The Israel Ride

02/18/2026

Ramadan Kareem! As Ramadan begins, we send warm wishes to all who are observing.

May this time bring renewal, patience, and strength, and inspire continued commitment to justice, sustainability, and peace.

12/20/2025

Wishing the entire Arava Institute Israel Ride community a happy Hanukkah ✨

Feel free to share a photo in front of your chanukiah 🙂

12/15/2025

Our hearts are with the Jewish community in Australia following the horrific terrorist attack.

We are holding everyone in Australia close during this painful time. Our Israel Ride community is sending our love, strength, and light. 💙

12/02/2025

For more than 20 years, the Israel Ride has been an incredible journey. We’ve welcomed over 1,600 Riders to Israel, raised millions for our beneficiaries, and built a community rooted in purpose, adventure, and connection. The friendships forged along the way are truly something special — and we know they’ll continue for years to come. Here’s a look back at the Ride through the years. 💛🚴‍♂️

11/05/2025

Day 5: Our final stretch took us from Kibbutz Ketura—home of the Arava Institute—all the way to Eilat. We cycled along the quiet, open roads that trace the Egyptian border, paused for lunch at the stunning Red Canyon, and then descended toward the Red Sea for a celebratory finish on the beach.

It was a breathtaking end to five days of challenging, meaningful riding. By the time we reached Eilat, the group had transformed—bonded by shared miles, effort, and purpose.

To everyone who joined us this year: thank you. Your willingness to show up, especially in a time filled with uncertainty, means more than we can say. Your presence brought strength and inspiration to the Arava Institute’s alumni, staff, and students.

11/03/2025

Day 4 of the Israel Ride:
The morning began with sunrise Shacharit prayers overlooking the breathtaking Makhtesh Ramon. After our group photo, riders took off down the famous switchback road into the heart of the makhtesh!

It was a challenging day on the bike — all three riding groups powered up the infamous “Meshuganah Hill”! Despite the desert heat, spirits were high, the views were spectacular, and the sense of unity was strong!

11/01/2025

Day 3: After a night’s rest at Kibbutz Mash’abei Sadeh, at the gateway to the Negev Desert, our riders set out toward Mitzpe Ramon. Along the way, we stopped to visit Ben-Gurion’s grave in Sde Boker — a moment of reflection surrounded by the vast desert landscape that inspired his vision for Israel’s future.

The Negev’s quiet beauty has a way of softening the noise of the mind, inviting presence, grounding, and gratitude~

We arrived in Mitzpe Ramon just in time to welcome Shabbat — sharing dinner with friends, old and new, and downshifting to rest after a mighty week. ✨ Shabbat Shalom from the Israel Ride. 🕊️

10/30/2025

Day 2 of the Israel Ride took riders from Ashkelon to the northern Negev. The day began in urban terrain and slowly opened into the serene desert landscape. Riders had two route options and two bearing witness experiences around the Gaza Envelope.

We met local residents affected by October 7, heard their personal stories, and visited the car wall and the Nova Music Festival memorial site. It was an emotional and challenging day, but deeply meaningful. With each encounter, riders continue to learn about the complexities and the many layers of life in this region.

10/30/2025

The Israel Ride is officially rolling! Thanks to The Times of Israel for covering this amazing week on the road for peace and the environment.

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10/29/2025

Day 1 of the Israel Ride is complete, and what a beautiful start it was! Riders rolled out of the Jerusalem hills under sunny skies in three groups, each led by expert lead riders and supported by our incredible tour guides and crew. The day was full of stories, laughter, and smiles as everyone began to get to know one another. Best of all, everything went smoothly with great weather and no injuries. We're already looking forward to tomorrow’s ride!

10/28/2025

🚴‍♀️ Orientation day for the Israel Ride was full of energy and excitement! Riders explored Jerusalem, built their bikes, and met the staff, crew, and lead riders. People of all riding levels and backgrounds along with Arava Institute for Environmental Studies alumni crew came together, ready to embark on this special journey. Tomorrow we hit the road from Jerusalem—stay tuned for the adventure!