trip lebanon egypt

Middle East Chevron

Jordan Chevron

What to Do If You Have Upcoming Travel to Egypt, Jordan, or Lebanon

By Jessica Puckett

This is a developing story and will be updated with more information.

In recent weeks, the war between Israel and Hamas has seeped further into surrounding areas of the Middle East. Violence has reached the southern stretch of the Red Sea, where Houthi rebels have attacked cargo ships off the coast of Yemen, and the US has responded with its own airstrikes. On Israel’s border , clashes between Israel and the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon continue to intensify.

While it's a no-brainer to reconfigure plans located in the immediate conflict zone, many travelers with upcoming trips to the surrounding region are wondering what to do. Is it safe, or responsible, to embark on a Nile cruise in Egypt at the moment? Or to continue on with a visit to Petra, in Jordan? The questions have become only murkier as the conflict expands.

Following a regional security alert issued by the State Department in October that advises US citizens throughout the Middle East to “take caution,” some travelers have responded by canceling trips, while others have pressed on with plans under the guidance of travel providers.

One luxury tour group, Red Savannah says that all travel they have arranged for clients in Egypt and Jordan is continuing as normal. “While we are holding off selling Lebanon, we believe that Egypt and Jordan continue to be safe destinations to visit,” says George Morgan-Grenville, CEO of Red Savannah. “Feedback from clients who traveled over Christmas was incredibly positive.”

According to data from the travel booking company Hopper, Jordan is currently seeing increased demand from US travelers compared to January of last year. US travel demand to Lebanon has dropped relative to other countries in the region, while bookings for Egypt have remained flat, Hopper tells Condé Nast Traveler.

For many, there's an emotional calculation to make when planning travel to countries in close proximity to conflict zones. “Every person has their own unique risk threshold,” says Dave Dennis, executive director of Cornerstone Safety Group, a risk management organization that supports travel companies. “An acceptable risk for one person can be very different from another.”

We asked safety and industry experts to share advice for travelers considering trips to Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, and the Red Sea in the near future. Here's what travelers should know—from what's happening on the ground, to government advisories, to which choices other travelers are making.

Jump ahead:

Should you travel to Jordan right now?

Should you travel to egypt right now, should you travel to lebanon right now.

• Should you take a Red Sea cruise right now?
• Additional tips

The US State Department has kept Jordan under a “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution” travel alert that it first issued on July 13. The only regions that travelers are instructed to avoid are the country’s borders with Syria and Iraq, its refugee camps, and Zarqa, Rusayfah, and the Baqa’a neighborhood of Ayn Basha due to ongoing safety concerns, according to the department’s guidance.

“Jordan, being further from regional unrest, remains at a Level 2 advisory, which is a common category for many regions globally,” says Dennis. As such, most tours throughout Jordan continue to operate as scheduled, and visitors can visit highlights like the Dead Sea , the Wadi Rum desert, Petra, and the capital city of Amman.

The Jordanian Tourism Board told the Times of London in January that the country remains safe for international travel: “In light of the recent developments in Gaza, we want to emphasize that Jordan continues to be a safe and welcoming destination for tourists from around the world,” the agency said in the statement. “Our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all visitors remains unwavering and we want to reassure everyone that Jordan’s borders are open to tourists.”

Egypt's alert level from the State Department hasn’t changed since July 13, and remains at a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel.” Tourists should continue to avoid travel to the Sinai Peninsula, the land bordering Israel and Gaza and to the east of Cairo, as it is a “particularly dangerous area,” according to the department.

In a December 20 security reminder , the US Embassy in Cairo advised US travelers in Egypt to maintain situational awareness and personal security vigilance, exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests, and to keep a low profile.

Many group tours, like Red Savannah's, which visit sites like the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the Valley of the Kings , and Karnak Temple in Luxor, are continuing as normal. But even as many trips forge ahead, some operators are seeing significant cancellations. One firm in Egypt, Amisol Travel, has seen just 40 to 50% of its typical bookings from February and September 2024, according to the New York Times .

Nile River cruises are also continuing to operate as planned. The only changes at this time are cancellations of post-cruise land packages through Israel—most lines have removed these add-on tours for the near future.

“We continue to closely monitor the situation in Israel and Gaza and have canceled a select number of Jerusalem extensions for our Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary,” says a January 11 statement on Viking’s website. “All of our departures in Egypt are operating as scheduled. Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our guests, crew and partners on the ground."

In recent months, AmaWaterways has been making similar cancellations ​​of extended land tours through Israel. “Guests with the post-cruise Israel package scheduled to depart on Secrets of Egypt & the Nile itinerary starting in Cairo up to and including June 21, 2024 will be refunded for the Israel land portion as well as the Cairo to Tel Aviv airfare,” the line said in an emailed statement. “There are no other changes to any other Egypt river cruise or associated land packages.”

Despite most Nile itineraries continuing as planned, lines are seeing an uptick in cancellations from passengers. "The impact has been pretty severe, quite honestly, for the first quarter of 2024," Pamela Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways, told Travel Weekly in early December. "Close to half of our guests canceled for the first quarter of 2024. The rest of the year has not seen as much impact."

As of October 17, the US State Department has had a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” warning for Lebanon. The advisory was last updated on December 19 and recommends US citizens do not travel to the country “due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping, and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to US citizens."

Olivia Morelli

Stacey Lastoe

Maresa Manara

The advisory "speaks to inherent dangers of the region and the lack of immediate emergency services if a traveler was in need of assistance from government agencies,” says Dennis.

Clashes between the Israeli military and the Hezbollah militants in Lebanon have continued at the countries’ borders for months. Now, it's appearing more likely that serious conflict could spread even farther into Lebanon. The head of Israel’s military, Chief of the General Staff Herzi Halevi, said on January 17 that the IDF is increasing readiness for “fighting in Lebanon,” CNN reported .

“The State Department recommends that US citizens in Lebanon leave now, while commercial flights remain available, due to the unpredictable security situation,” says a security alert from the US Embassy in Beirut issued on November 4. (At the time of publication, no new security alerts have been issued from the Embassy in Beirut since).

What's happening with cruises in the Red Sea?

Some cruise lines have begun canceling or changing itineraries that were set to transit through the Red Sea, due to the heightening conflicts there. According to Seatrade Cruise News , MSC has canceled three sailings that had stops through the Red Sea and Middle East: a March 30 voyage on MSC Virtuosa sailing from Dubai to Southampton, England; an April 3 sailing on MSC Splendida from Cape Town to Genoa, Italy; and an April 21 sailing on MSC Opera from Dubai to Genoa.

Silversea has also canceled an upcoming voyage aboard Silver Moon from Dubai to Mumbai that was slated to depart on January 26. “Affected guests and their travel agents have been informed of the reprotection options,” Silversea told Traveler in an emailed statement. “The voyage between Mumbai and Singapore, scheduled between Feb 11 and Feb 29, is currently scheduled to proceed as planned. Our global security team continues to closely monitor the situation in the region and will make any additional changes if required.”

Additional tips for considering travel to the region

1. consider postponing instead of canceling.

The standard guidance in the travel industry, even in harrowing situations, is that postponing a trip is usually a better option than canceling, if you can swing it. That way, local workers and/or travel businesses don't completely lose out on travelers' support, particularly at a time of need. “We highly recommend postponing, or rebooking to another region, over canceling all together,” says Matt Berna, president The Americas for Intrepid Travel. "More than ever the world needs intrepid travelers. We want travelers to do and see incredible things, and for those experiences to have positive social and economic impacts on the host communities they visit.”

One benefit for travelers post-pandemic is that the majority of operators now offer flexible changes and postponements. “Since COVID-19, we have seen a trend towards rebooking flexibility in the travel industry,” says Christina Tunnah, general manager Americas for travel insurance provider World Nomads. “Many US-based airlines retained the credit and rebooking policies from the peak of COVID-19. If you booked with a tour provider, contact customer service to understand what kind of policies may apply in this type of situation.”

Some tour companies allow cancellations within a certain window or will give a voucher toward a future trip if you’d like to postpone. “Should a client feel uncomfortable about traveling, we will always do our best to offer a postponement,” says Morgan-Greenville of Red Savannah.

Jerry Sorkin , a travel specialist with Iconic Journeys Worldwide , says his company gives customers the option to reschedule and apply 100% of their funds toward a future tour to the same destination, up until 30 days before their trip. (Travelers who want to cancel their trip within 30 days of their departure will have to rely on travel insurance for refunds.) “If they did not take out travel insurance, they did so at their own risk and signed a document when booking with us that they had declined to take out travel insurance,” Sorkin says. These types of cancellation policies are standard throughout the industry, which makes understanding travel insurance policies all the more important.

2. Purchase travel insurance

“We always recommend purchasing travel insurance as soon as you invest in your flights, accommodations, and other travel costs,” says Tunnah. “All policies are different, so be sure the policy you select offers the coverage you are most concerned with, such as trip cancellation or trip interruption. And always be sure to read your policy details.” For instance, trip cancellations due to war, invasion, or hostilities between nations are generally excluded from travel insurance policies, but some may offer coverage for terrorist incidents that occur in your departure or destination city, according to Tunnah. (World Nomads’ travel insurance policies for US residents offer trip cancellation coverage in the event a terrorist incident occurs within 30 days of the scheduled departure date, for instance.)

3. Reference international sources during research and consider traveling with a local tour operator

If you decide to go ahead with your trip, there are still precautions to take, too, and ways to be as informed as possible. “I always advocate for travelers to research the areas visited, purchase travel insurance, and talk to insurance providers about coverage and emergency support options should a need arise,” says Dennis, the risk management expert. “Some travel insurance policies won't cover regions listed as a Level 4 (Do Not Travel) government rating, so it's important to verify exemptions prior to travel." Dennis also suggests traveling with a reputable, locally experienced operator: "These organizations typically have deep connections with the communities they visit and are responsible for making itinerary adjustments based on local circumstances.”

In your research, try to include international media sources for the most holistic picture of what’s happening in the area. “It's important to seek out information from multiple sources to find a balanced understanding of regional safety and security,” Dennis says. “This may include reviewing US, UK, Canadian, and even Australian State Department travel warnings, local embassy updates, and if available, gaining access to information from professional security organizations. Each resource may have slight variations of information depending on the audience they serve, so it's important to gather as many perspectives as possible for a balanced approach.”

4. Have an emergency plan

As a precaution, US tourists on international trips should always sign up for the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive important safety alerts from the US embassy in the country they are visiting. Enrolling is free, only takes a few minutes, and will help the embassy contact you in the event of an emergency.

It’s also a good idea to make sure loved ones at home have key information about your travels. “Personally speaking, when I travel internationally, I always leave a copy of my itinerary, passport, and travel insurance policy with my family,” Dennis says. “I also make a check-in plan, so they know when to expect a call, text, or email.”

More than anything, making these difficult travel decisions is about building up a sense of personal intuition for what feels safe and enjoyable.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Recommended

Middle East Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Ode to History: An In-depth Egypt and Lebanon Tour

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1532  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

• Trip Overview

This is a sample itinerary to inspire a personalized trip designed with your travel specialist

Request a Quote

Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, beirut – the paris of the east, an immersive introduction.

Beirut is no longer the bombed out city from an old civil war that you might imagine.  Rather, the city is now cultivated beautifully with lanes that are lined with flagship designer stores as luxury sports cars whizz past the redeveloped shells of buildings once marked by mortar shells, and al fresco terraces with fantastic aromas that demonstrate why the city has long been known as the Paris of the East. Down at the waterfront, there is the scent of opulence as welcoming aromas drift out from upmarket restaurants and meet the salty sea breeze. Middle Eastern culture is alive in all its tradition through cuisine, atmosphere, and design, yet it has been brought into the present. This is a city that does not look back, and it is in the evening when it all truly comes alive with squares and terraces packed with chatter and laughter.

Arrive in Beirut in the morning, and you will be transferred to your hotel and then introduced to the city with a tour of its historical sights. A pathway through what remains also gives you a good feel for what has been built recently, starting at the Ottoman Grand Serail and then moving to admire the Roman and Phoenician statues that line the National Museum. Churches and mosques line renovated streets, a merging of the past and the present for an insight into history that stretches from empires to crusaders to the freedom of today. Enjoy the first of your several evenings here as you stay at a five-star Relais & Chateaux property that is within walking distance of so much to explore and enjoy.

What's Included:

Beirut – Ancient Roman Treasures and Medieval Walls

The columns of Baalbek Temple stretch far above the urban landscape, still comfortably the highest building in the area after some 2,000 years. Sculpted figures are dedicated to the gods and Venus and Jupiter are among those revered here. You will be virtually alone to listen to the echo of your own footsteps on the massive slabs of marble. An eery atmosphere floats through the air as the temple has not undergone extensive reconstruction and the experience is all the better for it. After lunch, you will stop for some samples of Lebanese wines that are sweet on the palate, but surprisingly sensual. Move next to enter the 8th-century city walls of Anjar, where the historical baths and temples are surrounded by the shops of crafters and artisans.  These shops are not tourist stores, but rather are local stores that indicate the harmony of history and modern life at Lebanon’s attractions. It will be a full-day trip from Beirut to the east of the country, culminating with a relaxed evening back in the city.

Beirut – Hippodromes and the Temples of Southern Lebanon

Dip your head to enter the colorful souks in the old trading town of Sidan as shocks of color spill over from the stores to make the souks’ labyrinth barely wide enough for the donkeys that sometimes pass through. After a lovely wander, take a boat to a 13th-century fortress in the Mediterranean, a sea castle buffeted by the waves, and then continue your tour in the Queen of the Seas, the incredible necropolis of Tyre and a near-complete insight into the working of a traditional Roman city. The hippodrome is astounding as it is the largest on the planet, while the triumphal arch and aqueduct offer examples of how civilization thrived on this caravan route between Rome and Jerusalem. Day trips work best over these four days as Lebanon is compact and the tourist infrastructure has not fully formed outside Beirut, where luxury hotels and restaurants abound.

Beirut – Wonders of History in Byblos, Jeita, and Harissa

Strange mineral animals lurk in the shady corners of the upper Jeita Grottoes and will capture your attention. Gigantic stone flowers and weeping willows float past on the lower level as you take a flat-bottom boat tour along miles of subterranean lake and rock galleries. Like so much in Lebanon, this extraordinary sight is relatively unknown to the world, and you are likely the only foreign visitors around. Continue in the north of the country, viewpoints of Jonieh’s Bay followed by a walk through the oldest port in the world. 7,000 years after its founding and still going strong, Byblos is like the onion of Western civilization, layer after layer peeled back as you explore its history. Among the highlights are snippets of evidence from when the city provided the birthplace of the Roman alphabet. Return to Beirut to thoroughly enjoy your final evening in a very memorable city.

Luxor – Stunning Temples of Karnak and Luxor

For an introduction to the grandeur of Ancient Egypt, it will not be the pyramids, but the temples of Karnak and Luxor that most take the breath away. You can imagine the pyramids, and you have certainly seen photos before, but picturing the scale of these temple complexes is impossible, nor is it feasible to predict the feeling of standing beneath a gallery of columns, carved gods, and kings watching you with their eyes. You will fly to Luxor via Cairo and spend the afternoon at these legendary sights with an avenue of stone sphinxes between them. Like the Roman monuments in Lebanon, these are two of the only Egyptian legacies that are fully surrounded by the modern city, the juxtaposition a sign that life has not stood still since the time of the pharaohs. It will have been a packed day, so the evening is extremely relaxed as you dine on the banks of the River Nile.

Luxor – Hot Air Balloon Above the Valley of the Kings

A rainbow of reds and oranges will pass beneath your balloon as the desert wakes up to the day and the sun begins to bounce off of the Valley of the Kings. Temples stretch out below you, and from the air, the scale is staggering with column after column after column down below. This iconic flight is followed by brunch, and an inspection of the details as an Egyptologist guide takes you into the tombs and temples. Inscriptions of godly scenes cover the walls as musty mummified smells flutter around with snippets of treasure flashing beneath ceilings of magnificent beauty. Tombs lie beneath tombs, most famously the one of King Tutankhamen. Nearby is the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, splendor carved into the rock face and is a monument to one of Ancient Egypt’s most loved rulers. Completing your tour are the two colossal statues of Memnon, a dictator sitting down and watching over his subjects; his eyes are particularly moving.

River Nile Cruise – Serene Luxury Cruising and Surreal Temples in the Desert

Over the past week, you will have seen some of the finest ancient monuments on the planet with most dating back many millennia and all with stories as intriguing as their elaborate design. It will have been many days of touring the sights, so now there are two days of tranquility and reflection ahead with your private shaded balcony a place to sit and watch the Sahara Desert roll by. Your luxury River Nile cruise will serve as an interlude between the sightseeing and a chance to sit back and watch the golden colors of the wilderness flow past on your journey upriver to Aswan, and this short little break should ensure you’re fully energized for the final few days.

But, this being Egypt, the historical immersion continues as you disembark to temples dotted along the banks, from one dedicated to the crocodile god to another with two sides, each an honor to one side of a battle between quarreling gods. One is Egyptian in style, another Greco-Roman, expertly preserved because sand dunes invaded its interior to keep out looters. The short daily excursions give time to stretch your legs as the leisurely cruising pace takes you past small oases and mud-brick villages in the desert. On the second day, you will dock close to Aswan for an evening of traditional entertainment.

Aswan – Atmospheric Cultures of Egypt’s Desert Oasis

Aswan is quiet and charming with cafe terraces waiting beneath swaying palms and the souks far more laid-back than any others in the country. Cultures have always mixed harmoniously here, and it will be a pleasure to explore. Arabic and Persian influence is strong, brought from across the water as desert traders continue to pass through and you spot camels loosely roped up outside souks. Gardens flourish on islands in the Nile, and during the afternoon, you will have the option of a felucca sailboat cruise for another chance to embrace the serenity of Egypt’s pristine desert oasis.

Cairo – Philae Temple and a Hotel Overlooking the Pyramids

Wake up to the sounds of an oasis as morning traders ring their bells to advertise their wares. Take your breakfast overlooking the Nile and watching the wind catch the sails of traditional boats. In the morning, you will tour Aswan’s two unmissable sights, the Aswan High Dam and Philae Temple with both imposing and almost improbably engineered. Lunch is a typically quiet affair on a terrace in a lush green garden you might not expect in the Sahara. You will then fly north, touching down in Cairo and transferring to a hotel overlooking the pyramids. They will be tantalizingly close, and for the next three evenings, you will have uninterrupted views of the light show that flickers across their facade.

Cairo – History of Coptic Cairo and Gems in the Egyptian Museum

Egypt’s history is multifaceted and far more than just the pyramids and dynasty temples. 5th-century churches and very early mosques stand almost side by side in the city’s oldest quarter, their walls visibly leaning inwards yet their facades still dominated by ornate décor. You will have time to take in this amazing quarter of souks and narrow lanes as traders push carts through and exotic smells greet you around every turned corner. The region is alive with life thriving after close to 2,000 years. The treasures of the Egyptian Museum are just as intriguing, even if the experience is completely different, with finds from King Tut’s tomb and artifacts rescued from buried archaeological sites all across the country. Spend the afternoon here with your Egyptologist guide through an incredible array of relics.

Cairo – A Day With the Pyramids and Ancient Memphis

You will finally move to see the pyramids, first waving hello to the Great Sphinx that guards the approach before feeling the enormity of history as you stand beneath their frames. There are three here, along with the tiny little pyramids and tombs that housed the wives of the rulers. In the early-morning hours, you can avoid most of the crowds, passing the waiting camels to the giant stepped structures that revolutionized the engineering world. You can enter two of the pyramids for further insight into their size and then you are guided around the Solar Boat, a replica of what once waited inside. From here, you will have ancient Memphis to discover with surreal monuments strewn around like a treasure hunt from history. Among the highlights, the weather-beaten curves of Saqqara Temple is a great stepping stone in the story of Ancient Egypt.

Cairo – Departure

Depart from Cairo after breakfast with a private transfer to the airport that will complete this luxury tour of Egypt and Lebanon.

Trip Highlights

• Savor the tranquility of a 2-day luxury cruise up the River Nile between Luxor and Aswan, disembarking to wonderful temples that span the shores and highlight ancient civilizations
• Stand before the Great Pyramids of Giza and enjoy relaxed evenings overlooking the ancient wonder of the world
• Soar in a hot air balloon above the Valley of the Kings, before an Egyptologist guides you into the exquisite tombs and temples of an open-air museum
• Uncover the ancient wonders found nearly everywhere in Egypt ranging from trinkets found in museums to massive temples and oasis cities on the banks of the Nile
• Explore the seductive country of Lebanon, getting lost with your guide in the souks and following old caravansary trails and being invited into village homes
• Embrace the excitement of Beirut, the self-proclaimed Paris of the East , a vibrant modern city that dotted with treasures from centuries past
• Discover some of the world’s best preserved Roman ruins in Lebanon such as the huge Baalbek Temple, the hippodrome in Tyre, and the birthplace of the Roman alphabet
• Journey into the north of Lebanon, finding the remarkable Jeita Grottoes and evidence of early Christianity

Detailed Description

Contrasting atmospheres define the experience in Egypt and Lebanon. Both countries are home to remarkable monuments with odes to civilizations that flourished thousands of years ago still brought to life by pyramids, temples, tombs and inscribed city walls. In Egypt, the monuments are world-famous, bucket-list style sights that are just as inspiring as the photos. You will know you are in the presence of greatness, the sights given space to rise proudly in the desert, miles from anything else. In nearby Lebanon, the sights are lesser known and rarely visited, meaning you are often completely alone with them. They are equally impressive with the largest preserved Roman temple on the planet in Baalbek, yet they rise amongst charming cityscapes, the old and the new mixing seamlessly throughout the country.

This handcrafted tour presents an in-depth private exploration of Egypt’s and Lebanon’s highlights, incorporating both the odes to the past and the vibrant atmosphere of the country’s cities and desert towns. In Lebanon, you will be based in Beirut, a Regal & Chateaux property expertly located for uncovering the subtleties of the Paris of the East. Evenings are magical and immersive here, Middle Eastern culture seen in its traditional and contemporary guises. Several days of day trips will let you explore the different regions of this compact country as you can go east to Roman Baalbek and the walled medieval history of Anjar, south to souks and more Roman legacies, and then north to dramatic natural landscapes and early Christian history. In nearby Turkey or Greece, such astonishing sights might receive more than a million annual visitors, but the best part about Lebanon is that you may likely be the only foreign visitor.

Start your Egypt exploration in Luxor with two imposing temples serving as an introduction to what remains of the ancient Egyptian civilization. You will hot air balloon above the Valley of the Kings and then descend into tombs like those of Ramses IV and Tutankhamen. Your first week will include a massive amount of sights and experiences, so they are followed by two very laid-back days of cruising on the River Nile for a beautiful insight into the desert landscapes and a chance to properly re-energize before the final four days of your program. Temples line the banks and continue the historical theme, as do convergent cultures in the oasis of Aswan. Complete your itinerary in Cairo and take in the pyramids, ancient Memphis, the Egyptian Museum, relics in Coptic Cairo and an eclectic city as surprising as Beirut is invigorating.  We only partner with the top Egypt travel companies in the industry so be sure to browse reviews to learn more.

Starting Price

$4,051  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.89 stars based on 419 reviews.

Reviewed By  Rachael W.

Reviewed By  Linda G.

Reviewed By  Anna M.

Reviewed By  Nicholas J.

Reviewed By  Loretta S.

Reviewed By  Robert H.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Your Dream Vacation

in 3 simple steps

Describe your dream trip

Get matched with top travel specialists

Book the trip

Help Me Plan My Trip

Free service - no credit card required

Cheap flights from Cairo, Egypt to Beirut, Lebanon

Flights starting at £99. choose between turkish airlines, aegean, or pegasus to find the best price..

Kiwi-Code uncovers prices airlines don't want you to see.

Use our flexible filters to tailor your search.

Look out for the travel hack star icon for even cheaper fares.

Tips to know when travelling to Beirut

Search by stops.

• Up to 1 stop
• Up to 2 stops

Search by carrier

Middle East Airlines

• Turkish Airlines

Search by price

• From £180 to £186
• From £186 to £198
• From £198 to £208

Search by departure date

• Depart this week
• Depart next week
• Depart this month
• Depart in May

One-way trips

Updated: 04.04.2024

Round trips

By subscribing you agree to receive offers according to the conditions described in our Privacy Policy .

Weekly direct flights

Discover the top airlines offering direct flights from Cairo to Beirut in the next month. You’ll find the number of daily direct flights per airline in the table.

Weekly direct flights for Mon 01.04 - Sun 07.04

Weekly direct flights for mon 08.04 - sun 14.04, weekly direct flights for mon 15.04 - sun 21.04, weekly direct flights for mon 22.04 - sun 28.04, check-in for a flight from cairo to beirut, weather in beirut, average weather, 14 day forecast, frequently asked questions.

Planning a trip? Thanks to our Virtual Interlining algorithm, we offer billions of route combinations between any A and any B in the world by plane, train, and bus. Find the cheapest routes and best deals for you, as well as the best dates on which to travel.

Explore alternative trips

Flights from cairo.

• Flights from Cairo to London
• Flights from Cairo to Manchester
• Flights from Cairo to Luxor
• Flights from Cairo to Kuwait City
• Flights from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh
• Flights from Cairo to Jeddah
• Flights from Cairo to Aswan
• Flights from Cairo to Doha
• Flights from Cairo to Dubai
• Flights from Cairo to Istanbul
• Flights from Cairo to Amman
• Flights from Cairo to Dublin
• Flights from Cairo to Riyadh
• Flights from Cairo to Edinburgh
• Flights from Cairo to Birmingham
• Flights from Cairo to Athens
• Flights from Cairo to Dammam
• Flights from Cairo to Yanbu
• Flights from Cairo to Antalya
• Flights from Cairo to Bristol

Flights to Beirut

• Flights from London to Beirut
• Flights from Manchester to Beirut
• Flights from Dublin to Beirut
• Flights from Singapore to Beirut
• Flights from Berlin to Beirut
• Flights from Amman to Beirut
• Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Beirut
• Flights from Birmingham to Beirut
• Flights from Edinburgh to Beirut
• Flights from Montreal to Beirut
• Flights from Toronto to Beirut
• Flights from Glasgow to Beirut
• Flights from Thessaloniki to Beirut
• Flights from Cork to Beirut
• Flights from Istanbul to Beirut
• Flights from Düsseldorf to Beirut
• Flights from Athens to Beirut
• Flights from Dubai to Beirut
• Flights from Budapest to Beirut
• Flights from Zürich to Beirut

Popular routes

• Flights from London to Dubai
• Flights from Stockholm to Mumbai
• Flights from Vientiane to Seoul
• Flights from Prague to Nice
• Flights from Denpasar to Seattle
• Flights from La Paz to Mexico City
• Flights from Newcastle upon Tyne to Cancún
• Flights from London to Istanbul
• Flights from Goa to Varanasi
• Flights from Kuala Terengganu to Langkawi
• Flights from Barcelona to Dubrovnik
• Flights from Dublin to Debrecen

The nearest countries with flights to Beirut

Other destination countries from cairo, airports near cairo.

• Cairo International
• Borg El Arab

Airports near Beirut

• Queen Alia International
• Beirut–Rafic Hariri International
• Larnaca International
• Ercan International
• Damascus International

Search, compare, and book flights, trains, or buses to get there.

Kiwi.com: the best free travel app for Android and iPhone

Find out more about the Kiwi.com app on kiwi.com/mobile . With our app you can search for the best plane, train and bus connections. The Kiwi.com mobile app offers cheap flights, access to hidden features, travel hacks and special offers.

Search cheap flights

Simplified planning and booking

Travel deals built for you

Kiwi.com travel hacks

Help & support

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Beirut Tourism
• Beirut Hotels
• Beirut Bed and Breakfast
• Beirut Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Beirut
• Beirut Restaurants
• Things to Do in Beirut
• Beirut Travel Forum
• Beirut Photos
• All Beirut Hotels
• Last Minute Hotels in Beirut
• Hilton Hotels in Beirut
• InterContinental (IHG) Hotels in Beirut
• Radisson Blu Hotels in Beirut
• Radisson Hotels in Beirut
• Accor Hotels in Beirut
• Louvre Hotels in Beirut
• Wyndham Hotels in Beirut
• Warwick Hotels and Resorts in Beirut
• Ramada Hotels in Beirut
• Rotana Hotels in Beirut
• Hotels near (BEY) Beirut Intl Airport
• Royalton Riviera Cancun
• Aruba Ocean Villas
• Bellagio Las Vegas
• Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
• Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana
• Park MGM Las Vegas
• Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana
• Resorts Hedonism (Hedonism II Resort)
• Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana
• Hotel Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas
• Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort
• Wyndham Alltra Cancun
• Excellence Oyster Bay
• Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
• Popular All-Inclusive Resorts
• Popular Beach Resorts
• Popular Family Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Hotels
• Popular Hotels With Waterparks
• Popular Honeymoon Resorts
• Popular Luxury Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Family Resorts
• Popular Golf Resorts
• Popular Spa Resorts
• Popular Cheap Resorts
• Flights to Jounieh
• Flights to Byblos
• Flights to Batroun
• Flights to Tripoli
• Flights to Zahle
• Flights to Dbayeh
• Flights to Tyre
• Flights to Broummana
• Flights to Sidon
• Flights from Montreal
• Flights from Frankfurt
• Flights from Los Angeles
• Flights from Detroit
• Flights from London
• Flights from Dubai
• Flights from Riyadh
• Flights from Toronto
• Flights from Calgary
• Flights from Abu Dhabi
• Cheap flights from Montreal to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Frankfurt to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Los Angeles to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Detroit to Beirut
• Cheap flights from London to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Dubai to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Riyadh to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Toronto to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Calgary to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Abu Dhabi to Beirut
• Cheap flights from Cairo to Istanbul
• Cheap flights from Cairo to Dubai
• Cheap flights from Cairo to New York City
• Cheap flights from Cairo to London
• Cheap flights from Cairo to Sharm El Sheikh
• Cheap flights from Cairo to Paris
• Cheap flights from Cairo to Kuala Lumpur
• Cheap flights from Cairo to Toronto
• Cheap flights from Cairo to Barcelona
• Cheap flights from Cairo to Hurghada
• Flights to Jeddah
• Flights to Athens
• Flights to Sharm El Sheikh
• Flights to Hurghada
• Flights to Dubai
• Flights to Riyadh
• Flights to Amman
• Flights to Istanbul
• Flights to Marsa Alam
• Flights to Aswan
• Basic Economy Flights to Beirut
• Economy Flights to Beirut
• Premium Economy Flights to Beirut
• Business Class Flights to Beirut
• First Class Flights to Beirut
• Flights to Beirut Intl Airport
• Middle East Airlines Reviews
• Turkish Airlines Reviews
• Qatar Airways Reviews
• Czech Airlines Reviews
• Oman Air Reviews
• Middle East Airlines Deals
• Turkish Airlines Deals
• Qatar Airways Deals
• Czech Airlines Deals
• Oman Air Deals
• GreenLeaders
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Cheap flights from Cairo (CAI) to Beirut (BEY)

• Middle East    
• Lebanon    
• Beirut    
• Flights from Cairo to Beirut

Find the best flight from Cairo to Beirut

Great deals from cairo to beirut, popular airlines flying from cairo to beirut.

Route information

• Cairo, Egypt is 349 miles from Beirut
• There are 2 daily flights from Cairo, Egypt to Beirut
• There are 4 weekly flights from Cairo, Egypt to Beirut
• 3 non-stop flights are operating from Cairo, Egypt to Beirut today
• EGYPTAIR has the most nonstop flights between Cairo, Egypt and Beirut
• Istanbul, Turkey - Istanbul Airport is the most popular connection for one stop flights between Cairo, Egypt and Beirut

In-Flight information

• The average flying time for a direct flight from Cairo, Egypt to Beirut is 1 hour 16 minutes
• Most direct flights leave around 16:55 EET

Arrival information

• Beirut is 5 mi from Beirut Intl Airport (Beirut, Lebanon).
• Beirut Intl Airport (Beirut, Lebanon)
• Right now, 30 airlines operate out of Beirut Intl Airport.
• Beirut Intl Airport offers nonstop flights to 35 cities.
• Every week, at least 338 international flights depart from Beirut Intl Airport.

Top Attractions in Beirut

National museum of beirut, zaitunay bay, mim museum - mineral museum, mohammad al-amin mosque.

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Credit card rates
• Balance transfer credit cards
• Business credit cards
• Cash back credit cards
• Rewards credit cards
• Travel credit cards
• Checking accounts
• Online checking accounts
• High-yield savings accounts
• Money market accounts
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Car insurance
• Home buying
• Options pit
• Investment ideas
• Research reports
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon: What is the latest travel advice amid the Israel-Hamas war?

Israel is continuing to bombard Gaza - home to more than 2 million inhabitants - after militant group Hamas launched a surprise attack last weekend.

Over 1,400 people in Israel were killed in the Islamic group’s assault. Nearly 2,700 people in Gaza have been killed in Israel's retaliatory bombardment.

The UK and EU governments have already warned against all but essential travel to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

But travellers should also exercise caution when visiting some areas of neighbouring or nearby countries. Here’s what you need to know if you’ve booked a trip to Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan, or Türkiye.

Is it safe to travel to Lebanon?

Lebanon, which lies to the north of Israel and shares a border, looks set to become involved in the deepening Israel-Hamas conflict.

Militant group Hezbollah has already exchanged missile strikes with Israel and tensions along the border are high.

The UK’s Foreign Office (FCDO) has now upgraded its guidelines for Lebanon , advising against all travel and urging Britons to leave the country.

“Events in Lebanon are fast moving. The situation has potential to deteriorate quickly and with no warning," the advice now says,

“Commercial routes out of Lebanon could be severely disrupted or cancelled at short notice and roads across the country could be closed. If you are currently in Lebanon, we encourage you to leave now while commercial options remain available.”

The Australian, US and European governments including Ireland and France have also issued 'no-go' travel warnings for Lebanon.

Is it safe to travel to Egypt?

Although Egypt shares a border with Gaza and Israel, the country has not yet been drawn into the conflict.

The Rafah border crossing may be opened to let Palestinians in Gaza escape to safety, but it is currently closed.

In terms of international travel, Egypt’s borders remain open and airlines and package holiday operators are continuing as normal in the country.

Flights to Egypt do not pass through Israeli airspace and have not been affected by the conflict so far.

Most of Egypt’s major cities and key tourist sites are located far away from the border with Israel and Gaza.

Beach resort Sharm el-Sheikh is the nearest, but it is still over two-and-a-half hours’ drive away from the closest border town and more than five hours away from the Gaza border.

Cairo, Alexandria, Hurghada and Luxor are located even further away.

The FCDO has not issued an “avoid all non-essential travel” advisory for Egypt as it has done for Israel.

As such, if you cancel your trip to Egypt you may not be eligible for a refund or be able to claim money back from travel insurance.

The FCDO does, however, urge tourists to remain vigilant and exercise caution at tourist and religious sites, as well as public gatherings, in Alexandria where two Israeli tourists and an Egyptian tour guide were shot and killed by an Egyptian police officer.

Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) strongly advises against travel to the Governorate of North Sinai, which borders Israel and Gaza, including the Taba-Suez Road. It also warns against travel to Gaza via the Rafah border crossing.

The DFA advises arriving by air if travelling to Sharm el-Sheikh, Hurghada and immediate surrounds and Marsa Alam and immediate surrounds, and tourist areas in the Nile river (such as Luxor, Aswan and Abu Simbel).

Is it safe to travel to Jordan?

Jordan shares a border with Israel and the West Bank (one of the Occupied Palestinian Territories) as well as with Syria.

Last week, the FCDO updated its guidelines on travel to Jordan stating: “The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 3km of Jordan’s border with Syria.”

It also warned that border crossings between Jordan and Israel may be closed at short notice due to the ongoing conflict.

Jerusalem, Bethlehem: Tourism reels from Israel-Hamas war during busy period for pilgrimages

Israel: Warning to avoid all but essential travel as some flights resume

However, most tourist destinations in Jordan remain unaffected by the instability and flights to Amman and Aqaba airports continue to operate as normal.

If you have a package holiday booked and choose to cancel, you are unlikely to receive a refund unless the destination is in one of the FCDO’s ‘no-go’ areas.

The Jordan Tourism Board has released a statement emphasising that the country is a “safe and welcoming destination for tourists around the world.”

“Our commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all visitors remains unwavering,” the statement said.

“We want to reassure everyone that Jordan ’s borders are open to tourists, and we are eager to share our extraordinary experiences with the world.”

Is it safe to travel to Türkiye?

Some travellers have expressed concerns about holidays booked to Türkiye , but the country does not share a border with Israel and is located 879 kilometres away.

Travel to Türkiye is not affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The FCDO guidance still warns against all travel to anywhere within 10 kilometres of the border with Syria and against all but essential travel with Sirnak and the Hakkari province.

Tourist hotspots including Istanbul, Antalya and Cappadocia as well as coastal resorts remain unaffected and airlines are operating as normal in the country.

Recommended Stories

Geno auriemma explains why he didn't recruit caitlin clark to her 'dream school' uconn.

Caitlin Clark was reportedly very interested in going to UConn.

Warriors take Rockets' Tari Eason to task for wearing taunting T-shirt on bench

The Warriors blew out the Rockets 133-110.

Rashee Rice didn't learn from the past, maybe other NFL players will learn from Rice

Rashee Rice should have taken a lesson from recent history.

NFL mock draft: Patriots trade out of No. 3 but still get their QB, and what do Bills do after Stefon Diggs trade?

As we turn toward the draft, here's Charles McDonald and Nate Tice's latest lively mock.

US economy has Wall Street 'borderline speechless' after blowout March jobs report

The March jobs report was the latest piece of economic data to surprise Wall Street analysts and send stocks rallying.

Vontae Davis, former NFL star, found dead in Miami home at age 35

Davis published a children's book about his life in 2019

Royals owner's wife warns team could move to Kansas after ballpark funding proposal voted down

Marny Sherman, the wife of Kansas City Royals owner John Sherman, warned that Missouri could lose both the Royals and Kansas City Chiefs after a stadium funding proposal was voted down.

What the total solar eclipse could mean for your zodiac sign: An astrologer breaks it down

An astrologist weighs in on the 2024 solar eclipse.

Rashee Rice apologizes for 'my part' in crash while injured couple reportedly lawyer up

Rice reportedly owned the Corvette and leased the Lamborghini involved in the crash.

Welcome to MLB: Padres rookie strikes out on pitch to helmet, which ump got wrong

Graham Pauley has had better at-bats.

USWNT captain Lindsey Horan and Alex Morgan issue statement after Korbin Albert apologizes for anti-LGBTQ content

Morgan alluded to some "hard conversations" with Albert over the past week.

WrestleMania 40: Predictions for every match on Nights 1 and 2

WWE's biggest event of the year, WrestleMania 40, takes place this weekend at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The two-night extravaganza features 13 matches, with all seven of WWE's major championships on the line. Here's how we predict the event will unfold.

A's reach deal to play in Sacramento while waiting for Las Vegas stadium

The A's will head to Las Vegas by way of Sacramento.

Dodgers couldn't avoid drama even with Shohei Ohtani's 1st HR ball

The fan who caught Ohtani's first Dodgers home run reportedly isn't happy with how she was treated.

The A’s are going to Sacramento, a Marlins fire sale & the good, the bad and the Uggla

Jake Mintz & Jordan Shusterman talk about the A’s moving to Sacramento, the Marlins possibly becoming sellers very soon and give their good, bad and Uggla’s from this week in baseball.

NFL Draft: Favorite prospects, from no-doubt No. 1 pick to some old-school running backs

As we turn toward the draft, Charles McDonald gives you his 11 favorite prospects in this class, with some marquee names — and others that may someday become one.

Biden is getting antsy about rising gas prices

The president isn't saying so, but the administration's behind-the-scenes actions reveal a fear that rising gas prices could doom his reelection effort.

Mock Draft Monday with Field Yates: You will be shocked how early Bo Nix goes

'Mock Draft Monday' rolls on ESPN's Field Yates joining Matt Harmon to break down his latest mock draft. Harmon has Yates break down his mock draft methodology and what goes into his decision making when placing certain prospects on certain teams.

Dallas mayor hints at bringing Chiefs to Cowboys territory after stadium vote fails

This obviously isn't happening.

Trump Media stock tanks as new filing reveals heavy losses, 'greater risks' on Trump's involvement

After a strong debut last week, shares of Donald Trump's media company were under pressure Monday after meager sales and deep losses were revealed in a new filing with the SEC.

Egypt tours from Lebanon

Egypt tours from Lebanon information, itineraries, prices and booking

Egypt tours from Lebanon  are in fact, a staggering set of Egypt tour packages. In fact, Egypt tours from Lebanon designed for Lebanese citizens. The Egyptian tour packages tailored to match up with their desires and the length of their vacations. The tour packages indeed are amazing and tastefully chosen to cover all the desires. In fact, Egypt tours from Lebanon include the classic tours of Egypt. The classic tours include tours of Cairo, Alexandria and Nile cruise. Moreover, the tour packages also include Egypt Adventure tours and Egypt diving tours. In fact, they include desert safaris, hiking trips and desert activities. The Egypt tours packages for Lebanese also include spiritual tours. In fact, the spiritual tours include the visits of the famous churches and Synagogues in Egypt. Moreover, they also include the sightseeing of the major Islamic sites such as mosques, houses and citadels.

Egypt tours from Lebanon also include the wonderful tour programs of Egypt Golf . In fact, Egypt Golf tours can done in many of Egypt cities. Moreover, the golf tours can combine with Egypt classic tours or Egypt diving tours. Egypt tours packages for Lebanese also include the Nile cruise tours. In fact, there some of Lebanese who come for only Nile cruise tours. The Nile cruise tours feature 3 night tour, 4 night tour and 7 night tours. Moreover, there are also long stay Nile cruise tour which offer 14 night Nile cruise tour. In fact, this tour starts from Cairo and ends in Aswan .

Egypt tours from Lebanon Passport and Visa Requirements:

In fact, the Lebanese citizens requested to apply the entry visa at the Egyptian consulate. In fact, the Egyptian consulate located in Beirut.

The best time to visit Egypt for Egypt tours from Lebanon:

In fact, the best time to visit Egypt depends on the kind of the tour program. If you look for classical tour, then the best time is from October till the end of April. The best time to Egypt for diving indeed is the whole year.

Egypt tours from Lebanon itineraries list:

Cairo Accessible tour

8 Days Egypt tour Cairo Nile cruise

Bahariya Oasis White desert Safari tour

Cairo Alexandria Nile cruise tour

3 night Nile cruise tour

Cairo Golf tour 4 days 3 nights

Cairo Alexandria Fayoum Luxor tour

6 day Cairo Alexandria Luxor tour

Hurghada Semi Submarine tour

Hurghada Glass Bottom Boat tour

Advertisement

Supported by

War-Inflicted Slowdown Ends Robust Year for Tourism in Middle East

Amid security concerns brought on by the Israel-Hamas conflict, international travel has shuddered to a halt in Israel and is falling in neighboring Jordan, Lebanon and Egypt.

• Share full article

By Christine Chung

The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, which erupted in early October , has halted international tourism to Israel and severely blunted travel to neighboring countries in a ripple effect spreading across the entire Middle East. While the slowdown in international visitors is only one of the war’s economic repercussions in the region, it poses a significant threat to the economies of Egypt, Jordan and other nations heavily dependent on tourism and has swiftly reversed a banner year of travel in the Middle East.

The war has affected all segments of the travel industry, with international travel operators scaling back or postponing excursions, cruise lines redeploying ships and airlines dramatically reducing service. And many travelers, heeding government warnings and their own worries, are increasingly wary about visiting the region, prompting waves of cancellations.

Local tour operators fear what a protracted war would do to a promising and growing industry.

“We foresaw the Middle East evolving into the ‘New Europe’ with the Iran-Saudi Arabia rapprochement and Saudi Arabia’s integration into the tourism system,” said Khaled Ibrahim, a Cairo-based consultant for Amisol Travel Egypt and a member of the Middle East Travel Alliance . “We all hope that this war does not escalate and shatter the hopes that people — Arabs, Israelis and Iranians alike — have been holding onto.” Amisol Travel in Egypt has received only 40 to 50 percent of its typical bookings, he said, for the months between February and September 2024.

Hussein Abdallah, general manager of Lebanon Tours and Travels in Beirut, believes that “all of Lebanon is 100 percent safe,” but said he hasn’t had a single booking since the war started, prematurely ending a “very good year” for the tour business. Now, he said, tourist sites like the Jeita Grotto and the Baalbek Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site , that normally receive thousands of visitors daily, are empty.

“Demand for most Middle Eastern countries is worsening,” said Olivier Ponti, a vice president at ForwardKeys , a data-analysis firm that tracks global air travel reservations. In the three weeks after Oct. 7, flight bookings to the Middle East dropped by 26 percent compared to the bookings made for the same time period in 2019. And inbound tickets to Israel fell below negative 100 percent, compared to the equivalent period in 2019, as cancellations exceeded the number of new tickets issued.

The Israel-Hamas conflict has also “dented consumer confidence in traveling elsewhere,” Mr. Ponti said. According to a ForwardKeys analysis , flight bookings to all regions of the world slumped, dipping 5 percent in the immediate weeks after the war, compared to the corresponding weeks in 2019.

Abrupt halt to a banner year of business

The war came at a time when tourism in the Middle East was on a robust uptick from the height of the pandemic. From January through July of this year, the number of visitor arrivals to the Middle East was 20 percent above the same period in 2019, making it the only region in the world to surpass prepandemic levels, according to the U.N. World Tourism Organization .

Just a week before the war, Ahmed Issa, Egypt’s top tourism official, told The Associated Press that there was “unprecedented demand for travel into Egypt,” with about 10 million people visiting in the first half of this year. The government, hoping for a record 15 million visitors in 2023, had been seeking to increase the number of hotel rooms and available airplane seats, in efforts to encourage increased private investment in tourism.

Now, the U.S. and Canadian governments are discouraging travel to Israel, Egypt and Lebanon. The U.S. State Department has recommended that American citizens leave Lebanon immediately while flights are still available. For Jordan, both the United States and Canada advise visitors to exercise additional caution.

Air service into Israel has been more than halved, with a little more than 2,000 flights scheduled this month compared to the approximately 5,000 flights that flew during November 2022, according to data from Cirium , an aviation analytics firm. Major U.S. carriers, which suspended regular service to the main international airport in Tel Aviv soon after the fighting began, have not resumed flights.

Airlines have also suspended flights to neighboring countries. The German airline Lufthansa paused flight service to both Israel and Lebanon. Wizz Air and Ryanair, budget carriers based in Europe, have temporarily stopped flying to Jordan .

Lebanon, Egypt and Jordan, geographically among the nations closest to the conflict, are also highly dependent on tourism. The sector contributes between 12 and 26 percent of total earnings from abroad to these three nations, according to a recent report from S & P Global Ratings , an international credit rating provider.

“These countries, immediate neighbors of Israel and Gaza, are more vulnerable to a slowdown in tourism, given concerns about security risks and social unrest amid high external vulnerabilities,” according to the report, published Nov. 6. “Further deepening of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza or a serious escalation in the West Bank could lead to a new wave of refugee flows that would burden economies in the region.”

In 2022, tourism accounted for about 3 percent of total earnings from abroad into Israel, making the nation considerably less reliant on the sector than neighboring countries. But international travel put some $5 billion into state coffers and indirectly employed about 200,000 people, according to the Israeli Ministry of Tourism.

Canceled cruises, changed itineraries

Many cruise lines and tour operators have canceled trips or revised itineraries that included Israel through the remainder of the year and it’s unclear when departures will resume. Intrepid Travel , a global tour company that offers more than 1,150 trips on every continent, shelved 47 departures to Israel this year, a company spokesperson said.

While Israel is a “fairly small destination” for Intrepid, the chief executive, James Thornton, said, that’s not the typical situation for other Middle East countries.

Normally, “Morocco, Jordan and Egypt would be in our top five destinations globally,” he said, adding that cancellations to these countries have spiked since the war began. About half of Intrepid’s customers who had booked trips to Egypt and Jordan scheduled to take place before the end of the year have since canceled or rescheduled, he said.

Late fall and winter is usually the peak season for Middle East cruises, but several major cruise lines have canceled all port calls in Israel through next year and pulled their ships out of the region.

Earlier this month, Norwegian became the first major line to cancel all 2024 sailings to and from Israel, saying that it would take time before people felt safe returning to the country even after the war ends. Royal Caribbean has also removed Israel from all of its 2024 itineraries and redirected two of its ships in the Middle East — Jewel of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas — to the Caribbean, with departures planned from the United States. MSC Cruises, which has canceled Israel port calls until April is also skipping Aqaba, Jordan and Egypt on some of its itineraries. It will also redeploy two of its ships.

Some travelers, concerned for their safety and booked on cruises still scheduled to depart countries bordering Israel, have attempted to cancel or postpone their trips. Some have been unsuccessful in receiving refunds.

Rebecca Tarlton and her husband are booked on a 12-day cruise along the Nile River with Uniworld, scheduled to depart Dec. 30 from Cairo. Emails to their travel agency and the cruise line, requesting to cancel their trip and rebook on another future cruise, have gone nowhere, she said. Now, a lifelong dream could be a steep financial loss: The trip, which cost about $15,000 in total, has already been paid in full.

“We thought it would be really cool to go to,” said Ms. Tarlton, 69, of Hilton Head, S.C. “We are going to decide this weekend. We’ll bite the cost — it’s really a function of our unease, our anxiety.”

Other travelers are considering shelving trips planned for next year. Kristin Davis and her husband, Jason Glisson, of Fredericksburg, Va., have long wanted to travel to the Middle East. They intended to go to Egypt and Jordan in March, a second attempt at visiting the region after their planned honeymoon in Egypt was derailed by the Arab Spring anti-government protests that began in 2010.

The couple’s travel agency has been sending encouraging videos about traveling to these countries, with the messaging that it’s safe. But Ms. Davis said she worries about being a target for anti-American sentiment.

“It’s definitely a bucket list trip for us. It’s probably the top place that my husband has ever wanted to see,” said Ms. Davis, 42. “I felt comfortable going until this happened. Egypt will still be there. We have waited this long.”

With additional reporting by Ceylan Yeginsu .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Christine Chung is a travel reporter for The Times. She previously covered breaking news. She joined The Times in November 2021. More about Christine Chung

Our Coverage of the Israel-Hamas War

News and Analysis

President Biden threatened to add a condition on future support for Israel on how it addresses concerns about civilian casualties and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza , prompting Israel to commit to letting more food and supplies  into the besieged enclave.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel is facing challenges on multiple fronts:   domestic support is eroding, there is  international fury over the death toll in Gaza, and the fallout from the killing of seven aid workers has heightened global anger.

A series of Israeli failures , including a breakdown in communication and violations of the rules of engagement, led to the deadly airstrikes that killed seven humanitarian aid workers  in Gaza.

Internal Roil at TikTok: TikTok has been dogged for months by accusations that its app has shown a disproportionate amount of pro-Palestinian and antisemitic content to users. Some of the same tensions  have also played out inside the company.

Palestinian Detainees: Israel has imprisoned more than 9,000 Palestinians suspected of militant activity . Rights groups say that some have been abused or held without charges.

A Hostage’s Account: Amit Soussana, an Israeli lawyer, is the first former hostage to speak publicly about being sexually assaulted  during captivity in Gaza.

A Power Vacuum: Since the start of the war, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel has done little to address the power vacuum that would appear after Israeli forces leave Gaza. The risks of inaction are already apparent in Gaza City .

Handcrafted Private Tours

Experience private guided journeys. Expert planning. Best value.

Discover Egypt and the Middle East with our Custom Private Tours

Ancient wonders and modern marvels, timeless monuments, and vibrant culture – let us show you what awaits in the land of the pharaohs and beyond. Osiris Tours specializes in designing bespoke, guided tours of Egypt and custom trips to Morocco , Dubai , Jordan , Saudi Arabia , Lebanon , and Turkey . Whatever your interests, we promise to deliver a life-changing travel experience full of intriguing history, enriching encounters, and indulgent relaxation.

Lead with your imagination and leave the rest to us

We’ll fill your unique adventure with iconic sights, hidden gems, and exciting activities matched to your tastes – all with luxurious accommodations and our unmatched service every step of the way.

Just reach out to get started. The president of Osiris Tours, Mahmoud Gebril, will consult with you personally to design the perfect vacation for you or your group.

Explore Egypt, a Destination Rich in History with our Custom Tours

Picture yourself gazing up from the shadow of the Great Pyramid of Giza as your personal Egyptologist guide leads you on an exclusive tour apart from the hustling crowds. Zip through bustling Cairo in the comfort of your private vehicle as your dedicated driver escorts your group through an illuminating exploration of Old Cairo’s 6th-century mosques and ancient Coptic churches – by way of a hidden spot serving the best koshari and Egyptian tea in the city.

Luxuriate in your palatial hotel in the evening, once a respite for visiting royalty and dignitaries, and soak in sweeping views of the majestic pyramids, their facades framed by the setting desert sun.

Explore the exalted tombs of the Valley of the Kings and decipher enigmatic hieroglyphics with the help of your knowledgeable guide. Set sail on the glittering Nile aboard the regal Dahabeya , bound for beautiful Aswan and the captivating temples of Ramesses II and Nefertari at Abu Simbel .

What else is in store on the inspired adventure you’ve chosen?

Follow Your Curiosity

Perhaps a trip further afield would suit your travel aspirations? Osiris Tours offers custom trips to Morocco , Dubai , Jordan , Saudi Arabia , Lebanon , and Turkey , either as seamless additions to any  tour of Egypt  or as stand-alone holidays on their own.

Come explore with us! Let us show you the “true Egypt” that only the locals know and anything else your heart desires. Please browse our destinations below and have a look at our  glowing reviews !

Visiting with one of our experienced and highly knowledgeable guides is the key to understanding this one-of-a-kind nation.

Let us know what you want to learn about

We will take you on a journey that will open your eyes and quench your thirst for discovery.

We do everything we can to ensure you have an amazing time on our Egypt luxury tours. It’s important to us that you are happy. After all – you may be able to refund the money for a bad vacation experience, but you can never get back the time spent. We strive to go the extra mile to ensure that you come back from your trip to Egypt with a smile on your face. Please take a look at the glowingly positive reviews from our previous tour guests!

Contact us today to find out more about the Egypt tour packages we have to offer.

Discover Egypt and the Middle East with our Custom Tours

Egypt Tours

Our custom tour packages to Egypt takes you on a private guided tour from the Great Pyramids and the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities to a luxury Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan or from Aswan to Luxor to explore the lands of ancient history.

Morocco Tours

Our private guided tour packages to Morocco let you discover the beauty of imperial cities on a custom tour that takes you from Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, to Marrakech. Visit El-Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque with its beautiful minaret.

Dubai Tours

Explore Middle Eastern culture through the innovative city of Dubai. Enjoy custom and luxury tour packages that take you from the landmarks of Dubai, desert safari, Sharjah city to a different shopping experience in the most luxurious malls.

Jordan Tours

Discover the golden heritage of Jordan on a custom tour that takes you in a private guided tour from Amman, the Ajloun, Jersh, the Biblical sites of Mt. Nebo, Petra, to Wadi Rum with luxury desert safari experience and the Dead Sea.

Saudi Arabia Tours

Explore the wonders of Saudi Arabia’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes on a luxurious and personalized tour. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through the bustling markets of Jeddah and Riyadh, the holy city of Medina, invigorating hiking adventures, scuba diving in the Red Sea, and even camping under the stars.

Lebanon Tours

Discover the beauty and history of Lebanon on a custom tour package that takes you on a private guided tour from Beirut, Jeita Harissa, the old city of Byblos, and Baalbeck in the North to Sidon in the south, and the famous monuments of Tyre.

Turkey Tours

Learn about the history of Turkey on a private guided tour that takes you from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, the famous volcanic rock Fairy Chimneys of Cappadocia to the Old Smyrna in Izmir.

What’s it Really Like to Travel Lebanon?

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

When I decided to travel Lebanon, I had little idea what to expect. There’s not a ton of information on the web, and very few travel bloggers have traveled there or written about it.

It was a bit of a question mark. But that was exactly what I wanted.

My mission has always been to show women how to travel the world safely. At the same time, though, I’ve always felt the urge to be a bit different — to write about places that don’t get the same coverage. In 2010, that meant doing an extended trip exclusively in Southeast Asia (believe it or not, that was very unusual back then!). In 2018, that meant exploring places like Lebanon when every other blogger seems to focus on massively overtouristed destinations like Iceland, Bali, and Barcelona.

And so I went to Lebanon in May 2018. I treated the trip like a fact-finding mission and spent a week exploring the small country as much as possible, experiencing what it’s like to travel Lebanon as a woman on her own so I could share the results with all of you.

So, what’s Lebanon actually like? I’m glad you asked.

Is Lebanon Safe?

Lebanon is much safer than people think it is, not unlike many destinations in the Middle East.  The media paints the image of war, suicide bombers, and riots, but this is nothing like what you would see in Lebanon (or the vast majority of the Middle East) today.

Lebanon has had wars in the past…like from 1975 to 1990. As in it ended when George H. W. Bush was president. More recently, a 34-day war took place in 2006 between Hezbollah and Israeli Defense Forces. That was 12 years ago, when George W. Bush was president. There hasn’t been a war in the 12 years since.

The violence that happens in Lebanon today is random and somewhat rare — not unlike mass shootings in the United States. I would argue that Lebanon is far safer than the US in this regard, as there are far fewer guns in Lebanon and there are checkpoints and military personnel everywhere.

So what does Lebanon actually feel like? It feels peaceful. It feels normal. It feels quite a bit like traveling in the southern Balkans, actually — between the Mediterranean setting, war scars in the distant past, and hovering the line between developing and developed. Not once did I ever feel remotely in danger.

I took safely seriously. I didn’t travel to refugee camps or the unsafe far northeast of the country just for the hell of it, and after hearing mixed reviews from locals, I decided to nix Tripoli, which in retrospect was probably excessively cautious.

This post by Against the Compass is an excellent resource for travel safety in Lebanon. It’s updated periodically with the latest safety information. I encourage you to save it and take a closer look before your trip.

I also recommend checking out the  US State Department travel advisory and UK travel safety advice  for Lebanon. I find that the US warnings tend to be more alarmist, while the UK warnings tend to be more realistic.

Most importantly, travel insurance is essential for trips to Lebanon — and to anywhere else in the world, frankly. If you need to be hospitalized with a broken bone or appendicitis, or if you have an emergency and miss your trip, or if you get robbed on a bus, travel insurance will help you recoup your financial losses. I use and recommend World Nomads .

Lebanon is a small country.

Almost everywhere in Lebanon can be reached within 2.5 hours of driving from Beirut. For that reason, I found it most efficient to base myself in Beirut and take day trips from there.

But beyond the convenience, Beirut is such a cool city. Most Middle Easterners consider it to be the most sophisticated city in the region, not least because it’s far more liberal than other parts of the Middle East. I was there during Ramadan and people were still drinking and partying in the streets. (In Dubai, you can’t even eat in public during Ramadan.)

Beirut is home to epic clubs, like B-108, a former bunker where the roof retracts and you dance beneath the stars. You can spend the days sunning yourself at beach clubs with pools or shopping in luxury at the souks. And yes, hipster neighborhoods exist in Beirut — check out Mar Mikhael, or specifically, Gourad/Armenia Street, which is full of tons of cool restaurants and bars.

I stayed at the Radisson Blu Martinez , which is a nice, if somewhat dated, hotel and is in a central location in the Hamra neighborhood. I paid around $75 per night.

Find deals on hotels in Beirut here .

Lebanon has little travel infrascture.

One thing that sets Lebanon apart from more popular Middle Eastern destinations like Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and the UAE is that there’s much less travel infrastructure. What does that mean?

There are hotels, but they’re more oriented toward business and domestic travelers. Transportation around the country is limited. There is essentially one company with that does day tours around the country and has a web presence. ONE COMPANY. And if you think you’re going to find a tourism office in each town you visit, you’re crazy.

Hell, Lonely Planet doesn’t even have a Lebanon guidebook — just a Lebanon chapter in the Middle East guidebook (which I downloaded to keep on my phone, and I recommend you get it for your trip, too).

That means that travel planning is more of a challenge, and most of your traveling will be amongst locals. That’s one reason why I don’t think Lebanon is a good country for newbie travelers, only more experienced ones.

Most of the other tourists I met in Lebanon were from Europe or other parts of the Middle East. I also met several expats from other countries who were based in Dubai.

Lebanon has outstanding Roman ruins.

If you love Ancient Rome in the least, you must check out two outstanding sets of ruins: Baalbek and Anjer. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Beqaa Valley. The Jupiter Temple at Baalbek is one of the largest Roman temples on the planet. You don’t appreciate the true scale of it until you’re standing in the middle of it!

Also notable are the ruins of Tyre and Byblos, both of which are perched beautifully on the Mediterranean. Both of those are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, too. Basically, if you’re into ruins, you’ll have a great time in Lebanon.

The driving in Lebanon is INSANE.

A lot of countries have crazy driving, which shouldn’t come as a surprise to a seasoned traveler. Lebanon is yet another one of them.

I always describe crazy driving in other countries as either Vietnamese-style or Maltese-style. In Vietnam, the driving is crazy, but the drivers all follow an established set of (somewhat ludicrous) rules. In Malta, the driving is reckless with no regard for any drivers or pedestrians. In my opinion, Lebanon falls into the Vietnamese category — it’s chaotic, but everyone is on the same page.

For this reason, I don’t recommend driving in Lebanon unless you are an expert driver who relishes driving in crazy environments. We all have a friend who is into challenging driving — this is their place to shine. If that’s not you, I urge you not to drive in Lebanon. You’ll leave with far fewer gray hairs as a result.

Red roses bloom everywhere in Lebanon.

That’s just a lovely perk of traveling in Lebanon. I doubt this happens year-round, but my trip in late May and early June was resplendent with roses. (Related: the rose emoji is very popular in the Arabic-speaking world. Think of it as the Middle East’s “100.”)

Lebanon is both very Middle Eastern and very European.

Lebanon wears many identities at once.  You’ll find mosques and churches practically next door to each other in Beirut. Some Lebanese people speak French and dress western-style, while others speak only Arabic and dress as their ancestors have for centuries. There is also a huge Armenian community in Beirut.

Byblos (Jbeil), for example, felt very European. With the fancy boats, high-end restaurants, and women in sundresses, their long hair flowing, it felt almost literally like Trogir, Croatia, or Budva, Montenegro. Only the souk would tip you off that you were in the Middle East.

But on the bus to Tyre (Sour), women were totally covered up and none spoke any English. That felt much more like Amman or central Turkey. It’s amazing that you can have both of these kinds of experiences within a short drive of Beirut — or even without leaving Beirut!

The Cedars of Lebanon still exist — but they’re a fraction of what they once were.

The Cedars of God are some of the most famous trees in the world. In ancient times, endless forests grew over the mountains in Lebanon. The trees were lauded for their strength and used for shipbuilding and later railroad-building.

But over time, deforestation took the trees away from us, and there are very few left today. I went to see the Cedars of God park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but I almost wish I hadn’t gone — it just left me feeling so sad to see so few cedars left.

Hezbollah controls some territory in Lebanon.

Hezbollah is classified as a terrorist organization by several governments, including the US and EU, and they control some of the land in the eastern part of the country, including the Beqaa Valley. This includes the ruins of Baalbek and Anjer.

This might sound scary on the surface, and there has been violence in this region in the past, but for the most part, it’s a peaceful place to visit today. I visited on a tour (though you can also visit with a hired driver) and we went through several checkpoints, as is customary in Lebanon, but beyond that you wouldn’t notice any difference.

There was one strange thing, though — the yellow Hezbollah flag was for sale everywhere. It was like a souvenir. I did not partake.

To keep an eye on current developments in the Beqaa Valley and other regions in Lebanon, I recommend following this map .

Lebanon has lots of day trips from Beirut.

There are three primary ways to travel around Lebanon:

• Hire a driver.
• Take a group tour.
• Take public transportation.

I decided to try all three of these over the course of my trip.

Hiring a private driver is the best-case scenario because it allows you to time your visits for photography and you’re not on anyone else’s schedule. However, it’s also the most expensive. Most private driver rates start at $185 per day; I was once offered $150 per day; you may be able to bring it down to $100 per day if you have a Lebanese friend who “knows a guy” (and most Lebanese do). That was more than I wanted to spend as a solo traveler.

Because of that, I decided to just use Uber to get myself to Jeita Grotto and Byblos and back to Beirut. There was no wifi at Jeita Grotto (and I had no SIM card), so I bargained a ride with a local to get from the grotto to Byblos. Later, took awhile to find an Uber driver willing to pick me up in Byblos, but I eventually got one!

Here are some of the most popular tours:

• Anjar, Baalbek, and Ksara — I did this tour and recommend it. See two sets of ruins (Anjar and Baalbek) that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, then go wine tasting in Ksara.
• Cedars, Bcharré, and Kozhaya — I did this tour and recommend it if you want to see the Cedars and/or a lot of mountain scenery; otherwise, I don’t think it’s essential. Know that the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cedars park is tiny, but a nice walk. Bcharré is home to an unremarkable Gibran museum but a GORGEOUS view; Kozhaya is home to a very cool monastery carved into the rocks.
• Byblos, Jeita Grotto and Harissa — I visited Byblos and Jeita Grotto via Uber/taxi but skipped Harissa. I don’t think it’s necessary to do this as a group tour; it’s close to Beirut. I preferred doing my own thing and having time to explore. Byblos is a gorgeous village home to UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins; Harissa has outstanding views down to the coast, and Jeita Grotto is home to glorious cave systems underground (and no photography is allowed).
• Tyre, Sidon and Maghdouche — I visited Tyre via public transportation and could have easily added Sidon as well; I don’t think this one is necessary to do as a group tour. Tyre is a great little city home to UNESCO World Heritage-listed ruins; Sidon is famous for its souks and Sea Castle, and Maghdouche has some great views.
• There’s also an Anjar, Baalbek and Kozhaya tour that combines the ruins of the Beqaa Valley with the Cedars in a slightly longer trip. Knowing what I know now, I probably would have done it to give myself an extra day.

As for public transportation, I would have done much more of it if I had known how easy it would be! I simply got an Uber to the minibus station (Cola Intersection), asked for “Sour?” (the Arabic name for Tyre), and got pointed to a bus.

There are some unwritten rules for taking minibuses in Lebanon: ask for the bus you need; the first two rows are unofficially reserved for women; men do not sit next to women unless there’s nowhere else to sit; tell the driver when to stop and pay him on the way out. Women should dress more conservatively (long sleeves and pants) and wear headphones if you don’t want to talk to anyone.

Solo female travel in Lebanon is safe and wonderful.

This was the most pleasant surprise in Lebanon — that I received so much respect.  I didn’t know what to expect and was on my guard.

I took the bus from Beirut to Tyre, and I was told by my friend beforehand that the front two rows are unofficially reserved for women, and men don’t sit next to women unless there’s no other room. Well, there wasn’t any room on the way back from Tyre, which made me nervous. But the man who sat next to me left a good six inches between us on the seats.

Can you believe that? Men in New York won’t even close their legs on the subway, aggressively spreading out as much as they can. Lebanon almost made me cry with happiness.

Solo Female Travel in Lebanon: A Guide

I also didn’t get stared at, which blew my mind. As a white woman traveling solo, I’m used to being stared at in the Middle East and many other places in the world.

It helped that I dressed more conservatively for the most part, including covering to my elbows, neck, and ankles in more conservative areas, though you could get away with wearing more revealing clothing in Beirut and Byblos.

I must include that Lebanon wasn’t perfect — just as I was marveling about what a good time I was having in Tyre, a man rode by on a bicycle and made kissing noises at me. Well. That happens pretty much everywhere in the world except Japan, so it shouldn’t be surprising. I get harassed three times on the walk home from the subway. It’s part of life as a woman.

Altogether: harassment was minimal, and I was grateful for that.

Lebanese food is DELICIOUS.

Middle Eastern food is outstanding — and Lebanon is often said to have the best food in the region.   As soon as I arrived, the first dish I had to have was some moutabal (roasted eggplant and tahini dip) with some mint lemonade.

Lebanon’s cuisine is based on mezze — small plates. You’ll definitely have pita with hummus, falafel, baba ghanouj, tabbouleh, grape leaves, pickled vegetables — and I won’t lie, often French fries. Next up is often a variety of roasted meats, especially lamb or goat or chicken, or seafood if you’re on the coast, with rice or vegetable dishes, or delicious stews. And the coffee is potent, served in tiny cups.

Almost everything that I had in Lebanon was delicious, whether it was a streetside shwarma in Tyre or a plate of square-cut, oil-drenched grilled calamari in Byblos.

Lebanon is also a fantastic destination for vegetarians and vegans.  You can always plenty of delicious plant-based options.

Lebanon has good wine, too.

Lebanon is one of very few Middle Eastern countries where you’ll find a decent wine scene. If you visit the ruins at Baalbek or Anjer, whether on a tour or with a private driver, it’s common to stop at a winery on the way back. We visited Chateau Ksara as part of our Baalbek/Anjer tour, and I would recommend it to others. Enjoy it!

You can go skiing and hit the beach in the same day in Lebanon.

I don’t even ski, but this is something I want to do sometime — go skiing and hit the beach in the same day just because I can . Lots of destinations brag that you can do this — Southern California, Slovenia, Andalusia — and Lebanon is yet another.

Don’t expect the slopes to be on par with Colorado, but there are a number of ski resorts around the country. Then come down to lie on the beach in Byblos or Tyre or at a beach club in Beirut. Just because you can!

Lebanese people are amazing.

People are amazing everywhere, though. I believe that everywhere in the world is made up of 98% wonderful people and 2% assholes. Most people are good people, and if they’re not, they’re probably having a rough day. Lebanon was no exception: I was warmly welcomed everywhere I went.

Arabic hospitality is legendary, though, and I was spoiled again and again by new Lebanese friends I met on my trip. Nobody would let me pay for a thing! It blew my mind.

I bought an orange juice from this mother and son pictured above, and even though they spoke no English and I spoke about five words of Arabic, we tried to communicate with each other as best we could, laughing like crazy. I’m pretty sure they tried to set me up with her older son, showing me Instagram photos of him perched in front of scenic overlooks, a dramatic pout on his face. (This happens a lot when you travel solo!)

To my great surprise, I was constantly asked if I was here visiting family. When I said no, people were often shocked. “But your parents are Lebanese?” they would ask me. (Come to think of it, when I was in Jordan in 2011, my guide Ibrahim told me I couldn’t pass for Jordanian, but I looked like I had one Lebanese parent.) And I feel like I met a ton of people who looked like me in Lebanon. Far more than usual.

Being ethnically ambiguous is hugely beneficial on my travels — I’m able to blend in far more easily than an Irish redhead could. But that has also led to wonderful experiences, where locals have claimed me as one of their own, declaring that their blood must run through my veins — “Look at your eyes! Look at your nose! You’re obviously one of us!”

Lebanon is best for experienced travelers.

I’ll be completely honest here: I would not recommend Lebanon to novice travelers unless you have contacts here, family here, or people willing to host you. It’s a beautiful country, a friendly country, and an interesting country, but it’s not an easy or obvious country in which to travel.

Let me give you an example: when on the minibus back from Tyre, the driver got to Beirut, got sick of the traffic, and decided he just wanted to drop me off in the middle of a major intersection. Lovely. I had to figure out how to cross a multi-lane street, how to flag down a totally-not-official taxi, meaning some random guy in a random car (I had no SIM card, therefore no Uber), and get back to my place from there. Not that hard for a seasoned traveler, but I wouldn’t want to send a newbie traveler into a situation like that!

At the same time, Lebanon is awesome, but it’s not a showstopper.  In my opinion, the true showstopper of the Middle East is Jordan. Lebanon whispers rather than sings at the top of its lungs, and sometimes that’s exactly what I want in a destination.

If you’re going to the Middle East for the first time, I still recommend Jordan above all. Jordan has the best mix of safety, outstanding cultural sites, natural beauty, a wide variety of things to do, and infrastructure for travelers. I think it outdoes Lebanon on almost every level, though I think Beirut is a much cooler city than Amman.

Jordan: The Perfect Introduction to the Middle East

But if you’ve already done some travel in the Middle East and you’re looking for an interesting new destination, and especially if you’re looking for a cool major city, Lebanon is a fabulous choice for you.

And at this point in time, it’s still a relatively offbeat destination. In an age where everyone is going to Iceland and Bali and Barcelona, Lebanon makes a nice change from everyone else in your Instagram feed.

Lebanon pairs well with some destinations — and poorly with others.

One reason why I visited Lebanon was because I was planning to visit Cyprus, pictured above, and the two countries are only a 45-minute flight apart. It was natural to pair them together! The two countries have so much in common in some ways, but are completely different in others.

I flew to Beirut from Amsterdam via Istanbul on Pegasus Airlines, which makes Turkey a great destination to combine with Lebanon. Thanks to direct flights, you can easily combine Lebanon with a trip to Jordan, Egypt, or the UAE.

However, Lebanon does not pair well with Israel. You can’t visit Lebanon if you have evidence of Israel or the Palestinian Territories in your passport (and even though Israeli officials often don’t stamp your passport, Lebanese officials look for exit stamps from Jordan or Egypt). Israel will let you in with a Lebanon stamp, but expect to be grilled about your visit.

How to get around this? Fly into Israel and don’t let them stamp you. Or renew your passport before going to Lebanon. Or get a second passport, if your country allows you to do so (the US does). Or just visit Israel after Lebanon.

More on Lebanon:

13 Stunning Places to Visit in Lebanon

Solo Female Travel in Lebanon: Is it Safe?

Essential Info: For my trip I bought the Lebanon chapter in Lonely Planet’s Middle East guidebook , which I downloaded on my phone and found very useful.

In Lebanon I stayed at the  Radisson Blu Martinez  in Beirut, which was a quality, if dated, hotel and was centrally located in the Hamra neighborhood. Rates from $75. Find deals on more Beirut hotels here and see all Beirut Airbnbs here .

In Beirut and sometimes beyond (as far as Byblos), I used Uber to get around. It was cheap and easy. I recommend getting a SIM card if you can; I didn’t and it made it impossible to summon Ubers when I didn’t have wifi.

During my trip I took three tours: the Free Walking Tour of Beirut (remember to tip your guide), a paid day trip to  Cedars, Bcharré, and Kozhaya , and a paid day trip to  Anjar, Baalbek, and Ksara . I traveled independently via public minibus to Tyre via Sidon (Saïda) and via Uber and taxi to Jeita Grotto and Byblos.

Bring good shoes to Lebanon. I have bad arches and live in comfy but cute shoes from The Walking Company . I strongly recommend black ABEO flats , which have fantastic arch support. I wore them every day in Lebanon. You might also like a pair of black boots  if you’re visiting in the chillier months.

Bring a crossbody purse that zips to keep your belongings close and safe. Amazon has lots of affordable options . If you want to spend more, Rebecca Minkoff makes some of the best . You can also check out my guide to the best travel purses .

Travel insurance is essential for trips to Lebanon — whether you trip on the steps at Baalbek’s temples and break your ankle, or get robbed on a bus in Beirut, or if you have to cancel your trip due to an emergency, travel insurance will sort you out. I use and recommend World Nomads .

Have you traveled to Lebanon? Does it seem like your kind of destination?

Nakhal - Destinations - AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST - Egypt

• Message Us Send a Request

Du Parc building, Sami El Solh Avenue - Beirut

• Main Office - BEY +961 1 389 389 Dubai +971 58 898 8244 Whatsapp from abroad +961 3 389 222
• LATEST NEWS CLICK HERE

Easter & Fitr Packages

From 01 April till 31 May 2024 3, 4 or 7 nights

Club Med Decouverte

27 Decembre 2023; 10, 24 et 31 Janvier; 14 et 21 Fevrier; 13, 20 et 27 Mars; 17 et 24 Avril; 25 Septembre; 09 et 23 Octobre 2024

13 et 27 Janvier; 10, 17 et 24 Fevrier; 09, 16 et 23 Mars; 13 et 20 Avril; 04 Mai; 01 Juin; 21 Septembre; 05, 12, 19 et 26 Octobre 2024

13 et 27 Janvier; 03, 10, 17 et 24 Fevrier; 09, 16, 23 et 30 Mars; 06, 13, 20 et 27 Avril; 04, 11 et 18 Mai; 14 et 18 Septembre; 05, 12, 19 et 26 Octobre 2024

River Cruises

28 February; 06, 13, 20 & 27 March; 03, 10, 17 & 24 April; 02, 09, 16 & 30 October; 06, 13, 20 & 27 November 2024

02, 09, 16, 23 & 30 March; 06, 13, 20 & 27 April; 05, 23 & 19 October; 02, 09, 16, 23 & 30 November 2024

Direct Flights

From 06 April  till 26 October 2024