What To Expect

What does my registration fee cover?

The base fee covers two guests per room. Single occupancy is available on a limited basis at an additional cost. Please see upgrade charges at onefamilyfundhike.com/fees.html The base fee covers everything you will need from Breakfast on Sunday morning until Thursday following lunch. A Saturday evening program and dinner reception after Shabbat in Jerusalem is also included.

Specifically, the fee includes three kosher meals, each day, all special evening activities, and overnight accommodation based on double occupancy at an Israeli Guest House. All hike guides and medics are included in this fee as well as daily transportation.

Where and when does the trip begin?

We will begin hiking after breakfast on Sunday, October 21.

Where and when does the trip end?

Our final day of hiking is Thursday, October 25. There will be an afternoon closing ceremony and banquet for all participants.

Where will we be staying and eating our meals?

We will spend three nights at Kibbutz Guest House Mashabe Sade (Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights); and Wednesday night at the Isrotel Beresheet Hotel-Mitzpe Ramon. The price includes Israeli Buffet Breakfast every morning; 5 Lunches (either packed or picnic spread); and 4 dinners (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday).

What will the weather be?

Generally in the Negev the weather at the end of October is delightful. We expect to wear t-shirts and shorts most days. Rain is unlikely, but you should bring rain gear just in case. A sun hat is mandatory on all days. Nights can be quite cool in this area, with temperatures averaging around 16 Celsius. Be prepared with long sleeves and another layer.

How long will we be hiking each day?

We will typically hike from 4 to 7 hours (6 to 12 kilometers) per day with a break for lunch.

What will I carry with me on the hike?

You will need to carry a knapsack large enough to hold 4 to 5 litres of water for the start of the day. In addition you will take the following with you on each hike: passport, money and identification, emergency information cards, a cell phone, rain gear (if the forecast indicates rain), a spare pair of socks, some fruit or snacks, sun block, band aids, toilet paper and wipes (there are no facilities on route).

What type of shoes should I wear?

Proper hiking boots with good ankle support which have been broken in prior to the hike are mandatory. (Open-toed sandals or running shoes will not be permitted.) We also recommend taking previously laundered hiking socks in order to avoid blistering.

Will there be security and medical support on the hikes?

Yes, there will be several armed medics accompanying us.

Will we have guides?

Yes, in addition to the medics, there will be one guide for every hiking group. The hiking groups will be categorized by ability. The guides will point out local points of interest along the route and provide other technical or practical hiking assistance as required.

Will we be meeting Victims of Terrorism who have been helped by One Family Fund?

Yes, a number of them will be joining us; some will hike the trails with us, while others will join us for dinner and evening activities. You will have plenty of opportunities to meet, ask questions and learn about their lives.