Welcome to Israel! Start your journey with an opening ceremony at Tel Yafo overlooking ancient Jaffa, linking you into the chain of tradition of pilgrims throughout history who arrived through this port city. Spend three days trekking through the Negev desert just as our ancestors did. Swim in Eilat’s Coral Beach and snorkel in the cool water of the Red Sea. Take in countless breathtaking views and observe extraordinary wildlife. Explore the history, spirituality and magic of the ancient city of Jerusalem. Visit the Kotel (the Western Wall), enjoy a water-hike through an ancient underground aqueduct, and shop in Jerusalem’s vibrant open-air market.

The Judean desert is home to many of Israel’s most iconic experiences – camel rides, sleepouts in a Bedouin tent, and the ancient desert fortress of Masada overlooking the Dead Sea. Climb Masada in time for the stunning sunrise over the mountains of Jordan. Follow it up with a float in the Dead Sea, cover yourself with the famous black mud, and cool off in the refreshing waterfalls of Ein Gedi. Travel north to the Galilee region, where much of our modern ideas about Judaism took root, and where we share deep connections with our Christian and Muslim cousins.

Spend the second half of the week participating in your “Chavaya” intensive. Before leaving for Israel, you’ll select one of these exciting 4-day in-depth experiences (see “Your Choice” tab). Pursue your own interests while in Israel and make new friends from other Yallah! Israel groups at the same time.

Spend the second half of the week participating in your “Chavaya” intensive. Before leaving for Israel, you’ll select one of these exciting 4-day in-depth experiences (see “Your Choice” tab). Pursue your own interests while in Israel and make new friends from other Yallah! Israel groups at the same time.

Wander the mystical city of Tzfat, high up in the mountains of Israel. Explore the ancient alleyways and centuries-old synagogues, as you discover the origins of Kabbalah and Tikkun Olam. Get closer to Israel’s natural beauty in the Arbel Nature Reserve. Your Israeli peers will join the group for a week – a short but sweet opportunity to make lifelong friendships. Sit atop the Golan Heights while examining the important beginnings of the dream of a Jewish state in Eretz Israel. Return to Jerusalem and begin to connect our ancient past to our recent past and our recent past to today.

Chapter One: Classic Europe, Jewish Heritage – Budapest

The journey begins with an arrival in Vienna, followed by an opening lunch and orientation at Lake Neusiedl. Participants explore the ruins of the Balaton Synagogue and hike in a nearby park before continuing to Tihany for the night. The next day, after enjoying some beach time, the group travels to Budapest for a Danube River cruise, a visit to the Chain Bridge, and a peulah at the Green Space on top of the Ethnographic Museum. In Budapest, participants explore the city's rich Jewish heritage, including visits to Buda Castle, Gellért Hill, Central Market, Theodor Herzl’s House, and the Great Synagogue. A highlight of the week is joining Camp Szarvas, the largest Jewish summer camp in Europe, for a meaningful Kabbalat Shabbat, rikudey am (Israeli folk dancing), and engaging activities with Hungarian Jewish youth. Shabbat is spent together as a community, featuring peulot, discussions with Hungarian Youth Movement leaders, and a mix of rest, learning, and sports. The final day in Budapest includes an exploration of the Jewish Quarter, a visit to the Dohány Street Synagogue and Jewish Museum, and relaxation at the Széchenyi Baths.

Chapter Two: Mountains, Rivers, and Lakes – Outdoor Adventures in Slovakia

Leaving Budapest, the adventure continues in Slovakia with a breathtaking hike through the Suchá Belá Gorge in Slovak Paradise National Park. The following day is spent at Tatralandia Water Park, providing a refreshing break from travel. The chapter concludes with an exhilarating hike and rafting experience in the scenic Dunajec River Gorge at Pieniny National Park.

Chapter Three: Tragedy of the Jewish People – The Shoah in Poland

The journey through Jewish history takes a somber turn in Poland, beginning with a visit to Krakow’s Kazimierz Jewish Quarter and Schindler’s Factory. The next day, participants travel to Auschwitz-Birkenau for a powerful and emotional visit to the memorial and museum, followed by a meaningful Friday night service at the Jewish Community Centre of Krakow (JCC Krakow). Shabbat is spent together as a community, providing time for reflection through tefillah, menucha, and processing activities. The day concludes with a moving Havdalah ceremony on a Vistula River cruise.

Chapter Four: Decompression – Fun and Nature in Poland and the Czech Republic

After an intense and emotional experience, the group transitions to a period of decompression, beginning with a day at Legendia Silesian Amusement Park before traveling to Prague. In the Czech Republic, participants explore the Koněpruské Caves and take part in a graffiti workshop at the iconic John Lennon Wall, blending adventure with creative expression.

Chapter Five: Prague and Vienna

The journey continues in Prague with an exploration of the city's rich Jewish history, including visits to the Jewish Quarter, the Old-New Synagogue, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Jewish Museum. Participants then tour the Spanish Synagogue, Maisel Synagogue, and Prague Castle before traveling to Austria for a scenic hike along the Dyje River in Podyjí National Park. In Vienna, they experience the city's highlights, enjoy a swim at Donauinsel, and celebrate Kabbalat Shabbat with the local Jewish community, followed by spirited Rikudey Am at the hotel. Shabbat is spent immersing in Vienna’s Jewish heritage, including a synagogue tour and a shared pizur lunch with local Jewish teens. The journey concludes with free time at Augarten Park and Belvedere Palace before a final closure activity, marking the end of an unforgettable experience.