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Shouf Biosphere Reserve: Cedars and Culture

Explore ancient cedar forests, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage in Lebanon's Shouf Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-protected natural wonder.

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The Shouf Biosphere Reserve, encompassing the Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve, is a protected area in the Shouf Mountains of Lebanon, known for its ancient cedar forests and diverse ecosystems. It's a place where you can witness the rejuvenation of Lebanon's iconic cedar trees and engage with local communities involved in sustainable ecotourism.

A brief summary to Shouf Biosphere Reserve / Maasser Cedar Forest

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking the trails.
  • Visit the Maasser Cedar Forest to see the oldest and most impressive cedar trees.
  • Check the official website for details on guesthouses if you plan to stay overnight.
  • Consider hiring a local guide at one of the entrances for a more in-depth exploration of the reserve.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Beirut, a taxi to Maasser El Chouf, near the Maasser Cedar Forest entrance, takes approximately 48 minutes. The estimated cost is $60-$80. Taxis can be found throughout Beirut, especially near major hotels and the airport.

  • Public Transport

    Buses to the Chouf area depart from the Cola intersection in Beirut. Look for buses heading towards Kfarhim; the fare is approximately $1.40 USD. From Kfarhim, it's about a 30-45 minute walk to Deir al-Qamar, from where you can take a taxi to the reserve. Keep in mind that bus schedules can be unreliable.

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Discover more about Shouf Biosphere Reserve / Maasser Cedar Forest

The Shouf Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-declared site since 2005, stretches across 5% of Lebanon's total area, from Dahr-el Baidar to Jezzine. This vast reserve includes the Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve, the Ammiq Wetland, and 22 surrounding villages. It stands as one of the largest protected areas in the Middle East, boasting a rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems. The reserve's history is intertwined with the story of Lebanon's cedar trees (Cedrus libani), a national symbol. Faced with deforestation in the 20th century, conservation efforts led to the establishment of the Al-Shouf Cedar Nature Reserve in 1996. Today, the reserve plays a vital role in the cedar population's recovery, with some trees estimated to be 2,000 years old. Hadrian, a Roman Emperor, marked the boundaries of the remaining forests and declared them as 'Imperial Domain'. The Shouf Biosphere Reserve is home to 520 plant species, 25 of which are threatened nationally and internationally. It also provides habitats for various mammals, including wolves and wild cats, and is a crucial stopover for bird migration between Europe, Africa, and West Asia. The Ammiq Wetland within the reserve is one of the Middle East's last remaining wetlands. Visitors can explore the reserve through a network of hiking trails, with ranger huts available at the entrances of Ain Zhalta, Barouk, Maasser, Niha, Mrusti and Aammiq. These entrances provide information, restrooms, and hiking guides. The Maasser entrance leads to the oldest cedar trees, including the Lamartine cedar.

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