Top Things to Do on a Gap Year in Israel

From exploring the holy city of Jerusalem, joining a Kibbutz to experiencing the youthful atmosphere of Tel Aviv there are so many different experiences to be had during summer and all year round. Tel Aviv is an incredible city with a young vibrant atmosphere - there is also an amazing nightlife. Jerusalem is one of the most historic cities in the world .The beaches of Eilat is amazing. The stunning Negev desert scenery is a must see.

Isreal is a really up and coming gap year destination, in the past decade the security situation has improved dramatically and now more travellers and gappers are choosing to visit this historic country. Backpacking is becoming easier and there are now more gap year programs available than ever before, so if you have an interest in learning more about the country, would like to visit historic religious sites or would just like to experience a different culture a gap year visiting Israel will appeal to you.

When you land in Israel you will be able to see the cultural differences straight away, this will be the gap year of a lifetime. There is a good public transport system operating throughout the country which is cheap and reliable, this is perfect if you are looking to get between places e.g. Jerusalem to Tel Aviv. Sometimes taking a shared taxi can work out around the same price too. We highly recommend joining a structured gap year program to see the very best of Israel where you will get to do new things, learn a lot and also get guided and taken to the most popular locations in a safe experience. These programs are very popular with people taking a year in Israel after high school / education.

By joining a gap year program in Israel you will get real world, hands-on experience in your field of work or study, participate in cultural events mixing in the local culture and working with Israelis, learn about the country and develop new skills, get an entry on your CV / resume and improve career opportunities. We also list gap year placements where you can help communities in Jerusalem or teach English in Tel Aviv. Gap year work in Israel can include taking part in a Kibbutz which are usually located at rural agricultural settlements in Israel. Kibbutz roles can vary from working in the fields, helping animals or being part of production lines in factories. 

There are also more community and group trips available. Most programs are unpaid and sometimes you will need to pay a fee to participate. If you are keen to secure a gap year job in Israel there are flexible summer and year round positions available to internationals.

"Israel had always appealed to me and when I saw some good flights with Easy Jet I decided to incorporate it into my gap year. My best advice would be to venture outside of the cities and see the rural areas. Eilat was one of my favourite destinations although not the best if you are on a budget. Just go, you won't regret it." - Andy, Italy

 

Popular Gap Year Programs in Israel

Some organisations offer placements throughout the year but you will need to pay a fee to join, generally this includes:

  • A guaranteed placement prior to departure
  • Accommodation for the duration of your stay
  • Comprehensive medical insurance
  • Help and advice before departing
  • Full orientation
  • Airport pick up
  • Meals
  • 24 hour in-country support

Prices can vary depending on how long you visit, which company you apply with and also the time of year. You might need to pay for flights separately. You might want to also join a structured trip to save money and eliminate the hassle of travelling especially if you plan to go solo, taking a gap year independently can be expensive when you add up accommodation, transport, food and sightseeing. You'll get photos to remind you of wonderful memories - this will be the most incredible experience of your life!

"I spent my gap year helping at a Kibbutz which was a totally different experience. I would really recommend it to anyone considering it. One of the best things was meeting new Israeli friends who then become tour guides showing me around where they live. It was an incredible experience." - Emma, USA