Afqa Grotto and Waterfall
Discover the mythical Afqa Grotto and Waterfall, source of the Adonis River, where ancient legends meet stunning natural beauty.
Nestled in the mountains of Lebanon, approximately 20 kilometers from Byblos, Afqa is a site of immense natural beauty and historical significance. The centerpiece is the Afqa Grotto, a dramatic opening in a 200-meter-high cliff from which a powerful waterfall bursts forth. This waterfall is the source of the Adonis River (Nahr Ibrahim), which flows towards the Mediterranean Sea. In ancient times, Afqa, known as Aphaca, was a venerated site associated with the Phoenician goddess Aphrodite (Venus) and her lover Adonis. Legend says that Adonis died at the foot of the falls, his blood turning the river red. Each spring, the melting snows carry reddish soil into the river, an event that locals believed symbolized the renewal of Adonis's death. The ruins of a temple dedicated to Aphrodite Aphakitis stand near the grotto, a testament to the site's ancient religious importance. The temple was initially constructed during Hellenistic times and later rebuilt by the Romans, before being destroyed in the 4th century AD and partially rebuilt. The Afqa cave system extends for over 3 kilometers, featuring a network of passages and large chambers. The area around Afqa offers stunning views and opportunities for hiking, especially in spring when the waterfall is at its fullest.
Local tips
- Visit in spring (March-May) to see the waterfall at its fullest due to snowmelt.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to explore the trails around the grotto.
- Explore the ruins of the ancient temple dedicated to Aphrodite.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the tranquility of the site.
A brief summary to Afqa
- Afqa, LB
Getting There
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Car
From Beirut, take the highway north towards Byblos. Continue past Byblos towards Qartaba, then follow the signs to Afqa. The drive is approximately 80 km and takes about 1.5 - 2 hours. Parking is available near the site.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from major cities like Beirut and Baalbek. A taxi from Beirut to Afqa will cost approximately $95 - $120 and take around 1 hour and 12 minutes. A taxi from Baalbek to Afqa will cost approximately $72 - $110 and take around 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Attractions Nearby to Afqa
Landmarks nearby to Afqa
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Mar Edna Monastery
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Saint Charbel Church & Statue
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Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve - Qehmez entrance | محميّة جبل موسى - مدخل قهمز
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Massaya Lebanese Winery Faqra Lebanon
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Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve - Chouwan Entrance
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Faqra Roman Ruins (Kfardebian)
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Baatara Gorge Waterfall
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Balou3 Balaa Rest House
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Vignoble JOURA
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Yahchouch Camp
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Lebanon Mountains
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Mount Sannine
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Monastery Saint Maroun
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Qanat Bakish
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Saint Charbel Church