Qadisha Valley Guided Hiking Tour from Hawqa to Mar Lichaa
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Qadisha Valley Guided Hiking Tour from Hawqa to Mar Lichaa

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8h
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About this experience

A One-Way Trail With No Uphill Return: Unlike most Qadisha hikes, this route is designed for comfort. You explore the valley fully without the exhausting climb back up — your driver meets you at the exit.

Access to Hidden Monasteries: Visit the legendary Mar Lichaa Monastery, carved directly into the cliffs — a place many travelers never reach on their own.

Expert Local Guidance: Learn stories of monks, hermits, and ancient spiritual traditions with a guide who knows the valley’s secret spots, history, and viewpoints.

Unmatched Scenery: Enjoy panoramic mountain views, ancient caves, olive terraces, and peaceful forest paths inside one of Lebanon’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Perfect for All Levels: This trail is suitable for beginners, families, casual hikers, and photography lovers — no advanced hiking skills required.

Available options

Qadisha Valley Guided Hiking Tour from Hawqa to Mar Lichaa

What's included

Certified Hiking Guide
Pickup & Return from Your Hotel
Air-Conditioned Vehicle
English / Arabic Speaking Driver

Detailed itinerary

1

We depart from Beirut early in the morning, picking you up directly from your hotel for a smooth and comfortable start. Once everyone is onboard, we begin the scenic drive toward the mountains, enjoying stunning views and fresh air as we head toward the heart of Lebanon’s beautiful hiking trails.

2

The hike begins in the peaceful village of Hawqa, a small traditional settlement perched above the Qadisha Valley. Known for its stone houses, quiet orchards, and breathtaking views, Hawqa offers the perfect starting point for an authentic mountain adventure. This trail is moderate to advanced, ideal for hikers looking for a rewarding and scenic journey.

From Hawqa, we descend into the valley and follow a historic path toward Qannoubine, passing forests, ancient terraces, and beautiful viewpoints along the way. After exploring the spiritual heart of the valley, including the Monastery of Our Lady of Qannoubine, we continue the trail toward Deir Mar Elisha. Here, hikers can discover cliff-carved rooms, old frescoes, and centuries of monastic history. This route blends nature, culture, and adventure for a truly unforgettable experience.

3

Qannoubine, located in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Qadisha Valley, is a serene destination known for its spiritual history and stunning landscapes. The hiking trail leads visitors through lush forests, rocky cliffs, and terraced mountains once home to monks and hermits. Along the path, tourists will see traditional stone houses, small chapels, and the famous Monastery of Our Lady of Qannoubine, hidden between dramatic cliffs. The route offers breathtaking valley views, peaceful streams, and quiet caves carved into the mountainside. It’s a perfect blend of nature, history, and beauty—one of Lebanon’s most unforgettable hidden gems.

4

Deir Mar Elisha, located in the majestic Qadisha Valley near Bcharre, is one of Lebanon’s most historic and spiritual monasteries. Carved into the cliffs, it once sheltered monks and served as a center for Maronite religious life. The hiking trail leading to the monastery takes visitors through dramatic rock formations, ancient footpaths, and lush valley scenery. Along the way, tourists will see caves once inhabited by hermits, natural springs, and panoramic views of the sacred valley. Inside the monastery, visitors can explore old frescoes, narrow stone rooms, and peaceful courtyards that reflect centuries of devotion and solitude.

5

Back to Beirut City to your Hotel

Available languages

Guide guide
AR EN FR

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Once you Get to Martyrs' Square, you will See Al Amin Mosque, Sit on the Stairs at the Mosque

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

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
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Free cancellation available
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