Tour Details

Private Tour: Byblos, Jeita Grotto and Harissa Day Trip from Beirut

From: £35.08

Duration: 9 hours

Categories: Culture & History, Special

Discover the fascinating Lebanese cities of Byblos and Harissa, as well as the world-famous Jeita Grotto, on a private day trip from Beirut! On this guided tour, a must for any traveler to Lebanon, visit Byblos, one of the oldest cities in the world, and see the impressive Jeita Grotto, one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. Learn about the rise and fall of nearly two dozen civilizations; admire the Statue of the Virgin Mary in Harissa; and explore one of the country’s most fascinating archeological areas, all in one day!

After meeting your friendly, expert guide in central Beirut, head by private minivan 12 miles (20 km) north to Jeita. This fascinating town is home to one of the world's most stunning caverns, known as the Jeita Grotto, which was a finalist in the New7Wonders of Nature, a 2011 competition for the best natural wonders on earth. Take a boat on a subterranean lake to visit the lower caverns and then see the dry upper gallery on foot with your guide. The main source of the Dog River (Nahr El Kalb) rises from this incredible cavern.

Next, head to the 7,000-year-old city of Byblos, one of the oldest cities in the world. The rise and fall of nearly 24 successive civilizations means this site has some of the most archeological areas in the country. Today’s busy, modern Byblos is home to a medieval Roman port, which is one of the city’s tourist hotspots. Your guide will teach you about the landmarks in this area such as Byblos Castle, built by the crusaders in the 12th century. You’ll also learn about the extensive remains of city’s rich historical past.

After a relaxing lunch of traditional meze and tapas at a Lebanese restaurant in Byblos (own expense), continue your journey to Harissa. This beautiful village boasts stunning panoramic views across the Bay of Jounieh on the Mediterranean coast. Marvel at the Statue of the Virgin Mary, which can be seen from miles away, and visit inside the statue's base (free entry) – a chapel with an exterior spiral staircase. This sanctuary is a destination for many pilgrims who come from far and wide. After a photo opportunity at this top Lebanon attraction, return to Beirut in the relaxing comfort of your private minivan.

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Culture Shock Rating

We have a wide range of tours designed to give you an insight into the destination you're travelling in and there is something for everybody. The culture shock ratings considers the destination visited, transport used, activities undertaken and that "Wow, I'm really not at home now!" factor. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our gradings is as follows…

20%

This is the least confronting of our tour range. Transport used on the trip is either private or a very comfortable public option, the activities included are usually iconic sites and locations that are not all too confronting.

40%

The tour can include a mix of private and public transport providing a level of comfort that is slightly below what you would experience at home. Sites visited are usually iconic sites, tours can also include market visits, visits to communities etc that provide the traveller with a fantastic insight into destination.

60%

Expect to rough it for parts of this tour, whether it's a packed public bus where you are forced to stand, a visit to a local market, a local community, you are sure to have an experience that is very different from what you're used to at home.

80%

The comforts of your home town and the environment you are used to are more of a rarity. Expect some challenging transport options, visits to local sites and areas that don't resemble anything at home.

100%

You're out there in the global community! You are likely to be exposed to the elements, travel in whatever means of transport is available and basically take it as it comes, whatever comes! It can be tough.

Physical Rating

Our physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the tour. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our gradings is as follows…

20%

These tours have very limited physical activity. Usually climbing in and out of the transport provided, walking through sites, markets etc included in the itinerary.

40%

These tours have a bit of physical activity but nothing that should challenge you too much. This could be climbing on and off public transport through to a walk through the destination you're travelling in, they can include walking only tours or a combination of walking and transport.

60%

These tours involve a bit of physical activity from walking up and down hills in the destination you're travelling in or the surrounding areas. Climbing on and off local transport or riding a bike up to 30 kms along predominantly flat terrain or jumping in a kayak for a gentle paddle on flat water.

80%

These Tours will provide you with some solid physical activity. Whether its bike riding, walking, trekking, kayaking or riding on public transport you will need to have a good level of fitness to enjoy this tour.

100%

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. These tours are our most challenging and involve some serious walking, hiking or bike riding. Can involve step climbs by foot or pedal and some challenging public transport options in the destination you are travelling.

Luxury Rating

Some trips are like a stroll on the beach, while others have you trekking alpine passes. Some of you thrive on camping out on the savannah, while others may prefer a hot shower and a comfortable bed in a lodge. Follow the grading systems below to find the right trip for you.

To help you choose the trip that's right for you, we've broken all of our trips down into four service levels. Measuring the comfort level of the accommodation and transport. So whether you're travelling on a budget and want to save money by using public transport, or prefer upgraded accommodation and are happy to pay a little more, then we have a level for you.

25%

This is grassroots travel at its most interesting

50%

Authentic experiences with some of the comforts of home

75%

For those who like to travel in comfort

100%

All the unique experiences wrapped up with a gold ribbon