America Israel Tours - Trips to Israel

  • Our Company
  • Meet Our Tour Guides
  • Travel Blog
  • Photo Gallery
  • Travel Agents

Our Christian signature tours

  • All Israel Tours
  • Plan a Church Group
  • Christian Tours to Israel
  • Pastor's Fam Tour
  • Jewish Tours to Israel
  • Day Tours to Israel
  • General Tours to Israel

Other Tours

2020 In The Spotlight

  • Before you travel
  • Israel Travel Guide
  • Travel Protection
  • Travel Tips
  • More Reviews

Traveler reviews

2023/2024 JEWISH TOURS TO ISRAEL

Connect with your jewish roots when you travel to israel.

The are our Jewish Tours to Israel

Learn about Jewish history and connect to your roots with these affordable tour packages designed to provide an unforgettable journey to Israel.

The New Jewish Heritage Tour

The New Jewish Heritage Tour

Allow us to help you connect with your Jewish roots when you travel to Israel on our most popular escorted Jewish tour to Israel . Offering a great introduction to the land of Israel, you will take in the beautiful view from Mt. Carmel, visit the center of the Kabala movement in Safed, relax by the Banais Springs, walk through the Old City of Jerusalem, stop at the tomb of King David on Mt. Zion, enjoy the Jewish Quarter, take in the history featured at the Israel Museum and Shrine of the Book, take a solemn journey to Yad Vashem (the memorial to the Holocaust), drive to the Dead Sea through the Judean Desert, where you can relax and absorb the health benefits of the air and water, and enjoy two free days to rest or explore whatever your heart desires.

The In Depth Jewish Heritage Tour

The In Depth Jewish Heritage Tour

For travelers who would like to spend a bit more time in Israel and visit the desert region of southern Israel, this is an ideal choice. Those who join this tour will enjoy all the wonderful sites and experiences that the New Jewish Heritage Tour has to offer, as well as visit the sites off the beaten track of southern Israel including, the Air Force Museum, Ben Gurion’s hut in Sde Boker, the Ramon Crater, the copper mines of Timna Valley, and a visit to a Bedouin village. Located at the southern tip of Israel, Eilat is the perfect place to be for fun in the sun. Travelers will also have the option to cross the border into Jordan and view the spectacular red rock city of Petra.

The Grand Jewish Heritage Tour

The Grand Jewish Heritage Tour

All of the wonderful experiences of the Jewish Heritage tour mentioned above and more! This tour allows you to experience more of the modern sites around Tel Aviv such as Independence Hall, “Mini Israel”, Ayalon Institute, Yad Mordechai, Diaspora museum, Rabin’s Square, Old Jaffa and Neve Tzedek. Travelers on this tour will get a better understanding about Israel’s rebirth as a nation in 1948 as well as experience historically significant sites such as Old Jaffa (an 8,000 year old port), important archaeological sites such as Beit Shean and popular Jewish heritage regions such as Jerusalem, Masada, the Galilee and much more.

The Ultimate Jewish Heritage Tour

The Ultimate Jewish Heritage Tour

The Ultimate Jewish Heritage Tour is an incredibly popular tour for anyone who wishes to explore every inch of Israel from north to south. This tour not only allows you to explore the well known sites of the northern region of Israel, but also gives you the opportunity to visit the sites of the southern region of Israel, such as the Air Force Museum, the Ramon Crater, Ben Gurion’s hut in Sde Boker, the copper mines of Timna Valley, Mamshit, and a Bedouin village. Experience the heart and history of the homeland of the Jewish people when you travel to destinations such as Upper Galilee, Tiberias, the Jordan Valley and all the major modern and ancient sites of Jerusalem.

Read our customer reviews:

Check us out at:.

America Israel Travel, Travel Agency, Calabasas, CA

America Israel Travel

Israel travel packages.

  • Browse Israel Tours
  • Christian Tours
  • Jewish Tours
  • General Tours

AIT Information

  • Request a Quote
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Greece & Turkey Tour
  • Tierra Santa Tours

While we continue to pray for our entire AIT team in Israel, as well as their families and all innocents affected in Israel, we remain thankful for all passengers who returned home with us safely. We will be updating each of our passengers on the status of their October 2023 tours. Please check your email for updates from our Staff, and email or call us at 877-248-8687 with any questions, or if you don’t think you have received an email update(s). We appreciate your patience while we work with our many passengers.

american israel tours

Israel Tours From the United States

Israel Private Group Tours Experts

Noah Tours Ltd. Tour Operator in Israel

Israel Tours from The United Sates with Noah Tours!  Discover the beautiful land of the Bible joining our original Israel tour packages. Explore the ancient sites and the vibrant modern culture of Israel. Noah Tours offers a wide variety of tour packages from The USA to Israel. To request a quote, please  contact us  today.

The Best of Israel 8 Day Tour

8 Days & 7 Nights | Starting every Sunday |  The group is limited to 18 people only!! A tour in Israel for all faiths. It is opening a window over Israel's past and present history, its people and culture. Contact us for our latest offer!

Journey to Israel and Petra 9 Day Tour

9 Days & 8 Nights | Starting every Sunday Visit the highlights of Israel and continue to Magic Petra. One of the true highlights of any tour to the Middle East. Contact us for our latest offer!

The Best of Israel 9 Day Tour

9 Days & 8 Nights | Starting every Sunday   |  The group is limited to 18 people only!!   A tour in Israel for all faiths. Opening a window over Israel's past and present history, its people and culture. Contact us for our latest offer!

The Wonders of Israel, Jordan and Egypt Tour 9 Day Tour

9 Days & 8 Nights | Starting on Sundays Experience a whirlwind tour of 3 countries in 9 days & 8 nights. The tour of a lifetime! Contact us for our latest offer!

The Best of Israel with Underground Jerusalem 10 Day Tour

10 Days & 9 Nights | Starting every Sunday  | The group is limited to 18 people only!! A Jerusalem Focus tour in Israel for all faiths. Opening a window over Israel's past and present history, its people and culture with focus on Jerusalem and the famous Old City. Contact us for our latest offer!

Israel 11 Day Tour with Judean Desert

11 Days & 10 Nights | Starting every Sunday | The group is limited to 18 people only!! A Jerusalem Focus tour in Israel for all faiths.  Opening a window over Israel's past and present history, its people and culture with a focus on Jerusalem and the famous Old City and a Judean Desert Jeep Experience. Contact us for our latest offer!

Discover Israel and Jordan 11 Day Tour

11 Days & 10 Nights | Starting every Sunday In Israel explore the roots of Judeo-Christian Heritage and then tour the top-rated sights in Jordan including Petra. Contact us for our latest offers!

Israel, Jordan and Egypt - Lands of the Bible 12 Day Tour

12 Days & 11 Nights | Starting every Sunday   Tour of the 3 historic countries in 12 days & 11 nights. The tour starts every Sunday year round! Contact us for our latest offer!

Splendors of Israel and Jordan 13 Day Tour

13 Days & 12 Nights | Starting every Sunday    Explore Israel and Jordan on a two week tour. Contact us for our latest offer!

8 Day Jewish Heritage Israel Tour - Small Group Tour

8 Days & 7 Nights  | Starting every Sunday.  This group is limited to 8 people only!! Jewish Heritage Israel Tour. Small Group up to 8 participants only.  A Journey in Israel. Discover incredible traditions and history of the Jewish People. Simply an awersome experience!

Contact us for more details.

Legends of Israel and Egypt 15 Day Tour with the 5 Star Sonesta St George Nile Cruise

15 Days & 14 Nights | Starting every Sunday   Best of Israel and Egypt with the top rated sights in these two unique countries, with the Sonesta St George Nile Cruise. Contact us for our latest offer!

Adventures of Israel, Jordan and Egypt 17 Day Tour with the Sonesta St George Nile Cruise

17 Days & 16 Nights  |  Starting every Sunday   The ultimate tour to the historical sites and famous wonders of the area. The tour goes year round! Contact us for our latest offer!

Mysteries of Israel, Jordan and Egypt 20 Day Tour with the Sonesta St George Nile Cruise

20 Days & 19 Nights | Starting every Sunday   This Amazing 20 Days Israel Jordan & Egypt with with the Sonesta St George Nile Cruise Grand Tour will Become Your Once-In-A-Lifetime Tour!  Contact us for our latest offer!

17 Day Israel Jewish Heritage Tour with Jordan and Egypt - Small Group Tour

17 Days & 16 Nights  |  Starting every Sunday    Limited to 8 participants! A Jewish Heritage Israel Tour with Jordan and Egypt. Small Group up to 8 participants only. Be part of the Jewish Heritage in Israel. Travel to Jordan & Egypt.  Voyage on the luxurious Sonesta St George Nile Cruise. An exhilitrating experience!  Contact us for more details!

ISRAEL MADE SIMPLE

american israel tours

Testimonials

american israel tours

America Israel Tours

american israel tours

  • See all photos

american israel tours

Similar Experiences

american israel tours

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

tanddsx7

America Israel Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Roots Of Your Faith: Holy Land Israel Tours

american israel tours

Member Savings

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

  • Visit Old Jaffa at night, where Peter stayed at the house of Simon the Tanner
  • Visit the impressive Caesarea Maritima, built in honor of Augustus Caesar by Herod the Great (Acts 10 & 25)
  • Visit Mount Carmel, where Elijah issued his challenge to the False Prophets.
  • Explore Megiddo and the Valley of Armageddon (Revelation 16)
  • Experience a breathtaking panoramic view of Nazareth from the top of Mt. Precipice
  • Drive by Cana of Galilee, where Jesus performed his first miracle- the turning of water into wine at a wedding feast (John 2:1-11)
  • Sail on the Sea of Galilee on a wooden boat as the disciples did 2,000 years ago
  • Visit the “Ancient Jesus Boat” at Kibbutz Nof Geonsar
  • Visit Yardenit – the baptismal site on the Jordan River
  • Stand atop the Mount of Beatitudes (Matt. 5-8), where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount

What's this trip about?

Compare to similar trips.

Israel Explorer

Israel Explorer

Discover Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Discover Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Israel Discovery - Small Group, 2022 Small Group

Israel Discovery - Small Group, 2022 Small Group

Immersive Israel

Immersive Israel

Jordan & Israel in 12 days - Hashemite Kingdom & Holy Land Highlights - Superior

Jordan & Israel in 12 days - Hashemite Kingdom & Holy Land Highlights - Superior

Travel themes, destinations, attractions.

  • Historic sightseeing

Trip includes

  • International flights: please call us toll free at (877) 248-8687 to arrange your flights
  • Tips to tour guide, bus driver and hotel staff ($75 total tips per passenger)
  • Lunches daily and last night dinner in Jerusalem on your free day before flight departure
  • Travel Insurance (highly recommended – please call us for travel insurance info)
  • We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance package to protect your travel investment.

View Similar Trips

Mediterranean Sea

Mediterranean Sea

The Best of Israel and Egypt Tour - 15 Days

The Best of Israel and Egypt Tour - 15 Days

The Grand Epic of Egypt, Jordan, and Israel

The Grand Epic of Egypt, Jordan, and Israel

Israel & Jordan: See & Experience it ALL in 10 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Israel & Jordan: See & Experience it ALL in 10 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Best of Egypt, Jordan and Jerusalem Tour

Best of Egypt, Jordan and Jerusalem Tour

Travel Map

Embark on your flight to Israel

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation:  Tel Aviv, Herods Hotel *

Arrival In Israel / Welcome To The Holy Land / Visit Old Jaffa

Arrive at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv.

Meet our representative for your transfer to Herods Hotel.

Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Accommodation: Sea Of Galilee, Leonardo Plaza Tiberias *

Tel Aviv / Coastal Plains / Caesarea / Mt. Carmel / Megiddo / Nazareth / Sea Of Galilee / Tiberias

Meals: Breakfast And Dinner

Sail On The Sea Of Galilee / Jesus Boat / Golan Heights / Upper Galilee / Caesarea Philippi

Accommodation: Herods Hotel, Dead Sea *

Mount Of Beatitudes / Tabgha / Capernaum / Beth Shean / Baptism On The Jordan River / Dead Sea / Free Time To Float & Enjoy The Resort

Take the opportunity to be baptized in the Jordan River (required donation of $10).

Free afternoon to enjoy the Dead sea:

Optional mud, mineral and spa treatments at our 5 star Herods Hotel, Dead Sea

Accommodation: Jerusalem, Leonardo Plaza *

Dead Sea / Masada / Ein Gedi / Qumran / Jerusalem / Mount Of Olives / Garden Of Gethsemane / St. Peter Of Galicantu

Accommodation:  Jerusalem, Leonardo Plaza *

Southern Wall / Southern Steps / Davidson Center / Western Wall / Jewish Quarter / Mt. Zion / Upper Room / Tomb Of King David / Bethlehem / Church Of The Nativity / Garden Tomb

Meals: Breakfast

Check-out and store your luggage by noon.

Enjoy a free day in Jerusalem. Attend church service, shop, dine or revisit any of your favorite sites.

Return to the hotel in the early evening to gather your luggage for our departure transfer back to the airport.

The Western Wall Tunnels, Friends of Zion Heritage Center, the Israel Museum (Holy Land Model / Shrine of the Book) & the City of David. If you would like to visit any of these sites, please ask the host or tour guide.

Complimentary departure transfer from Jerusalem to the airport is provided at the end of the tour on Sunday evening for those taking night flights.

Arrival Back In The United States

Today you will arrive back and start planning your next trip to the Holy Land…

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with America Israel Tours .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Gifts Card

America Israel Tours Reviews & Ratings

This is a trip of a lifetime.

This is a trip of a lifetime. So many sights packed into each day. Loved the swim in the Dead Sea. The guide (Shlomo) was very knowledgeable of the history. The reli...

This tour is wonderful

This tour is wonderful and so full of blessings. It does feel like I have come home in a sense but have never been here before. I know all the places because of His ...

We had an incredible trip

We had an incredible trip. Bruce was our guide and he was as good as it gets. That was said by everyone we spoke to. We learned so much and so many questions were an...

Wonderful experience

The Israel/Jordan Tour through America Israel Tours was a wonderful experience and it began with Pauline and Regan assisting us and all of the help we received along...

Other America Israel Tours Reviews

gia eloshvili

When booking your new transfer at…

When booking your new transfer at GetTransfer.com now you can use Prom...

I am impressed the way I was answered…beyond my expectations

I am impressed the way I was answered by the concerned staff to my questions. T...

Where do I start… From the airport…

Where do I start… From the airport pickup to last drop off at the end everything was perfect. It was so nice not to have worry about if our driver was gonna be there...

See all Other America Israel Tours reviews

Travelers also viewed

Jordan, Israel & Palestine Discovery

Jordan, Israel & Palestine Discovery

Delve Deep: Spain & Portugal 2022

Delve Deep: Spain & Portugal 2022

Best of Botswana Safari

Best of Botswana Safari

Sicily & Amalfi Coast Escape

Sicily & Amalfi Coast Escape

11-day ITALIAN CAMPAIGN TOUR

11-day ITALIAN CAMPAIGN TOUR

Tour operator, america israel tours.

America Israel Tours offer journeys to Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Greece and Rome. Our California office opened in 2004. We are proud to host more than 6,000 happy travellers each year and we have been recognized as one of the most recommended tour operators by the Ministry of Tourism in Israel. We strongly believe that travelling to this biblical destination is much more than a vacation, it's a spiritual journey. This is why we have spent the past 14 years building an outstanding reputation for easy and affordable travel to the Holy Land. Our tour programs include exceptional hotels, luxury transportation, meals and the best tour guides in the industry. In 2016, 2017 and 2018 we received the Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor.

Tweets by AITraveling

Why Travelstride

Find your perfect trip, travel confidently, what's excluded.

  • International flights

Accommodation

7 Breakfasts and 7 Dinners

Become a member

  • Save up to $700 per person
  • Access members-only specials
  • Personalize trip recommendations

Tour Companies

Things to do, itineraries.

Find Us On Facebook

Follow Us On Instagram

Join Our Mailing List

Life-changing Tours Since 1987 - Call Us Toll Free: 800.322.0788

Tours to the Holy Land: Trips & Israel Tour Packages 2024, 2025

"Every place we visited was breathtakingly beautiful, with stunning landscapes and rich historical and cultural heritage. We highly recommend visiting Israel to anyone who wants to experience an unforgettable journey. We had a life-changing time there and are already planning to return." Simon L. and Beatriz G. – Tour to Israel/Egypt/Jordan February 2024 "I had a wonderful time in Israel. I felt while I was there the precautions that were taken for our safety were well in hand. I still got to experience many holy sites and be blessed by walking the path that Jesus walked. Every day was started in prayer, singing, or scripture reading which also extended the blessing of the trip." Quincie L. – Tour to Israel/Egypt/Jordan February 2024

Our Israel tours & Holy Land tours of 9-24 days for the Evangelical Protestant Bible believer are what Pilgrim Tours does best. Prepare yourself for a life-changing journey to walk where Jesus walked and visit Jerusalem, Galilee, & Samaria. Each of our Israel tours is led by a local guide who is an experienced expert on the historical, cultural, scenic, and spiritual history of the Holy Land. If you travel with 10 or more people, a private group tour can easily be arranged. Pilgrim Tours can customize an itinerary to fit your group needs with many options to choose from.

Concerned about safety? As a Christian tour operator, the staff at Pilgrim Tours takes a Biblical perspective regarding the current situation in the Middle East. We do not believe that peace in Israel is something that will occur until the Prince of Peace comes to restore His kingdom. Please do not make a reservation with us based on the hopes of a calm future. If you long for the special blessings only available in Israel, we will take you there. An expert driver and guide will carefully keep you from any areas that could present a problem and treat you to the riches of Israel as our special guest.

Below is a large variety of Israel tour packages departing in 2024 and 2025 year-round.

View Our New Israel Tour Highlights Video! Click Here

Reserve your tour at least 6 months in advance for an early booking discount, groups and parties of 6 or more click here for special rates, scheduled 2024 & 2025 israel tours.

View our Israel tours ranging from 9-24 days.

Take a tour of a lifetime and bring the Bible to life.

Hosted Israel Tours Group Departures

Join these groups on their customized Israel tours.

Featured Sites in Israel

Explore a vast selection of beautiful historical and Biblical locations throughout Israel with our Israel Holy Land tour. You can visit Jerusalem, Galilee, and parts of Samaria, getting the life-changing opportunity to see where Jesus and many other Biblical figures lived and walked. We even offer Holy Land tours that allow you to see the Dead Sea, the Garden Tomb, and the Jordan River Baptism Site. Like all of our Europe tours , our Israel Holy Land tours are led by local guides who have extensive knowledge of the area and its history. If you want to experience the history of Israel and see the Bible come to life, our Holy Land tours give you that opportunity.

The city of Jerusalem offers a unique convergence of Judaism, Christianity, and the Muslim faith. For Christians who visit Jerusalem, you will learn about many stories of the Bible while walking her streets. Many actors in the Bible such as Abraham, King David, King Solomon, the twelve disciples and Jesus all lived, visited, or spent time there. The Passion week of Christ will be highlighted during our stay as we visit the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Western Wall, the Way of Suffering, and the Garden Tomb.

Sea of Galilee

Nowhere in Israel does the Bible come to life more than along the shores of the Sea of Galilee. Pilgrims who visit the Galilee region have the opportunity to imagine what life was like 2,000 years ago and what Jesus and the twelve disciples experienced while fishing on the Sea of Galilee. The peaceful setting and the natural wonders of the Golan Heights to the east and Mt. Arbel to the west make for a great way to start your morning in quiet reflection. During our tour, we explore the Biblical towns of Capernaum, Magdala, and Nazareth and take a meaningful cruise on the Sea of Galilee.

The Dead Sea is not only the lowest and most lifeless lake in the world, but also nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean. Travelers will enjoy the beautiful colors of the blue water and the red mountains of Jordan to the east. Take time to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime Dead Sea “float” either in the sea itself or at one of the warm salt water pools at our hotel. The Dead Sea experience is truly a bucket list visit you won’t want to miss!

Garden Tomb

Our visit to the Garden Tomb and its surrounding gardens is normally one of the highlights of our tour to Israel. The Garden Tomb is a rock-cut tomb in Jerusalem that was unearthed in 1867 and is considered by some Protestants to be the site of the burial and resurrection of Jesus. Our visit offers a unique time of prayer, reflection, communion, and praise, which will be a special life-long memory for many travelers.

Jordan River Baptism Site

The Jordan River Baptist Site or “Yardenit” is a baptism site located along the Jordan River just south of the Sea of Galilee in northern Israel. This site is frequented by Christian Pilgrims who enjoy imagining the setting of the baptism of Jesus. For anyone who would like to be baptized in the Jordan River, Yardenit has been developed to be a peaceful setting with beautiful gardens, clean colored water, changing facilities, showers, and a nice souvenir shop.

Caesarea Philippi

To many Pilgrim travelers, Caesarea Philippi is a special surprise while on their tour. Located along the rushing springs of Mt. Hermon, the beautiful and natural setting is where Jesus asked his disciples “Who do men say that I am?” He asked this question while observing the pagan worship of the god Pan as worshipers offered their sacrifice at the “Gates of Hell.” Our time at Caesarea Philippi is one of many opportunities throughout our tour to see the lessons and message of the Bible come to light in a special way.

Israel Tours: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month for the Holy Land tour?

Taking a trip to Israel during the spring or fall offers the most enjoyable weather of the year but normally has the largest crowds. If you want to enjoy a peaceful tour with fewer crowds, consider visiting between December and February or June and August. We offer Israel and Jordan tours throughout the year, so you can select a trip that works for your schedule.

How many days do you need for a Holy Land tour?

We offer several types of tours of the Holy Land, so the duration of your tour depends on the tour package you choose. The Best of Israel Tour is our most basic offering and includes a Sea of Galilee boat ride, a trip to the Jordan River Baptism Site, the Dead Sea, and many opportunities to walk on the same land Jesus walked on. This is our shortest trip at just 9 or 10 days. Our most involved trips allow you to experience a wide range of historical locations over the course of a few weeks. Egypt tours are included in some of these packages, as well as tours in Greece and other countries. These tours can take up to 24 days, giving you the chance to spend an extended period of time learning about and visiting different parts of the world. From our Turkey tours to all of our Israel Christian tours, all of our tours feature a first-class hotel rating for the country you visit. We do offer some upgraded tours that offer better lodging options. You can review our hotel categories at https://www.pilgrimtours.com/company/hotelcomparison.htm . Check out any of our tours to view a day-by-day itinerary and see what amenities are included with each tour.

What is the dress code in Israel?

The dress code in Israel is different from other parts of the world. There are a few dress code basics you should understand before booking Israel tours: When you’re in Israel, there is no strict dress code. You can wear what you feel comfortable wearing. However, both men and women should try to dress conservatively and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting any of the religious sites throughout Israel. Generally speaking, it’s best to avoid tank tops and shorts. Men need to cover their heads when visiting the Western Wall. Pilgrim Tours provides a Pilgrim Tours ball cap upon arrival in Israel, but you might consider purchasing an affordable kippa that you can bring when you visit Jewish sites. Some places may offer a free kippa, but these are generally low quality. (Women are not required to cover their heads at any sight.) You can figure out what you need to pack and how to dress each day by looking at the itinerary for our Holy Land tours. Guides normally offer guidance on how to dress for the next day while on tour. We also suggest looking at the extended weather forecast as you prepare and pack for your trip.

Is there a lot of walking involved on an Israel Tour?

Our Israel tours do require a significant amount of walking each day and you should be able to walk unassisted 3-4 miles per day on average. Make sure you have a comfortable pair of shoes that provide adequate support. While there are bus and boat rides during these tours, you have to walk quite a bit to explore some of the Biblical sites. Our tour guides normally give the group a few options at sites for those that have physical limitations. One thing to keep in mind is that there are many hills and valleys in Israel which can make walking even more taxing. The amount of walking you have to do may vary based on the tour you take, so look at the itinerary before choosing your tour. The good news is that Israel is a beautiful country to see on foot, and you’ll have several opportunities to sit down and give your feet a rest. As long as you have a good pair of shoes and comfortable clothes, it’s easy to forget about all the walking you’re doing and enjoy the tour.

What passport & visa information do I need for your Israel tours?

U.S. citizens need a valid U.S. passport with at least six months validity beyond their intended stay to enter Israel. Make two photocopies of your passport. Leave one copy at home and carry the other separately from your original. Israel: U.S. and Canadian Citizens do not need a Visa when entering Israel. Non U. S. /Canadian Citizens are responsible to fulfill appropriate entry requirements of destination. Contact your Consulate office for requirements.

What common languages will be spoken during your Israel tours?

Hebrew, Arabic and English.

What currency can I use on your Israel tours?

The U.S. dollar is widely accepted across Israel, and we suggest bringing about $30 for each day you’ll be on tour. U.S. dollars are recommended for use for small purchases and lunches. Lunches typically cost $15-20. It is important to bring about 20 $1 bills as some bathrooms charge a small fee for use. Credit cards may also be used for larger purchases. ATMs in Israel are all connected to European and American banking systems. Please be advised that the ATM machines dispense money in SHEKELS – NOT U.S. DOLLARS. Please notify your bank before traveling overseas.

Do I need to bring a converter for the Israel tour?

Israel uses the European plug with two round pins. You will need to bring along the necessary converters and adapters to operate any 120 volt appliances such as hair dryers and electric razors as well as camera and cell phone chargers. Electricity in Israel is 220 volts 50 Hz.

What is the time zone for your Israel tours?

The time zone for Israel is seven hours ahead of EST and two hours ahead of GMT.

What climate should I expect during your Israel tours?

In Israel the climate is temperate, and temperatures all year-round are reasonable. Israel has two main seasons: winter (from November to March) is cold and rainy in most parts of the country; summer (from April to October) is hot and dry with little or no rainfall. The desert areas can be extremely hot in summer time.

Recent Reviews on Trustpilot, BBB, & Google

View what others are saying about our Israel tours on Trustpilot , BBB , and Google !

5 Stars

"Pilgrim tours is who I'll be recommending people to travel with. We've been trying to get to Israel for two years and finally made it!! Great company from booking to on the ground with great guides. All details taken care of with great hotels, bus, and the best guides!! Wonderful experience!"

"We had a great experience in Israel with Pilgrim Tours. Everything went very well and there were no glitches or problems of any kind. The bus and driver were top notch as were the hotels and daily breakfast buffets. Our tour guide was great as his depth of knowledge of the people, history and languages Israel was quite amazing. We will very likely use Pilgrim again in the future."

"We have toured with Pilgrim Tours three times and what a blessing. Accommodations, excursions, information and food were all high quality. Post pandemic, we were so thankful to return to Israel."

"I couldn't have asked for more for a trip to the Holy Land than what Pilgrim Tours provided me. It was the perfect balance of spiritual reverence, history, geography, and social issues. I am so grateful for the experience that I had on this trip."

"Our church group just returned from taking a "Best of Israel" ten day tour. It was one of the best experiences of my life. I am so glad we chose Pilgrim tours. From our excellent hotel accommodations, to our wonderful tour guide, we enjoyed everything. Our trip exceeded our expectations. I would recommend Pilgrim Tours to anyone who is planning a trip to the Holy Land. We definitely plan to travel with them again."

View some of the sites from our Israel tours!

Sea of Galilee Boat, Israel

Via Sabra Logo - Tours of Israel

Join a Via Sabra Trip!

american israel tours

Embark on an Unforgettable Tour of Israel with Via Sabra

Imagine a journey where every detail is meticulously crafted, every experience is authentic, and every moment is magical. Dive into the heart of Israel with Via Sabra's all-inclusive tour packages and let us weave this dream for you into reality.

With Via Sabra, Israel unfolds like a beautifully written story. Whether you're captivated by its rich heritage, tantalizing cuisine, vibrant culture, or breathtaking landscapes, our expert guides ensure you experience Israel's essence, much like a local would.

Our curated tours for 2023 and 2024, with guaranteed departure dates, showcase some of our most sought-after itineraries. Booking your dream journey is just a click, WhatsApp, or call away. From that moment until your heartfelt goodbye to Israel, we've got you covered.

If our all-inclusive Israel vacation packages don't resonate with your vision, fret not. Reach out , and together, we'll sculpt a bespoke Israeli journey, tailored just for you.

In 2012, Avihai Tsabari birthed Via Sabra with a singular vision: to offer travelers genuine Israeli experiences, interwoven with the country's history, flavors, and soul. Our handpicked, all-inclusive tours cater to varied tastes, desires, and needs, unveiling not just the iconic landmarks but also Israel's best-kept secrets.

What truly distinguishes Via Sabra is our touch: a blend of passion, creativity, and commitment that really immerses you in its magic, ensuring every journey is both memorable and transformative. With us, you’ll see Israel, and feel it, live it, and cherish it. Join us and experience an Israel that will resonate in your heart forever.

Modal title

american israel tours

Want to hear about trips like this one in the future? we send emails considerately

american israel tours

Would you like to stay in touch?

american israel tours

Early bird special - $200 off per person.

Available only between october 1-10, 2021.

Registration for the trip will open on October 1. Fill out this form to be notified when registration for the trip opens, so you can take advantage of early bird special pricing!

Deals of the Week   Bucket List   Up to 50% OFF

Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Israel

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Israel. There are 224 trips to choose from, that range from 2 days in length, up to 15 days. The month with the most departures is October, making it the most popular time to visit Israel.

224 Fully Guided tour packages in Israel with 727 reviews

Jewish Israel Tour Package, 5 Days Tour

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Sightseeing
  • Christmas & New Year

Jewish Israel Tour Package, 5 Days

We love the entire trip and were happy to cover most of the places in Israel and also some places which were not in the original itinerary. The Guides and drivers were very pleasant throughout the day and ready to help if needed.

Jewish Israel Tour Package, 7 Days Tour

Jewish Israel Tour Package, 7 Days

Marvelous, it was a great experience to get a glimpse of God's creation on the Holy Land. A real Blessings. Glory be to God!

Discover Israel Tour

Discover Israel

Excellent tour guides, transportation services, and hotel accommodations. We were able to visit several historical and significant sites, with enough time in the afternoon to roam around and explore the area. Highly recommended!

Heritage of the Holy Land Tour

Heritage of the Holy Land

Mark was great tour leader!

Heritage & Holy Land - 8 days Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Heritage & Holy Land - 8 days

The tour, Heritage and Holy Places was terrific!.We packed an enormous amount into the 8 days, and saw Christian, Jewish, Roman and Byzantine places of great interest. Also the borders of Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. Our tour guide gave us history, commentary and much insight into the history and current situation in Israel, as well as the Abrahamic religions. The hotels were very comfortable and our other travellers became a close group who were lots of fun. My only problem was the weather - I would not recommend travelling in Israel in high summer when the temperature can reach 45C. Thank you for facilitating our tour. Trenna Bridge

The Story of the Israeli State - 10 Days Tour

The Story of the Israeli State - 10 Days

My husband and I had never been to Israel and booked this tour as a “bucket-list” event. Our tour guide, Efraim Native, was the best - he was a history professor, knew philosophy, religion, politics, economics, abd engineering - answering every question we had. He was friendly, helpful and made excellent food recommendations. Our tour covered Tel Aviv (our new favorite city), Haifa, the Golan (do not miss the Hula Nature Preserve), and Jerusalem (Old and New). We added the Masada/Dead Sea tour at the end. Finally, we chose the 5-Star hotel option and stayed in true luxurious accommodations). We will use Tour Radar and Click Tours again!

Past to the Future - The Story of the Israeli State - 11 days Tour

Past to the Future - The Story of the Israeli State - 11 days

Excellent tour so knowledgable will definitely book again
  • 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Galilee, Golan, Caesarea and Nazareth 4 days Tour

Galilee, Golan, Caesarea and Nazareth 4 days

We had a fantastic tour to Galilee, Golan, Caesarea, and Nazareth, the guide Tomer was extraordinarily knowledgeable and answer any questions we had. We highly recommend him for your visit to Israel. The communication and the booking process with the booking-tours company were smooth, and all pickup was on time.

Heritage & Holy Land 5 star - 8 days Tour

Heritage & Holy Land 5 star - 8 days

Jewish Israel Luxury Tour 10 days Tour

Jewish Israel Luxury Tour 10 days

We booked a 10-day Luxury Private tour of Israel. Overall, we enjoyed the trip, but there were some disappointments and several surprises that were not clear in the offering materials. The best part was that the guides were quite good. Our guide on the second day seemed to be willing to stay with us until 7 pm, but we had not energy for that. Perhaps he was paid by the hour! The connections to and from the airports were flawless. One flaw was that none of the guides offered us a map of the country or locations we were visiting. We had to get our bearings on our own. On the first three days, our guides (Gil and Eli) charged us for parking fees and entry fees. Thankfully, you have refunded these fees. We wonder if these two guides were reimbursed by the tour company as well as collecting from us. Our fourth guide (Sarah) paid for all fees. On the last day, Moti also paid for all fees. Our guide on the third day, Gil, skipped the visit to the Dead Sea Scrolls. Instead, he just summarized it verbally while driving past it on the highway. When we said that the visit was on our itinerary, he replied: “It’s optional.” Ha Ha! He evidently wanted to get home early that day, as he dropped us off at our hotel at the Dead Sea at about 2:30 pm. Thus, we did not get the full-day tour for which we paid. Gil had incorrect information about which was our hotel at the Dead Sea, but it was cleared up by phone calls just prior to our arrival. We did not understand that we would have no continuity of service from Bookings. Tour guides picked us up in the morning and returned us to our hotel at the end of the day. We did not have the names of our guides in advance, and were not provided with a telephone number to reach them. As a private tour we were to have some discretion over sites visited. Some guides understood this while others did not. The itinerary in the offering materials for the days in the Galilee made little sense, but our guide (Moti) was able to construct tours that worked. Our major complaint is that you promoted this as a luxury tour, yet there was little luxurious about it. Our Jerusalem and Dead Sea hotels were good. Our Tel Aviv hotel was less than good. Our 3-day kibbutz stay was not good. At the kibbutz, the room was not properly cleaned when we arrived. The TV was tiny and barely functional. We were nowhere near places to eat the evening meal and transportation to/from dinner was not easy. We tipped someone to drive us to and from dinner one night. However, the kibbutz breakfast was excellent. We think you owe us a partial refund for the three nights we spent at the kibbutz. In the evenings, we wanted to watch the French Open tennis at the hotels, but the hotel in Tel Aviv did not offer that channel. Also, at that hotel, I asked at the desk clerk if they could change a 100 NIS bill. The answer: “No.” Also, in that hotel, the thermostat was set to a temperature that was too cold for us, but it COULD NOT be changed. The hotel desk clerk advised with a smile: “You could turn it off.” Though the location was good, the breakfast at that hotel was plentiful but not the best. We added a day trip to Petra, expecting it to be of the same quality as the rest of our trip. Far from it! We traveled on 40-person buses and toured with the same large group. The walking tour was long, and we had to pay $50 for a return golf-cart ride.

Tailor-Made Best Israel Tour with Daily Departure & Private Trip Tour

Tailor-Made Best Israel Tour with Daily Departure & Private Trip

  • Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Tailor-Made Private Israel Tour with Daily Departure Tour

Tailor-Made Private Israel Tour with Daily Departure

Classic Israel & the Palestinian Territories Tour

Classic Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Really enjoyed this tour which showed the highlights of Israel from an historical point of view. It had a great varied itinerary with religious sites, history, culture and scenery. We were fortunate that our driver Henry suggested altering the itinerary to climb Masada first thing in the morning when it was cooler. The views were amazing! Really enjoyed the walking tour of Old Jerusalem. Our guide seemed less knowledgeable than other guides that we have had on past Intrepid tours but our driver helped fill in the gaps.

6 Day Classic Israel Tour Package Tour

6 Day Classic Israel Tour Package

7 Day Jewish Heritage Israel Tour Package Tour

7 Day Jewish Heritage Israel Tour Package

Reviews of fully guided tours in israel.

Ami, Dima and all guides were excellent! And overall very well organized and thanks to Oksana for prompt response!
Very knowledgeable and pleasant guides. Made the days interest and showed a lot of care. Great ambassadors of the company.

Regions in Israel

  • Northern Israel (19)
  • Central Israel (5)

Travel Styles

  • Fully Guided
  • Israel Travel Guide | All You Need to Know

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Geführte Rundreisen in Israel
  • Français: Israël : Circuits entièrement guidés 2024/2025
  • Español: Totalmente guidado Circuitos en Israel
  • Nederlands: Volledig begeleid Rondreizen in Israël
  • Conferences
  • Travel Insurance
  • Travel Tips
  • Group Leader Guide
  • Helpful Links
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Meet The Experts
  • GET INSPIRED
  • Israel Awaits
  • Ayelet’s World Latest Issue
  • Ayelet’s World Past Issues
  • Call Us: 1-800-237-1517
  • Account Login

american israel tours

Ayelet Tours, Ltd.

  • Bar/Bat Mitzvah Tours
  • Ayelet Platinum – Private Israel
  • Ayelet Gold – Private Europe
  • Israel: Jewish Heritage In Depth

Israel Highlights

  • Holy Land Tours
  • Universities
  • Family Tours
  • Jordan/Petra
  • Congregational Tours

This is a long delayed thank-you e-mail and a wish for a very happy & health (& prosperous, too) year! We were on the Israel Heritage tour in May. We loved the experience and found it to be very thorough, professional and powerful. Our tour guide, Doron, was wonderful and really added to an already great itinerary. One day in Jerusalem, my husband (who was not as motivated to go to Israel as I was) said, “I don’t know what we paid for this trip, but this is worth every cent.” That is a real compliment for your agency! We loved the trip so much that we are considering returning to Israel in two years. Thank you again for your help. Sincerely, – Karen & Steve R

Discover Israel’s amazing history and breathtaking beauty on one of our Israel Highlights Tours!

The Israel Highlights tour is our classic, cross-cultural tour of Israel. With several itineraries to choose from, these trips to Israel offer participants a sense of inspiration – from the Tomb of King David at Mt. Zion in Jerusalem, to the vista of the Bahai Temple Gardens atop Haifa’s Mt. Carmel, to Capernaum nestled between the foothills of the Galilee overlooking the Sea of Galilee. Travelers will tour Israel with an outstanding licensed guide, and experience the different cultures that come together in this amazing destination. Israel Highlights tours enable one to see, do, explore, and experience all that this ancient land has to offer. These tours are perfect for travelers who want to learn more about both the ancient and modern history of Israel, as well as increase their understanding of the origins of religious roots – Christian, Jewish, and more.

9 night tour — Trip to Israel

9 Night Israel Highlights Tour

Friday arrivals in israel 2 nights tel aviv * 2 nights galilee * 5 nights jerusalem.

2023-24 FLYER (PDF)

  • September 2023
  • October 2023
  • November 2023
  • December 2023
  • January 2024
  • February 2024

11 night tour — Trip to Israel

11 Night Israel Highlights Tour

Wednesday arrivals in israel 4 nights tel aviv * 2 nights galilee * 5 nights jerusalem.

12 night tour — Trip to Israel

12 Night Israel Highlights Tour

Friday arrivals in israel (same program as 9 night, plus eilat/petra option) 3 total nights tel aviv * 2 nights galilee * 5 nights jerusalem * 2 nights eilat.

14 night tour — Trip to Israel

14 Night Israel Highlights Tour

Wednesday arrivals in israel (same program as 11 night, plus eilat/petra option) 5 total nights tel aviv * 2 nights galilee * 5 nights jerusalem * 2 nights eilat.

Your Full Name (required)

Your Email Address (required)

Your Phone Number

Your Subject —Please choose an option— Israel Community / Congregation Trips B’nai Mitzvah Europe Cuba South America Morocco Other

Choose one of our Israel tours or World Jewish Heritage Tour packages, and rest assured that you’re in good hands! Our expert staff has decades of experience creating one of a kind, life changing tours to Israel and around the world. Connect with Israel and the wider world! To meet your needs, we offer Israel tours focused on Jewish, Christian or General Interest, and our Worldwide Jewish Heritage tours give you access to the best of Jewish travel worldwide. Our journeys take you beyond the typical tourist attractions. Participants on our Israel tours and World Jewish Heritage Tour packages encounter “off the beaten track” cultural destinations, meet with locals and community leaders and hear from leading authorities along the way, ensuring a uniquely enriching and unforgettable experience. Let our experience enrich yours! At Ayelet Tours, each trip is led by a highly experienced guide. With unparalleled knowledge of local culture and history, as well as a passion for teaching and sharing, our guides understand that the enjoyment and comfort of our guests is always the top priority. Many of our tours feature scholars in residence to further enhance these in-depth travel experiences. See how we’ve earned our reputation as the best in the business! From the very first time you contact Ayelet Tours, through the booking process and throughout your travel experience, you’ll find our dedication to customer service is unparalleled. Our number one goal is to ensure your Tour to Israel or World Jewish Heritage Tour is enjoyable and stress free. Because much of our business comes through word of mouth references, we rely on satisfied customers to share their wonderful experiences with friends and family members. That is how we have gained our reputation for excellence, and we strive each and every day to provide our travelers with that same high level of service. Whether you’re interested in traveling with us to Poland, Cuba, Germany, Argentina, China, Spain, or in joining our unparalleled Israel Bar Mitzvah Tours, Israel group tours, or another unique journey, we look forward to helping you plan the experience of a lifetime. At Ayelet Tours, it is our pleasure and passion to share the best in travel with our guests. To find out more about our upcoming tours, please browse through this page and check out our full website. If you have any questions about our packages or destinations, email us at [email protected] , or speak to a real live person by calling 1-800-237-1517.

Join the ayelet tours email list:.

american israel tours

To learn more about the guidelines about travel to Israel - click here

AMERICA ISRAEL TOURS

Sites to significance, itineraries.

  • LATEST INFORMATION AND UPDATES
  • ISRAEL GOVERNMENT TOURISM OFFICES
  • ISRAEL IN THE MEDIA
  • STATISTICS AND RESEARCH

american israel tours

Photographers: Guy Yehieli, Adam Primer, Kfir Boltin, Linnea Andres, Kfir Sivan, Haim Yafim, Dana Fridlander, refael Ben Ari, Itamar Greenberg, Moshik Lindbaum, Ori Ackerman Video Credits: Israeli food channel, National Geographic

  • OFFICIAL BROCHURE
  • TERMS OF USE
  • PRIVACY POLICY

FOR MORE DEALS:

american israel tours

Advertisement

Supported by

U.S. Draft Resolution Would Call for ‘Immediate and Sustained Cease-Fire’

A resolution for the U.N. that American diplomats are circulating was notable for its strong language in seeking a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages.

  • Share full article

The American secretary of state descending the stairs of an Air Force plane as men stand guard on the tarmac.

By Michael Crowley and Thomas Fuller

Michael Crowley reported from Cairo and the Middle East, where he was traveling with the secretary of state, and Thomas Fuller from San Francisco.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, traveling in the Middle East on Thursday, pressed for a halt to fighting in the Gaza Strip as the United States prepared to introduce a resolution at the United Nations on Friday calling for “an immediate and sustained cease-fire.”

The Security Council resolution drafted by the United States contains the strongest language that Washington has supported so far, and was an apparent shift for Israel’s closest ally. In February, the United States vetoed a Council resolution demanding an immediate humanitarian cease-fire.

The new resolution also condemns the Hamas-led attacks on Israel of Oct. 7 that set off the war and the hostage-taking that day, and expresses support for the negotiations to free those still being held in Gaza.

When the United States vetoed the earlier resolution, American officials said they had done so because they were concerned that it could disrupt hostage negotiations. But Biden administration officials have grown more outspoken in recent weeks in their push for a cease-fire, as experts have warned of imminent famine in Gaza and pressure grows for stronger international action.

The resolution being circulated by U.S. diplomats and obtained by The New York Times on Thursday said that the Council “ determines the imperative of an immediate and sustained cease-fire to protect civilians on all sides, allow for the delivery of essential humanitarian assistance, and alleviate humanitarian suffering, and towards that end unequivocally supports ongoing international diplomatic efforts to secure such a cease-fire in connection with the release of all remaining hostages.”

The resolution also notes the “deep concern about the threat of conflict-induced famine and epidemics.”

The call for an “immediate and sustained” cease-fire was markedly stronger language than a draft Security Council resolution that the United States circulated in February, which called for a temporary cease-fire “as soon as practicable.”

The Biden administration also used the resolution to reiterate its opposition to Israel’s planned invasion of the southern Gazan city Rafah, which is packed with war refugees. It expresses “concern that a ground offensive into Rafah would result in further harm to civilians and their further displacement including potentially into neighboring countries.”

In Egypt on Thursday, Mr. Blinken met with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi as well as with several Arab foreign ministers — including those from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan and the Palestinian Authority — to discuss how postwar Gaza could be governed and kept secure.

The group also planned to discuss providing Gazan civilians, trapped in a humanitarian crisis, with more aid.

Mr. Blinken had arrived from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where, in an interview with the Saudi-run news channel Al Hadath , he said that he hoped other countries would back the U.S.-proposed Security Council resolution. “I think that would send a strong message, a strong signal,” he said.

He also said that cease-fire negotiations mediated by Egypt and Qatar between Hamas and Israel were “getting closer” to reaching an agreement. Negotiators have been in Qatar since Monday for the latest round of talks , after several previous attempts ended without a resolution.

On Thursday, Mr. Blinken said obstacles to a deal remained.

“There’s still real challenges,” he said, speaking alongside his Egyptian counterpart at a news conference in Cairo. “We’ve closed the gaps, but there are still gaps.”

Last week, Hamas presented a new proposal that excluded a previous demand that Israel immediately agree to a permanent cease-fire in return for beginning an exchange of hostages for Palestinians in Israeli prisons, according to people familiar with the negotiations. Israeli officials said ahead of this week’s talks that the broad proposal being discussed included a 42-day pause in fighting, in exchange for the release of 40 of the more than 100 hostages believed to be in Gaza.

Mr. Blinken also held a late-night meeting with the Saudi crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, in which he emphasized the Biden administration’s eventual goal of “the establishment of a future Palestinian state with security guarantees for Israel,” the State Department spokesman, Matthew Miller, said in a statement on Thursday.

He said Mr. Blinken and the crown prince had “continued discussions on achieving lasting regional peace and security, including through greater integration among countries in the region and enhanced bilateral cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia.”

The reference was to discussions between the Biden administration and Saudi Arabia about a possible deal in which the kingdom would establish normal diplomatic relations with Israel for the first time. In return, the Saudis have asked the United States for security guarantees, arms sales and backing for a civil nuclear program.

Such a deal would most likely require Israeli support for a path to Palestinian statehood.

Mr. Blinken plans to travel on to Israel , where he will discuss the potential Saudi normalization agreement, as well as ways to protect and deliver more aid to civilians there.

The diplomatic efforts on Thursday came as the Israeli military’s raid on the largest medical center in Gaza stretched into a fourth day. The military said on Thursday that it had killed dozens of people it described as terrorists in the previous 24 hours in and around the hospital, Al-Shifa, in central Gaza.

Israel has staged a series of raids on the hospital. Since the latest attack began on Monday, the Israeli military has reported killing more than 140 people it said were terrorists, far more than in past raids. On Thursday, the military said it had also detained 600 people at the hospital.

Israel has said that Hamas has used the hospital as a command center and concealed weapons and fighters in underground tunnels there.

Reporting was contributed by Victoria Kim , Matthew Mpoke Bigg , Hiba Yazbek and Lauren Leatherby .

Michael Crowley covers the State Department and U.S. foreign policy for The Times. He has reported from nearly three dozen countries and often travels with the secretary of state. More about Michael Crowley

Thomas Fuller , a Page One Correspondent for The Times, writes and rewrites stories for the front page. More about Thomas Fuller

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

The Israeli military said that it had killed several people it described as terrorists  during a raid at Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza, one of Israel’s longest and deadliest such operations since the start of the war.

​​The United States would cut off funding for UNRWA , the main U.N. agency that provides aid to Palestinians in Gaza, under a spending agreement on track to soon become law.

A Power Vacuum: Since the start of the war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has done little to address the power vacuum that would appear after Israeli forces leave Gaza. The risks of inaction are already apparent in Gaza City .

Chuck Schumer’s Speech:  Speaking to the U.S. Senate, the majority leader and highest-ranking Jewish official in the United States branded Netanyahu a major impediment to peace. In an interview, he explained why he felt obligated  to call for new leadership in Israel.

A Tough Balancing Act: Israel has been noticeably out of step with Western nations when it comes to relations with Russia since the invasion of Ukraine. That approach reflects unique security needs that have gained new relevance  since the start of the war in Gaza.

A Struggle for Life’s Basics: Most of Gaza’s population fled to the southern territory of Rafah , hoping to escape the war. As they hunt for food and shelter, a potential Israeli invasion has added to their fears.

Sun Sentinel

Israel ParaSport Center’s ‘Hope in…

Share this:.

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on X (Opens in new window)

Daily e-Edition

Evening e-Edition

  • Election 2024
  • Restaurants
  • Real Estate
  • Things To Do

Florida Jewish Journal Palm Beach Jewish News

Israel parasport center’s ‘hope in motion’ tours west coast.

The Israel ParaSport Center basketball team plays against San Diego's Wolfpack at the Merage JCC of Orange County in Irvine, Calif. in March 2024. Courtesy of David Woolbert

The wheelchair basketball team from Israel ParaSport Center in Ramat Gan is usually Europe-bound in the spring, where they compete against European teams and interact with the local communities.

But this year, the team was assigned to Turkey and the Israel Ministry of Sport — out of concern for the team’s safety and amid heightening tensions between Ankara and Jerusalem – called off the trip. Instead, the Center’s leadership suggested a U.S. exhibition tour, which became the “Hope in Motion Wheelchair Basketball Tour,” bringing the team of 10 players, all of whom have physical disabilities, along with two coaches and other staff, to locations in Southern California and Tucson, Ariz.

The Israel ParaSport Center basketball team plays against San Diego's Wolfpack at the Merage JCC of Orange County in Irvine, Calif. in March 2024.Courtesy of David Woolbert

During the West Coast visit, the team traveled to schools, synagogues and JCCs, meeting and playing with students or other locals. At the Tucson JCC, the team played against University of Arizona, which — members of the leadership told eJewishPhilanthropy, is ranked No. 1 in the U.S. — and Southern Arizona Adaptive Sports Lobos. The team also scrimmaged with the local Angel City Sports LA Hotwheels wheelchair basketball team, hosted at Stephen Wise Temple, the students of which had previously used their tikkun olam (repairing the world) projects to raise funds to purchase wheelchairs for the Center.

Sarah Meisenberg, the Center’s director of international relations, who lives in Israel and is traveling with the team, told eJP that another goal for the tour was to connect with its West Coast supporters.

“We’re looking toward the future and trying to maintain that people-to-people connection and connect with our Jewish diaspora,” Meisenberg said, “because we know that especially since the war, a lot of people feel like they really want to connect with Israel. So we’re hoping to bring a little bit of Israel and our center to the U.S. and to our community.”

Marsha Katz Rothpan, the West Coast regional director of the Center (formerly known as American Friends of Israel Sport Center for the Disabled), said the tour was promoting “the unifying power of sport,” and that it also marked some of the athletes’ first trip to the United States.

The Israel ParaSport Center opened a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2012, but the organization was formed more than 60 years ago in Ramat Gan, a suburb of Tel Aviv.  Today, the Center provides rehabilitative and competitive sports programs as well as social services to more than 3,000 children and adults with disabilities such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis and other conditions.

In addition to wheelchair basketball, the Center’s rehabilitative and competitive parasports include tennis, table tennis, wheelchair rugby, soccer, swimming and goal ball, a paralympic sport resembling soccer, for players with visual impairments.

The Center in Israel has about 108 staff (about 30 are full-time), plus 150-200 volunteers who help out throughout the year. The U.S. organization is based in Chicago and has seven staff members in cities across the country.

The “American Friends” arm of Israel ParaSport Center — helmed by Lori Ann Komisar, the organization’s national president — sent $1.8 million of operating support in 2023, budgeted $2.2 million for 2024, which does not include additional needs following the Oct. 7 terror attacks and ensuing war.

As part of the Center’s post-Oct. 7 $2 million Hope in Motion campaign, the Center raised an additional $260,000 to purchase two free-standing shelters, installed at the Center’s headquarters in January and made wheelchair-accessible “so that everybody feels safe on our campus,” the group’s national director, Jennifer Flink, told eJP.

“Having underground shelters does not make sense for people with disabilities because getting them in an elevator… it just wouldn’t happen. You can’t get them there in 90 seconds [the amount of time between a siren sounding and the rocket’s impact],” Flink said.

The donors who chaired the shelter fundraising effort joined the team for Shabbat dinner in L.A., along with regional leadership, “deepening our relationships and building new ones,” Flink said.

Post-Oct. 7, the Center created a new program —  SHESEK (an acronym for shikum, sport, kehilah, which means “rehabilitation, sport, community”) — one of a handful of official programs to receive funding and provide disabilities services to some of the more than 200,000 people who were displaced by the attacks, many of whom still are.

In a video released last week by Boaz Kramer, the Center’s CEO, who was not on the West Coast tour, announced that center’s team members were going door-to-door in hotels and sites where there were evacuated refugees, offering services, and that the Center was waiting to be approved as an official rehabilitation center of the Israel Defense Forces.

The SHESEK program budget is $445,000 (NIS 1.75 million), with the Israel Social Security Development Fund providing $240,000 (NIS 900,000). The Center is looking for sources to fill in the difference.

Rabbi Erez Sherman of L.A.’s Sinai Temple featured three of the Center’s athletes and their coach as guests on an episode of his “Rabbi on the Sidelines” podcast. Noting that the team includes Christians, Muslims and Jews from varying backgrounds and experiences among its members, Sherman said that the athletes illustrated an important lesson.

“[In the world] everybody’s canceling each other and dividing each other and to see that [athletes] from Russian Armenian and Jewish to Muslim, are all together because of basketball, I know it sounds very simple, but that model is one that I think we can take a lot from and to say that we have to keep living next to our difficulties,” Sherman said.

“We’re religion-blind,” said Flink. “The only thing you need to be a part of [this] community is to have a disability.” The group is multidiverse and multifaith, and all the team members “consider each other brothers,” she added. “If the world were like the Center, we’d have peace. Now is a time we need more teamwork and building together.”

Tal Dagan, who at 17 is the team’s youngest player, was born with cerebral palsy and had started going to the Center for hydrotherapy programs when he was about 3 years old. Dagan told Sherman he loved basketball because “we can win together, and that’s why it’s the sport that gets me excited the most.”

Hakim Kashua, who was born with spina bifida, told Sherman the team was “like my second family and, like, we love each other. We don’t care if you are a Muslim, Christian or a Jew or a Druze,” he said, adding that the players share common goals: “We want to win the games, we want to have fun and we all have disabilities.”

Center board member Lisa Roth, who is based in Los Angeles, said she grew up with the ParaSport Center  — then called the Israel Sports Center for the Disabled — because her mother, Ellen Hershkin, also a past national president of Hadassah — served as one of the Center’s original board members. Over the years, she told eJP, she met many of the athletes, accompanying them on their travels and observing their interactions with the people and places they visited.

“The Center gives people confidence,” Roth said. “It lets kids with disabilities participate in sports that they [otherwise] might not be able to do,” she added. While some players might use crutches or wheelchairs daily, she explained, most don’t, but wouldn’t “be able to run and compete with able-bodied kids. So it’s an equalizer.”

Not all the people served by the Center become parasport Olympians, Roth added. Rehabilitative programs serve other adults and children, and counseling and the facilities are open to the families as well.

Flink said that between 40% and 50% of the Center’s staff members have disabilities of their own, and serve as role models that inspire them toward “achieving goals in life and empowering them to live life without limits. They can lead fulfilling, meaningful lives — just like anyone else — go to college, have a job, have a family, serve in the army, etc. Being active and happy is a result of all this.”

“One of the athletes said it best: it turns your disability into an ability, and I think that’s what the Sports Center does,” Roth said.

To read more content visit ejewishphilanthropy.com

More in Palm Beach Jewish News

Tens of thousands participate in global Shema prayer on behalf of Israeli hostages

Tens of thousands participate in global Shema prayer on behalf of Israeli hostages

Israeli MK: ‘Canada completely lost its moral compass’

Israeli MK: ‘Canada completely lost its moral compass’

The New York Public Library’s Jewish division digitized 800 years of history

SUBSCRIBER ONLY

The new york public library’s jewish division digitized 800 years of history.

Displaced by war, Israeli women small-business owners get support

Displaced by war, Israeli women small-business owners get support

We've detected unusual activity from your computer network

To continue, please click the box below to let us know you're not a robot.

Why did this happen?

Please make sure your browser supports JavaScript and cookies and that you are not blocking them from loading. For more information you can review our Terms of Service and Cookie Policy .

For inquiries related to this message please contact our support team and provide the reference ID below.

IMAGES

  1. America Israel Tours takes you on a journey of a lifetime

    american israel tours

  2. America Israel Tours

    american israel tours

  3. Ultimate Classical Israel Tour

    american israel tours

  4. America Israel Tours offers Israel Trips and Holy Land Travel Packages

    american israel tours

  5. Israel & the OPT escorted tours and holidays 2024-2025

    american israel tours

  6. America Israel Tours offers Israel Trips and Holy Land Travel Packages

    american israel tours

COMMENTS

  1. America Israel Tours offers Israel Trips and Holy Land Travel Packages

    Find your ideal Israel tour with America Israel Tours, a Christian-owned company that offers various destinations and experiences. Explore biblical and historical sites in Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Greece, Turkey, Rome and more with 5 star accommodation and guides.

  2. 2023/2024 Christian Tours to Israel

    Explore the biblical and historical sites of Israel and other destinations with America Israel Tours. Choose from various tours to Israel and combine them with Greece, Rome, Turkey, Jordan or Egypt.

  3. General Tours to Israel

    Explore Israel's cultural, biblical and historical sites on escorted tours of different durations and prices. Choose from classical, in depth or ultimate tours and enjoy activities such as wine tasting, sound and light show, Dead Sea, Eilat and Petra.

  4. Meet Our Tour Guides

    Learn more about the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides who will make your journey of a lifetime. See their profiles, expertise, locations and favorite sites in Israel.

  5. Learn More About Us

    America Israel Tours offers affordable and easy travel to Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Greece and Rome. Learn about their tour programs, guides, reviews and group services.

  6. Ultimate Classical Israel Tour

    We do sell air tickets; please contact us at 877- America Israel Tours- TOUR (248-8687) to arrange your air travel Inquire about a discount for reservations of 6 passengers and above Extension tours to Eilat and/or Egypt & Jordan are available upon request

  7. Israel Package Tours

    Tel Aviv Pride Week Touring Package - 10 Days (Israel & Jordan) Starts in Tel Aviv or Ben Gurion Airport. Available June 1, 2024. See Details. From. $799. Per Person.

  8. 10 Best Israel Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Israel Tours & Trips. Be immersed by the artistic vibes and nightlife of Tel Aviv, photograph impressive sunrise vistas from Masada, or admire Jerusalem, one of the world's oldest cities. As the Land of Milk and Honey, an adventure in Israel would not be complete without visits to the biblical sites of Galilee, Bethlehem, and Jericho.

  9. America Israel Tours

    America Israel Tours is a tour operator specialized in Israel Tours, escorted Christian Holy Land tours and private church groups to Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Greece and Turkey. A trip to the Holy Land should be more than a vacation, so our mission is to provide the most memorable Holy Land tours. We are known for our dependability, friendly ...

  10. Jewish Tours to Israel

    Explore the land of Israel with affordable tour packages that connect you with your Jewish roots. Choose from different durations and destinations, including southern Israel, Eilat, Petra and more.

  11. Israel Tours From The United States

    The Best of Israel 8 Day Tour. 8 Days & 7 Nights | Starting every Sunday. A tour in Israel for all faiths. It is opening a window over Israel's past and present history, its people and culture. Contact us for our latest offer! Starting from. $. 2384. discover now.

  12. Into The Promised Land by America Israel Tours

    4.8/5 Excellent. 100+ reviews. 99%. Download brochure. By America Israel Tours. none. Group Tour. America Israel Tours' fully escorted "Into The Promised Land" Egypt, Jordan and Israel tour will lead you through the route of the biblical exodus, where you can see, explore, and experience all the major biblical and historical sites in one ...

  13. America Israel Tours Profile [2024]

    About the company. America Israel Tours offer journeys to Israel, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Greece and Rome. Our California office opened in 2004. We are proud to host more than 6,000 happy travellers each year and we have been recognized as one of the most recommended tour operators by the Ministry of Tourism in Israel.

  14. America Israel Tours

    America Israel Tours is a tour operator specialized in Israel Tours, escorted Christian Holy Land tours and private church groups to Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Greece and Turkey. A trip to the Holy Land should be more than a vacation, so our mission is to provide the most memorable Holy Land tours. We are known for our dependability, friendly ...

  15. Roots Of Your Faith: Holy Land by America Israel Tours...

    100+ reviews. 99%. Download brochure. By America Israel Tours. none. Group Tour. For the last 12 years the Roots of your Faith has been our most popular fully escorted Christian Israel tours. This 5 star deluxe Journey leads you through the Holy Land, where you will visit the most important biblical and historical sites as well as modern Israel.

  16. Holy Land Tours: Israel Tours & Trips 2024, 2025

    Pilgrim Tours offers Christian tours to the Holy Land for 9-24 days, led by local guides and experts. See the best of Israel, Jordan, Egypt, Greece, Italy and more with various tour packages and options.

  17. Israel Tours for 2023

    With Via Sabra, Israel unfolds like a beautifully written story. Whether you're captivated by its rich heritage, tantalizing cuisine, vibrant culture, or breathtaking landscapes, our expert guides ensure you experience Israel's essence, much like a local would. Our curated tours for 2023 and 2024, with guaranteed departure dates, showcase some ...

  18. 10 Best Fully Guided Tours in Israel 2024/2025

    Our tour covered Tel Aviv (our new favorite city), Haifa, the Golan (do not miss the Hula Nature Preserve), and Jerusalem (Old and New). We added the Masada/Dead Sea tour at the end. Finally, we chose the 5-Star hotel option and stayed in true luxurious accommodations). We will use Tour Radar and Click Tours again!

  19. Ayelet Tours

    If you have any questions about our packages or destinations, email us at [email protected], or speak to a real live person by calling 1-800-237-1517. Discover Israel's amazing history and breathtaking beauty on one of our Israel Highlights Tours!

  20. AMERICA ISRAEL TOURS

    America Israel Tours. $1,895 "Roots of Your Faith" Holy Land Tour. This will be the journey of your lifetime. book now. Trips Israel LLC. $1,960. 16 days - Jewish Heritage Tour Israel from $1,960. book now. Goway Travel. $2,489.

  21. U.S. to Present Gaza Cease-Fire Resolution at U.N. Security Council

    A resolution for the U.N. that American diplomats are circulating was notable for its strong language in seeking a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages. By Michael Crowley and Thomas ...

  22. Israel ParaSport Center's 'Hope in Motion' tours West Coast

    The Israel ParaSport Center opened a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2012, but the organization was formed more than 60 years ago in Ramat Gan, a suburb of Tel Aviv.

  23. Is It Safe to Travel to Egypt? The Data—and Travelers—Say Yes

    That was threatened on Oct. 7, when Hamas attacked Israel and sparked a war alongside Egypt's northeastern border a little more than 200 miles from Cairo. Almost five months later, the country ...