Wildlife in Lebanon
Including Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve, Shouf Biosphere Reserve, and Tyre Coast Nature Reserve. On the map.
The vibe
Protected valleys host a surprising mix of migratory birds and native mammals, making wildlife spotting feel like a quiet encounter with Mediterranean biodiversity. Spring migration and autumn bring the most activity, while winter is quieter. Most visitors join small guided walks or use park trails, so the experience is modestly organized but still intimate.
park ticket required
Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve
North Governorate
Sami Bado / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Perched on the rugged northern slopes of Mount Lebanon, Horsh Ehden is a unique high-altitude nature reserve boasting a dense mixed forest of ancient cedars, firs, and wild apple trees. The reserve is a haven for endemic flora and a wide variety of wildlife, supporting dozens of mammal species and numerous rare mountain birds.
Access. Accessed via Ehden or Zgharta; visitors can explore a network of well-maintained walking tracks with mandatory local guides during peak seasons.
Notes. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and peak bird activity, while autumn offers stunning foliage.
Shouf Biosphere Reserve
Beqaa Governorate
Serysss97 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
As Lebanon's largest natural reserve, the Shouf Biosphere Reserve spans magnificent oak and cedar forests that shelter a rich array of wildlife. It is particularly renowned for its successful reintroduction of the Arabian mountain gazelle and serves as an essential habitat for wild boars, wolves, jackals, and over 200 species of resident and migratory birds.
Access. Accessible via the town of Maasser el Chouf or Barouk. Well-marked hiking trails crisscross the reserve, and local eco-guides are available to lead wildlife-watching excursions.
Notes. Spring and autumn are ideal for birdwatching and spotting active wildlife, while winter brings snowy forest landscapes.
Tyre Coast Nature Reserve
South Governorate
Bilal Yassine / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Spanning sandy beaches, agricultural land, and freshwater springs south of Tyre, this protected coastal strip is one of the last remaining stretches of natural sandy shoreline in Lebanon. It is internationally celebrated as an important nesting ground for endangered green sea turtles and loggerhead turtles, as well as a sanctuary for migratory coastal birds.
Access. Located just south of Tyre city center, easily accessible by road with designated boardwalks and visitor management zones.
Notes. Turtle nesting beaches are strictly protected during summer months, requiring visitors to adhere to conservation guidelines.