Jeita Grotto is a system of two separate, but interconnected, karstic limestone caves spanning an overall length of nearly 9 kilometers. Located in the Nahr al-Kalb valley within the locality of Jeita, Lebanon, the grotto is a popular Lebanese natural attraction recognized for its extraordinary stalactites and stalagmites.
Jeita Grotto is situated approximately 18 kilometers north of Beirut in the Valley of Nahr al-Kalb (Dog River) in Lebanon.
Visitors can travel to Jeita Grotto by car, taxi, or a tour bus from Beirut. It's well-signposted and accessible via the coastal highway towards Jounieh. Tourists often visit as part of a day tour combining several attractions in Lebanon.
Jeita Grotto consists of two main parts, the Upper Grotto and the Lower Grotto. The Upper Grotto is known for its impressive stalactites and is accessed by foot, while the Lower Grotto houses a subterranean river and is explored via boat.
Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited inside Jeita Grotto to protect the site's natural beauty and to avoid disturbances. Visitors are required to leave their cameras and smartphones in designated lockers before entering the caves.
The Jeita Grotto Museum, which commonly refers to the complex's visitor facilities rather than a traditional museum, has varying opening hours depending on the season. It is usually open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in the summer, with shorter hours in winter. However, it is best to check their official website or contact them for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is an entrance fee to visit Jeita Grotto, which covers both the Upper and Lower Grottoes and includes boat rides in the Lower Grotto. Rates may vary, and there may be different prices for adults, children, and groups, so it is advisable to check their official website or with a local tour operator for the latest information.
Jeita Grotto boasts a range of facilities, including parking, a souvenir shop, snack bars, a restaurant, restrooms, and a mini zoo. Additionally, there is a train that transports visitors from the entrance to the grotto's opening.
It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as you'll need to walk on uneven surfaces. The temperature inside the grotto is cooler than outside, so a light jacket or sweater could be necessary. In the wetter Lower Grotto, a waterproof jacket might also be advisable.
Accessibility for people with disabilities might be limited due to the natural terrain and steps leading into the caves. Visitors with mobility concerns should contact the site beforehand to check for available assistance or accommodations.