Exploring Lebanon's Treasures: Jeita, Harissa & Saint Charbel
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8h
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About this experience
A private tour from Beirut to Jeita Grotto, Harissa, and Saint Charbel offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual reflection. You'll marvel at the stunning underground formations of Jeita Grotto, enjoy panoramic views from Harissa's Our Lady of Lebanon statue, and pay homage at the shrine of Saint Charbel. With a private tour, you can customize your experience and make the most of your time at each location. It's a journey filled with wonder and contemplation!
Available options
Exploring Lebanon's Treasures: Jeita, Harissa & Saint Charbel
Pickup included
What's included
Tour Leader
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel Pickup and drop off
Comfortable Private Transportation
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Located about 18 kilometers north of Beirut, Jeita Grotto is a mesmerizing natural wonder. It consists of two interconnected limestone caves, one upper and one lower. The upper gallery is dry and filled with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, while the lower gallery can be explored by boat, floating through crystal-clear waters amid stunning rock formations. Jeita Grotto is often considered one of the most beautiful cave systems in the world.
2
Stop 2
Situated atop a hill overlooking the Bay of Jounieh, Harissa is a pilgrimage site and a popular tourist destination. Its main attraction is the towering statue of Our Lady of Lebanon, which stands at 20 meters tall and is made of bronze. Visitors can take a cable car ride or drive up to the site to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. The site also features a chapel, a gift shop, and various restaurants.
3
The Telepherique is one of the oldest and most visited tourist attractions in Lebanon
It is a gondola lift system located in Jounieh, a city in Lebanon, 16 km north of Beirut that transports passengers above the pine-forested steep mountain, to an altitude of 650 meters, arriving at Our Lady of Lebanon shrine in Harissa offering breathtaking views of the bay of Jounieh and the surrounding city.
4
Located in the village of Annaya in the Keserwan District of Mount Lebanon, the Saint Charbel Shrine is a revered pilgrimage site for Christians, particularly Maronites. It is dedicated to Saint Charbel Makhlouf, a Lebanese monk and hermit who lived in the 19th century and is known for his piety and miracles. The shrine houses Saint Charbel's tomb and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year who come to pray, seek healing, and pay their respects.
Each of these sites offers a unique and enriching experience, combining natural beauty, cultural significance, and spiritual resonance.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
EN
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Beirut
Beirut is the capital and largest city of Lebanon, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning Mediterranean coastline. Known as the 'Paris of the Middle East,' it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, modern luxury, and bustling street life.
Top Attractions
Beirut Central District
The heart of Beirut, this district is a blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and vibrant present.
Historical/Architecture
Half day to full day
Free to moderate
National Museum of Beirut
One of the most important archaeological museums in the Middle East, showcasing artifacts from various periods of Lebanese history.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate (around $5-$10)
Raouche Rock
A stunning natural limestone rock formation rising from the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views and a popular spot for photos.
Nature/Scenic
1-2 hours
Free (unless dining at the restaurant)
Byblos
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos offers ancient ruins, a charming old souk, and a picturesque harbor.
Historical/Cultural
Half day to full day
Moderate (entry fees for some sites)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hummus
A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, often served with pita bread.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, Vegan
Tabbouleh
A refreshing salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
Appetizer
Vegetarian, Vegan
Kibbeh
A dish made from ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with bulgur and spices, often fried or baked.
Appetizer
Contains meat
Kafta
Ground meat (usually lamb or beef) mixed with spices and herbs, often grilled or fried.
Main Course
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in the nearby mountains
Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Mediterranean
Beach lounging at Raouche or Dbayeh
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting museums and historical sites
Attending local festivals and events
Swimming and water sports
Boat tours along the coast
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and autumn offer the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperatures are comfortable, and the city is in full bloom during these seasons.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: French, English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Lebanese Pound (LBP)
Time Zone
GMT+2 (EET)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Beirut is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Rafic Hariri International Airport • 9 km (5.6 miles) from city center
By bus
Charles Helou Bus Station, Dawra Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport, but they can be crowded and may not have fixed schedules.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gemmayzeh
Hamra
Achrafieh
Day trips
Byblos
40 km (25 miles) • Half day to full day
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Byblos offers ancient ruins, a charming old souk, and a picturesque harbor.
Jeita Grotto
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A stunning natural limestone cave system with a breathtaking underground river and waterfalls, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Harissa
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A picturesque hilltop town offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the famous Our Lady of Lebanon shrine, a popular pilgrimage site.
Festivals
Beirut International Film Festival • October to November
Beirut Jazz Festival • July
Eid al-Fitr • Varies by lunar calendar (usually April to June)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Visit the Beirut Central District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
- Try local street food like falafel, shawarma, and manakish for an authentic and affordable dining experience
- Use ride-hailing apps like Bolt for a more convenient and reliable taxi experience
- Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in neighborhoods like Gemmayzeh and Hamra, where you'll find a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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