Good questions
The FAQ
Starting at just $1,950! Everything parents ask us most. Don’t see your question? Just ask.
What is Merchav West?
A summer Bein Hazmanim camp for growth-oriented, mature, and adventurous Mesivta bochurim. We explore the American West together, with proper Minyanim and structured Sedarim every single day.
Who is it for?
Merchav West is geared to mainstream bochurim in Mesivta looking to properly experience the West. Boys who are looking to fully and actively immerse themselves in the incredible Niflaos Haboreh our country has to offer.
Not sure if your son is a good fit? Reach out and we will talk it through.
When is camp?
Camp always runs from after Tisha B’Av until right before Rosh Chodesh Elul. Summer 2027 will bez’h be departing on August 15th with arrival back on August 31st.
How much does it cost?
Starting at just $1,950! It is the full Western road-trip experience at a fraction of the usual cost. A $400 deposit holds your place, and it comes off the full price. Contact us for any pricing questions.
How can it possibly be this affordable?
We cut out the extras that don’t make the summer any better: no needless branded swag, no Irish-themed suppers serenaded by a traditional folk band, none of the luxuries that we feel don’t actually contribute to the traveling experience. With over 10 years of running Bein Hazmanim programs, we know exactly what makes for an incredible, memorable summer and what’s just fluff.
Our accommodations don’t have private jacuzzis or in-house VR setups. Honestly, they don’t have much beyond the basics, and that’s precisely the point! We keep it simple and rustic so we can focus on giving the boys the ultimate West Coast experience, with no distractions.
Early signups make a big difference too. Bochurim usually sign up much later in the year, which drives up costs. The earlier you sign up, the less it costs us, and we pass those savings on to you.
Our seasonal staff are in it for the love of it, not a salary. This isn’t anyone’s parnassa.
And even with all the ways we save, $1,950 is still below cost...
Does the price include the flight?
No, boys fly in from many different locations in the US and Canada and not everyone always flies together. There is generally an optional group flight that we help arrange though.
What is the schedule like?
Action-packed. Days are full, with very little unscheduled time, because the goal is to maximize our Bein Hazmanim and properly see and experience the West.
What activities and experiences can I expect?
Expect mountain hikes with incredible payoffs, swimming in refreshing alpine lakes, exploring majestic waterfalls, boating, off-roading, caving, Jeeping, exhilarating sandboarding, night activities, sports, fishing, tubing, surfing experiences, hot springs, and more... and obviously enough incredible nature, views and Kumzitz bonfires to last you a lifetime!
All expertly mixed up so no two days feel the same.
What about learning and davening?
Every day starts with Shacharis and a morning seder before we head out. Minyanim and learning are built into the route.
What is Shabbos like?
Shabbos is spent at our forest-cabin home base. Davening, learning, seudos, and an epic ruach create an unforgettable Shabbos.
Where do the bochurim sleep?
Our home base is secluded forest cabins. On the road we mostly stay at hotels along the route, with a few nights of camping under the stars mixed in.
What about food?
All food is made fresh in house under top hechsheirim and strictly Cholov Yisroel. 3 nutritious and filling meals daily, with snacks as needed to fuel us through the day. Have a dietary need or allergy? Note it on the application and we should be able to accommodate.
How do I apply?
Fill out the online application. It takes just a few minutes, and we’ll be in touch ASAP.
How does the deposit work?
A $400 deposit holds your son’s place. It is taken off the full camp price, and it is refundable within 7 days of payment. You can pay it online on the deposit page. Questions about the deposit or payment options? Reach out.