Why Choose the Cross Israel Challenge Camp
for your child?

Because of who we are Israel Challenge Expeditions and Tours is made up of American born/raised adventure sport enthusiasts that chose to leave their homes and families to make Aliyah and join the ranks of some of the most elite units in the Israeli Army, eventually becoming commanders and officers. Their love for Israel comes from something deeper than an organization or program; it comes from defending and sacrificing for our great Land. From growing up in Teaneck, Lawrence, and N.Y.C. to raising families in Israel, they share an understanding and appreciation for both the American and Israeli mentality and culture.

Because we are your direct source for excitement As an adventure tour company that has four jeeps, the best rappelling and climbing gear in the country, over 50 Giant mountain bikes, and other top-of-the-line equipment we have been the source for all of the exciting activities that are the highlight of many popular summer programs, Yeshivas, and organizations.

Because you deserve peace of mind while your child is in Israel We don't just talk safety and insurance; we ensure it. The 5 -1 camper to staff ratio guarantees your child gets the personal attention unmatched in any other program. With over two years of successful adventure activities under our belts and absolutely no accidents of any kind it is no wonder that the highest institute for sports in Israel has relied on us to run their preparatory course for future rappelling instructors. We are also members of the search and rescue team of Gush Etzion, and our connections with the police, armed forces and emergency response teams is unparalleled.

Because you should get more for your money While other programs sprinkle in exciting activities and spend most of the time looking for the "cheap solution," we focus on adventurous activities that will make a substantial difference in how your child remembers their summer.

Because of the accommodations We stay in beautiful air-conditioned cottages and lodges (not hostels!) throughout the country. Many offer swimming pools and they are all centrally located to the different activities in which we will be partaking. These cottages also offer spacious outdoor facilities for our night activities and B.B.Q's. We have a gourmet chef with us at all times preparing mouth-watering meals that are both healthy and satisfying. The menu has been built and approved by a certified nutritionist, and meets the highest standards in Kashrut (see hashgacha page). Our buses are air-conditioned, equipped with D.V.D players, and driven by professional and competent drivers with whom we work all year long.

Because it's time to take a break from the iPod, Facebook, and Xbox Technology is wonderful; however, it often comes at the expense of creativity, nature, and authentic un-simulated fun. Israel Challenge certifies our campers in self-rappelling, climbing, mountain biking, and navigation. Your child will not only participate in fun-filled exhilarating adventure sports, they will gain the knowledge to go out and take part in these sports back in America. Then who knows the newest handheld piece of multi-media technology that they might want to purchase could be a compass for their next canyoning trip at the closest national park.

Because your child should not experience Israel from the window of a bus With a bus time average of just 20 minutes, your children will be spending most of their time participating in activities. In order to ensure this concept instead of staying at one location the entire summer and bussing from place to place, the program changes locations every four to five days. This also gives the campers the full effect of each place, giving them a true historical and geographical perspective on where they are.

Because your child should gain more than just a fun summer "Judaism is like an escalator – you are either going up or going down; you never stay the same" – Rav Mersky שליט"א. A summer in Israel is not just a fun trip to an exotic shore. We offer Rabbinic supervision and experienced staff that ensure a meaningful experience in Israel. With a Sefer Torah accompanying us at all times and minyan 3 times every day we cover the basics. Daily morning shiurim that connect your child to each place that they visit, a halacha Shiur between Mincha and Maariv (Arvit), hearing from the inspirational leaders of Israel such as Rabbi Grossman שליט"א, singing for the sick at a local hospital on a Shabbaton, a Tisha Beav ceremony at the Herodian, and an overall Hashkafah of שויתי ה' לנגדי תמיד, guarantees that this spiritual escalator is only going up.