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The post-October 7th conflict continues to impact Israel’s southern and northern border regions – and our itineraries have been modified to avoid travel near these areas of concern. Meanwhile, the incidence of rockets aimed at major Israeli population centers has become very uncommon, and Israel continues to benefit from the protections afforded by its world-leading anti-rocket technologies.

Beyond the impacted border areas, the rhythm of everyday life has returned to Israel. Children attend school, adults go to work, and open-air markets have re-opened. While the gravity of the October 7th attacks is still felt, Israel is a resilient and vibrant country that is welcoming back visitors – including Birthright Israel trips that have successfully and safely resumed as of January 1st.

Israel Outdoors continues to offer our classic Birthright Israel trips. These trips are designed to showcase the epic history, natural beauty, and layered culture of Israel. Minor modifications to our traveling routes have been made for current trips. Travelers can still look forward to experiencing all the iconic highlights of Israel – e.g., Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Masada, the Dead Sea, the Sea of Galilee, the Negev Desert, Haifa, and the Mediterranean Coast.

Birthright Israel is a fully supervised experience. We travel as a group on a private coach bus, accompanied by a professional tour educator, two support staff members, and at least one licensed armed guard trained in first aid. When warranted, added security is provided. Our trip itineraries are carefully designed and approved/monitored by a special "Situation Room" in coordination with Israel's security authorities. Take a moment to learn more about our standard approach to safe travel.

Throughout the trip, you will be traveling in a group setting. At times, groups are provided with independent time to explore an area on their own. This usually takes place during lunch times, scheduled self-exploration opportunities, and nights out. During scheduled nights out, you may use taxis within predetermined city limits.

You will travel together as a group by bus. All trips, tour bus companies, and bus drivers are subject to Birthright Israel’s strict standards.

We continue to offer our classic 10-day travel experiences – which have never had a political focus by design. Of course, we will make time to address the current events of the region during our travels with an open dialogue, and we welcome a diversity of views – just like there is a diverse dialogue in Israel as a whole.

Yes. After thoughtful deliberation, the conclusion was reached that trips can responsibly resume in a manner that is safe and positive. We are grateful that our trips resumed on January 1st, and we are happy to report that the feedback from our travelers has been excellent. Not only are our travelers experiencing the "full" Birthright Israel experience, but they are gaining unique insights into Israeli society and its culture.

Trips will continue so long as we are confident in being able to provide you with a safe, meaningful, and joyous experience in Israel. If the security in Israel worsens before your trip, we will not hesitate to cancel the program if necessary (as we did following October 7th). If the conditions change while you are traveling, we will adjust our itinerary and approach as needed. We appreciate our duty of care for your wellbeing, and our decision-making has always been guided by this responsibility.

Although increasingly rare, the possibility exists, and we follow standard protocols just like everyone does in Israel. Keep in mind that we will be traveling as a group with a professionally trained staff team, including a licensed security escort. Beyond these standard precautions, Israeli society as a whole benefits from sophisticated anti-rocket protections for added peace of mind.

Yes, you can still extend your stay according to the airline terms, and you will be solely responsible for yourself after the Birthright Israel program has concluded. Learn more about flight extensions.

This summer we are offering highly subsidized Onward Israel 4-week bartending skills workshops and 8-day and 14-day volunteer programs. Onward programs are mostly based in Tel Aviv and can be connected at the end of many Birthright Israel trips this summer.

Israel has always been situated in a challenging region, and the past decade has witnessed periodic threats. Birthright Israel trips have continued with similar adjustments and with the same commitment to providing a safe, meaningful, and joyous experience. Birthright Israel takes great pride in its reputation for being cautious and responsible with a well-deserved reputation from hosting over 850,000 travelers over the past 24 years. 

Travelers who have fully accepted their offered spot on a trip will be able to withdraw up to 50 days before their departure date without penalty. Additional flexibility may be offered depending on the scenario, and in the unexpected event Birthright Israel cancels a trip, deposits will be considered refundable regardless.  

Once you have completed your application, stay on the lookout for a trip offer from us – you will have a limited amount of time to accept or decline a trip offer. Once fully confirmed, you will receive a series of pre-trip preparation details via email. We'll also hold an orientation to connect as a group before departure, get you ready for the trip, and answer questions. You can also reach us directly at [email protected] or 202-537-0006.