Winter route adjustment:
During the winter months (normally from December until sometime in May), many mountain roads in Lebanon are closed due to snow. During this period the tour will be adjusted to avoid the drive from Becharre to Zahle across the Col des Cedres. All the same places will be visited and the same activities included, but the itinerary will run as follows...

Days 1-2 - As in summer
Day 3 - Morning Beirut City Tour, then head to the Baatara Gorge to see the sinkhole, before finishing at the Qadisha Valley. Lunch included, and overnight at the Monastery or nearby guesthouse. 
Day 4 - Morning hike in the Qadisha Valley, visit Becharre and the Cedars, then return to Byblos for overnight. 
Day 5 - Explore Byblos, then drive to Zahle via Beirut, with stops on the way to discover Harissa by cable car, and to explore the Jeita Grotto. Overnight in Zahle
Days 6-8 - as in summer

Small-group departure dates run regularly all year round, starting on Saturdays. The tour is also available privately on any other dates if our group tour dates don't work for you or if you would prefer to travel in just your own party. Please contact us for more information and prices to fit your preferred dates and number of travellers.

Electrical Sockets and Adapters

• The sockets in use are round with two prongs and a 220-volt supply (Type C).
• You can find universal adaptors at most airport shops if you don’t already have one.
• Standard European adapters generally work, though they may fit a bit loosely in the sockets at times.
• All hotel rooms are equipped with electrical sockets for charging devices such as cameras and phones.
• Hair dryers are usually available upon request from hotel reception if one isn’t already provided in your room.
• If you are travelling with US appliances (110 volts), you will need both a voltage converter and a plug adapter.

The time zone for Egypt, Jordan, Israel, and Lebanon is GMT plus 2 hours, while in the UAE, it is GMT plus 3 hours. Daylight saving time has been implemented in some years but not consistently. Currently, it seems that Egypt will not be observing daylight saving time from 2016 onwards, though this could change unexpectedly, potentially affecting flight schedules and timings. In Jordan and Israel, daylight saving time, which advances the clock by one hour, is typically observed from the end of March to the end of October, shifting the time to GMT plus 3 hours. The specific dates for these changes vary annually, and there are occasions when the adjustments may be cancelled altogether.

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.

Your airport transfers are included only on the first and last day of the scheduled tour, as well as on any extra days if you book your accommodation through us. If you organise your own accommodation at the start or end of the tour, you will need to arrange your own transfers for these days.

Our tours include a variety of transport options to ensure you experience the country you’re visiting up close, while also allowing you to relax and recharge for the next leg of your journey. In Lebanon, due to the relatively short distances, we use private vehicles throughout the tour. The vehicles chosen will be spacious and comfortable, tailored to the size of the group.

Tipping is a common custom in Lebanon as a way to show appreciation for services received. As such, you may choose to tip your guide and driver at the end of the tour. There is no set amount you are required to give, and it's important to consider your own budget when deciding. We are frequently asked for guidance on tipping amounts, and we would suggest around GBP 5 / USD 8 per person, per day, as a suitable amount.

We aim to provide you with as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. To cater to those with different travel preferences, we do not include international flights in the main tour price. However, we are more than happy to recommend flights that pair well with your tour. Simply get in touch with us, share your preferred travel dates and departure airport, and we will offer you a selection of airlines, schedules, and prices to choose from.

Your arrival and departure transfers are included on the first and last days of your tour. Most of our Lebanese tours begin and end at Beirut airport (BEY).

Occasionally, we offer flight-inclusive packages from selected airports. When these are available on our website, the prices shown are accurate at the time of quoting but are subject to the continued availability of the fares. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking, along with flight details, including times and the airline, before tickets are issued.

Flight-inclusive prices are based on the most economical Economy class tickets, which are usually non-refundable and non-changeable, unless the flight is cancelled for reasons like Covid-19, in which case airlines tend to be more flexible. For those looking for more flexibility, we also offer Premium Economy and Business Class tickets for an additional cost. Any changes to flight-inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline’s terms and conditions.

Flight CO2 Emissions:

Flying is a fantastic way to discover new places, but it also contributes to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that affect the environment. By considering the CO2 emissions of your flight, you can help reduce your travel footprint.

We encourage you to think about the environmental impact of your flight when selecting an airline and international flight. Many airlines and flight search websites (such as Google Flights and Skyscanner) provide CO2 emission data, allowing you to compare your options and make a more informed choice. Many airlines are working to improve their sustainability efforts, and by opting for a greener flight, you can help make a positive contribution to the planet while still enjoying your journey.

Passports must remain valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Avoid bringing a nearly full or soon-to-expire passport. It is the traveller's responsibility to arrange their visa, and the requirements may change at any time according to local authorities.

For many nationalities, a visa on arrival is available at Beirut International Airport. This applies to most countries within the Commonwealth, European Union, Russia, Japan, and the United States. Even if you qualify for a visa on arrival, it’s advisable to verify the latest requirements with your local Lebanese consulate.

Other nationalities may need to arrange their visa before travelling. To obtain one in advance, contact your nearest Lebanese embassy, consulate, or a visa agency for further information.

IMPORTANT: The Lebanese Government prohibits entry to individuals holding Israeli passports, Israeli visas (whether valid or expired), or those with any evidence of travel to Israel in their passport.

Luggage: You can bring suitcases, rucksacks, or fabric holdalls to Lebanon. It's also advisable to carry a small daypack or bag for use during the day. Your main luggage will usually stay at the hotel while you're out sightseeing, so you won’t have to carry it far, and hotel porters are typically available to assist.

Luggage Restrictions: There are no specific luggage limits for this trip. However, most airlines have restrictions on hold luggage, typically between 20kg and 25kg, and on hand luggage, usually between 5kg and 10kg. We recommend you confirm the limits with your airline before heading to the airport.

Clothing: Lebanon's weather varies, with hot summer days and cold, wintry conditions in the winter. Temperatures, especially in the mountains, can drop significantly at night, so be sure to pack for cooler and possibly wet conditions. Formal attire, such as suits and ties, is not necessary. In some regions, modest dress is highly valued, particularly for women. To respect the local culture, we suggest wearing loose-fitting, non-revealing clothing. While shorts (not hot-pants) and T-shirts are acceptable at tourist sites, it's best to avoid exposing too much skin (we recommend covering your shoulders). When visiting mosques, both legs and arms should be covered. Bikinis and swimwear are common at some beaches.

Other Items: We recommend packing a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a basic first aid kit, toiletries, a money belt, a small torch, a camera, and a charger.

It is essential to ensure that you have comprehensive medical insurance, covering emergency medical situations, including evacuation and repatriation.

Vaccinations and other health protection measures differ depending on your destination and where you're travelling from. We recommend you consult your GP or a travel health clinic for the latest advice on required vaccinations for your trip. You should also make sure your routine vaccinations and boosters, which are recommended for your general health at home, are up to date. This includes vaccines related to your occupation, lifestyle risks, and any existing medical conditions.

Additional vaccinations and boosters often advised for the countries in this region include:

• Egypt: Tetanus, Typhoid, Hepatitis A
• Jordan: Tetanus, Hepatitis A
• Israel: Hepatitis A, Poliomyelitis
• Lebanon: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A

Malaria is not typically found in the region, unless contracted elsewhere, so malaria prophylaxis is generally unnecessary.

For more details, you can find further information here: Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon

Note: We are aware that some locations in Egypt use 'black henna' instead of traditional brown henna. Black henna contains a chemical dye called PPD (paraphenylenediamine), which can cause severe allergic reactions and scarring. To avoid potential risks, it is advisable to refrain from getting henna tattoos in Egypt unless you are certain the henna is pure brown henna.

Our small-group tours in Lebanon operate with a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 18 participants per group.

Tailor-made tours are costed for two people travelling with a driver and guide for the sightseeing activities. If you're travelling as a family or in a larger group, we’ll offer discounts and customised quotes.

In Lebanon, all sightseeing tours are led by fully trained, local English-speaking guides. At Egypt Uncovered, we prioritise working with local guides and representatives, as we believe this provides a more authentic and enriching experience of the country and its landmarks.

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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