Young Judaea has been leading programs to Israel since 1951. Our jam-packed programs give you all the fun and excitement of a teen tour plus those extras that will make your summer a time to meet new people, learn, grow, be challenged, and most of all, have a great time. Israel may look small on a map, but come discover how many natural wonders it has. Get to know the beauty of Israel by hiking it from top to bottom. From the awesome views from the Ramon Crater in the Negev Desert to the stunning mountaintop observation points in the Golan Heights, you’ll leave no stone unturned.

What our program is all about: Diversity
What makes Young Judaea special is our diversity of participants. As a religiously pluralistic organization, you are guaranteed to meet Jewish teens of every background, and have opportunities for new spiritual and cultural experiences.

International Options
You’ll understand what it means to be part of the Jewish people when you meet and interact with Jewish youth from across the United States, Israel and Great Britain. Break down cultural barriers during your mifgash (encounter) with Israeli teenagers such as the Tsofim (Israeli Scouts) and members of the Federation of Zionist Youth, our sister organization from Britain. Through team-building activities such as hiking, Maccabiah, and cultural interactions, you’ll learn about their views of Israel, religious practices — even their musical tastes!

Special Interest Week
For Special Interest Week, you will choose an activity and spend the week with others who choose the same option.

Maccabiah
Maccabiah is a spectacular, two-day festival on the beach at the end of the summer. During Maccabiah, groups come together for games, competitions, performances and fireworks. It’s one giant beach party!

Shalom, Chaverim!
Israeli teens will join your group for part of the program in Israel to add their unique perspective. You’ll gain a real understanding of what it’s like to be a Jewish teen in the Jewish state and you might just find yourself a new Israeli best friend.

College Credits
By special arrangement with the Jewish Community High School, a division of Gratz College of Philadelphia, students entering their junior or senior years in Fall 2012 are eligible to receive three college credits. This process involves a registration fee, successful completion of the program, and a written paper to be submitted for evaluation in the fall following the program.

Click to Download Program Overview PDF (General Itinerary)