There are many ways to see Lebanon’s countryside. One way, not often thought of, is down its rivers and waterways. Home to the best inland water sport activities in the region, Lebanon’s many rivers allow you to appreciate nature while giving extreme sports a try. Canyoning, rafting, kayaking and canoeing will give you all the thrills you need for a memorable summer.
Rafting, Kayaking and Canoeing
Imagine soaring down a river with water splashing all around you as your raft picks up speed and your heart races with excitement. This is rafting, an exhilarating outdoor adventure that involves navigating rivers or other bodies of water using an inflatable raft. Often done on whitewater or rougher currents, rafting is all about adrenaline, teamwork and a love for nature.
Both canoeing and kayaking fall under paddle sports. What sets kayaking apart is the paddler’s seating position and the double-bladed paddle used to propel the kayak forward.
Lebanon is home to several rivers that offer excellent rafting conditions. The Lebanese Rafting Federation classifies these rivers by difficulty levels with level 1 being the easiest.
- Nahr el Kalb from the midpoint to its mouth is considered beginner friendly and classified as level 1.
- A short section near Jeita reaches level 3 to 4 offering more intense rapids.
- The Awali and Litani rivers fall between levels 1 and 2.
- The Assi River in Hermel also features moderate rapids and is ideal as summer progresses.
The rafting season starts in May but as water levels drop with the summer heat the Assi in Hermel and the Awali in the South remain the best options for late-season adventures.
Rafts typically accommodate four to 10 people and rafting is a true lesson in teamwork and coordination. Everyone needs to paddle in sync to avoid tipping the raft. While the two front paddlers usually handle the bulk of the work every participant plays a crucial role. A professional guide will accompany you offering instructions and ensuring all safety measures are in place.
If you’re planning a rafting trip the gear is simple: a helmet and life jacket provided by the organizer. The only requirement is that participants must be able to swim. Before heading out all adventurers receive a safety briefing as precautions are taken seriously.
With children as young as six welcome to participate rafting makes for a fun and memorable family outing. Whether you’re seeking a thrill or simply a refreshing way to connect with nature rafting in Lebanon delivers an unforgettable experience.
To book a trip, contact Rafting Squad (+961 3 080 790)
Canyoning
First introduced in 1997 by the founding members of 33 North, canyoning was relaunched in Lebanon two years ago after a long pause. The activity began in Akkar and has since spread across the country.
So what is canyoning exactly? It is an adventure sport that combines hiking, jumping, abseiling and sliding in water. Canyons are narrow grooves carved into stone by fast-flowing water over many years. When canyoning, participants move through these winding passages, navigating the river’s natural terrain. Since riverbeds are rarely uniform, you might walk through shallow water, slide along smooth rock formations or jump into small natural pools. When the drop is too high to jump, guides will set up ropes for an abseiling descent.
33 North was the first to offer this activity and remains the only company licensed to guide canyoning trips in Lebanon. It is not something you can do alone. Their team has explored the routes, opened clear passages, installed pitons and anchor points for rappelling and ensured the safety of each jump by measuring water depth. Their experience guarantees both safety and enjoyment.
There are currently three canyoning sites in Lebanon. One is located in Akkar, another in Hammana and the third in Jezzine, which was recently developed for this purpose.
While it may sound intense, canyoning is not a difficult activity and anyone over the age of 18 can take part. The only requirement is being able to swim, not professionally, but enough to float and feel comfortable in the water.
33 North provides all the technical equipment, including helmets and harnesses. All you need to bring is a towel, a change of clothes (as you’ll be soaked), water and a few snacks like chocolate or energy bars to keep you going.
Canyoning is an adventure like no other. It combines the thrill of hiking with the freedom of jumping and the coolness of fresh water. For those who have tried it, the feeling is unforgettable and the rush is unmatched. It is an exciting way to explore Lebanon’s hidden natural beauty and get your adrenaline pumping.
To book a trip, contact 33NorthLeb (+961 3 454 996)
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If you enjoyed reading this check out our interview Gilbert Moukheiber, founder of 33NorthLeb.
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