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Lebanon FAQ

Is tipping customary in Lebanon?

It's customary to tip porters, hotel and restaurant staff and guides between 10-15%. Also, it's considered polite to leave a donation in the box when visiting churches.

What is the internet access like in Lebanon?

Travellers will be able to access the internet in cyber cafes, hotels and at Wi-Fi hotspots in Lebanon's capital and large cities. Rural areas will offer less internet connectivity so prepare for this before venturing out of the city.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Lebanon?

Travellers should be able to use their mobile phones in Lebanon as coverage is generally very good (especially in urban areas). Ensure global roaming is activated with your provider before you leave home.

What are the toilets like in Lebanon?

Expect to encounter a mix of modern, flushable toilets and squat toilets while travelling throughout Lebanon. It's a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitiser as these aren't always provided in public toilets.

What will it cost for a…?

One hour at an internet cafe = 3000 LBP
A local beer = 3000 LBP
Falafel or shawarma from street vendor = 3000-6000 LBP
Simple dinner at a restaurant = 12,000-16,000 LBP

Can I drink the water in Lebanon?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Lebanon unless otherwise marked.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Lebanon?

Major credit cards are usually accepted by large shops, restaurants and hotels in Lebanon. Smaller shops and cafes may not accept credit cards, so always carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Lebanon?

Travellers will be able to access ATMs in cities and large towns. Rural and remote places may not have ATMs so be aware of this before travelling out of the city.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Lebanon?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Lebanon?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 6 Orthodox Armenian Christmas
Jan 24 Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet's Birthday)
Feb 9 Feast of St Maroun
Mar 29 Good Friday
Mar 31 Easter Sunday
May 1 Labour Day
May 5 Orthodox Easter
May 6 Martyrs' Day
May 25 Resistance and Liberation Day
Aug 8 Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
Aug 15 Assumption of the Virgin
Oct 15 Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)
Nov 1 All Saints' Day
Nov 4 Islamic New Year
Nov 13 Ashoura
Nov 22 Independence Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. Not all religious holidays are celebrated or observed by all people in Lebanon. Islamic festivals and feasts are timed according to the lunar calendar (which changes each year) so these dates are estimates only. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Lebanon/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Lebanon?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • LEBANON
    Australia: Yes - on arrival
    Belgium: Yes - on arrival
    Canada: Yes - on arrival
    Germany: Yes - on arrival
    Ireland: Yes - on arrival
    Netherlands: Yes - on arrival
    New Zealand: Yes - on arrival
    South Africa: Yes - on arrival
    Switzerland: Yes - on arrival
    United Kingdom: Yes - on arrival
    USA: Yes - on arrival

    All nationalities require a visa to enter Lebanon. Currently, visas are free and are issued for 1 month on arrival.

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Lebanon at a glance

  • 1
  • Beirut (population 2.1 million)
  • 4.2 million
  • Arabic
  • LBP
  • (GMT+02:00) Beirut
  • Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin), Type C (European 2-pin), Type D (Old British 3-pin), Type G (Irish/British 3-pin)
  • +961

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