Jewish 10th grade graduates from across the United States and Canada. The program is geared toward students from Orthodox backgrounds. Mach Hach is sponsored by Bnei Akiva of the U.S. and Canada, which is a religious Zionist youth movement.

There are approximately 35–40 kids in a group. Groups are divided based on your requests. You will share this unforgettable experience and form life-long bonds with old friends and new.

There are several times during the summer when all buses will be together. They include opening night ceremonies, Shabbat Mach Hach, Tisha B’Av and final banquet. During Adventure Week you will be mixed with kids from other buses who choose the same track as you. In addition, Israel is a small country so keep your eyes open because you never know when you will run into them…

There is a formal shiur (learning session) each day. But to us, everything we do is an opportunity for Torah learning. We often tour with a Tanach in hand, allowing for a type of learning that can not be achieved in any classroom or beit-midrash.

There is one free weekend. If you want to spend more time with family and friends in Israel, you can arrange to arrive in Israel before Mach Hach starts, or you can stay after.

Yes! Each bus has a staff of six full-time madrichim. There is also a senior-staff that floats between the buses, and is in touch with the staff 24/7. Even “free time” is supervised — no camper is ever permitted to go off on his/her own.

Mach Hach BaAretz is staffed by senior madrichim and madrichiot who have proven their leadership capabilities in previous positions in Bnei Akiva and Camp Moshava. They serve not only as counselors, but also as role models and educators. Each bus is staffed by a combination of Americans and Israelis.

Most of the time. Because we are a traveling camp, we do not have our own kitchens. Meals are eaten in hotels and restaurants, or provided by caterers. Therefore, we do not have total control over ingredients. If you have food allergies or other special needs, you must speak with the Mach Hach administration before your application is considered final.