Jeita Grotto – Harissa – Byblos Trip

Embarking on a captivating journey through Lebanon’s natural and cultural wonders, this comprehensive day tour promises to transport visitors to the heart of the country’s most enchanting destinations. From the awe-inspiring Jeita Grotto and its majestic limestone formations to the serene hilltop shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon, the itinerary offers a well-balanced exploration of Lebanon’s diverse heritage. The tour culminates in the ancient seaside city of Byblos, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with historical significance. Tailored for both nature enthusiasts and history buffs, this meticulously curated experience ensures an enriching and hassle-free adventure. With the convenience of air-conditioned transportation and an English-speaking driver, the stage is set for an unforgettable day of discovery.

Key Points

• A full-day small-group tour from Beirut exploring the natural and cultural attractions of Lebanon, including Jeita Grotto, Our Lady of Lebanon, and Byblos.
• The tour provides comfortable air-conditioned transportation with door-to-door service and an English-speaking driver, catering to a maximum of 15 travelers.
• Jeita Grotto offers captivating limestone caves, a cable car ride, and a boat cruise through the lower cave to marvel at the geological formations.
• Our Lady of Lebanon is a hilltop shrine with a 15-meter-tall bronze statue and panoramic views of Jounieh Bay, accessible via a scenic cable car ride.
• Byblos is an ancient seaside city with an 8,000-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site, allowing visitors to explore well-preserved ruins and browse local souks.

Tour Overview

This full-day small-group tour from Beirut provides a comprehensive exploration of some of Lebanon’s most captivating natural and cultural attractions, including the renowned Jeita Grotto, the hilltop shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon, and the ancient seaside city of Byblos.

Guests will enjoy comfortable air-conditioned transportation with door-to-door service, as well as the expertise of an English-speaking driver. The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

Highlights include a cable car ride and boat cruise through the stalactite-filled Jeita Grotto, panoramic views from the statue of Our Lady of Lebanon, and the chance to discover the 8,000-year-old archaeological wonders of Byblos, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tour Destinations

The tour explores a diverse range of Lebanon’s renowned natural and historical sites, beginning with the captivating Jeita Grotto. Guests will embark on a cable car ride and boat cruise through the extensive stalactite-filled caves, marveling at the stunning geological formations.

Following this, the tour proceeds to the hilltop shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon, where visitors can admire the panoramic vistas overlooking the picturesque Jounieh Bay.

The final destination is the ancient seaside city of Byblos, a UNESCO World Heritage site boasting an 8,000-year-old archaeological history, allowing guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of Lebanon.

Jeita Grotto

Jeita Grotto is a captivating natural wonder located in northern Lebanon, renowned for its breathtaking network of limestone caves that stretch across an impressive distance of nearly 9 kilometers.

The main highlight of the grotto is the upper cave, which can be accessed via a scenic cable car ride, offering visitors a panoramic view of the lush surrounding landscape.

Upon arrival, travelers can embark on a guided boat tour through the lower cave, marveling at the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years, creating an otherworldly and awe-inspiring atmosphere.

The Jeita Grotto is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to enjoy Lebanon’s rich geological heritage.

Our Lady of Lebanon

Perched atop Mount Harissa, the iconic statue of Our Lady of Lebanon stands as a revered pilgrimage site, offering visitors panoramic vistas over the picturesque Jounieh Bay.

The 15-meter-tall bronze statue, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is a testament to the country’s deep-rooted Christian heritage.

Visitors can access the site via a scenic cable car ride, providing a breathtaking ascent to the hilltop sanctuary.

At the top, they can explore the surrounding religious complex, which includes a church, a monastery, and various shrines.

The site’s serene ambiance and stunning views make it a popular destination for both religious devotees and sightseers alike, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling city below.

Byblos

Situated along the Mediterranean coast, Byblos stands as an ancient city steeped in rich history, boasting a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back over 8,000 years.

As part of the full-day tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore this captivating archaeological gem, wandering through its well-preserved ruins and gaining insight into its storied past.

The site features an array of fascinating structures, including the Crusader Castle, the ancient port, and the Phoenician temples.

Visitors can also browse the local souks, seeing the vibrant culture and purchasing authentic handicrafts.

With its blend of historical significance and modern charm, Byblos offers a truly unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

Inclusions

The tour package includes an air-conditioned vehicle for comfortable transportation throughout the day.

Plus, the tour provides pickup and drop-off services from designated meeting points in Beirut.

An English or Arabic-speaking driver is also included to facilitate communication and guide the group.

Lastly, all parking fees are covered within the tour’s inclusions.

This ensures a hassle-free experience for travelers, allowing them to fully enjoy the exploration of the stunning natural and cultural wonders without worrying about logistical details.

The inclusions are designed to maximize comfort, convenience, and accessibility, enabling participants to make the most of their day-long adventure.

Meeting and Pickup

For the convenience of participants, the tour offers pickup and drop-off services from Martyrs Square in Beirut, which serves as the designated meeting point.

Travelers have the option to be picked up directly from their hotel, Airbnb, or personal home address within Beirut, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s exploration.

This door-to-door service eliminates the need for participants to make their own way to the meeting location, allowing them to relax and focus on the upcoming attractions.

The driver will greet travelers at the agreed-upon pickup spot and transport them comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle to the first destination, Jeita Grotto, setting the stage for a memorable day of sightseeing.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the booking is provided at the time of reservation, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details prior to the tour. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are permitted, catering to families with young children.

Participants should possess a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour involves some walking at the various destinations. The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, maintaining an intimate and personalized experience throughout the day’s activities.

It is important to note that the tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

The tour offers the following additional information:

1. Confirmation provided at time of booking
2. Tour is not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible
3. Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
4. Maximum group size of 15 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Based on the tour overview information provided, guests are not explicitly allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The inclusions do not mention any provisions for personal food or beverages. It is recommended to inquire with the tour operator about any policies regarding outside food and drinks.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Unfortunately, this tour does not offer any discounts for students or seniors. The price is fixed and the same for all adult travelers. However, please contact the tour operator directly to inquire about any potential promotional offers or discounted rates.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for this tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites out of respect for local customs.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Jeita Grotto?

Photography is generally permitted inside the Jeita Grotto, but visitors are advised to follow the instructions of the tour guides and respect any restrictions or limitations in place to protect the fragile cave environment. Tripods and flash photography may be prohibited in certain areas.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

This tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy, and changes are not permitted. Travelers are advised to carefully review the booking details and policies prior to confirming their reservation to ensure the tour meets their needs and expectations.

Recap

This full-day tour from Beirut explores Lebanon’s natural and cultural attractions.

The highlights include the captivating Jeita Grotto, the hilltop shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon, and the ancient seaside city of Byblos, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Comfortable air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking driver, and a maximum group size of 15 ensure a hassle-free and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.