Nature reserves

Lebanon boasts several nature reserves across the country representing unknown treasures that are worth exploring.
Get in touch with us so we can organize a great tour to visit these impressive sites and hike through them, whether privately or as part of a group.

1. Horsh Ehden
Exceptional natural heritage
The Horsh Ehden forest features unique coniferous trees, evergreen trees and deciduous trees. It is situated in an isolate green microclimate with a very varied topography. The reserve’s biodiversity is fascinating, as it includes 3 of the 9 biogeographical zones of the country. In more detail, there are 1058 plant species, 39 of which are trees, as well as 29 mammal species, 156 bird species, 300 mushroom types and 23 different amphibian species.

2. Palm Island reserve, Tripoli
This island reserve has an area of 5 km2. It represents a major point for birds and an ecosystem that features rare underwater sponges. The island’s beaches attract marine turtles which breed there.
Among the island’s visitors are a number of seals that are endangered species.

3. Karm Shbat (Akkar, North Lebanon)
The latest addition to Lebanon’s natural reserves, Karm Shbat was recently designated as a protected area by the Lebanese government.

4. Cedar Forest of Tannourine
This is the largest nature reserve in Lebanon, containing hundreds of rare plants, as well as many animal and bird species that are endangered.

5. Bentael reserve (above Byblos)
An attractive forest full of Mediterranean pine.

6. Yammouneh reserve
Walk among old junipers and discover the rare local freshwater fish known as minnows.

7. The caves of Wadi al-Habis
Known as well as the Valley of the Hermit, this collection of caves – half natural and half manmade – are in the shape of domes, said to contain many undiscovered mysteries. Some of these caves were used as burial chambers, others for religious ceremonies. One particular cave may have been a temple dedicated to the Phoenician god Baal.

8. Chouf Cedar reserve
The ‘Cedars of Lebanon’ in the Barouk area represent about 25% of all cedar forests in the country. Lying in the area known as the Chouf, this cedar forest is considered the largest nature reserve in the Middle East. It covers an area of 550 km2.

9. Tyre coastal reserve
Situated right on the coast, this sunny reserve area by the sea attracts a number of birds, in addition to being a breeding ground for endangered marine turtles.

We organize one-day tailored hiking trips for every level, from beginners to advanced.
Ask us!
You’ll embark on a tour of comfort and culture that will get you to know Lebanon better. The tour reveals different facets of the country, from tradition to modernity and from east to west. Professional guides with a history background will take you on each tour to private places, complete with a lunch in a private ranch or private beach.
You’ll also enjoy accommodation in boutique hotels, a private seaside villa or a mountain chalet. Be prepared to visit some of the most stylish designers in a private setting and pass by the workshops of well-known artists.
Get in touch with us so we can build a trip that’s made to measure, in line with your interests and preferences.