ITINERARY

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Your Lebanon adventure begins in the capital city of Beirut. Your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in the city, where we will brief you on what to expect over the next few days.

If you've had a long flight, you have the rest of the day to rest or if you arrived earlier, you have time to explore your new surroundings at your leisure.

OVERNIGHT:

Beirut hotel

MEALS:

None

EXTRAS:

Single room supplement (LBTMBC)

Extra day in Beirut - pre-tour

We start the day with a visit to the Jeita Grotto, which is a system of two separate, but interconnected, limestone caves spanning an overall length of nearly 9 kilometres. It boasts one of the world's largest and beautiful collections of stalactites and stalagmites.

Next, we visit Byblos, the world’s oldest continually inhabited city. Its charming Phoenician harbour is rich in history and heritage and is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Lebanon.

We then make our way to Harissa - a mountain village which is home to one of the most important Lebanese Pilgrimage sites, The Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon. We'll explore the village via cable car, taking in the breath-taking views of the city and its bay.

Later in the day, we'll explore the capital city, indulging in its beautiful architecture, tall modern buildings and we will also explore down-town Beirut, visiting the Corniche, the Pigeon Grotto and the Beirut Souks.

OVERNIGHT:

Beirut hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None

You have the day free to explore the city of Beirut at your leisure or you can choose to take an optional day trip. Prices are based on a minimum of 2 people travelling, with discounts available if more people take the tour. You can arrange these tours either in advance or while you are in Beirut.

Optional Tour 1: Visit Barouk Cedars - Deir El Qamar - Beiteddine Palace

This optional tour starts with a visit to the Barouk Cedar Nature Reserve, located in the Chouf district of Lebanon. The nature reserve is situated on the slopes of the Barouk Mountain and is home to the towering cedar forests of Barouk, Maaser el Shouf and Ain Zhalta-Bmohray.

The Barouk Cedar Nature Reserve is an important bird and eco-tourism area, in fact, the reserve is home to approximately 32 species of wild mammls, 200 species of birds, and 500 species of plants.

Next, we head to the Chouf Mountains to explore the village of Deir El Qamar, a name which literally translates to 'monastery of the moon'. The village was the capital of Lebanon in the 17th century.

We then visit the Beiteddine Palace built in the 19th century by Emir Bechir II Chehabi around a former Druze hermitage. The palace took over 30 years to build and today its considered to be one of the great surviving achievements of Lebanese architecture.

Optional Tour 2: Baalbek - Ksara Caves - Anjar

This optional tour starts with a visit to Baalbek, also known as Heliopolis or 'the City of the Sun' by the ancient Greeks and Romans who dedicated the main temple to Jupiter - the god of the sun and the two other temples Venus and Mercure - who partnered Jupiter in the triad of god.

Baalbek is one of the best-preserved temple complexes in the Middle East, with the monument staying intact through wars, earthquakes and much more. Next, we visit the Ksara Caves, which date back to the Roman period.

Your guide will take you on a tour of the caves and the winery here, which produces some of Lebanon's finest wine. Lastly, we visit Anjar, an important Umayyad site in Lebanon, which was founded in the 8th century by the Caliph Walid.

It is believed that Anjar was once an imperial residence due to its palaces, baths and mosques. It also has remnants of 600 shops, which indicates that the purpose of this settlement was primarily

OVERNIGHT:

Beirut hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

Cedars, Beiteddine & Deir El Qamar tour

Baalbek, Anjar & Vineyards tour

You have free time to explore Beirut on your own today. You will be collected at your hotel and transferred to the airport to board your flight home. Additional nights in the same tour hotel may be added if you would like to extend your stay (subject to availability).

OVERNIGHT:

Beirut hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Beirut - post-tour

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Included:

Accommodation in a central 4-star boutique hotel
Meals as indicated in the itinerary (3 breakfasts)
24hr airport arrival and departure transfer service
Entrance fees to sites visited in the itinerary
Sightseeing tours as detailed in the itinerary
English speaking guide for all tours
All transport and transfers in AC vehicles

Excluded:

International flights
Visa fees (free visa available on arrival for most nationalities)
Travel insurance (compulsory, available from Encounters Travel)
Optional tours
Meals not indicated in the itinerary (lunches & dinners)
Drinks, snacks and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
Tips
Hotel gala dinner supplements if applied on Christmas & New Year's Eve
Any other items not mentioned above

Dates and Prices

Small group departures are available on this tour departing every Friday through the year. You can also book the tour privately on any other dates and with different accommodation levels and styles - please contact us for details and prices for your pr

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Note

TOUR NOTES

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

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We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people with varying travel plans, we don't include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to suggest flights to go with the tour. Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we'll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from.

Your airport arrival & departure transfers are included on the first and last days of the tour. Nearly all our Lebanese tours start and finish in Beirut airport (BEY).

We do also sometimes advertise flight inclusive packages from selected airports. Where these are shown on our website, prices are correct at the time of quoting, but are subject to continued availability of the fare used. Prices will be reconfirmed at the time of booking, and we will also provide the flight times and airline details before tickets are issued.
Flight inclusive prices are based on the cheapest Economy ticket class available which is generally non-refundable and non-changeable unless the flight is cancelled for reasons such as Covid-19, in which case the airlines are more flexible. More flexible ticket options, as well as Premium Economy and Business Class tickets are available on request for an additional supplement. Any changes made to flight inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline rules on your ticket.

Flight CO2 Emissions:

Traveling by air is an amazing way to explore the world, but flights also contribute to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that impact the environment. By considering the airline's CO2 emissions when you choose your flight, you can help minimize your travel footprint.

When selecting your international flights and airline, we do therefore recommend that you try and also take into account the flight CO2 emissions. Some airlines and flight search websites (eg. Google Flights, Skyscanner) do publish this information, so you can compare between your flight options and make an informed decision. Thankfully, many airlines are working towards sustainability efforts, and choosing a greener option allows you to contribute to positive change while still enjoying your incredible adventure.

It is impossible not to have an impact on the local environment, cultures and eco-systems when you travel. However, it is very possible to try and ensure that these impacts are as limited, or positive as possible. We are committed to ensuring that we try to leave our host countries in a better state than we found them and encourage and assist our travellers to help us with this.
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.

Don't prejudge: Things in different countries will almost certainly be different. That doesn't make them worse or inferior, just different.
Communicate: Don't expect locals to speak your language. Take the trouble to learn a few words or phrases of the local language. Don't worry about sounding silly. Most locals are patient and accommodating and appreciate you making the effort to communicate in their language.
Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air-conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don't waste water. Remove superfluous packaging. Many countries have far less efficient waste disposal systems than ours. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
Don't litter: No matter how untidy or dirty the country you're travelling in may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment's stress. Many of the countries we visit have a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can (e.g. water bottles).
Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally friendly (bio degradable) sun creams, shampoos and detergents you can help reduce pollution.
Respect local customs and traditions: As you are a guest in these countries, you should also comply with the local customs. If you are friendly and well mannered, the locals will reciprocate and it will only enhance your experience. It's important to follow dress and behaviour guidelines especially when visiting religious or sacred sites (your tour leader will advise you how best to do this).
If a client commits an illegal act the client may be excluded from the tour and Encounters Travel shall cease to have responsibility to/for them. No refund will be given for any unused services.

All porters are employed and equipped following guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads Travel Insurance offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

If your tour includes car hire, or if you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

IMPORTANT: We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour. If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.

Covid-19
Before purchasing any travel insurance, please check the coverage provided for situations related to Covid-19, and for the rules about government travel advice. Your normal policy may not be suitable.

Traveling responsibly means minimizing plastic waste, but staying hydrated on the go is essential. At Encounters Travel we are committed to reducing single-use plastics, which is why we've partnered with Water-to-Go. Their portable filtration system removes over 99.9% of contaminants from any non-saltwater source, turning even questionable water sources into safe drinking water.

Given that tap water is un-safe to drink in many of the countries in which we operate, we recommend purchasing a Water-to-Go bottle prior to departure. This will help you avoid the use of single use plastic bottles and keep you hydrated on the go.

Save big! Get a huge 25% off your Water-to-Go bottle and other Water-to-Go products (such as filters, lids, and carriers). Use code ENCOUNTERS25 at checkout (valid in the UK, USA and Canada).

How Water-to-Go Technology works:

Their reusable, BPA free water bottles contain their own unique 3-in-1 filtration technology effectively providing clean safe drinking water from any non-salt water source around the world.
Three different (1 traditional and 2 nano) technologies are combined in one filter cartridge to remove up to 99.9999% of microbiological contaminants in water.

The three technologies used in a Water-to-Go filter are:

Mechanical filtration – A tiny pore size, so small contaminants can’t fit through.
Electrical – A positive charge reduces the pore size even further and attracts contaminants like a magnet, trapping them inside the filter.
Activated Carbon – Unlike most carbon based filters, instead of using adhesives to glue the carbon particles together, (which vastly reduces the carbon’s efficiency) it is contained within the membrane, helping to reduce contaminants whilst eliminating bad tastes and odours. Try filtering water from your tap at home and taste the difference!

Water-to-Go filter bottles deliver safe, healthy water worldwide

Water-to-Go filters remove bacteria, viruses, waterborne disease, protozoa, heavy metals such as lead as well as harmful chemicals.
Their filters remove Chlorine and Fluoride from tap water.
The filter will eliminate harmful contaminants from the water but allow beneficial minerals such as sodium and magnesium to pass through leaving you with the healthiest water possible.
Water-to-Go filters have been independently tested against internationally recognised standards by industry specialists including The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (UK), BCS Laboratories (USA), Bangalore Test House (India) and IMI (China).

Use Water-to-Go products and you’ll be healthier, wealthier and helping to make the world a better place!

Depending on filter size, each Water-to-Go filter is able to replace 260 or 400 single-use plastic water bottles!
They ensure you have access to safe water anywhere in the world without ever having to buy environmentally damaging bottled water.
Their water bottles deliver safe, clean drinking water at just 5p per litre.
The filter membrane is biodegradable and the shrouds are recyclable.
The water bottles are used and approved by everyone from backpackers to commuters, gym users to expecting mums. Perfect for everyday, outdoor and travel.

The local currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (called Lira). You do not need to arrange to bring any Lebanese currency with you as exchange facilities are available in the international airports and in most hotels, banks and bureau de changes in major towns. You should try to obtain and keep hold of small denomination notes or coins on you during the tour as these are useful for toilets, tips and small purchases. ATMs are readily available in major towns and many local shops will accept VISA/Mastercard or Amex, but may charge additional fees - check before you pay. Travellers cheques are not recommended as they can not be changed in many places now, and can incur high fees.

Due to the huge recent devaluation of the Lebanese currency, if you withdraw money from an ATM or pay for things with your credit card you will be charged the official bank exchange rate which is very different to the actual operating rate used locally. We therefore recommend that you bring enough US Dollars or Euros in cash with you to cover your required spending money during the tour and do not plan to use your credit card while in Lebanon. You can change this hard currency to Lebanese pounds at the current rates while you are there - please ask your guide for assistance on appropriate places to change your money.

While in Lebanon you will need sufficient funds to cover meals not included in the itinerary, drinks, snacks, souvenirs and personal expenses such as laundry. These should generally all be paid for in local currency, though tips for guides and drivers may be paid in hard currency (GBP, USD, EUR).

It is difficult to recommend a level of personal spending money which will suit everyone as this can differ greatly, but as a guideline, we would suggest allowing USD 25-35 per person per day as a minimum. Allow more if you plan on doing lots of shopping, or buying many alcoholic drinks.

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Beirut Mini Break OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive in Beirut, transfer to hotel

Day 2: Beirut, Jeita Grotto, Byblos, Harissa by cable car

Day 3: Free day. Optional tours available

Day 4: Free time, transfer to airport

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18th of Sep 2026 21st of Sep 2026 $605 -

25th of Sep 2026 28th of Sep 2026 $605 -

2nd of Oct 2026 5th of Oct 2026 $605 -

9th of Oct 2026 12th of Oct 2026 $605 -

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23rd of Oct 2026 26th of Oct 2026 $605 -

30th of Oct 2026 2nd of Nov 2026 $605 -

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20th of Nov 2026 23rd of Nov 2026 $605 -

27th of Nov 2026 30th of Nov 2026 $605 -

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Price: $ 580.00

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Price: $ 580.00

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Price: $ 580.00

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Price: $ 580.00

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