All about your Israel Trip
Israel Questions
Israel Travel FAQ
Traveling to Israel is an unforgettable experience — a mix of ancient history, vibrant culture, and modern life unlike anywhere else. But before every great journey come a few practical questions: What’s the best time to visit? Is it safe? How does a Private Israel Tour work? What should I pack? As a licensed Israel Tour Guide, I’ve spent years answering these same questions for travelers from around the world. This Israel Travel FAQ brings together everything you need to know before your trip — from visas and safety to tour planning and cultural customs. Whether you’re coming for history, faith, family, or adventure, you’ll find clear, honest, and up-to-date answers right here. My goal is to help you prepare with confidence — and start imagining your own story in the land of Israel.
ABOUT PRIVATE ISRAEL TOURS
A Private Israel Tour is a fully personalized journey designed around your interests, pace, and schedule. You travel in comfort with a licensed Israel Tour Guide, exploring sites that matter most to you — from Jerusalem’s Old City to the Dead Sea or the Golan Heights.
Private tours offer flexibility, comfort, and personal connection. You can adjust timing, skip crowds, and explore deeper stories that organized groups often miss. It’s your trip — shaped around you.
Most visitors book between 1 and 10 days, depending on how much of Israel they wish to see. Shorter day tours focus on Jerusalem or the Dead Sea; longer itineraries include the Galilee, Negev, and Tel Aviv.
A licensed Tour Guide In Israel explains history, culture, faith, and modern life while managing logistics, timing, and comfort — ensuring every day flows smoothly and meaningfully. Beyond that, a guide also serves as a bridge between visitors and locals, helping travelers connect with people, places, and stories in an authentic way. This personal interaction makes each tour more interactive, immersive, and truly memorable.
JERUSALEM & HOLY SITES
Absolutely. Jerusalem is layered with 3,000 years of history, archaeology, and spirituality. A Private Guide In Jerusalem helps you navigate its holy sites, local customs, and hidden stories — including special places and viewpoints that visitors often miss and can access only with the help of a licensed Tour Guide.
Yes — the Old City of Jerusalem is just about 1 square kilometer (0.6 square miles) in size, yet it contains sacred sites of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam within walking distance of one another. It’s very possible to encounter all three faiths in a single day. As a Private Tour Guide, I make good use of my connections and friendships among members of all three religions, helping visitors experience these traditions with insight, respect, and authenticity.
Yes. The Old City of Jerusalem is well-patrolled and generally safe for visitors. That said, the political situation in Israel can be fluid, and conditions may change quickly. As a Licensed Israel Tour Guide, I always stay informed about local developments and know exactly where it’s safe to go — and where it’s best to stay away from. I’m responsible not only for my own security but also for the safety, comfort, and well-being of every guest in my care. Your peace of mind always comes first.
DEAD SEA, MASADA & DESERT ADVENTURES
Yes — or rather, float! The Dead Sea has a salt concentration of about 33%, nearly ten times that of the Mediterranean, making floating effortless. It’s a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience that every visitor should try. I’ll guide you to safe, clean access points and nearby spa resorts so you can enjoy it comfortably and responsibly.
The Dead Sea lies about 100 km (62 miles) from both Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, which means the drive takes roughly an hour and a half from either city. The route is scenic and easy to follow, descending below Sea Level as the desert landscape unfolds. Many travelers choose to combine their visit with nearby highlights such as Masada or the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, making it a perfect full-day or half-day excursion during your stay in Israel.
The best time to visit the Dead Sea or the Negev Desert is from October to April, when days are mild and pleasant. During summer, temperatures can rise above 40°C (104°F), making outdoor activity challenging. Still, the dry air and bright sunlight make it a great time for spa visits or floating in the Dead Sea.
SAFETY & PRACTICALITIES
Yes — since the return of the Israeli hostages and the ceasefire agreement of October 2025, all areas within Israel are safe and peaceful for visitors. I constantly monitor official advisories and plan routes accordingly, so you can explore with confidence. In general, Israel is an exceptionally safe country — even at night. Street crime is rare, and it’s common to see people walking alone, including women, without concern. As your Israel Tour Guide, your safety, comfort, and peace of mind always come first.
Yes — comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for all visitors to Israel. It should include coverage for medical care, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. While Israel has excellent medical facilities, treatment can be expensive without insurance, and having coverage gives you peace of mind to fully enjoy your Private Israel Tour.
The official currency of Israel is the Israeli Shekel (₪ NIS), divided into 100 agorot. Cash is still useful for small purchases, but major Credit Cards such are accepted almost everywhere. ATMs are easy to find and usually dispense Israeli Shekels, and in some locations also US Dollars or Euros. Currency exchange is simplest at licensed Exchange Booths, where rates are generally fair. You can also exchange money at Post Offices or at Hotel Receptions, where rates tend to be less favorable.
PACKING & PREPARATION
Light layers, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes are essential. Bring modest clothing for Holy Sites and a swimsuit for the Dead Sea or the Mediterranean. Evenings in Jerusalem can be cool, even in summer, so a light jacket is always useful. Winters are often rainy and damp, and temperatures in mountainous areas can be quite cold — pack warm layers if visiting during that season.
Yes — the water in Israel is safe to drink everywhere, even straight from the tap. The country’s water system is highly regulated and among the most advanced in the world. However, travelers with very sensitive stomachs may experience mild discomfort during their first day or two, as their body adjusts to the mineral composition of Israeli water. Those who prefer to play it safe can simply buy bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive. The water served in pitchers in restaurants is almost always filtered and therefore perfectly fine to drink.
Yes. Israel uses 230 volts and the standard Type C and Type H Plugs. If your devices use a different plug or voltage, you’ll need an adapter or small converter. Most hotels will provide converters free of charge, but it’s best to bring your own to charge devices easily while traveling.
TIMING & SEASONS
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are ideal times to visit Israel, with pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds. Winter is generally mild, especially along the coast and in the desert regions, though it can be cool and rainy in Jerusalem and the mountains. Summer is hot and dry — perfect for beach lovers and lively city life — but days can be long and warm, so touring often starts early in the morning.
Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest, begins at sunset on Friday and ends after nightfall on Saturday. During this time, many businesses, restaurants, and all public services close — especially in West Jerusalem and other traditionally Jewish-observant areas. However, Tel Aviv, resort towns, and much of the coast remain lively, with open cafés, taxis, and entertainment venues. As your Israel Tour Guide, I’ll help you plan around Shabbat so your itinerary will flow smoothly.
ARRIVAL, ENTRY & TRANSPORT
Most visitors from the U.S., Canada, and Europe receive a free B/2 Tourist Visa valid for 90 days on arrival — you’ll receive a blue entry card and keep it for your exit. As of January 1 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries must also apply for the ETA‑IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) before boarding their flight. You can apply for it at the official portals:
If you’re unsure whether your country is visa-exempt or subject to ETA-IL, I’ll be glad to help you check and prepare as part of your Private Israel Tour planning.
Yes — I provide airport pickup, transfers, and full arrival assistance as part of my Private Israel Tours. From the moment you land at Ben Gurion Airport, I make sure your arrival is smooth and stress-free — helping with luggage, transport, and coordination to your hotel or first destination. Whether you arrive early in the morning or late at night, everything is arranged in advance so you can simply relax and start enjoying your visit to Israel.
You can travel around Israel by private car and driver, rental car, or public transportation. Each option has its advantages, but Private Touring offers the most comfort, flexibility, and efficiency — especially when time is limited or when visiting remote areas like the Negev or the Golan Heights. As your Israel Tour Guide, I handle all transportation logistics during my Private Israel Tours, so you can focus on the experience, not the driving. For a detailed overview of Transportation, visit my dedicated Israel Transportation page.
CULTURE & CUSTOMS
The official languages of Israel are Hebrew and Arabic, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural and historical roots. English is widely spoken and understood, especially in cities, hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites — so most visitors have no problem communicating. You’ll also often hear Russian, French, Amharic, and other languages spoken by Israel’s immigrant communities. As your Israel Tour Guide, I can help translate or assist in any situation, ensuring smooth communication wherever we go.
When visiting Religious Sites in Israel, modest attire is expected out of respect for local customs and traditions. Both men and women should keep shoulders and knees covered, and avoid sleeveless tops, short skirts, or tight-fitting clothing. In some places, visitors may also be asked to cover their heads or wear a shawl or scarf, which is usually provided at the entrance.
Usually yes — Israel is very photo-friendly, but always ask before photographing people, soldiers, or during prayer. On Shabbat, photography and electronic devices are not allowed in religious areas, and taking pictures can be considered offensive. Also, avoid photographing military or security installations.
ABOUT OFER MOGHADAM
I’m a licensed Israel Tour Guide with many years of experience leading Private Israel Tours for travelers from around the world. People often call me Uncle Ofer — a nickname that reflects my warm, personal approach to guiding. I believe a great tour is more than history and geography — it’s about connection, curiosity, and shared moments. My goal is to make every journey through Israel personal, meaningful, and unforgettable, with stories that stay with you long after you return home.
The easiest way to get started is by visiting my Contact Page and filling out the short form. You can also reach me directly by Email at ofermog@gmail.com or via WhatsApp Message at +972-58-783-3799. I usually reply very quickly — unless I’m out guiding a group somewhere beautiful. Either way, you’ll always hear back from me soon, and we’ll start planning your Private Israel Tour together.
READY TO EXPLORE ISRAEL?
Traveling in Israel is more than sightseeing — it’s a meeting with history, faith, and everyday life. I hope these answers help you plan your visit with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re exploring Jerusalem’s narrow alleys, floating in the Dead Sea, or walking along Tel Aviv’s coastline, every step here tells a story. As a Licensed Israel Tour Guide, my goal is to make your experience personal, meaningful, and effortless — from the first question you ask to the final day of your journey. If there’s anything this Israel Travel FAQ didn’t cover, please don’t hesitate to Get In Touch. I’m always happy to help, share local insights, or simply chat about your plans for discovering this remarkable country.
3700+
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10
Years in Business