the itinerary is focused on education, not partying.

2. There is no “right-wing” agenda. Left-wing groups such as J Street and IfNotNow have made significant efforts to deter young Jews from going on Birthright. Their claim is that Birthright presents a myopic, unbalanced viewpoint that is intended to delegitimize (or at least ignore) the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In my personal experience, this couldn’t be farther from the truth. The tour guides I’ve had have been balanced, straightforward and open to any question or issue raised by the participants. Every trip includes a geopolitical lecture in which timely issues are addressed, which also gives participants an opportunity to ask questions in an open forum.

3. Age matters. Birthright trips are roughly divided between three age groups (18-22, 22-26, 27-32). There are vast differences between the various age groups in terms of engagement. In general, the older the participant, the greater the level of engagement. While some have criticized Birthright for expanding the upper age limit due to concerns that it would cause younger Jews to procrastinate, it’s clear that expanding the limit not only gave participants who had “aged out” a second chance, but it also meant giving more mature and engaged individuals an opportunity for a meaningful experience.

4. Distance is a plus. One of the greatest challenges facing educators today is the significant number of distractions, technological and otherwise. It’s very difficult to expect sustained focus in this day and age. However, bringing an individual across several time zones and immersing them in a different culture and language helps reduce that challenge significantly. While participants still do bring their phones to Israel, the itinerary is packed and gives participants a more appealing alternative to their digital screens (especially if the tour guide is engaging!).

5. The tour guide and American staff can make a huge difference. Just as with teachers, Birthright tour guides (or “tour educators” in Birthright parlance) can vary. Some are more articulate, some less. Some are newer and seem to be more invested in giving participants a great experience, and some are more tired and weatherworn, having staffed dozens of trips. Some organizers select U.S. staffers who are very educated in terms of Israel and Judaism, and some have very little background and know very little Hebrew. Birthright Fellows is a training program that aims to better prepare and educate U.S. staffers for their Birthright trips. Yet not all staffers are fellows. Having experienced, educated and spirited staffers can mean a totally different experience for participants than the opposite.

6. The Israeli “mifgash” is often the highlight of the trip. Every Birthright trip is joined by a number of Israeli peers for part (or all) of the Birthright trip. Known as the mifgash, it’s an opportunity for the participants to connect with Israelis of the same age. While at the beginning the contrast seems stark—not just as a result of the language barrier but also the fact that the Israelis have all served (or are currently serving) in the IDF—by the end of the mifgash most participants remark with surprise regarding how similar they really are to their Israeli peers.

7. The seven-day itinerary is limiting, but still better than nothing. Some years ago, Birthright started experimenting with a shorter itinerary, ostensibly intending to make it easier for working participants to come on Birthright and not have to take that much time off from work. Invariably, a shorter itinerary not only means that certain experiences will have to be omitted, it also means that there won’t be as much time to work on group and relationship dynamics.

8. Shabbat and the bar/bat mitzvah ceremony can be very powerful. Not every Jew (and especially these days) has a bar/bat mitzvah and many haven’t ever been in a shul. Some participants have never experienced a Shabbat, and some don’t even know what Shabbat is.

9. The most understated part of Birthright is the idea of community. I’ve been saying for years that if the founders wanted every Jew to have a free trip to Israel, they easily could give everyone a free plane ticket and some travel vouchers to see the sites. The fact that Birthright is a group trip is by design. Many participants don’t have any idea of what a Jewish community (or a community in general) is. I’ve had participants who have said that they were “the only Jew in my high school” and things of that nature. One of the most powerful parts of Birthright is the gelling of the “bus community” into a cohesive unit. Participants feel like they are part of something greater and not just a random Jew living in the isolation of the American exile.

10. Levels of post-trip engagement can vary greatly. A study recently released by Brandeis University found that Birthright has a significant impact (in terms of Jewish identity and connection to Israel) on virtually all types of participants, despite their disparate Jewish identities and backgrounds. I’ve found that this impact varies greatly. Some participants jump right in after the trip and connect with their local JCC, synagogue or Chabad House. Most Birthright groups these days create a WhatsApp group that allows them to stay in touch. These groups are often jammed with 100 messages a day in the days following the trip, yet over time most participants become less active. Yet for others it takes time for that seed that was planted on Birthright to germinate. I’ve had participants who said they never considered marrying Jewish or raising their children Jewish until Birthright.

Rabbi Chananya (Adam) Rosenblum is a practicing attorney who lives in Clifton, New Jersey. He is the principal of Rosenblum Law and www.traffictickets.com , the largest traffic violations law firm in NY and NJ. He is the executive director of the Center for Jewish Outreach and the founder of Jewish programs on multiple college campuses. He is also a Birthright Fellow, having staffed Birthright trips biannually since 2013.

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  1. Birthright Israel Trip Guide in 2020

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  2. What happens on a Birthright trip?

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  3. Birthright trips inclusive of everyone

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  4. Israel Birthright Trip Part 3

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  5. The Best of Birthright Israel Trips: 2021 Highlights

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  6. mosaic: The Importance of Birthright Trips

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COMMENTS

  1. Answered: Which Birthright Israel trip should I choose?

    There are also a few trips from organizers that offer an extended, immersive 13 day experience as a type of mini study abroad. These trips typically have a specific focus and include spending an extended amount of time focused on that topic rather than the typical frenetic pass of a Birthright trip and are also often in partnership with a local ...

  2. Choose Your Free Israel Trip

    Israel Outdoors. Iconic sites, epic terrain, delicious local eats. Jerusalem, Masada, Dead Sea + lots of TLV time. Inclusive approach alongside new Israeli friends. Browse hundreds of free Birthright Israel trips geared towards a variety of lifestyles and interests. Find the one that's right for you and register today.

  3. A Free Trip to Israel

    This summer, Join over 850,000 participants Birthright Israel invites you to travel to the center of Jewish history for a once-in-a-lifetime 10-day journey. Alongside a diverse community of Jewish and Israeli peers, we'll experience the ancient allure of Jerusalem, take in the stark beauty of the Negev Desert, and channel the innovative spirit of Tel Aviv.

  4. Classic itinerary

    A climb up one of Israel's tallest mountains, is the day's first order of business. Next up is the magical, mystical, and mountainous city of Tzfat. Be inspired by the artwork of Tzfat's Kabbalistic artists. Apply some more sunblock, and go merrily merrily rafting down the cool waters of the Jordan River. Treat.

  5. Choose Your Birthright Israel Trip by Date, Type & Flight

    September 17, 2024. September 27, 2024. Valley Beit Midrash. Los Angeles. 22 - 26. Available. Choose your Birthright Israel adventure with Israel Outdoors. For Jewish young adults (ages 18-32). Select your trip style, date & departure city today!

  6. Sample Itinerary

    Birthright Israel Sample Itinerary. Birthright Israel is an unforgettable educational experience. Though we have evolved over the last two decades, one thing is constant: Birthright Israel is the largest educational program in the history of the Jewish people. In our sample itinerary, you'll see how a typical, 10-day Birthright Israel trip ...

  7. The Free Birthright Israel Trips

    Israel Outdoors is a leading organizer of free Birthright Israel trips for eligible travelers, ages 18-26 - departing from across North America. Travel with Israel Outdoors because our trips are fun, adventurous, and inspiring! Our approach is pluralistic and we encourage open-minded exploration all along the way.

  8. Birthright Israel

    Taglit-Birthright Israel (Hebrew: תגלית), also known as Birthright Israel or simply Birthright, is a free ten-day heritage trip to Israel, Jerusalem, and the Golan Heights for young adults of Jewish heritage between the ages of 18 and 26. The program is sponsored by the Birthright Israel Foundation, whose donors subsidize participation. . Taglit is the Hebrew word for 'discovery'. During ...

  9. OU Israel

    Israel Free Spirit offers different types of Birthright Israel trips to accommodate participants of varying interests. All of our trips are designed to experience Israel to its fullest. We offer a wide variety of niche trips catering to specific interests such as the arts, outdoors, food, and more.

  10. JUF : Birthright Israel : The Trip

    Since Taglit-Birthright Israel began in December 1999, the program has sent over 300,000 Jewish young adults to Israel from 60 countries, all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and from nearly 1,000 colleges and Universities. This gift connects Jews 18-26 around the world to the history, people, and culture of Israel and Judaism. The gift is made possible thanks to the generous support ...

  11. The Best of Birthright Israel Trips: 2021 Highlights

    The Best of Birthright Israel Trips: 2021 Highlights. The year 2021 came with its highs and lows, but for young Jewish adults, Birthright Israel was the peak. Despite a global pandemic, the trip prevailed and ensured the gift was there when young adults needed it most. Many signed up with a desire to reconnect with each other after long periods ...

  12. Hillel: Birthright Israel FAQs

    This trip is a gift from Birthright Israel. The gift of a Birthright Israel trip is made possible thanks to tens of thousands of donors including individual donors and foundations, and alumni and their families that support Birthright Israel Foundation in the United States as well as the people of Israel through the Government of Israel, and ...

  13. About the trip| Taglit

    10 incredible days in Israel. Explore the best beaches, trek the deserts, tour ancient sites, and enjoy mouthwatering cuisine. Get up-close and personal with local culture and make memories that will last a lifetime. LEARN MORE >.

  14. Birthright trips: 7 programs for Israel, Europe and Africa

    Israel. Africa (Ghana) Croatia. Armenia. Hungary. Macedonia. Greece. Travel restrictions are easing around the world, but the coronavirus pandemic continues to shape decisions on where, when and ...

  15. What to Expect from a Birthright Israel Trip

    However, you can also choose to go with your local community or campus. One of the highlights of a Birthright Israel trip is the opportunity to meet Israeli locals who will also join you for a portion of the trip. And of course your bus wouldn't be complete without staff members, a medic, and a tour educator who will help you make the most of ...

  16. JUF

    About the Trip. Since Taglit-Birthright Israel began in December 1999, the program has sent over 650,000 Jewish young adults to Israel from 67 countries, all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and from over 1,000 colleges and Universities. This gift connects Jews 18-32 around the world to the history, people, and culture of Israel and Judaism.

  17. MythBuster: Common Misconceptions About Birthright Israel Trips

    We uphold its standing as the historic and eternal homeland of the Jewish people. Within that framework, Birthright Israel refrains from endorsing any political or ideological partisanship. The trip is 100 percent pluralistic, inclusive, and apolitical. Each participant has " an equal place in sharing their voice about Judaism, Israel and ...

  18. trip-options Archive

    The gift of a Birthright Israel trip is made possible thanks to tens of thousands of donors including individual donors and foundations, and alumni and their families that support Birtright Israel Foundation in the United States as well as the people of Israel through the Goverment of Israel and Jewish communities and Federations around the world.

  19. These 6 Other Countries Offer Birthright Trips, Too

    4) Birthright Armenia. Image by birthright israel. Geared toward participants aged 20-32, Birthright Armenia is a longer-term program, with a minimum commitment of four weeks of volunteering. The ...

  20. FAQ

    Birthright Israel is a not-for-profit organization providing the gift of a 10 day educational group trip to Israel for Jewish young adults between the ages of 18 to 26. Today, Birthright Israel is the largest educational tourism organization in the world that has given over 850,000 journeys to the magical state of Israel.

  21. Quest Express [7 days]

    Experience the must-see highlights Birthright Israel with Israel Outdoors in seven (7) adventure-packed days on Israel Quest Essentials! Quest Essentials is our solution for travelers who are short on time and long on ambition. Through the course of this 7-day journey, you'll cover all of the must-see/must-do highlights of Jerusalem, Tel Aviv ...

  22. Ten Things I've Learned by Staffing 10 Birthright Trips

    10. Levels of post-trip engagement can vary greatly. A study recently released by Brandeis University found that Birthright has a significant impact (in terms of Jewish identity and connection to Israel) on virtually all types of participants, despite their disparate Jewish identities and backgrounds. I've found that this impact varies greatly.