For U.S. and Canadian citizens, all you need is a passport that is valid for at least six months longer than your date of arrival in Israel. (For stays up to three months, you don’t need a visa.) If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, the same conditions apply to citizens of most Western countries. Please click here to check if your country is on the visa-exemption list.

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Traveling to Israel is 100% safe, but it often depends on the current situation in the region. Here are some points to consider:

1. Security and Military Presence: Israel has a strong and technologically advanced security presence, with measures in place to protect tourists and citizens alike. Many areas, especially popular tourist destinations, have heightened security checks to give additional protection and safety.
2. Diverse Experiences: Israel offers a rich cultural and historical experience, with many visitors enjoying its beaches, historical sites, and vibrant cities.
3. Travel Advisories: It's important to check your government's travel advisories before planning a trip. These advisories provide updated information about safety, security risks, and any potential unrest in the region.
4. Domestic vs. Regional Conflicts: While some areas may experience conflicts, other parts of the country, especially popular tourist sites, tend to be safe for visitors.
5. Health and Infrastructure: Israel has modern infrastructure, healthcare systems, and services for visitors, which contributes to overall safety and ease of travel.

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The best times to visit are typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild. Summer can be very hot, especially in southern regions.

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The official currency is the Israeli New Shekel (ILS). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to have some cash for smaller vendors.

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The official language is Hebrew. Arabic is the second most commonly spoken language in Israel, after Hebrew. It is spoken primarily by the Arab population, which makes up about 20% of the country's population. Arabic is used in many aspects of daily life for Arab citizens of Israel, including education, media, and government. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

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Routine vaccinations are recommended, and travelers should consult with a healthcare provider for advice on any additional vaccinations, especially if planning to visit rural areas.

Dress codes can vary. In urban areas, casual clothing is acceptable, but it’s respectful, and sometimes mandatory to wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites. Bring good walking shoes or sneakers. Israelis (especially women) like to be “elegant casual” on evenings in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but if you have a sensitive stomach, bottled water is widely available. Israeli cuisine is diverse, offering many options for different dietary needs.

Israel uses Type C and Type H electrical outlets with a standard voltage of 230V. Ensure you have the appropriate adapter if your devices use a different plug type.

International roaming may be available, but it can be costly (check with your local network provider). Consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international phone plan to save on costs.

Our tour services are designed for individuals, organizations, and churches that wish to create and lead group journeys to the Bible Lands. We provide tailored itineraries (or ready programs) and support for those looking to visit these historically and spiritually significant regions, whether for a one-time trip or as part of an annual pilgrimage. However, soon, we will have 2 trips per year leaving on specific dates that combine interested individuals in a group to visit Israel. If you need assistance locating a group to join, please contact us. (link)

Our experienced team can assist in planning and coordinating every aspect of the trip, including transportation, accommodations, and guided tours at key biblical sites - all land services. We understand the importance of these visits for spiritual growth, education, and community building, and we aim to facilitate meaningful experiences that resonate with participants by taking care of the above-mentioned so you can fully focus on your spiritual journey. Whether your group seeks to explore the ancient landmarks of Jerusalem, the stunning landscapes of Galilee, or the rich history of places like Petra and the Pyramids in Egypt, we are here to help you create an unforgettable journey that deepens connections to faith and heritage. Please contact us for more information on how to organize your group's visit to the Bible Lands.

representative upon arrival at Tel-Aviv Airport?

• The Gideon Tours representative, who may also serve as your tour guide, will be a friendly and professional individual. They will warmly welcome you upon your arrival and assist you in navigating the airport, including guiding you to the bus. Additionally, they will provide support with various needs, such as luggage assistance (including help with lost luggage or providing a trolley), locating restrooms, exchanging currency, and addressing any questions or requests you may have. Your comfort and convenience are their top priorities.

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You can generally expect the following timeline for your arrival and transfer process:

1. Deplaning: This usually takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the flight and the boarding process.
2. Immigration and Customs: Expect to spend around 15-45 minutes at this stage, especially considering potential lines and checks.
3. Collecting Luggage: Baggage claim can take an additional 20-40 minutes, depending on how quickly the luggage is available after your flight.
4. Boarding the Bus: Once you have your luggage, boarding the bus should take about 10-15 minutes.
5. Transfer to Jerusalem: The transfer from Tel Aviv Airport to your hotel in Jerusalem typically takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

In summary, you should allocate approximately2.5 to 4hours from the time your plane lands until you arrive at your hotel in Jerusalem. Keep in mind that this is an estimate and actual times may vary based on several factors, including the number of arrivals at the airport, customs delays, and traffic conditions.

The amount of leisure time for shopping at souvenir shops will typically vary based on your itinerary, but you can generally expect around 1 to 2 hours allocated during your visits to tourist sites, such as Bethlehem or Jerusalem's Old City.

As for the types of items to look for, consider the following popular souvenirs:

1. Olive Wood Handcrafts: Beautifully carved items such as crosses, figurines, and kitchenware made from local olive wood.
2. Dead Sea Products: Mineral-rich cosmetics and skincare products derived from the Dead Sea, known for their therapeutic benefits.
3. Religious Artifacts: Items such as prayer shawls, menorahs, or other religious symbols, reflecting the area's rich spiritual heritage.
4. Traditional Ceramics: Colorful pottery and tile work, often featuring traditional designs and motifs.
5. Local Spices: Diverse spices and blends that are unique to the region, especially convenient for cooking enthusiasts.
6. Jewelry: Handmade jewelry incorporating local stones, often featured in unique designs.

Be sure to take your time, explore the shops, and enjoy the local craftsmanship while you shop!

The minerals in the Dead Sea, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, are believed to have therapeutic properties that can benefit skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, relieve muscle pain, and promote relaxation.

• Day 1
  • Walking Time: Minimal (5-10 minutes) from the airport to the transfer vehicle and hotel.
  • Strenuous Hikes: None.
• Day 2
  • Walking Time: Moderate (1.5-2 hours) while visiting sites in Jerusalem and Bethlehem.
  • Strenuous Hikes: None, but expect uneven terrain.
• Day 3
  • Walking Time: Moderate (1.5-2 hours) exploring the Mount of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, and Via Dolorosa.
  • Strenuous Hikes: None, though some paths can be steep.
• Day 4
  • Walking Time: Moderate to extensive (2-3 hours) at Masada and Ein Gedi.
  • Strenuous Hikes: Possible strenuous hike if climbing Masada via the Snake Path.
• Day 5
  • Walking Time: Moderate (1.5-2 hours) in Beit She’an, Nazareth, and at Mount Precipice.
  • Strenuous Hikes: None, but expect some uneven surfaces at ruins.
• Day 6
  • Walking Time: Moderate (1.5-2 hours) exploring Tel Megiddo and Mount Carmel.
  • Strenuous Hikes: None, just walking through archaeological sites.
• Day 7
  • Walking Time: Moderate (2 hours) at Arbel, Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, and Magdala.
  • Strenuous Hikes: Steep paths to the Arbel viewpoint can be challenging but manageable.
• Day 8
  • Walking Time: Moderate (1-2 hours) at Tel Dan and Banias.
  • Strenuous Hikes: None, but some uneven trails are present.
• Day 9
  • Walking Time: Minimal (30 minutes to 1 hour) at Caesarea Maritima.
  • Strenuous Hikes: None.
• Summary
  • Overall, expect primarily moderate walking times averaging 1-2 hours per day, with a few opportunities for light to moderate hiking, particularly on Days 4 and 7. Be prepared for uneven terrain in historical sites, but no strenuous hikes are included in your journey.

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