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Jeita Grotto: A Lebanese Natural Wonder

Explore Lebanon's natural masterpiece: a stunning limestone cave with breathtaking formations and an underground river.

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The Jeita Grotto, located in Lebanon's Nahr al-Kalb Valley, is a stunning complex of limestone caves featuring dramatic stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. The grotto is divided into two levels: the upper cave, accessible by foot, and the lower cave, where visitors can take a boat ride on an underground river.

A brief summary to Jeita Grotto

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces in the upper grotto.
  • Bring a light jacket, as the temperature inside the grotto is cooler than outside.
  • Photography is restricted inside the caves to protect the delicate formations.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they may vary seasonally.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Beirut, the most convenient way to reach Jeita Grotto is by taxi. A taxi ride from Beirut to Jeita Grotto typically takes around 18 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 21 kilometers. Expect to pay between $35 and $45 for the ride. Chouf Taxi is one of the taxi services that operates in the area.

  • Driving

    If you prefer to drive, the journey from Beirut to Jeita Grotto is straightforward. The drive takes around 18 minutes, covering a distance of 21 kilometers. Parking is available at Jeita Grotto. Driving yourself will cost approximately $3-$4.

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Discover more about Jeita Grotto

Jeita Grotto, a breathtaking natural wonder, lies 18 kilometers north of Beirut in the Nahr al-Kalb Valley. This extensive cave system stretches over 9 kilometers and is composed of two interconnected limestone caves sculpted over millions of years. The grotto is a source of the Nahr al-Kalb River and a symbol of Lebanese pride, drawing visitors from across the globe. The upper grotto features crystallized formations like stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and draperies. Visitors can explore three chambers within the upper grotto: the White Chamber, home to an 8.2-meter-long stalactite; the Red Chamber, named for its color and towering 106 meters high; and the highest chamber, reaching 120 meters. The lower grotto offers a unique experience with an underground river and lake. Small boats carry visitors through the serene waters, allowing them to marvel at the stunning formations. This lower section also serves as a vital source of fresh drinking water for over a million Lebanese people. Discovered in 1836 by Reverend William Thomson, the Jeita Grotto opened as a tourist site in 1969. After being closed during the civil war, it reopened in 1996 and quickly regained international recognition. The grotto was a finalist in the New7Wonders of Nature competition. Today, Jeita Grotto stands as a testament to the beauty and power of geological processes, offering an unforgettable journey into the heart of Lebanon's natural wonders.

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