Israel is ready to welcome international travelers once again as it eases entry rules. As of March 1, the country will welcome all tourists, vaccinated and unvaccinated, of all ages with much easier entry restrictions. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz and Tourism Minister Yoel Razvozov on Feb. 20 discussed the easing of coronavirus restrictions, and given the steady decline in morbidity data, they have decided to open the borders to all incoming foreign travelers and ease entry requirements.

On March 1, travelers of all ages can enter the country with two negative PCR tests (one prior to departure and the second after landing in Israel). All entering visitors will be required to quarantine in their hotel until they receive the result of a negative PCR or 24 hours, whichever comes first.

“We are thrilled that the government is taking the necessary steps to fully reopen Israel to all travelers around the world,” said Eyal Carlin, Israel’s tourism commissioner for North America. “This ease in restrictions allows for more travelers to enter our country while also ensuring the health and wellbeing of all. Despite the country’s closure over the past two years, we are back and better than ever and travelers can expect refurbished historical sites with increased accessibility, new hotels, new museums, and more.”

This welcome news comes just days after the  Israel Ministry of Tourism announced the return of free guided tours to the public. With the country now reopening to international travelers, this is a step in the right direction and a great investment into Israel’s tourism.

Tens of thousands of free tours will be offered every day of the week, all of which can be booked via the websites of the Nature and Parks authority within various cities and national parks throughout the country. To date, more than 1,800 tour guides have responded to the invitation to participate in this project and tours will soon be offered in English, Russian, French, and Arabic, in addition to the Hebrew-guided tours currently available.

“We’re pleased to share that on account of a new initiative by the government to help support the travel industry, free guided tours will be offered in multiple languages throughout Israel,” said Carlin. “Open to all, the tours are available in our national parks and cities. With the country recently reopening to international travelers, we’re happy to welcome visitors back to Israel and provide them with the best experience possible. The guided tours are a fun, educational–and free–way to explore our beautiful country.”

By James Shillinglaw,