HISTORY MAKERS

TOUR TO ISRAEL

October 16 — October 26, 2026

Contact Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What travel documents do I need?

You must have a valid passport with the expiration date no less than 6 months prior to your return date.

Additionally, as of January 1, 2025, Israel requires all travelers to obtain a valid electronic travel authorization (ETA-IL) prior to entering the country. Visit https://israel-entry.piba.gov.il/ and click “Apply for an ETA-IL” to complete the application (it only takes a few minutes, and it costs about $7 USD for an electronic visa that is good for 2 years). If you have any questions regarding this process, please reach out to [email protected].

Important Note About Passports

Keep your passport with you at all times. Do not pack your passport in your luggage, but do keep a photocopy in your luggage and one at home (a photocopy and a couple of passport-type photos can help you get replacements more quickly if the original is lost or stolen). Our team will also carry a copy of your passport for emergencies.

Do I need any shots prior to traveling or proof of vaccinations?

No.

What is the food like in Israel?

Abundant and fresh! Israel is known for a vibrant selection of meat, fish, vegetables, fruits, and desserts.

Can we drink the water?

Yes, the water in Israel is safe to drink. Additionally, bottled water will be provided in all hotel rooms, and our transportation company will provide unlimited chilled bottled water. You’ll want to stay hydrated, so we recommend drinking at least 2-3 bottles a day!

Will my electric appliances work in Israel?

Yes– we will provide two adapters for you in your hotel room. The electric current in Israel is 220-volt A.C., single phase, 50 cycles, which requires special adapter plugs with round prongs. Any personal appliances (hairdryer, electric razor, etc.) that are suitable for use at 110 and 220 volts will work with the provided adapters, but anything marked for use at 110 volts only will require a converter (most smart phones are dual-voltage and only need an adapter, but most hot tools for hair are not and will need a converter). Please check your appliances before departure to verify their allotted voltage; you will risk damaging your devices without a converter unless they clearly indicate that they will run on 220 volts (please note that all our hotels will provide hairdryers).

How should I prepare for the trip?

We recommend that you begin a light walking regimen, get some sun, and drink extra water two to three weeks before we depart. Dehydration is a major risk that can highly impact your trip. Believe it or not, dehydration often begins on the plane, so we also recommend that you stop drinking caffeine 24 hours before departure and stick to water and juices on your flights rather than coffee (this will also help with jet lag). Bringing probiotics and magnesium citrate can also help with any potential digestive issues you might experience from traveling, and we recommend talking with your doctor before departure if you have any concerns.

What should I expect from Customs?

We recommend that you begin a light walking regimen, get some sun, and drink extra water two to three weeks before we depart. Dehydration is a major risk that can highly impact your trip. Believe it or not, dehydration often begins on the plane, so we also recommend that you stop drinking caffeine 24 hours before departure and stick to water and juices on your flights rather than coffee (this will also help with jet lag). Bringing probiotics and magnesium citrate can also help with any potential digestive issues you might experience from traveling, and we recommend talking with your doctor before departure if you have any concerns.

Will my phone work in Israel?

Yes, but you’ll need to check with your carrier for applicable rates and fees associated with international travel (Verizon and AT&T offer a $10/day international rate, but it’s best to talk with your carrier directly to avoid any unpleasant surprises that might appear on your wireless bill).

Additionally, Wi-Fi will be available at each hotel, and you can use FaceTime for free if your phone is connected to Wi-Fi. We also recommend WhatsApp for calls and texts through Wi-Fi.

How do I make calls in Israel?

To call Israel from the U.S., dial 011 + 972 (Israel’s country code) + single-digit local area code number (delete 0 if it appears before a number; for example, “02” for Jerusalem would just be “2”) + local number.

To call the U.S. from Israel, dial 00 + 1 (U.S. country code) + area code + local number.

What Time Zone is Israel in?

Israel operates on IST (Israel Standard Time), which is 7 hours ahead of EST (Eastern Standard Time).

Do I need to exchange money prior to departure?

No. While all of your trip expenses are covered, if you would like to shop, we recommend bringing a credit card that does not charge international fees, as well as some light petty cash if you choose. Many vendors will accept USD, but there will be an opportunity to exchange currency to Shekels if desired. We do not recommend carrying large amounts of cash on your person.

If you plan to use a credit card, we recommend notifying your bank that you will be traveling internationally in advance so a hold is not placed on your card.

Note: American Express is not widely accepted in Israel, so if that is your primary method of payment, please plan to have an alternative payment method.

Current exchange rate as of March 2026: 1 U.S. Dollar = 3.11 Israeli Shekels

How can I avoid pickpockets?

Be aware in crowds. Don’t fall for common distraction tactics like dropped coins, "accidental" spills, or cute little kids who seem too friendly! Thieves thrive on fresh-off-the-plane tourists. Keep your hands on your bags, and wear any kind of daypack or backpack on the front of your person.

What should I pack?

Your Passport (but not in your luggage!)

Comfortable, breathable clothes that keep you cool and protect you from the sun — light layers and dry-fit materials are best for the intense Israeli heat

Comfortable walking shoes with a sturdy, rubber sole (the stones on old city streets can be slippery)

Sweat-wicking socks

A tote bag or backpack for personal items you’d like to carry around for the duration of your trip

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, etc., as the sun is much hotter in Israel)

Swimsuit

Prescriptions (please pack any medical prescriptions in your carry-on in their original containers and request your local pharmacy to complete their standard travel form so you can show it in the event you are questioned)

Helpful Packing Notes:

Be sure to check your airline status to confirm your allotted luggage amount. Generally, 1-2 checked bags, a rolling carry-on bag, and a personal item (like a tote bag or a backpack) will serve you well

When transferring hotels, we recommend repacking only what you will need for the remainder of the trip in one suitcase so you do not have to bring in all of your luggage (we will be able to store any luggage you do not wish to take in on the bus)

If you like to use a washcloth, bring your own! Israeli hotels often do not provide them. We recommend purchasing a 15-pack of inexpensive ones at Walmart, Target, or Amazon so you can dispose of them as you go

Will I have time to do laundry on the trip?

In short, no. We recommend bringing enough clothing for the duration of the trip, or clothing that can be washed in your hotel room that will dry quickly (think lightweight fabrics that are anti-wrinkle for ease!). Your hotel room will provide an iron.

Laundry can be sent out, but you must make sure there is enough time to get it back before we pack up and leave.

Space is limited for this special journey. Pay your deposit today to secure your spot.

History Makers
Israel Tour

​*Itinerary is subject to change*

Sunday, April 26 - Arrival Day

Monday, April 27 - City of David

City of David VIP Tour

Southern Steps

Western Wall

Tuesday, April 28 - Garden of Gethsemane

Pools of Bethesda

Mount of Olives

Garden of Gethsemane

Wednesday, April 29 - Yad Vashem

Yad Vashem

Camel Rides

Thursday, April 30 - The National Leadership Center

JH Israel's National Leadership Center

Friday, May 1 - Garden Tomb

Garden Tomb

Tour Ein Karem

Valley of Elah

Saturday, May 2 - Sea of Galilee

Capernaum

Boat Ride on Sea of Galilee

Sunday, May 3 - Galilee

Mount of Beatitudes

Caesarea Philippi

Yardenit Baptisms

Monday, May 4 - Galilee

Mount Carmel

Tour Caesarea National Park

Tuesday, May 5 - Return Home

Daily Itinerary

​*Itinerary is subject to change*

Wednesday, April 22 - Travel Day

Thursday, April 23 - Arrival Day

Welcome Reception and Orientation

Friday, April 24 - Jerusalem

City of David VIP Tour | Lunch at Private Courtyard in City of David | Southern Steps | Western Wall | Shabbat Dinner

Saturday, April 25 - Jerusalem

Pools of Bethesda | St. Anne's Church | Via Dolorosa | Lunch in the Old City | Mt. of Olives | Garden of Gethsemane | Dinner at Mamilla Rooftop

Sunday, April 26 - Judea

Yad Vashem | Lunch at Gush Etzion Winery | Genesis Land Camel Rides & Dinner

Monday, April 27 - Samaria

Visit JH Israel's National Leadership Center | Lunch in Big Top | Shiloh | Dinner & Wine Tasting

Tuesday, April 28 - Explore the Land

Garden Tomb | Tour Ein Karem | Lunch at Karma | Valley of Elah

Wednesday, April 29 - Sea of Galilee

Jesus the Rabbi Teaching | Capernaum | Lunch at Ginosaur | Boat Ride on Sea of Galilee | Ancient Jesus Boat | Dinner at Magdalena

Thursday, April 30 - Galilee Region

Mt. of Beatitudes | Caesarea Philippi | Druze Picnic Lunch | Yardenit Baptisms | Dinner

Friday, May 1 - Galilee Region

Mt. Carmel | Picnic Lunch | Tour Caesarea National Park | Farewell Dinner | Depart for Airport

Saturday, May 2 - Return Home

Questions?

OUR VISION

Our vision is to inspire and equip Israel's rising leaders to step into their biblical identity and shape the future of their nation.

OUR MISSION

Our mission is to facilitate experiential learning initiatives that strengthen spiritual identity, foster national healing, and inspire a global understanding of Israel’s role in biblical history.

402 Office Park Drive, Suite 215

Birmingham, AL 35223

205-578-0200

[email protected]

© Copyright 2026 JH Israel

Privacy Policy | Terms of Service

OUR VISION

Our vision is to inspire and equip Israel's rising leaders to step into their biblical identity and shape the future of their nation.

OUR MISSION

Through partnerships with the Ministry of Education and the Israel Defense Forces, we facilitate experiential learning initiatives that strengthen spiritual identity and inspire global understanding of Israel’s role in biblical history. 

402 Office Park Drive, Suite 215

Birmingham, AL 35223

205-578-0200

[email protected]

© Copyright 2026 JH Israel | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | JH Israel 990