Full-Day Private Tour to Jeita Grotto, Harissa and Byblos

Traveling through Lebanon’s diverse landscapes and storied past, this private tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the country’s most celebrated sites in one day. Covering natural wonders, religious landmarks, and ancient ruins, it’s a comprehensive experience that balances cultural insight with breathtaking scenery.

What we love about this tour? First, the comfortable private transportation that takes the hassle out of navigating unfamiliar roads. Second, the knowledgeable guides who bring history alive with personal stories and detailed explanations. Third, the stunning panoramic views, especially from Harissa’s cable car and the coast of Byblos. A slight consideration might be the limited time at each site, which means you should be prepared for a busy day. This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and culture, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends and want a personalized experience.

Key Points

• Private, chauffeured experience ensures flexibility and comfort
• Includes top Lebanese highlights: Jeita Grotto, Harissa, and Byblos
• Excellent value at $50 per person for a full day of sightseeing
• Stunning views and photo opportunities at multiple stops
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and enjoyment
• Ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, hassle-free day

First Impressions: Why Choose This Tour?

This full-day private tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and panoramic vistas—perfect for travelers eager to see Lebanon’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or crowded group tours. The $50 price tag is quite reasonable for a full day of guided exploration, especially considering the personalized service and door-to-door pickup.

We particularly appreciate how this tour prioritizes comfort and convenience. Being picked up directly from your hotel takes away logistical worries, letting you focus on soaking in the sights. Plus, the intimate, private setting means your group can tailor the pace and ask plenty of questions, making it a more engaging experience.

The tour’s flexibility is a major plus. With a dedicated guide and vehicle, you’re not tied to rigid schedules or large crowds, allowing for spontaneous photo stops or extra time at your favorite spots—something many travelers value highly.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Jeita Grotto

Your day starts with a visit to Jeita Grotto, known as the longest cave system in the Middle East. Located 300 meters above sea level, this incredible limestone formation spans two interconnected caves—the upper and lower galleries—that have taken millions of years to develop.

The upper gallery stretches for 2,130 meters and dazzles visitors with stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate draperies that resemble frozen waterfalls. The lower gallery extends for 6,200 meters, running beneath the upper cave, featuring a scenic underwater river and lake—offering a glimpse into the natural artistry of limestone.

While admission tickets are not included, the cave’s natural beauty makes it well worth the visit. Expect around 1 hour 30 minutes here, giving you ample time to soak in the astonishing formations and take photos. Note that the tour guides offer brief explanations about the geology and history of the caves, which adds depth to the experience.

Reviewers like Linda appreciated the guide’s helpfulness and the “stunning views,” noting the tour’s perfect timing and smooth flow. Many also admire the well-maintained pathways and the awe-inspiring atmosphere as you walk through these natural sculptures.

Stop 2: The Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon in Harissa

Next, you’ll ascend to the Harissa shrine, perched on a hilltop overlooking Jounieh Bay. This religious site is famous for its massive bronze statue of the Virgin Mary, which weighs an impressive 15 tons and is 8.5 meters tall. The statue’s arms are outstretched, welcoming visitors and offering one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Lebanon.

The shrine is not only an important spiritual destination but also a hub for those seeking spiritual solace and a chance to enjoy striking vistas of Beirut and the Mediterranean. Inside the statue’s base, there’s a small chapel—an intimate space for reflection amid the sweeping scenery.

Stop 3: Churches of Harissa

Adjacent to the shrine, you’ll find a congregation of Christian churches, including the Byzantine-style basilica of St. Paul built in 1948. The Notre Dame du Liban statue and the basilica form a spiritual and architectural contrast to the natural landscape, illustrating Lebanon’s religious diversity.

You’ll spend about 15 minutes exploring these sites, with free entry. Reviewers mention the helpful guides who offer explanations about the architecture and history of the churches, enriching the visit.

Stop 4: Téléphérique Harissa

A highlight for many is the teleferique ride—a gondola lift that transports visitors from Jounieh to Harissa at 650 meters altitude. This cable car offers extraordinary views of the bay, pine forests, and surrounding mountains.

The ride takes roughly 20 minutes and is considered one of Lebanon’s most popular tourist attractions. While the ticket isn’t included, the experience is well worth it for the photo opportunities and the sense of adventure. Many past travelers find the views from the cable car “breathtaking,” and the ride adds a fun, scenic element to the day.

Stop 5: Byblos

After the scenic ascent, the tour heads to Byblos, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Known for its Neolithic origins and connection to the Phoenician alphabet, Byblos offers a fascinating blend of history and culture.

Spending about 2 hours here, you’ll walk through cobblestone streets, visit the Old Souk, and see archaeological sites like the ruins of the Temple of Baalat Gebal. Past visitors appreciate the atmosphere of the old town, where local artisans sell handmade crafts, and the sea views add a special touch.

Stop 6: Byblos Castle

Within the archaeological site, the Crusader castle provides a striking vantage point over the ruins and the sea. Built in the 12th century, the castle’s imposing stone walls and surrounding moat evoke a sense of medieval history. Inside, a small museum offers additional insights into the city’s past.

Reviewers like Kostakis enjoyed climbing to the top of the keep for a panoramic view, calling the castle “impressive” and noting the clear visibility of Bronze Age dwellings below.

Stop 7: Old Souk and Port

To wrap up your visit, you’ll stroll through the Old Souk, perfect for browsing souvenirs or just soaking in the lively market atmosphere. Nearby, the ancient port—claimed to be the oldest in the world—adds a romantic finish to your day, especially if you’re a fan of seaside scenery.

Transportation, Timing, and Overall Value

This tour’s private transportation is a clear advantage, providing comfort and flexibility. The air-conditioned vehicle and door-to-door pickup service save you from the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets or fighting for parking.

Starting at 9 a.m., the day’s schedule is well-paced, with enough time at each site to appreciate the highlights without feeling rushed. The total duration is around 8 hours, which balances seeing multiple sites without a long day of exhaustion.

At just $50 per person, considering the private guide, vehicle, and visits, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially appealing for those who prefer a personalized experience, learning about Lebanon’s history and culture through a knowledgeable guide, rather than a large group or self-guided tour.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Linda highlighted how her guide’s helpfulness and storytelling made the trip special, while Kostakis appreciated the informative driver who added context to each site. The stunning views from Harissa and the cable car attracted multiple positive mentions, making those parts of the tour stand out.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private tour is ideal for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention. It suits those with limited time in Lebanon who want a rundown, combining natural wonders with cultural sites. Families, couples, or small groups will appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to customize the day.

If you’re someone who enjoys stunning scenery, historical storytelling, and hassle-free logistics, this tour offers a well-rounded experience at an accessible price point. It’s especially beneficial for first-time visitors wanting to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Travelers looking for a relaxed, informative day that covers Lebanon’s most iconic sites should find this tour a perfect fit—just be prepared for a full itinerary and lots of memorable sights.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making the experience more convenient and stress-free.

How long is the tour? The tour lasts about 8 hours, giving enough time to visit all the sites comfortably.

Are tickets to sites included? No, admission tickets for Jeita Grotto and Byblos Castle are not included, so plan accordingly or bring some cash for entry fees.

What’s the best time to start? The tour begins at 9:00 am, providing a full day of sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary? Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide, but the schedule is designed to cover all key sites efficiently.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, most travelers, including families with children, can participate, especially since the tour is private and flexible.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended, especially at sites like Jeita Grotto and Byblos.

To sum it up, this private full-day tour offers a fantastic way to explore Lebanon’s highlights comfortably and authentically. With knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and the convenience of door-to-door service, it provides great value for those eager to enjoy Lebanon’s natural beauty and history. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, hassle-free experience that covers the essentials without sacrificing quality or comfort.