Our Guides

Ben Zaltzman

Ben is an official Hiking the Holyland tour guide and Israel hiking guide. Growing up in the Carmel Mountain region, he fell in love with nature at a young age. Since then, he has discovered secret hiking trails and magical corners around the country. Now, he guides others through his experiences.

Ben is an expert at long distance hikes. He has hiked for 6 months along the Pacific Crest Trail and has led many multi-day hiking trips around Israel, including Birthright tours, the Golan Trail, and the Israel Trail.

He has studied tour guiding, bird watching, educational tours, storytelling, survival skills, group dynamics, and natural healing.

"Very informative and fun guide. He knew interesting stories and legends and different herbs and trees he showed us on the way."

"I liked the ice breaker activities he did. It really helped the group gel. He was friendly and added a lot to the hike. His sage tea was amazing."

"Approachable, knowledgable, and encouraging."

Arky Staiman

Arky Staiman is a licensed tour guide and an oleh of 11 years. Originally from Baltimore, he now lives in Tekoa with his wife and 2 little kids.

Arky specializes in high energy, fun tours in Israel. His love for Israel is contagious, and his desire to share that with everyone he meets is a driving force in his life.