The Israel Ride is a fundraising event benefiting The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies. It was founded to show solidarity with Israel at a very difficult time, and to provide new avenues for supporting their critical environmental programs. In May 2003, the first Israel Ride attracted 34 riders and collected over $50,000.

The Israel Ride has continued to build upon its passion for connecting people to Israel’s land and culture, fostering long-lasting friendships, and advocating for a sustainable, secure, and peaceful Middle East. Today, with over 1,800 alumni riders, the Israel Ride provides participants with a one-of-a-kind experience through its diverse itineraries that traverse the Negev Desert and surrounding areas.

About the Ride

The Israel Ride is the premier cycling experience in Israel. Enjoy five glorious days of biking, with route options for recreational riders and experienced cyclists. All routes are fully supported with plentiful local food, wonderful crew and mechanics, and great overnight locations. We also offer a non-riding option called Chaverim. The week-long Ride includes orientation, five cycling days, and a day off for Shabbat. Each cycling day of the Israel Ride offers new cycling opportunities and challenges, although the basic flow of each day is the same. There is something for everyone on the Israel Ride – for those new to Israel or seasoned travelers, for those coming on their own, with families, or part of local teams, and for riders of all ages. Learn about the ecological challenges in the region as you explore the Negev desert, and support the work of The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies. Participants on the Israel Ride are mostly from the United States, as well as England, Canada, Israel, and Australia. There are riders of all ages (including those celebrating a Bar or Bat Mitzvah), religious backgrounds, and cycling abilities.

About the Beneficiary

The Arava Institute for Environmental Studies is the premier environmental teaching and research program in the Middle East, preparing future Arab and Jewish leaders to cooperatively solve the region’s environmental challenges. Through its activities, the Arava Institute encourages, fosters, and supports the advancement of environmental cooperation between Israel and its neighbors. Learn more.

Financial Information

Participants pay a registration fee and commit to a minimum fundraising level. We offer incentives to those who raise above their fundraising minimum. Participants cover their own transportation expenses to fly to and from Israel. The Ride covers all costs in Israel including hotels, food, and ride support.

View additional Israel Ride info & FAQs. Please explore our causes and learn more about our key partners that make riding the Israel Ride a true passion.