Jeita

The Jeita Grotto is a spectacular system of limestone caves located in the Nahr al-Kalb valley ~18 km north of Beirut. The grotto consists of two separate but interconnected caves: the upper gallery (dry cave) featuring the world's largest known stalactite, and the lower gallery (water cave) navigable by boat along an underground river. It is a finalist for the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

By Plane

Beirut–Rafic Hariri International Airport (BEY IATA) ~25 km (30 min).

By Car / Road

From Beirut, drive north past Jounieh, then follow signs to Jeita (30 min). Buses from Beirut to Jounieh, then taxi.

The grotto complex is walkable. An electric train and boat tour navigate the caves.

• Upper Gallery – 2.2 km of walking paths through massive caverns with towering stalactites and stalagmites.

• Lower Gallery – 500-m boat ride on the underground river.

• Jeita Park – Surrounding woodland.

• Cave tour – Upper gallery on foot (45 min), lower gallery by boat (20 min).

• Photography – No flash photography allowed inside.

• Mountain restaurant – On-site dining with a view.

Restaurant at the grotto entrance.

Cafe available.

• Budget: Hotels in Jounieh (15 min drive).

Souvenirs at the gift shop.

• Jounieh (15 km) – Cable car to Harissa
• Byblos (20 km) – UNESCO World Heritage site
• Beirut (18 km) – Capital city
• Faraya (35 km) – Ski resort