At Twelve Pilgrims Travel, guiding people on journeys of faith is at the heart of all we do. The Holy Land, in particular, holds a unique place in the lives of our pilgrims—many return again and again, each visit offering new perspectives and deeper spiritual meaning.
We are now welcoming registrations of interest from those who feel called to join a future pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
If you wish to be among the first to hear when our 2026 pilgrimages open for booking, we invite you to register your interest today.
Available tours - what's going on?
The Holy Land - Travel Tips
1
Essential Travel Documents & Entry (UK Passports)
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Passport Validity: Your British passport must be valid for at least six months from the date you arrive. If it is due to expire soon, check the renewal process with the Passport Office immediately.
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ETA-IL (Crucial Update for 2025): As of 1st January 2025, most travellers, including UK citizens, will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before flying to Israel. This is similar to the ESTA in the US. You must apply for this in advance, or you may be denied boarding your flight.
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Visa: UK citizens travelling as tourists currently do not require a visa for short stays (up to 3 months).
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Entry Card: Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv), you typically receive a small entry card instead of a passport stamp. Keep this card safe with your passport, as it serves as your official proof of legal entry and may be requested at checkpoints.
2
Safety, Insurance, and FCDO Advice
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Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers your entire itinerary, including all specific regions you plan to visit, and provides comprehensive cover for medical emergencies and emergency repatriation.
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Security: Always travel with a reputable, licensed tour operator who is monitoring the local situation. Stay with your group and adhere strictly to your guide's instructions.
3
Spiritual & Physical Preparation
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Modest Attire: A strict modest dress code applies when visiting churches, mosques, and holy sites. For both men and women, shoulders and knees must be covered. We recommend packing lightweight trousers/skirts and long-sleeved tops. A shawl or scarf is useful for quick covering.
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Footwear: Pilgrimage tours can involve significant walking over ancient, uneven surfaces (cobblestones and ruins). Sturdy, comfortable, and well-broken-in walking shoes or trainers are essential for your comfort and safety.
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Hydration: We usually run tours in the cooler months, however the weather can be intensely hot. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of bottled water frequently to guard against dehydration.
Resources
FCDO Travel Advice
Official UK Government travel warnings, security advice, and regional risks for Israel and the Palestinian Territories.
GOV.UK: Foreign Travel Advice - Israel
NHS Fit for Travel
Health, hygiene, and vaccination recommendations for the region.
NHS Fit for Travel - Israel & Palestine
ETA-IL Information
Official guidance on the new Electronic Travel Authorisation required for UK citizens from 1st Jan 2025.
(Search the official Gov.il website for "ETA-IL" to find the most up-to-date application portal.)
UK Passport Office
For checking passport validity and renewal times.