20 Apr 2024

Hiking Trip - Ammiq Reserve - West Bekaa

  • Ammiq, one the most important places for migrating birds, is our next venture.
    The Ammiq area boasts the largest swamp in Lebanon, featuring a bird watching tower for observing migrating birds. Situated between the Bekaa Valley and the western mountain chain of Lebanon, Ammiq is renowned for its diverse array of tree species.

    The hike will traverse the mountain's edge, offering ample shade and shelter provided by numerous trees along the route. This area is one of the Bekaa's rare gems, characterized by its rich diversity of tree species.

    From the hilltop, hikers will be treated to a spectacular view of the valley's most beautiful scenery, where the swamp, fields, and mountains converge into a breathtaking panorama. It's a sight to behold, capturing the essence of nature's beauty in a single frame. Be sure to have your cameras ready – the scenery speaks volumes!

    After the hike, all participants will come together for a nutritious lunch prepared by local villagers using natural produce. Expect homemade Lebanese cuisine served with fresh juice, fruits, and coffee.

    The hike offers three levels of difficulty: level 2, level 4, and level 6.

    LEVEL 2 provides an easy walk through the scenic nature of Ammiq, with highlights including the swamp, bird watching tower, and views of the Bekaa Valley. The trail spans approximately 5 km and is mostly flat.

    LEVEL 4 begins at the Ammiq swamp, leading to a sanctuary and freshwater source before ascending to a hill overlooking the Bekaa Valley. The trail continues through a pine forest to the ancient village of Ammiq, where the old church of Deir Tahnish stands next to an old farm. This 8 km moderate-level hike involves minimal ascents or descents.

    LEVEL 6 starts from the Ammiq swamp and passes through three water sources, including the 1300-year-old "shajaret el set" tree, nabeh saalouk, ain abed, and ain el tain, before joining levels 2 and 4 for lunch. This 16 km route offers minimal rest time but promises breathtaking views throughout the journey. Don't miss out on any of the picturesque sights!

    WHERE: Ammiq
    In the region of Bekaa
    70 Km from Beirut
    900 meters above sea level.

    WHEN: Saturday, April 20

    MEETING PLACE: 8:30 AM in the parking of Sagesse School in Jdeideh, facing the public garden. (See map on: https://www.vamos-todos.com/Pages/ParkingMap.aspx)
    There will be a breakfast stop along the way.

    PRICE: 55$ per person including transport, guides, insurance, reserve entrance and lunch.
    35$ without lunch
    Kindly get the exact change.
    You can register now at all branches of Antoine Library or on the following link:
    https://www.antoineticketing.com/?event_group_id=26

    WHAT TO GET: Light snacks that will boost up your energy such as dried fruits, water, cap, sunglasses and sunscreen. Wear comfortable shoes such as hiking shoes and always keep a windproof jacket in your backpack.

    SPECIAL RATES:
    - Children with the age of 10 and younger will have a discount of 5$.
    - Children/ Teenagers between the age of 11 and 18 will have a discount of 4$.
    - University students will have a discount of 3$ provided that they present their university card.
    - Groups with 5 to 9 persons, with different criteria than the above, will get a 2$ discount.
    - Groups with 10 or more persons, with different criteria than the above, will get a 3$ discount.

    PAYMENT TERMS:
    - Cancellation with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged half-price
    - Reservations with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged an extra 2$.
    (e.g. Cancelling or booking for a Sunday’s event on Saturday will be subject to the above terms)

    ESSENTIAL ECOTOURISTIC RULES & REGULATIONS
    - Smoking is strictly prohibited during the event
    - Always follow the guide on the designated trail
    - Do not go off road without notifying the guide
    - Do not get close to a cliff especially when the guide in charge tells you not to do so
    - Although accidents are covered by the insurance but they remain under the responsibility of the member
    - Sometimes, due to reasons beyond our control, slight modifications to the program may occur. Ecotourism rules must be followed, otherwise personal accidents will not be accounted for by the insurance.

    RESERVATION: Every day from 8am till 5pm on 03-917190 or 79-115001. It is preferable to send an SMS or WhatsApp from your mobile, giving your name, surname, and the event you wish to join.

    COLLABORATION:
    - “Sports Experts” is the exclusive sports gear and outfit sponsor of Vamos Todos. Members will get a special discount at all “Sports Experts” branches in Lebanon
    - “LIA insurance” is the exclusive insurance company sponsor of Vamos Todos.

    Regards,
    Vamos Todos
Reserve for this Event
First Name
Last Name
Email
Cell #
Remarks
(Optional)

Back to all the Events