Adventure Confidently: Covid-19 Information & Vaccination Requirements

Find Your TripFree Catalog

Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking

Historic Wonders & Scenic Cedar Forests

 

Join MT Sobek on a pioneering hiking adventure! Established in 2007, the 290-mile Lebanon Mountain Trail takes in all the beauty and natural diversity the landscape and culture have to offer, and we hike 23 miles of it! Warm up with Lebanon's revered literary greats along the Baskinta Literary Trail, then revel in a series of moderate mountain hikes exemplary of this incredibly historical, spectacular route. Explore impressive Roman ruins, centuries-old mountain monasteries, vast cedar forests, ancient Phoenician cities, and medieval highlights of Byblos, Tripoli, and Anjar. Our knowledgeable, expert guides help ensure an unparalleled experience of this unique destination.

  • 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

Contact an Expert

Arrive:

Beirut, Lebanon

Depart:

Beirut, Lebanon

Price: from $5,995

Duration:

10 Days

Departures:

See Dates

Group Size:

4-15 Guests

Min Age:

16 yrs

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 here.

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed 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

    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.

    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

    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.

    Activity: 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: Qozhaya Lodge

    The Qozhaya Lodge is located within the stone walls of the 17th-century Qozhaya Monastery, also called the Monastery of St. Anthony. The monastery oozes historic charm and you'll learn about the hermits who have inhabited the Qadicha Valley since the 5th century. Enjoy peaceful nights in basic rooms, which come with en-suite bathrooms, and fuel the next leg of your trek in the dining room.

    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: Qozhaya Lodge

    The Qozhaya Lodge is located within the stone walls of the 17th-century Qozhaya Monastery, also called the Monastery of St. Anthony. The monastery oozes historic charm and you'll learn about the hermits who have inhabited the Qadicha Valley since the 5th century. Enjoy peaceful nights in basic rooms, which come with en-suite bathrooms, and fuel the next leg of your trek in the dining room.

    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: Auberge Hadath el Jebbeh-Hadath el Jebbeh

    The charming Auberge Hadath el Jebbeh is a traditional Lebanese home dating from 1928 that was transformed into a hostel and hotel. A warm, relaxed atmosphere can be felt throughout the property, which comprises a spacious common hall and 16 beds (eight double rooms) and a guesthouse (three double rooms and a shared kitchen). The auberge can also arrange meals, activities, and cooking classes.

    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: Auberge Hadath el Jebbeh-Hadath el Jebbeh

    The charming Auberge Hadath el Jebbeh is a traditional Lebanese home dating from 1928 that was transformed into a hostel and hotel. A warm, relaxed atmosphere can be felt throughout the property, which comprises a spacious common hall and 16 beds (eight double rooms) and a guesthouse (three double rooms and a shared kitchen). The auberge can also arrange meals, activities, and cooking classes.

    Activity: 3-4 hours/ 6-7 miles hiking with 1,650' elevation gain & loss

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Head to Baalbek and Taanayel Domaine

    Day 7

    Today, head to Baalbek in the Bekaa Valley, one of Rome's breadbaskets - Roman sites and ruins dot the area. Visit the city's temple, Turkish school, and recent archaeological discoveries. Enjoy lunch in a small restaurant in town, and then transfer to Taanayel Domaine for a free afternoon around the lake, followed by wine tasting at Chateau Ksara.

    Accommodation: Taanayel Ecolodge

    Enjoy a traditional Lebanese experience at the Taanayel Ecolodge, built in the style of an authentic Beqaa village with mud-brick walls. Bedouin-style shared rooms encircle a lush central courtyard and open terrace, where you can relax with a coffee or game of backgammon. At night you will sleep on a mat on the floor and wake to a hearty breakfast.

    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

    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.

    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

    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.

    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

show more

Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking

Download Detailed Itinerary

Click here to download the Detailed Itinerary.

What to Expect

 

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

This trip blends hiking to hermit cave churches with cultural treasures like Baalbek and Byblos.

Reason #02

Our local guide is one of the founders of the Lebanon Mountain Trail, and is expertly familiar with the route!

Reason #03

We have successfully operated trips throughout the Middle East, including to Iran, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.

Meet your guides

Gilbert Moukheiber

Gilbert Moukheiber

Gilbert Moukheiber 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.

Activities

Moderately paced hiking up to 7 miles a day on scenic trails, plus cultural touring of Roman ruins, cedar forests, and ancient cities.

Lodging

Charming traditional Lebanese guesthouses and hotels with modern amenities.

Climate

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.

FAQ

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.

looking up through trees - Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking
red fort - Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking
mosaic - Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking
cypress cones - Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking
stream - Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking
bazaar - Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking
pastries - Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking

Testimonials

"Great experience every time with some of the most knowledgeable guides in their fields. We always come home with wonderful memories of the people we meet and things we see."

Bob J.
MT Sobek Guest

"I have traveled extensively around the world. The experience with MT Sobek was by far the best I have ever had. Thank you for such excellence."

Marianne W.
MT Sobek Guest

Trustpilot
  • 2022
  • 2023
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom

2022

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • Sep 01 - 10, 2022
    $5,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,325 single supplement
    AvailableConfirmed
    Book This Date

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

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

2023

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Scheduled Dates

  • May 01 - 10, 2023
    $5,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,325 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Jun 01 - 10, 2023
    $5,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,325 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date
  • Sep 01 - 10, 2023
    $5,995 price per person dbl occ
    +$1,325 single supplement
    Available
    Book This Date

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

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Go Private

Go Private

Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Choose from the selection of dates below for your group or if your preferred date is not available, we'll create a departure just for you.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Private Trip Pricing:

2022 Pricing

4 to 5 guests from $6,795 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $6,495 per person double occupancy

8 to 9 guests from $6,195 per person double occupancy

10 guests from $5,995 per person double occupancy

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

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

Make Your Own Dates in These Months

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

Contact An Expert

800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

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 Planning

Inspiration to Explore

more articles

7 Best Hikes in France

7 Best Hikes in France

The French Alps are among the world’s most breathtaking natural environments, with resplendent scenery and...
read more

  • Adventure Experts
  • Jun 2022
Top 7 Tips to Prepare for Hiking in the Alps

Top 7 Tips to Prepare for Hiking in the Alps

The Alps have been a favored hiking destination for centuries...
read more

  • Pro Tips
  • May 2022
Snakes On A Trail: Everything You Need To Know

Snakes On A Trail: Everything You Need To Know

Want to know how to avoid snakes on the trail...
read more

  • Pro Tips
  • May 2022

Similar trips to Lebanon Mountain Trail Hiking

Israel Perspectives & Peoples Cultural Discovery

Israel Perspectives & Peoples Cultural Discovery

A Holy Land Adventure from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem
  • Level 2
  • 11 days
  • from $6,995
Turkey Cultural Discovery Private Adventure

Turkey Cultural Discovery Private Adventure

Ancient Marvels from Istanbul to Cappadocia
  • Level 1
  • 8 days
  • from $3,695
Iran Treasures Cultural Discovery

Iran Treasures Cultural Discovery

Fascinating Cities, Ancient Wonders & Warm Hospitality
  • Level 2
  • 15 days
  • from $8,895
Iraq Treasures of the South Cultural Discovery

Iraq Treasures of the South Cultural Discovery

Journey to the Cradle of Civilization from Ancient Babylon to Baghdad
  • Level 2
  • 10 days
  • from $6,795