The Protected Wild Heart of Hammana
A community-managed conservation area in Lebanon's High Metn region: cedar and oak forests, a major bird migration flyway, and cherry orchards, open for you to explore, on foot and up close.
A living sanctuary
of nature, heritage
and community
Hima Hammana holds high ecological and scientific value. Fossil sites, amber formations, and a strategic position along a major bird migration flyway within the Beirut River Valley Important Bird & Biodiversity Area (IBA). It is a refuge for diverse wildlife, including rare bird species.
Nature Tourism
Hiking, birdwatching, snowshoeing and paragliding across unspoiled terrain
Biodiversity
Cedar & oak forests, endemic wildflowers, and a globally significant fossil record
Cultural
Centuries-old churches, monasteries, and a village woven into the landscape
Book your next
experience in the Hima
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Hiking
Hiking — every trail tells a story
A 10km main trail through waterfalls, cliffs and panoramas over the Beirut River Valley.
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Birdwatching
Bird watching
500,000+ birds recorded on Lebanon's bird highway.
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Cherry picking
Cherry picking
10+ family orchards, harvest season May–July.
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Cultural tours
Cultural tours — stories written in stone
700-year-old Mezher Palace & the old souk.
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Education
Biodiversity & educational activities
Fossil walks and amber discovery sessions.
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Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing — winter's wild side
Winter trails at 1,200m, no skill required.
Plan your visit
before you arrive
Best seasons for each activity, how to get here from Beirut, what to bring, and safety notes from our local guides — all in one place.
A national model for community- based conservation
The municipality and Hima Hammana committee envision Hima Hammana as a thriving model of community-based conservation, where biodiversity is protected and restored while ensuring sustainable benefits for local people.
"The committee's vision is to ensure that Hima Hammana remains a living, resilient landscape, protected by its community and recognized as a national and regional model for sustainable conservation."
Safeguarding and enhancing biodiversity
Promoting sustainable use of natural resources
Positioning Hammana as a leading ecotourism destination in Lebanon
Supporting environmental education, scientific research, and awareness on ecological and geological heritage
Explore Hammana's gardens
Perched between 900 and 1,600 meters, Hammana's altitude gives its cherry trees the perfect climate to thrive. Visit one of ten family owned orchards and pick your own; proceeds support Hima Hammana projects and the local community.
Our trusted guides: Homat Al Hima
Local experts who live and breathe this landscape, ready to lead your experience.
Antoine Bou Mitri
Can manage all
activities
Founder of Beasts for Sports and Outdoor Activities, with 23+ years leading adventure sports and nature-based programs.
Silva Hajinian
Ecotourism guide
since 2011
Leads hiking, snowshoeing, canyoning, cherry picking, and cultural tours with a deep sense of belonging to her village.
Chadi Saad
SPNL & ANAHITA site
operator
A storyteller of nature, birds and fossils - decades tracking migration and uncovering the Hima's deep past.
Our partners
