Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking Tour
Historic Wonders & Scenic Cedar Forests
- Available: May, June, September
- Activity: Level 3
- Accommodations: Rustic Lodging, Comfortable Hotels
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Group Size:
3-15 Guests
Highlights
- Hike the scenic Lebanon Mountain Trail's holy valleys, vast cedar forests, and ancient ruins
- Emerge from sweeping cedar nature preserves to explore souks, temples, fortresses, churches, and more
- Follow the footsteps of ancient Phoenicians and Romans while exploring UNESCO-listed Byblos, Anjar, and Tyre
Itinerary
Arrive in Beirut
Day 1
Welcome to Lebanon! Upon arrival at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport, meet an MT Sobek representative and transfer to the hotel. Tonight enjoy a welcome dinner with the group.
Accommodation: Le Commodore Hotel
Meals: Dinner
Walk the Baskinta Literary Trail & Transfer to Byblos
Day 2
After breakfast at the hotel, receive a briefing for the day. Then depart for Baskinta, where you take a short guided walk on the Baskinta Literary Trail, part of the Lebanon Mountain Trail, which invites you to discover landmarks associated several acclaimed writers and poets from the region. Lunch at a local guesthouse, then transfer to Byblos and spend the afternoon exploring this medieval UNESCO-listed city.
Accommodation: Byblos Sur Mer
Accommodation: Edde Sands HotelActivity: 2 hours/3 miles hiking with 660' elevation gain & 985' elevation loss
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour Medieval Sights in Byblos & Tripoli
Day 3
Wake for a visit to Byblos Crusader Castle, built in the 12th century from limestone and remains of Roman structures. Then drive to Tripoli - founded around 800 BC and inhabited by Greeks, Phoenicians, and Romans - and visit the old souk, port, and fortress, all of which date from medieval times. Continue on to Ehden and dine at the lodge tonight.
Accommodation: Belmont Hotel
Transportation: 45-minute private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Follow the Lebanon Mountain Trail in Ehden Cedars Nature Reserve
Day 4
After breakfast, tour the old town's Midane Square, Mar Mema Church (one of the oldest Maronite churches in Lebanon, dating back to the ninth century), and St. Georges Cathedral. Then, take a hike on the Lebanon Mountain Trail to Qozhaya Monastery, also known as the Monastery of St. Anthony. In continual use since its founding in the eighth century, the monastery has been printing texts since the 16th century - including texts in Syriac, a language that the Maronites still use in their services.
Accommodation: Belmont Hotel
Activity: 3 hours/6 miles hiking with 660' elevation gain & 1,300' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike into Holy Qadicha Valley
Day 5
Today is spent hiking along the Lebanon Mountain Trail from Qozhaya to Qadicha. Ouadi Qadicha, also known as Holy Valley, is one of the most important settlement sites of the first Christian monasteries in the world. Its monasteries, many of which are very old, are set in an extraordinarily rugged, beautiful landscape. We will pass by troglodotique constructions, old monasteries and visit the old village of Qanoubine.
Accommodation: Mount Jackal Guesthouse
Activity: 3-4 hours/7 miles hiking with 600' elevation gain & 530' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
See the Cedars of Tannourine
Day 6
Your hike today takes you from Hadath el Jebbeh to the Tannourine Cedar Forest Nature Reserve. Established in 1999, the reserve protects Lebanon's largest and densest cedar forest, and comprises over 2.5 million trees. The scenery is beautiful, the air is clean, and the birds are plentiful. Enjoy a packed lunch during the hike.
Accommodation: Mount Jackal Guesthouse
Activity: 3-4 hours/ 6-7 miles hiking with 1,650' elevation gain & loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head to Baalbek, Explore Roman Wonders & Go Wine Tasting
Day 7
Today, head to Baalbek in the Bekaa Valley, one of Rome's ancient breadbaskets. Discover the impressive Bacchus temple, and other Roman sites and archaeological discoveries in the area. Stop in at a Turkish school and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before transferring to Domaine De Chouchene for a free afternoon around the lake. Follow-up with wine tasting at Chateau Ksara, Lebanon's oldest winery founded in 1857. The winery has an incredible network of Roman caves, where their rarest and finest vintages are stored!
Accommodation: Domaine De Chouchene
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Visit Ancient Anjar
Day 8
After breakfast, travel to Anjar and visit the UNESCO-listed Ummayyad city, founded in the eighth century and today home to outstanding ruins. Later transfer to Tyre, a once-great Phoenician city where, legend has it, purple dye was invented.
Accommodation: Dar Alma Tyre
Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore UNESCO-Listed Tyre and ancient Sidon
Day 9
After breakfast at the hotel, tour the souk, the 12th-century Crusader Cathedral, and the Roman hippodrome before transferring to Sidon, an important Phoenician city that was settled as early as 4,000 BC. Sidon is home to the Sidon Sea Castle, built by the Crusaders in AD 1228; a thriving souk; Phoenician temples; and an ancient church converted into the Great Mosque after the Crusaders were driven out before returning to Beirut. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Le Commodore Hotel
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart from Beirut
Day 10
Transfer to the airport for your homebound flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Dates & Prices
- 2024
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
2024
Scheduled Dates
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Go Private
Go Private
Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.
Call or email us to get the ball rolling.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Looking for a private family adventure?
This trip can accommodate guests with a minimum age of 16.
Private Trip Pricing:
2023 Pricing
2 guests from $7,495 per person double occupancy
3 to 5 guests from $6,595 per person double occupancy
6 to 7 guests from $6,495 per person double occupancy
8 to 9 guests from $6,095 per person double occupancy
10 guests from $5,995 per person double occupancy
2024 Pricing
2 guests from $7,495 per person double occupancy
3 to 5 guests from $6,595 per person double occupancy
6 to 7 guests from $6,495 per person double occupancy
8 to 9 guests from $6,095 per person double occupancy
10 guests from $5,995 per person double occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
Additional Costs:
Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Take Over One of These Dates
- Jun 01 - 10, 2024
- Sep 01 - 10, 2024
Make Your Own Dates in These Months
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May, June, September
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
Start PlanningInclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Snacks and water between meals
- Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
- Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
- Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Gilbert M.
Gilbert is a driven and passionate mountain leader who has worked in rural development and sustainable tourism with many local and international NGOs. He is an instructor for mountain safety, Wilderness First Aid, and mountain guides training. He also holds several notable certifications including Search and Rescue, Rope Rescue, and Winter Rescue techniques, and is a rescue member of the Lebanese Red Cross National Intervention Team. Gilbert has degrees in Tourism Management & Engineering and International Affairs & Diplomacy. His knowledge, credentials, and strong leadership qualities make Gilbert a key member of MT Sobek’s Lebanese guiding team.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Moderate hikes on 4 days of up to 5 hours per day with cultural sightseeing and food and wine culture by private van.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
2 hours/3 miles hiking with 660' elevation gain & 985' elevation loss
Day 4
3 hours/6 miles hiking with 660' elevation gain & 1,300' elevation loss
Day 5
3-4 hours/7 miles hiking with 600' elevation gain & 530' elevation loss
Day 6
3-4 hours/ 6-7 miles hiking with 1,650' elevation gain & loss
Accommodations
Charming traditional Lebanese guesthouses and hotels with modern amenities.
Dar Alma Tyre
Dar Alma in Tyre is a bright yellow local hotel set in the ancient alleyways of Tyre. Rooms have warm wood accents, mosaic-tile showers and other boutique touches. Most rooms boast terraces overlooking the Mediterranean. The restaurant boasts both an outdoor terrace as well as indoor seating with stone archways, and serves local Lebanese cuisine. There is a sundeck and Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
Byblos Sur Mer
Situated on the edge of the Sea in Byblos harbor, this is a truly spectacular hotel and offers stunning views to complement its luxurious property and rooming accommodations. The hotel offers a several different dining options, and guests can enjoy complimentary beach access. Walking through the lobby, the Byblos Sur Mer also houses a variety of archaeological artifacts. On the edge of the water, this is a comfortable and luxurious place to decompress and reflect on trip's spectacular journey through Roman ruins, Phoenician cities, and the legendary Lebanon Mountain Trail.
Le Commodore Hotel
Located in Beirut's Hamra district, this accommodation is an ideal place to spend the first night because of its proximity to the city center. It has an outdoor pool and fitness center which offer a nice place to get acclimated after a long day of travel before beginning the adventure on the following day. The rooms are comfortable and nicely furnished. Guests can also enjoy several dining options with Japanese, French, American options, along with another restaurant offering a fusion of international cuisine.
Mount Jackal Guesthouse
Rest in comfort at the family run Mount Jackal Guesthouse, set in a the idyllic red-tiled village of Qnat. Get together in the well-equipped common area, complete with authentic Lebanese touches, and sleep in clean, simply furnished rooms. A convenient and welcoming stop for small groups trekking the Lebanon Mountain Trail.
Belmont Hotel
Enjoy simple, authentic mountain accommodations and warm hospitality at the Hotel Belmont in beautiful Ehden. Room are clean and spacious, and come equipped with modern amenities including Wi-Fi and air con. The on-site restaurant serves hearty Lebanese fare and a range of international dishes. Delight in stunning views from the terrace overlooking the valley!
Domaine De Chouchene
Located in the heart of Lebanon's wine country, Chouchene is a tranquil hideaway set in beautiful natural surroundings. Discover the wonders of hiking around Kabb Elias then settle into your comfortable room, complete with private bathroom and simple but modern amenities. Guests can make use of the shared kitchen on every floor, and communal living space with TV, fireplace, and dining room.
Edde Sands Hotel
The five-star Eddiesands Hotel & Wellness Resort in Byblos renowned for its unique Lebanese architectural style, offers a luxurious stay! With a range of dining options, a beach bar, spa, Jacuzzis, indoor heated pool and picturesque gardens, guests will be pampered with top-notch amenities. Guests also enjoy Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Conveniently located in the heart of Byblos port, enjoy easy access to delicious restaurants and charming shops.
Weather
Temperatures in the cities are very warm with scant amounts of rain. In the mountains, temperatures range from the mid 40's to high 60's.
Know Before You Book
Please note that Lebanon is an OFAC sanctioned country making it ineligible for our Travel Protection Plan with Arch RoamRight.
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
Our MT Sobek representative will meet you at the Beirut Airport.
Do I need a visa to travel to Lebanon?
Yes, American citizens need a visa to travel to Lebanon, but you can get one on arrival at the airport in Beirut.
Do I need to follow a special dress code for Lebanon?
No, there is no special dress code for Lebanon, but out of respect for the local culture, please leave immodest clothing at home.
Is it safe to travel to Lebanon?
Yes, tourism is alive and well in Lebanon and the country is an oasis of calm in a turbulent neighborhood.
How do I get to Beirut?
A number of European airlines (including Lufthansa, Turkish, Air France and British Airways) as well as Emirates and Royal Jordanian Airlines fly to Beirut.
This trip is "Exploratory". Does that mean nobody has done this trip before?
Yes, and no. MT Sobek has never done this trip. It has been scouted by an MT Sobek Program Director for safety purposes. While certain aspects of this trip have been done before, sections of hiking trails we will explore have not.
Does this trip contribute to any local conservation efforts?
Yes! Each group has the opportunity to plant a tree where you hike to help preserve the beautiful buffer zone of the Ehden Reserve.
