Chabad at U of I is proud to offer free & fun 10-day tours of Israel. These trips are a gift of Birthright-Israel and facilitated by Birthright Israel: Mayanot. Hundreds of U of Illinois have chosen Mayanot and with good reason!

Who is eligible?

This amazing gift is available to Jewish young adults, ages 18 through 26 who have never been to Israel on a previous educational tour with their peers.

Mayanot's Birthright-Israel tours are open to all Jews, regardless of background, affiliation or practice. Our welcoming approach and excellent track reputation of attention to detail help ensure that Jews with varying beliefs and observance levels are able enjoy the program — together.

Is it really free?

Yes, the program is free. This includes airfare on El-Al Airlines, accommodations at quality hotels, and almost all meals. A $250 fully refundable deposit is required, and is returned after the program. Students will need to arrange their own transportation to the city of departure, and are expected to pay for several of their own meals in Israel. That's it!

What will we do when we are there?

  • tour, hike and jeep throughout Israel
  • climb the ancient fortress of Masada
  • float in the Dead Sea
  • enjoy the culture, and excitement of Jerusalem & Tel Aviv
  • experience a warm and fun-filled traditional Shabbat
  • visit the Western Wall and the Yad Vashem holocaust museum
  • meet Israeli students, soldiers, politicians & business leaders...
    ...and much more!

See the article on the U of I trip, in the Daily Illini 9.22.05

Why are these trips free?

Birthright-Israel is a unique partnership between the people of Israel through their government, local Jewish communities and Federations (through the United Jewish Communities, Keren Hayesod and The Jewish Agency for Israel), and leading Jewish philanthropists. The goal of these exciting tours is to inspire in our participants a stronger connection to the Jewish people, Jewish life and to the Jewish State of Israel while having a great time!

What about the situation in Israel?

We understand that applicants may be concerned about the security situation in Israel. Rest assured that the safety and security of our participants is Mayanot's and Birthright-Israel's number one priority. Please click here for more.

Can I invite friends from other schools to come with me (or can I go with them)?

Yes! You can invite your friends from other schools to go with you! Just ask them to sign up with Mayanot, and send an email to [email protected]. If the group dates don’t work out with your personal plans, you can choose to go on another date with another school, or you can wait until the next round of trips.

Is the trip religious?

Mayanot has been providing adventurous and Free trips to Israel from mayanot Birthright-Israel and chabadeducational experiences to students Israel since it’s inception in 1996. As one of Taglit-Birthright-Israel’s largest providers. Mayanot's Birthright-Israel tours are open to all Jews, regardless of background, affiliation or practice. The trips are co-ed and are catered to non-affiliated participants. Mayanot’s welcoming approach and excellent track record of attention to detail help ensure that Jews with varying beliefs and observance levels are able enjoy the program—together.
Mayanot believes that a diverse, pluralistic group of participants makes the experience a much richer one and therefore regardless of your background or denomination you will feel at home on this trip.

Where do I sign up?

Visit www.mayanotisrael.com for more information and to sign up! To ensure that you are part of our group, make sure you enter "U of I Campaign" in the Referral code box on your application.

Can I contact someone who went on this trip before?

Absolutely. Just email [email protected] and we will be glad to connect with you with an alumnus of the program.

What should I do if I have further questions?

Send an email to [email protected] with your question and we will hasten to answer them!

Register today @ www.MayanotIsrael.com