This cultural immersion is a valuable part of the study abroad experience at Arava. Meals are served three times a day in the communal dining hall, where students eat alongside kibbutz members. Students have the opportunity to participate in the cultural activities and festivals held by the kibbutz. For other recreational activities, the student apartments are near tennis courts, a weight room, a swimming pool, a riding stable, a soccer field, and a basketball court. Not all learning goes on in the classroom.
Students learn about regional planning and development through extensive hiking in the area.
The program also holds field trips to Jordan and Egypt, and provides a range of opportunities to tour Israel. Kibbutz Ketura is a small oasis village. Its location allows students to appreciate the scenic Arava Desert while concentrating on their work. When students wish to explore further, however, they can visit the Red Sea resort cities of Eilat and Aqaba with a half-hour's drive.