ITINERARY

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Your journey begins upon your arrival at Beirut International Airport. A member of our team will greet you, and you will be escorted to your hotel. Overnight stay in Beirut.

OVERNIGHT:

Beirut hotel

MEALS:

None

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Beirut - pre-tour

Single Room Supplement (LBSGLE)

After leaving Beirut and heading north, we'll visit the spectacular Jeita Grotto. This system of limestone caves spans almost 9 kilometres and contains one of the largest collections of stalactites and stalagmites in the world. The grotto is a symbol of Lebanon and was a finalist in the New 7 Wonders of Nature competition. Depending on the water level, you can explore the caves on foot or by boat.

Next, we visit Harissa, home to the important Christian shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon. A cable car will take us to the top of the basilica, where we can enjoy a spectacular view of Jounieh Bay, considered one of the most beautiful bays in the Middle East.

Then, we'll head inland to visit the unique Baatara Gorge Sinkhole. In the spring and during rainy periods, a 255-metre waterfall cascades into an enormous cavern. The cave is also known as the Cave of the Three Bridges due to the three natural stone arches that the waterfall drops over. This is a spectacular natural phenomenon, and we'll have time for a short hike here and to explore the nearby village of Douma. A traditional Lebanese lunch is included today.

The day finishes with a short drive to the beautiful Qadisha Valley, where we'll spend the night in the Monastery of St. Anthony. You'll stay in a separate building with simple but comfortable en-suite accommodation. If the monastery is closed or unavailable, we will use a nearby guesthouse.

OVERNIGHT:

Qadisha Valley monastery or guesthouse

MEALS:

Breakfast, Lunch

EXTRAS:

None

If you're interested, you can rise early this morning to join the monks of the monastery for morning prayers. After breakfast, we'll have time to explore the Qadisha Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as the Holy Valley. The Holy River, Nahr Qadisha, flows through it, and its steep cliffs are home to many ancient caves used as shelters and burial sites. It's a great place for a short morning hike.

Our first stop after leaving the valley is the nearby village of Becharre, the birthplace of the iconic novelist and poet Kahlil Gibran. The village has a museum dedicated to him, featuring his paintings and manuscripts. Next, we'll stop at the Cedars of God, an area that holds the last remaining groves of the ancient cedar forests of Lebanon. The famous Cedarus Libani trees are mentioned in the Old Testament and are the national symbol of the country.

Later today we'll arrive in Byblos, an ancient Phoenician city that is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Locally known as Jbeil, it is thought to have been inhabited for up to 7,000 years. The city is full of significant historical and archaeological sites and also features a lovely Phoenician harbour.

OVERNIGHT:

Byblos hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None

We dedicated this morning to discovering the harbour area and the key attractions of Byblos. Our journey today will take us to the village of Zahle, but we’ll first make a stop at the Ksara Winery, reputedly the oldest in Lebanon. The winery's caves and tunnels stretch for about 2 miles and have served as wine cellars for many generations. You’ll be given a guided tour of the caves and winery before enjoying a wine tasting session, where you can sample the produce and purchase any you may like.

OVERNIGHT:

Zahle guesthouse

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None

Today we head to Baalbek, a definite highlight of any visit to Lebanon. Known to the Romans and Greeks as "Heliopolis" or "City of the Sun," it is home to a superbly well-preserved temple complex. This complex is one of the finest examples of Roman architecture at its peak, built as a sanctuary to worship the Heliopolitan triad of Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury. Pilgrims would flock here in their thousands, and the largely intact temples still hold outstanding artistic and historical value.

We then visit the Umayyad city of Anjar, located in the Bekaa Valley. Founded in the 8th century by Caliph Walid, this city provides evidence of excellent town planning. It features mosques, palaces, and baths, as well as the ruins of 600 shops, which show that it was once an important commercial centre.

In the afternoon, we'll return to Beirut.

OVERNIGHT:

Beirut hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None

After breakfast, we leave Beirut and drive to the Chouf Mountains to visit the village of Deir al Qamar. Its name means "Monastery of the Moon", and it served as Lebanon's capital in the 17th century. This quaint and charming UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stone houses and winding streets.

We then continue to the beautiful Beiteddine Palace. Constructed in the 19th century by Emir Bashir, the palace is exceptionally well-preserved and stands as a testament to the opulence of its era.

Finally, we return to Beirut in the afternoon for a city tour. As one of the world's oldest cities, Lebanon's capital has a turbulent history, both ancient and modern. This is visible in the mix of modern high-rises, charming old houses, and historical buildings, some of which still bear the marks of the 1970s civil war. Highlights of our tour include the Beirut Souks, the Corniche, and the city's downtown area. We'll also see the famous Pigeon Grotto, also known as the Rock of Raouché, a striking natural formation in the sea.

OVERNIGHT:

Beirut hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None

Today we'll tour southern Lebanon, beginning with a visit to Tyre, also known as Sour. More than 4,000 years old, this once-great Phoenician city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with important historical landmarks.

Our next destination is Sidon, or Saida, another ancient Phoenician city, and possibly the oldest. The city grew wealthy from its production of glass and a valuable purple dye extracted from murex shellfish. Today, it's a fast-growing and important administrative and commercial centre.

In Sidon, we'll visit the Crusader Sea Castle, the Great Mosque, and Khan el Franj, among other interesting sites. You'll also have the chance to stroll through the old souks. We'll then return to Beirut for the night.

OVERNIGHT:

Beirut hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None

Today is the last day of the tour and your time is free to explore Beirut some more until you are transferred to the airport for your departing flight home.

OVERNIGHT:

N/A

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None

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Included:

5 nights in 3 to 4-star hotels in Beirut and Byblos
1 night in a guesthouse or hotel in Zahle
1 night in a monastery accommodation in Qadisha Valley
24-hour airport pick-up and drop-off transfer service
All transport and transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
Entrance fees for all visited sites
All sightseeing tours as outlined in the itinerary
Wine tasting at Ksara Caves
English-speaking guide for all tours
Meals as specified in the itinerary (7 breakfasts, 1 lunch)

Excluded:

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

Notes:

Winter route adjustment:

During the winter season (typically from December through to May), several mountain roads in Lebanon are closed because of snow. Consequently, the tour will be adjusted to bypass the drive from Becharre to Zahle via the Col des Cedres. Although the same destinations and activities will be included, the revised itinerary will be as follows...

Days 1-2 – As previously planned
Day 3 – Morning Beirut City Tour, followed by a visit to the Baatara Gorge to view the sinkhole, and then continuing to the Qadisha Valley. Lunch provided, with overnight accommodation at the Monastery or a nearby guesthouse.
Day 4 – Morning hike in the Qadisha Valley, a visit to Becharre and the Cedars, then return to Byblos for the night.
Day 5 – Explore Byblos, then travel to Zahle via Beirut, with stops along the way to visit Harissa by cable car and explore the Jeita Grotto. Overnight in Zahle.
Days 6-8 – As previously planned.

Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

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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This tour includes a meet-and-greet service and airport transfer on the first day. Our representative will be waiting with an Egypt Uncovered signboard or your name clearly displayed for easy identification. If you are unable to locate our representative, emergency contact numbers will be provided on your tour confirmation voucher.

A transfer to the airport is also included at the end of the tour. Please review the tour itinerary and your flight times carefully. Most international flights departing from Khartoum are scheduled in the early hours of the morning. If you have upgraded to a 4 or 5-star hotel in Khartoum, only a day-use room is typically included for your final day. A full night's stay is provided at the standard 3-star hotel. If you require a full night’s accommodation in an upgraded hotel, an additional charge may apply.

Refunds are not available for missed transfers or parts of your trip due to incorrect flight details or delayed arrivals. Any additional expenses incurred to join the group will be your responsibility.

If your flights are scheduled to arrive before the tour starts or depart after the tour ends, we can arrange extra accommodation and airport transfers. We will strive to book these at the same hotel as the main tour, subject to availability (upgraded hotels can also be arranged upon request). Please note that if you do not book additional accommodation through us, arrival and departure transfer services will not be included, and you will need to organise your own transport.

Arrival Procedure

Be prepared for potential delays at immigration, especially if you are obtaining a “visa on arrival” (refer to the Passports and Visas section). After passport control, proceed to baggage reclaim, where further waiting times are common. Once you collect your luggage, you will need to show your baggage receipts (typically attached to your boarding pass), and your bags may be manually inspected by airport staff. This is standard procedure to ensure no prohibited items, such as alcohol or inappropriate materials, are brought into Sudan. Be aware that some magazines with certain images might also be considered inappropriate and could be confiscated without return.

After completing these formalities, you will find our representative waiting just outside the glass doors with an Egypt Uncovered signboard or your name clearly displayed.

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We aim to offer you as much flexibility as possible when booking your holiday with us. To accommodate travellers with varying plans, we exclude international flights from the main tour price. However, we are happy to assist with flight suggestions that complement the tour. Simply provide us with your preferred dates and departure airport, and we will present a selection of airlines, schedules, and fares for you to choose from.

Your transfers between the airport and hotel are included on the first and last days of the tour. Our Sudan tours begin and end at Khartoum airport (KRT).

Occasionally, we also offer flight-inclusive packages from selected airports. When these are available on our website, the prices quoted are accurate at the time, but are subject to the availability of the fare used. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking, and we will also provide you with flight times and airline details before issuing tickets.

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 due to circumstances like Covid-19, in which case airlines tend to offer more flexibility. If you require more flexible ticket options or wish to upgrade to Premium Economy or Business Class, these can be arranged for an additional supplement. Any changes to flight-inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline's terms and conditions.

Flight CO2 Emissions:

Flying is a wonderful way to see the world, but it does contribute to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, which have an impact on the environment. By considering the CO2 emissions of your flight when booking, you can help reduce your travel footprint.

When booking international flights, we recommend you also take into account the CO2 emissions of your chosen airline. Some airlines and flight search engines (such as Google Flights or Skyscanner) provide this information, allowing you to compare your options and make a more informed choice. Many airlines are now working towards more sustainable practices, and by opting for greener flight options, you can contribute to positive environmental change while still enjoying your adventure.

You should ensure you have comprehensive insurance that covers medical emergencies, including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Vaccination recommendations and other health precautions vary depending on the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. It is advisable to consult your GP, healthcare provider, or a travel clinic for the latest vaccination information for your destination. Additionally, make sure that you are up-to-date with the vaccines and boosters recommended for your regular life back home, such as those for occupational risks, lifestyle-related exposures, and any underlying health conditions. Below are the additional vaccinations and health precautions typically recommended for the countries in this region:

South Africa: Hepatitis A, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
Namibia: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from an infected area).
Botswana: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
Zimbabwe: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
Zambia: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
Malawi: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
Tanzania: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area).
Kenya: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Poliomyelitis, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from an infected area).
Uganda: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from an infected area).
Sudan: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Malaria precautions (Malaria map), Yellow Fever certificate (Required if coming from or transiting through an infected area; may also be needed for departure).
Morocco: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Malaria not usually present, Yellow Fever certificate not required.

Please note that this information may change at short notice. For the most up-to-date health and vaccination requirements, we suggest contacting your medical practitioner or travel clinic.

Malaria: There is no vaccine for Malaria, a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes. To reduce the risk of infection, wear long-sleeved clothing and long trousers, use insect repellents, and sleep under a mosquito net if needed. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. Consult your GP or a travel clinic for the most suitable malaria prevention medication for the areas you are visiting.

Yellow Fever: This disease is transmitted by mosquitoes active during the day. Many countries require a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate as part of their entry requirements, particularly if you have travelled from or through an infected region, including stopovers of more than 12 hours. You can refer to US CDC information to check where Yellow Fever is present and which countries require proof of vaccination. Ensure that you arrange for the certificate in advance and carry it with you throughout your trip.

Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma, as well as any prescription medications you are taking. Additionally, we need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities.

If you are taking part in an Overland tour or a wildlife safari, be aware that you may be travelling on rough or bumpy terrain for extended periods. This can be uncomfortable or even painful, especially if you have a back condition. Please contact us if you have any concerns.

Luggage:
To ensure smooth transport of everyone’s luggage in the vehicles, we kindly ask that you bring soft luggage instead of hard suitcases. A small daypack or bag is also recommended for daily outings. Your main luggage will typically stay at your accommodation during sightseeing trips, so you won’t need to carry it far. Hotel porters are usually available to assist with luggage handling.

Luggage Restrictions:
To optimise space and comfort in the vehicles, we ask that your main luggage does not exceed 15kg for this tour. As for hand luggage, most airlines allow between 5kg and 10kg, but we kindly request you limit yours to 5kg.

Clothing:
Sudan's climate varies from hot and dry in the north to humid and tropical in the equatorial south. The best time to visit is from October to April. During October/November and March/April, daytime temperatures range from 30-38°C, with nights around 12-18°C. In December/January/February, temperatures are slightly cooler at 25-30°C during the day, with nights dropping to 5-10°C. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C, but tours are generally not held during this time. Dust storms (haboobs) can occur from July to August and again from November to January. You will need clothing suitable for hot days but also something warm for the cooler evenings and nights, especially in the desert areas.
Sudan is a predominantly Muslim country with Sharia law in place, and modesty is highly valued, particularly for women. Therefore, it’s advised that clothes be loose-fitting and not revealing. Women are not required to wear a veil or cover their heads, but it’s a good idea to bring a headscarf or sunhat as they are often helpful in the desert sun. Shorts should be avoided by both men and women.

Other Essentials:
Bedding (sheets, blankets, pillow) will be provided at the Meroe desert camp, but we recommend bringing a lightweight sleeping sheet or liner for added comfort year-round (sand tends to find its way everywhere). Additionally, we suggest you bring a sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a basic first aid kit, toiletries, a money belt, a small torch, a camera, and chargers.

Nimitti:
Between February and April, there can be an abundance of “nimitti” in the northern regions (Tombos, Soleb area). These small, harmless flies, which aid in palm pollination, can be quite bothersome. We will provide fly nets for face protection, and your tour leader will suggest wearing long-sleeved tops to help minimise discomfort.

The official currency in Lebanon is the Lebanese Pound (also known as the Lira). There is no need to bring Lebanese currency with you as exchange services are available at international airports, and in most hotels, banks, and exchange offices in major cities. It is advisable to carry small denominations of notes or coins during your tour, as these will be handy for things like public toilets, tipping, and minor purchases. ATMs are commonly found in larger towns, and many local stores accept payment by VISA, Mastercard, or Amex, although extra charges may apply – so it's best to check before making a purchase. Travellers' cheques are not recommended as they are no longer widely accepted and often incur high exchange fees.

Given the significant recent devaluation of the Lebanese pound, if you withdraw money from an ATM or use your credit card, you will be charged at the official exchange rate, which is much higher than the local market rate. For this reason, we suggest bringing sufficient US Dollars or Euros in cash to cover your expenses during your trip and avoiding reliance on credit cards in Lebanon. You can exchange your foreign currency to Lebanese Pounds at current rates while in the country – your guide can assist you in finding suitable exchange locations.

While in Lebanon, you should have enough funds to cover meals not included in your itinerary, as well as drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and personal expenses such as laundry. Most of these can be paid for in local currency, but tips for your guides and drivers may be given in hard currency (GBP, USD, EUR).

It’s difficult to suggest a precise amount of personal spending money, as it will vary depending on individual preferences. However, a general guideline would be to budget around USD 25-35 per person per day. If you plan to do a lot of shopping or purchase alcohol frequently, it’s a good idea to bring a bit more.

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Lebanon Encounters OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive in Beirut, transfer to hotel

Day 2: Jeita Grotto, Harissa cable car & Baatara Gorge

Day 3: Qadisha Valley, Cedars Ski Resort & Becharre

Day 4: Morning in Byblos, Ksara Winery

Day 5: Baalbeck & Anjar

Day 6: Deir al Qamar, Beiteddine & Beirut City Tour

Day 7: Tyre & Sidon

Day 8: Beirut free time. Departure airport transfer

Notes:

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Dates and Prices

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28th of Dec 2025 4th of Jan 2026 $2015 -

24th of Jan 2026 31st of Jan 2026 $2150 -

7th of Feb 2026 14th of Feb 2026 $2150 -

21st of Feb 2026 28th of Feb 2026 $2150 -

7th of Mar 2026 14th of Mar 2026 $2150 -

21st of Mar 2026 28th of Mar 2026 $2150 -

4th of Apr 2026 11th of Apr 2026 $2150 -

11th of Apr 2026 18th of Apr 2026 $2150 -

2nd of May 2026 9th of May 2026 $2285 -

16th of May 2026 23rd of May 2026 $2285 -

30th of May 2026 6th of Jun 2026 $2285 -

13th of Jun 2026 20th of Jun 2026 $2285 -

27th of Jun 2026 4th of Jul 2026 $2285 -

11th of Jul 2026 18th of Jul 2026 $2285 -

25th of Jul 2026 1st of Aug 2026 $2285 -

8th of Aug 2026 15th of Aug 2026 $2285 -

22nd of Aug 2026 29th of Aug 2026 $2285 -

5th of Sep 2026 12th of Sep 2026 $2285 -

19th of Sep 2026 26th of Sep 2026 $2150 -

3rd of Oct 2026 10th of Oct 2026 $2150 -

17th of Oct 2026 24th of Oct 2026 $2150 -

31st of Oct 2026 7th of Nov 2026 $2150 -

14th of Nov 2026 21st of Nov 2026 $2150 -

28th of Nov 2026 5th of Dec 2026 $2150 -

12th of Dec 2026 19th of Dec 2026 $2150 -

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