A natural amphitheatre into a legendary valley
“Afqa is one of the most beautiful sites of the world” It is the source of the river Adonis, which emerges from a large limestone cave in the cliff wall, where the water from the melted snow of the mountains is stored and channeled before being released through the springs and into the streams below.
(Ernest Renan)
At Afqa, several water courses flow from the cave in the form of white foam, a scene of great beauty. The river then rushes repetitively from cascade to cascade into frightful depths, dominated by an old bridge, which carries the road to Akoura village. The naturally excavated cave system features over 3 km of known passageways inside.
The sweetness and freshness of the waters, the softness of the air and the beauty of the vegetation form an immense natural amphitheater. This is where the myth of Adonis and Astarte was born. The site is also associated with the birth and death of the legendary God Adonis.
Quick overview
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Opening days
Open daily
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Opening times
All day
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How to reach
By car/bus:
From Beirut Airport to Afqa grotto by private transportation. The total distance is approximately 62 km. - Web
Additional Info
Jabal Moussa Biosphere reserve entrance fee:
4 USD adults over 16
2 USD children under 16
Please gear up with hiking shoes, hiking stick (optional), backpack, energy bars, 1L of water/person, sunscreen
Make sure to inform us in advance if you have a health condition
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Spring
Visiting Rules
Basic rules:
No hunting
No picking flowers and plants
No smoking or lighting fires
No pets