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Animal Encounter: A Sanctuary for Lebanese Wildlife

Discover Lebanon's wildlife at Animal Encounter: rescue, rehabilitation, and education in the heart of Aley.

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Animal Encounter, located in Aley, Lebanon, is a wildlife conservation center dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and educating the public about Lebanese fauna. Founded in 1993 by Mounir and Diana Abi-Said, the center provides a safe haven for injured and endangered animals, promoting biodiversity and challenging negative stereotypes.

A brief summary to Animal Encounter - Wildlife conservation center

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary throughout the week.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the center.
  • Bring a camera to capture the diverse wildlife.
  • Consider making a donation to support the center's conservation efforts.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Beirut, the quickest way to reach Animal Encounter is by taxi. A taxi ride from Beirut to Aley typically takes around 15 minutes and costs between $30 and $40. You can find taxis readily available throughout Beirut, including at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport.

  • Driving

    If you prefer to drive, the journey from Beirut to Aley is straightforward. The drive takes approximately 15 minutes, covering a distance of about 19 km. Be aware that traffic conditions can affect travel time. Driving allows for flexibility in exploring the surrounding areas of Aley. Parking is available at Animal Encounter.

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Discover more about Animal Encounter - Wildlife conservation center

Nestled in the hills of Aley, Lebanon, Animal Encounter stands as a unique testament to wildlife conservation in the region. Founded in 1993 by Mounir and Diana Abi-Said, this center is dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and raising awareness about Lebanon's diverse animal population. What began as a backyard refuge for injured animals has grown into a renowned wildlife sanctuary and educational center, drawing over 30,000 visitors annually, many of whom are students. Animal Encounter is home to a wide array of animals, including jackals, baboons, foxes, deer, and various bird species. The center also houses native hyenas, wolves, eagles, reptiles, and farmyard animals. Beyond providing a sanctuary, Animal Encounter actively works to rehabilitate injured migratory birds and operates a captive breeding program, releasing offspring back into the wild. The center's mission extends to educating the public, particularly children, about the importance of wildlife conservation. Through guided tours, interactive slideshows, and a research library, visitors learn about Lebanon's biodiversity, the ecological roles of different species, and how to promote conservation. Animal Encounter's efforts have significantly impacted the local community, with studies showing that over 80% of visitors change their attitudes towards wildlife after participating in the center's programs. Animal Encounter is more than just a sanctuary; it's a vital resource for wildlife lovers and a beacon of hope for Lebanon's endangered species.

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