Beyond Birthright: Alternative Israel Trip Programs

More Ways to Experience Israel

Birthright Israel (Taglit) has been transformative — since its founding in 1999, it has brought over 800,000 young Jewish adults to Israel on free ten-day trips. For many, it is their first encounter with the country. But ten days is just an introduction. For those who want to go deeper, stay longer, explore specific interests, or travel at a stage of life Birthright does not cover, a rich ecosystem of alternative Israel programs exists.

Whether you are a college student, a young professional, a family, an artist, a foodie, or someone seeking spiritual growth, there is an Israel experience designed for you.

Extended Programs

Masa Israel Journey

Masa (Hebrew for “journey”) is the umbrella organization for long-term Israel experiences, offering programs lasting two months to a full year. Funded in part by the Jewish Agency and the Israeli government, Masa provides scholarships for participants aged 18-30. Programs include:

• Internships: Professional placements in Israeli companies, nonprofits, and government agencies
• Study abroad: Semester or year-long university programs at Israeli institutions
• Volunteer service: Community development, education, and social welfare placements
• Jewish learning: Yeshiva, seminary, and Jewish studies programs
• Career development: Tech, business, journalism, and creative arts tracks

Masa programs offer immersive experiences that go far beyond tourism — participants live in Israeli communities, develop Hebrew language skills, and form lasting connections.

Gap Year Programs

For high school graduates before or during college:

• Young Judaea Year Course: A nine-month program combining travel, kibbutz living, volunteer service, and academic study
• Nativ (Conservative movement): A year in Israel combining Hebrew University study, community service, and Conservative Jewish exploration
• WUJS (World Union of Jewish Students): Academic and social programs for university-age students
• Aardvark Israel: A gap year program with options in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and other cities, combining academics, internships, and travel

Volunteer Programs

Direct Service

• Sar-El: Two-to-three-week volunteer program on Israeli military bases, performing civilian support tasks (packing, maintenance, logistics). No military training required.
• Magen David Adom: Volunteer with Israel’s emergency medical service — ride ambulances, support blood banks, and learn first aid
• Kibbutz volunteering: Some kibbutzim still welcome short-term volunteers for agricultural work, hospitality, and community projects
• Special-needs programs: Organizations like ALEH and ALYN serve children with disabilities and welcome international volunteers
• Leket Israel: Volunteer in food rescue — gleaning fields, packing produce, and supporting food distribution to those in need

Specialized Interest Programs

Culinary Tours

Israel’s food scene has become world-renowned. Culinary programs include:

• Shorashim food tours: Exploring Israeli markets, restaurants, and home kitchens
• Culinary institute programs: Short courses in Israeli cooking, combining hands-on instruction with food history and cultural context
• Wine and olive oil tours: Visiting Israeli wineries and olive oil producers in the Galilee, Golan Heights, and Judean Hills

Outdoor and Adventure

• Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel (SPNI): Guided hiking tours through Israel’s diverse landscapes — desert, forest, coast, and mountain
• Israel National Trail: A 1,100-kilometer trail from the northern border to Eilat, popular for long-distance hiking
• Desert adventure: Jeep tours, rappelling, and camping in the Negev and Judean deserts
• Water sports: Kayaking on the Jordan River, diving in Eilat, sailing on the Mediterranean

Art and Culture

• Artists’ residencies: Programs in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Ein Hod (an artists’ village) for visual artists, writers, and musicians
• Film programs: Israel Film Fund and Israeli cinema workshops
• Theater and performance: Collaborations with Israeli theater companies and festivals

Spiritual and Religious

• Yeshiva and seminary programs: For those seeking intensive Jewish learning, ranging from traditional Orthodox institutions to pluralistic programs
• Meditation and spirituality retreats: Programs combining Jewish mysticism, meditation, and mindfulness in Israeli settings
• Interfaith programs: For interfaith couples and families exploring Israel together

Programs for Specific Demographics

Families

• Jewish National Fund family missions: Organized family tours with age-appropriate programming for children
• Federation family trips: Many Jewish Federations organize community family trips to Israel
• Independent family travel: Planning a self-guided family trip, using kosher-friendly hotels and family-oriented guides

Professionals

• AIPAC Policy Conference trips: Israel policy and political immersion
• Tech and startup tours: Exploring Israel’s innovation ecosystem — visiting startup incubators, tech companies, and research institutions
• Medical and academic missions: Professional delegations connecting with Israeli counterparts

Seniors and Retirees

• Jewish Federation senior missions: Organized trips designed for older adults, with appropriate pacing and accommodations
• Archaeological tours: In-depth exploration of biblical and historical sites with expert guides
• Jewish genealogy trips: Combining Israel visits with heritage research

Funding and Scholarships

Many Israel programs offer significant financial assistance:

• Masa scholarships: Up to $3,000-$8,000 for long-term programs
• Federation grants: Local Jewish Federations often provide Israel trip subsidies
• Synagogue scholarships: Many congregations offer Israel experience grants to members
• Organizational scholarships: Individual programs frequently have their own scholarship funds

Research financial aid options early — deadlines vary and funds are limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do Birthright and another program? Yes. Birthright has no restriction on participating in other programs before or after. Many people use Birthright as an introduction and then return to Israel on a longer or more specialized program.

Am I too old for an Israel program? No. While many programs target young adults (18-30), options exist for every age group. Family trips, professional missions, senior tours, and independent travel have no age limits. Masa programs are available up to age 30; other programs have no upper limit.

What if I have no connection to Israel? That is exactly why these programs exist. You do not need prior knowledge, Hebrew language skills, or a personal connection to Israel to participate. Every program is designed to create connection from whatever starting point you bring.