If you’re the type of person that loves adventure, this is a must-read! It’s not often you get to experience an authentic adventure with an experienced and knowledgeable guide, but when I first met Ariel from Adventure Israel I knew this was the best Israel experience out there. For starters, I am not a fan of commercial tours and excursions. Waiting on lines or touring with guides that sound like robots because you are their hundredth tour of the week does not appeal to me or my family. Trust me, we’ve been there, done that. We prefer off the beaten path, seeking unique adventures that are thrilling and memorable. Ariel Fishman from Adventure Israel offers exactly that and more.
I first found Ariel a few years ago on TripAdvisor while searching for something fun and different to do in Israel. I learned about the many excursions he offers and his five-star rating. At the time it was just my son, Louis, and I, so we booked a private rappelling and caving tour with Ariel. It was amazing. Upon my return, I told my husband about this unforgettable adventure, and I couldn’t wait to go back and share the experience with my entire family. But Covid-19 derailed our plans to return, until recently, when we finally were able to travel to Israel again. First on our list—book a tour with Ariel.
While speaking with Ariel, who is originally from New York and made aliyah 18 years ago and is fluent in both English and Hebrew, you know you are talking with a seasoned professional who knows his business inside and out. His knowledge of Israel and all things outdoors is extensive. “I grew up hiking, biking, camping, and paddling throughout the Northeast with my father. There was never a time in my life that I did not passionately love the outdoors and challenging adventures. There are few things as spiritually connective for me as being present in nature,” he said.
Yeshiva-break weather was not great in Israel this year. A lot of rain! So it became a challenge to find a day and place to safely rappel and go caving. Ariel was extremely communicative with us the entire time, as we vacillated between days, places and times. He even offered to drive out in the early morning and make sure the hiking trail and mountains were not wet or dangerously slippery. To say he went above and beyond would be an understatement.
When we arrived at our destination, a location near the Gush, the weather was dry and perfect for rappelling. We started with a beautiful hike in the mountains, with breathtaking views, and Ariel explained everything in detail, as his knowledge of the land, and its rich history both religious and secular is exemplary. Then we got harnessed and ready to rappel off 100-foot cliffs. My four children jumped and rappelled off the cliff fearlessly. Ariel was amazed.
Our next excursion was caving and our adventurous bunch suddenly showed signs of fear, as caves can be scary and make you feel claustrophobic. There were tiny tunnels to crawl through on your belly, with only a headlight to guide you in the dark. Ariel enjoys helping people work through anxiety and adventure, “overcoming fear, surmounting obstacles and embracing challenges are regular experiences on our tours. To be part of this process on a regular basis is beyond words.”
After caving, we made pita, starting with dough and water, then using sticks to spark a fire and a metal taboon to bake the pita bread. Such a highlight for us. It was one of those very memorable days for our family, with awesome pictures.
As everyone is aware, COVID-19 has been devastating to the travel and tour industry. “COVID has essentially shelved the business for the past two years. Happens to be that it came at a time that the business was really growing, but I have come to embrace the break from the intense workload. That being said, we are ready for tourism to return,” Ariel said.
Now that Israel is open and relinquishing restrictions daily, travel is picking up. Booking a tour with Adventure Israel will be the highlight of your trip. Guaranteed!
Passion and skill are what set Adventure Israel apart from other tours. Ariel said it best: “The joy of sharing what I love never gets boring. Coupling an adrenaline-packed day with the rich and layered history that is Israel keeps me coming back for more.”
Ariel will create an itinerary for your family’s skill level, age group, adventure tolerance and comfort to enjoy the best day ever. “Adventure Israel is keen on keeping our services uniquely customized to each of our clients’ preferences.”
Adventure Israel provides boutique outdoor tours of all types, from high-angle extreme trips to more relaxed and immersive experiences. Rappelling, rock climbing, caving, Bedouin-style outdoor meals, foraging and survival skills, as well as supported camping and trekking, and mountain biking tours.
You can contact Ariel at [email protected] or +972-58-536-4938. And check out his website at www.adventure-israel.com.
This is one adventure you don’t want to miss!
Kellita Weber lives in Englewood with her husband and four children. She works full time in sales and marketing for Azar Displays, an industry leader in point-of-purchase displays and fixtures. Her family enjoys spending time together and is always looking for unique and memorable adventures.
