What to Expect
Season 2026
Everything you need to know before arriving at the Jezreel Valley — from daily life on site to accommodation, meals, and costs.
— Duration & Flexibility
How long can I participate?
The 2026 season runs from July 12 to August 7. You may join for any combination of weeks — the minimum stay is one full week. Participants are welcome to stay for the entire four-week season.
Weeks run Sunday through Friday. Accommodation is available over weekends for those staying multiple weeks, though weekend meals are not included in the programme fee.
— Eligibility
Who can participate?
The excavation is open to anyone with an interest in archaeology — no prior experience is required. Volunteers and students from all backgrounds are welcome, and our staff will provide full training on excavation techniques.
Participants must be at least 18 years of age. The work is physically demanding — expect early mornings, outdoor conditions, and sustained manual effort — so a reasonable level of fitness is expected.
University students may be able to receive academic credit through their home institutions. We encourage you to contact your department coordinator before registering.
— Daily Schedule
What does a typical day look like?
Excavation days are intensive and follow an early schedule specifically designed to avoid the brutal midday heat of the Jezreel Valley. Days end in the early afternoon, leaving time for pottery work and rest.
— Where You’ll Stay
What is the accommodation like?
Participants stay at the WIZO Boarding School in Nahalal, a short drive from the excavation site in the heart of the Jezreel Valley. Rooms are shared between three to four people, each with en-suite bathrooms.
— Equipment & Clothing
What should I pack?
Excavating is dirty, sweaty work, so bring clothes you don’t mind damaging. All specialized digging equipment — trowels, pickaxes, etc. — is provided by the expedition.
— Meals
Are meals provided?
For expedition members and international team members, all meals from Sunday dinner through Friday lunch are provided, including breakfast at the site.
If you choose to stay at the accommodation over the weekend, you will be responsible for your own meals during those days.
For Local daily volunteers, breakfast at the site is not provided by default — though we will gladly accommodate upon advance request. Remember to declare any dietary requirements or allergies when registering.
— Participation Cost
How much does participation cost?
- Accommodation (rooms shared between 3–4 people, en-suite bathrooms)
- Amenities: lounge area, bed linens, towels & WiFi
- All meals (excluding weekends)
- Transportation to and from the site
- Guest lectures from leading scholars
This fee does not cover flights to Israel. We highly recommend acquiring personal travel insurance, and checking your passport’s entry requirements for Israel before booking. Invoices will be sent in May and will include payment details. We currently accept credit card, bank transfer, and cheque.
— Cancellation Policy
What is the cancellation policy?
We understand that plans can change. Below is a summary of the refund policy depending on when you cancel.
| When you cancel | Refund | Fees retained |
|---|---|---|
| Before invoices are sent | Full refund | None |
| Before June 1st | Full refund | 180 NIS registration & banking fee |
| After June 12th | Partial refund | 700 NIS per week + 180 NIS registration & banking fee |
| During the season, or without notice | No refund | Full amount retained |
Scholarships may be available — check eligibility before registering.