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Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve

Explore Jabal Moussa: A Lebanese UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with hiking, history, and stunning Mediterranean views. Discover rich biodiversity and ancient ruins.

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Discover Jabal Moussa, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Lebanon, offering hiking trails, rich biodiversity, and historical sites dating back to Phoenician, Roman, and Ottoman periods. Explore diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and Adonis Valley.

A brief summary to Association for the Protection of Jabal Moussa (APJM)

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the terrain can be steep and rocky.
  • Visit during spring (April-June) or fall (September-November) for mild weather and blooming flowers or autumn foliage.
  • Book your visit in advance and check the Jabal Moussa website for trail options and entry fees.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, and consider using reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.
  • Engage with local guides to learn about the area's history, culture, and biodiversity.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Beirut, take the highway north towards Jounieh and then continue towards Byblos. From Byblos, follow the signs to Qehmez or Chouwan, depending on your chosen entrance. The drive takes approximately 1 hour, offering scenic views of the coast and mountains. Parking is available at the entrances, but it can be limited during peak season. Consider arriving early. No tolls are expected.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Beirut to Jounieh or Byblos. From Jounieh or Byblos, transfer to a local minibus heading towards the villages near Jabal Moussa, such as Qehmez. Inform the driver of your destination. From the village, you may need to walk or take a short taxi ride to the reserve entrance. Bus fares from Beirut to Jounieh/Byblos range from LBP 5,000-10,000. Minibus fares from Jounieh/Byblos to Qehmez are approximately LBP 3,000-5,000.

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Discover more about Association for the Protection of Jabal Moussa (APJM)

Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated site since 2009, is located in the Kesrouan-Jbeil area of Lebanon, approximately 50 km from Beirut and 25 km from Byblos. This 6,500-hectare reserve sits on the western slopes of Mount Lebanon, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Jabal Moussa, also known as the 'Mount of Moses,' showcases a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The reserve boasts remarkable biodiversity, with at least 728 flora species, 25 mammal species, and over 137 migratory bird species. Rare and threatened mammals, including bats, wolves, and hyenas, find refuge in its rugged terrain. The area is recognized as an Important Plant Area (IPA) due to its floral diversity and endemism, featuring species like Salvia peyronii and Cyclamen libanoticum. Culturally rich, Jabal Moussa reveals the interaction between humans and nature through historical and spiritual sites. Ruins from the Phoenician, Roman, Medieval, and Ottoman periods can be found throughout the mountain. The largest archaeological site, Qornet el Deir, has revealed settlements dating back to the Bronze Age. Visitors can explore fifteen hiking trails, including Hadrian's Incline, marked by Roman Emperor Hadrian with inscriptions that remain today. The Association for the Protection of Jabal Moussa (APJM) was founded in 2007 to conserve the reserve's natural and cultural heritage. APJM empowers local communities through sustainable eco-tourism, responsible agriculture, and traditional crafts. Visitors can engage in activities such as hiking, Tesli2 (wild edible plant harvesting), and learning about traditional Lebanese practices. Jabal Moussa offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult, including the Peony Trail, Chouwan Cultural Trail, and Qornet el Mzar Trail. Each trail offers unique views and historical sites, with entry fees of $4 for adults on weekdays and $8 on weekends and holidays in Chouwan.

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