Small-Group Tour with Lunch to Jeita Grotto, Byblos and Harissa

If you’re looking to get a taste of Lebanon’s most iconic sites in one day, this small-group tour offers a thoughtful mix of nature, history, and stunning views without breaking the bank. The experience promises a manageable group size, professional guides, and all-inclusive logistics—plus a delicious Lebanese lunch. We’ll walk you through what makes this tour a solid choice, along with some helpful tips based on real traveler insights.

What we especially like about this tour is the combination of natural wonders like Jeita Grotto, the panoramic views from Harissa, and the historic charm of Byblos—all in one day. The fact that it’s limited to just 15 travelers means you’ll get a more personalized feel. A slight caveat is that the full day can be quite packed, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy itinerary. If you love exploring varied landscapes and cultural sites with comfort and local flavor, this tour is worth considering.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.
• All-inclusive with hotel transfers, tickets, and lunch adds great value.
• Diverse sites offer natural beauty, ancient history, and breathtaking viewpoints.
• Expert guides and smooth transportation make the day flow seamlessly.
• Authentic Lebanese lunch enhances the culture.
• Timing and pacing may be tight for those wanting a more leisurely day.

What to Expect from This Lebanon Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded day, perfect for travelers wanting a snapshot of Lebanon’s highlights without the hassles of planning multiple visits. Starting early at 8:30 am, you’ll be whisked from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle, heading first to the Jeita Grotto, a marvel of limestone caves.

The Jeita Grotto: Natural Wonder

Arriving at Jeita Grotto, you’re about to step into a world of astonishing formations. The system features two interconnected caves: the upper and lower galleries, with a combined length of over 8,000 meters. The upper cave is famous for stalactites, stalagmites, and multicolored mineral deposits, while the lower cave features an underwater river and lake, creating a sense of mystery. The admission is included, so you can focus on soaking in the scenery.

Travelers have raved about Jeita’s stunning formations, with one reviewer noting it as a “gorgeous cave” that’s “a must-visit during Lebanon.” The experience is enhanced by the guided commentary, which helps you understand how these natural sculptures formed over millions of years. Expect about 1 hour 30 minutes for this stop—ample time to explore but not so long that it drags.

The Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon: Panoramic Views

Next, the group heads to Harissa, where the iconic Our Lady of Lebanon statue overlooks the bay. The 8.5-meter bronze statue depicts the Virgin Mary with arms open wide, symbolizing protection and peace. It’s a sight that sticks with travelers, especially given the spectacular panoramic views of Jounieh Bay.

There’s no admission fee here, but the view alone makes this stop worth it. Many visitors comment on how breathtaking the scenery is—some even mention that the Virgin’s stance seems to embrace the entire bay. This spot also acts as a spiritual landmark and a perfect photo opportunity.

The Churches of Harissa and the Téléferique: Religious Heritage & Scenic Ride

Adjacent to the statue, you’ll find the large cathedral and the small chapel inside the statue’s base, both open for visitors interested in religious sites. Nearby, the Téléferique (gondola lift) offers a 20-minute ride up the mountain to the shrine, transporting you above pine forests and providing stunning aerial views of the coastline. While the gondola ride isn’t included in the price, it’s a popular optional activity if you want to see the surroundings from above.

Exploring the Ancient Port City of Byblos

After the spiritual stops, it’s time to visit Byblos, a city with a history that dates back to Neolithic times. Known as one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns, it’s a fascinating place to walk through cobblestone streets, browse local crafts, and imagine its ancient glory as a major Phoenician port.

The Byblos Castle, built in the 12th century, offers sweeping views from its fortress walls and contains a museum with historical artifacts. Visitors praise the castle for its well-preserved architecture and the chance to see Bronze Age dwellings below. The admission is included, making it easier to focus on exploring.

Old Souk and Port: Local Flavor and Coastal Charm

The old souk is a lively spot where you can browse for souvenirs, antiques, and local handicrafts—perfect for picking up a unique gift or simply soaking in the bustling atmosphere. Just nearby, the Byblos port invites you to imagine ancient sailors at work, with some reviewers noting it as possibly the oldest port in the world, dating back to 3000 BC.

Authentic Lebanese Lunch

A real highlight of this tour is the traditional Lebanese lunch, included in the package. Many guests mention the quality and authenticity of the food, with one reviewer noting they enjoyed sitting facing the sea at a nice local restaurant. This adds a cultural touch, giving you a taste of Lebanon beyond just sightseeing.

The Logistics and Experience

The tour runs from 8:30 am to roughly 4-5 pm, covering all stops comfortably. The small group format (max 15 travelers) is appreciated for its intimacy and flexibility, allowing guides to answer questions more thoroughly and adapt slightly to the group’s needs.

Transportation is via air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the long day. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which is a big plus in Lebanon’s traffic—and means you won’t have to worry about navigating or finding meeting points.

Insights from Past Travelers

Reviewers have praised the guides, calling them knowledgeable and professional. One even shared that their driver, Ziad, was fantastic and highly professional, helping to navigate Lebanon’s sometimes unpredictable traffic and road conditions. The inclusion of admission tickets to sites like Jeita Grotto and Byblos Castle** adds value, saving you from unexpected expenses.

The cost of $60 per person is recognized as good value considering the all-inclusions, the diverse sites, and the personalized experience. Several reviews note that despite Lebanon’s challenging conditions, the tour company managed to deliver a smooth, enjoyable day—highlighting the commitment to quality.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey through Lebanon’s natural beauty and historical gems. It suits those who enjoy a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and easy logistics. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or someone eager to see Lebanon’s most renowned sights without the hassle of planning, it ticks many boxes.

The small group size makes it a more intimate experience, and the all-inclusive pricing adds to its appeal. The authentic Lebanese lunch and the chance to browse in Byblos’s old souk provide a genuine flavor of local life.

If you’re okay with a packed day and want to maximize your sightseeing without missing out, this tour is an excellent choice. It combines convenience, cultural richness, and natural wonders in a way that makes your Lebanon visit easier and more memorable.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:30 am, with hotel pickup included, so you should be ready by then.

Is lunch included?
Yes, an authentic Lebanese lunch is part of the package, offering a taste of local cuisine amidst beautiful scenery.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, covering all stops from Beirut and returning in the late afternoon.

Are tickets to sites included?
Yes, admission tickets to Jeita Grotto and Byblos Castle are included, making the experience smoother and more cost-effective.

Can I visit the Téléferique?
The gondola ride is not included in the standard price but is available as an optional activity at Harissa for those who want the scenic ascent.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers find it suitable, especially since visits are generally short and manageable, but consider your children’s stamina for a full day of sightseeing.

What is the group size?
The group is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for the stunning views, and perhaps a light jacket for the caves and higher elevations.

This Beirut-based tour combines the highlights of Lebanon in a manageable, well-organized day. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of history, nature, and culture without the fuss of multiple bookings. Expect to walk away with memorable sights, authentic flavors, and plenty of stories to tell. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a guided introduction to Lebanon’s treasures, this trip delivers on many fronts.