Plizio Visual Lab
Kammouha Forest
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Forest
Kammouha Forest, perched in the rugged Akkar region of northern Lebanon, is widely regarded as one of the most biodiverse and ecologically significant areas in the Middle East. Situated on a vast plateau at an elevation of 1,400 meters, it is surrounded by high peaks and features a dense canopy of ancient trees. The forest is most famous for its majestic Lebanon cedars and juniper trees, but it is also the primary habitat for the rare Cilician Fir (Abies cilicica). This unique mountain environment supports over fifty different species of trees and hundreds of varieties of wildflowers, making it a haven for botanists and nature lovers. Throughout the year, the landscape changes dramatically, from lush green meadows in the spring to a serene, snow-covered wilderness in the winter. Kammouha is a popular destination for hikers, campers, and those seeking a spiritual connection with nature among trees that have stood for centuries. Its role in the regional water cycle and its status as a refuge for wildlife make it a vital component of Lebanon's natural heritage.
- Location: Lebanon
- Top sights: Karm Chbat Quoubaiyat · Jabal Braïssé
- Nearby: Qobayat (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 6 | 7 | 10 | 14 | 19 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 23 | 19 | 13 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 91 | 68 | 44 | 24 | 12 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 9 | 23 | 46 | 71 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Accessible by driving up into the mountainous Akkar region in northern Lebanon. The roads leading to the high plateau can be rugged, so a sturdy vehicle is highly recommended.
Best season
Late spring, summer, and early autumn are excellent for hiking and picnicking in the cool shade. Winters bring heavy snow to the high plateau, often blocking road access entirely.
Terrain & paths
The forest sits on a vast, relatively flat high plateau, offering extensive walking areas under the ancient canopy. Beyond the plateau, trails extend into steeper, more mountainous terrain.
What to bring
Comfortable walking or light hiking shoes are handy for the plateau paths. Warm clothing layers are essential even in summer, as the high altitude means temperatures can drop rapidly.
Parking
Visitors generally park in large open clearings at the edge of the forest or near local ecotourism hubs. Ensure you do not block the unpaved tracks used by local residents and shepherds.
Safety
The area is expansive and poorly marked, making it very easy to lose your sense of direction. It is advisable to hire a local guide or use a reliable GPS if venturing far from the main clearings.
Time needed
A trip here usually commands a full day, considering the long drive from coastal cities. Visitors typically spend three to five hours walking among the majestic trees and enjoying nature.
Geography
Facts
- Area: 50 km²
- Elevation range: 1000 to 1800 m
- Average tree age: 200 years
- Annual rainfall: 1200 mm
- Documented bird species: 100
- Protected status: nature reserve since 2010
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kammouha Forest (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Kammouha forest located?
In the Akkar region, in the far north of Lebanon.
Which trees grow there?
Juniper, cedars, firs, and centuries-old oaks.
Is the area accessible in winter?
There is often heavy snow, which can make access difficult.
Can you camp there?
Yes, it is a popular spot for wild camping and eco-tourism.
Are there marked paths?
There are some paths, but a map or guide is advisable.
Kammouha Forest: where is it located?
Kammouha Forest is located in Lebanon.
Kammouha Forest: what is there to see?
Highlights include Karm Chbat Quoubaiyat, Jabal Braïssé.
Kammouha Forest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Kammouha Forest: why is it worth visiting?
Kammouha Forest, perched in the rugged Akkar region of northern Lebanon, is widely regarded as one of the most biodiverse and ecologically significant areas in the Middle East.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Lebanon →
Nearby cities
Qobayat
A town in the Akkar region, surrounded by green forests and mountains.
Halba
The capital of the Akkar Governorate in the far north of Lebanon.
Hermel
A town in the northern Beqaa Valley, close to the Syrian border and the Orontes River.
Bcharre
A town in the Qadisha Valley, famous as the birthplace of the poet Khalil Gibran.
Ehden
A mountainous summer resort in the north, offering breathtaking views and nature.
Safita
Safita is a city in the Tartus Governorate built on three hills and known for its Crusader fortress.
🗺️
Kafroun
An idyllic village in Tartus Governorate, known for its religious significance and natural beauty.
Mashta al-Helou
A popular Christian mountain resort near Tartus, known for its pleasant climate.
Zgharta
A picturesque city in North Lebanon known for its agricultural products and rich history.
🗺️
Hamidiyah Beach
A coastal town south of Tartus founded by Cretan Muslims, known for its unique culture and sandy beaches.
Ain az-Zarqa
A picturesque coastal village in Tartus Governorate, known for its natural freshwater spring right by the sea.
Al-Qusayr
Al-Qusayr is an agricultural city near Homs that has important strategic significance due to its proximity to Lebanon.
🗺️
Al-Hishe
A coastal area in the Tartus Governorate of Syria, known for its vacation resorts and relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.
Tripoli
The second-largest city in Lebanon, famous for its medieval Mamluk architecture and ancient souk.
History & landmarks
Afqa Grotto
The Afqa Grotto is the source of the Nahr Ibrahim river and a sacred site.
Jezzine Waterfall
The Jezzine Waterfall, also known as Shalouf, plunges over a sheer cliff.
Cedars of God
One of the last remaining areas of the extensive Lebanon cedar forests of antiquity.
Qadisha Valley
A deep gorge in northern Lebanon that historically served as a refuge for Christian monks.
Nature
Orontes River
The Nahr el-Assi is the only river in Lebanon that flows northwards.
Nahr el-Barid River
The Nahr el-Barid, meaning Cold River, flows through northern Lebanon into the Mediterranean.
Nahr Abou Ali River
The Nahr Abou Ali is the continuation of the Kadisha River, flowing through Tripoli.
Chawan Lake
Chawan Lake is a natural basin on the Nahr Ibrahim river within a dense valley.
Nahr Ibrahim River
The Nahr Ibrahim river is known in mythology as the Adonis River.
Lake Qaraoun
Lake Qaraoun is the largest artificial lake in Lebanon, located on the Litani River.
Damour River
The Damour River is a short coastal river south of Beirut.
More places
Wadi Jahannam
Wadi Jahannam, meaning Valley of Hell, is a deep and wild gorge in North Lebanon.
Mount Rihan
Mount Rihan is a significant peak in Southern Lebanon near Jezzine.
Akkar Plateau
A wide, rolling plateau in the north of the country, characterized by fertile soils and volcanic rock.
Qurnat as Sawda
At 3088 meters, it is the highest peak in the Mount Lebanon range, offering views to the coast of Cyprus on clear days.
🗺️
Mount Makmel
A rugged mountain region in northern Lebanon, ranking among the highest and most remote parts of the country.
Krak des Chevaliers
One of the best-preserved Crusader castles in the world.
🗺️
Ouyoun Orghosh Plateau
A barren, high-altitude plateau at the edge of the tree line, fed by numerous small mountain springs.
Horsh Ehden Nature Reserve
An isolated forest area in northern Lebanon known for its exceptional botanical diversity.