9-Day Central Middle East Northern/Scenic Route (Mountains & Nature): Lebanon & Jordan in July
Embark on an extraordinary 9-day journey through the heart of the Levant, where the typical desert heat of July gives way to the refreshing air of the Lebanese mountains and the awe-inspiring geological formations of Jordan. This 'Northern/Scenic' route is specifically designed for families, focusing on breathtaking natural landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and comfortable pacing that keeps children engaged and parents relaxed.
This multi-country itinerary connects the cosmopolitan energy of Beirut with the ancient majesty of Amman and Petra. By utilizing high-altitude regions like the Cedars of Lebanon and the Ajloun Forest in Jordan, you will discover a side of the Middle East characterized by lush valleys, deep canyons, and misty mountain peaks that remain pleasant even during the peak summer months.
Day 1: Beirut, Lebanon - Coastal Arrival
Arrival at Rafic Hariri International
Touch down in Beirut and take a pre-booked shuttle to your family-friendly hotel in the Hamra or Raouche district. The Mediterranean breeze provides a warm welcome as you settle into the 'Paris of the Middle East'.
Raouche Rocks Lunch
Enjoy a traditional Lebanese mezze lunch overlooking the iconic Pigeons' Rock, two massive rock formations standing guard in the sea.
Corniche Beirut Stroll
Join local families for a sunset walk along the Corniche. It is the perfect place for kids to stretch their legs and enjoy local ice cream (ashta).
Zaitunay Bay Dinner
Dine at the modern marina, offering a variety of international and local cuisines in a safe, pedestrianized environment.
Day 2: Beirut to Mount Lebanon, Lebanon - Nature’s Wonders
Jeita Grotto Exploration
Visit this finalist for the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Explore the upper caverns on foot and take a magical boat ride through the lower subterranean lake.
Teleferique to Harissa
Take the cable car up the mountain to the Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon for panoramic views of Jounieh Bay.
Byblos Old Souk
Head to one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Kids will love exploring the Crusader Castle and the ancient harbor.
Byblos Fossil Shopping
Visit a local fossil museum where children can learn about prehistoric sea life found in the Lebanese mountains.
Day 3: The Cedars & Kadisha Valley, Lebanon - Mountain Peaks
Cedars of God Nature Reserve
Drive high into the Bsharri mountains to walk among ancient cedar trees, some over 1,000 years old. The air here is crisp and significantly cooler than the coast.
Kadisha Valley Viewpoint
Marvel at the deep, scenic canyon known as the Holy Valley, filled with rock-cut monasteries and dramatic cliffs.
Gibran Khalil Gibran Museum
Visit the museum dedicated to the famous poet, housed in an ancient monastery carved into the mountain rock.
Mountain Lodge Stay
Check into a cozy lodge in Ehden to experience authentic Lebanese mountain hospitality.
Day 4: Beirut to Amman (Lebanon/Jordan) - Cross-Border Journey
Beiteddine Palace
A final Lebanese stop to see the 19th-century palace, famous for its intricate mosaics and summer festivals.
Flight to Amman, Jordan
Take a short 1-hour flight from Beirut to Amman. This is the most efficient way to cross between these two mountain-rich nations.
Rainbow Street Walk
Explore Amman's most famous street, filled with colorful umbrellas, cafes, and shops perfect for a family evening.
Traditional Mansaf Dinner
Introduce the kids to Jordan's national dish, Mansaf (lamb cooked in fermented yogurt), at a family-run restaurant.
Day 5: Amman & Jerash, Jordan - Roman Grandeur
The Amman Citadel
Climb the hill to see the Temple of Hercules. The high elevation provides a great breeze and a 360-degree view of the hilly city.
Roman Theatre
Visit the well-preserved 6,000-seat theater in the heart of downtown Amman.
Day Trip to Jerash
Drive north to the 'Pompeii of the East'. This is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world.
Sunset in the Ruins
Watch the sun go down over the Oval Plaza before heading back to the capital.
Day 6: Ajloun Forest & Highlands, Jordan - Green Landscapes
Ajloun Castle
Explore the Muslim fortress built to protect against the Crusaders, situated atop a mountain with views reaching as far as the Jordan Valley.
Ajloun Forest Reserve
Go for a guided family hike in this Mediterranean-like forest, home to evergreen oaks and wild strawberries.
Organic Farm Lunch
Eat a farm-to-table lunch at a local community cooperative within the reserve.
Drive to the Dead Sea
Descend to the lowest point on earth to check into your resort for a relaxing evening.
Day 7: The Dead Sea, Jordan - Floating in Nature
Morning Float
Experience the unique sensation of weightlessness in the hyper-saline waters. Kids will find the 'no-sink' rule fascinating!
Dead Sea Mud Bath
Apply the mineral-rich mud for a fun (and messy) family photo-op and natural skin treatment.
Resort Infinity Pool
Since the Dead Sea is hot in July, spend the afternoon in the temperature-controlled family pools.
Stargazing
Enjoy the clear desert skies and the lights of the West Bank shimmering across the water.
Day 8: Petra, Jordan - The Rose City
Early Entry to the Siq
Walk through the narrow, 1.2km canyon (The Siq) to beat the heat. The cool shadows of the high cliffs make the walk pleasant.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Witness the world-famous facade as it emerges from the canyon walls. A bucket-list moment for all ages.
Royal Tombs
Explore the massive burial chambers carved directly into the mountain face.
Drive back to Amman
Enjoy the scenic 'Kings Highway' route back to the capital for your final night.
Day 9: Amman, Jordan - Departure
Souk Al-Sugar Breakfast
Enjoy a final breakfast of hot falafel and fresh hummus in the vibrant downtown markets.
The Children's Museum Jordan
A fantastic indoor, air-conditioned museum with over 180 interactive exhibits for a final family treat.
Last-Minute Souvenirs
Pick up some Dead Sea products or woven Bedouin rugs as mementos of your journey.
Airport Transfer
Head to Queen Alia International Airport for your flight home, concluding your Middle Eastern adventure.
Best Time to Visit Middle East
For this specific Northern/Scenic route, July is an excellent time if you focus on high-altitude regions. While the lowlands and deserts like the Jordan Valley can reach over 35°C (95°F), the mountains of Lebanon (Cedars/Ehden) and the highlands of Jordan (Amman/Ajloun) offer much milder temperatures. If you prefer cooler weather throughout, consider visiting in late Spring (April-May) or Autumn (October-November) when the wildflowers are in bloom or the harvest festivals begin.
Visas & Border Crossings
Traveling between Lebanon and Jordan requires a flight, as land borders are currently complex for international tourists. Most Western nationalities can obtain a Visa on Arrival in both Lebanon (free for one month) and Jordan. For Jordan, it is highly recommended to purchase the 'Jordan Pass' online before arrival; it waives the visa fee and includes entry to Petra and Jerash, provided you stay at least three nights.
Getting Around Middle East
The most efficient way to navigate this multi-country route is by combining a short international flight (Beirut to Amman) with private car hires or 'Service' taxis for day trips. In Lebanon, hiring a driver for the day is affordable and allows for flexibility with kids. In Jordan, car rentals are popular and roads are well-signposted. For city travel in Amman and Beirut, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem provide safe, fixed-price transport for families.
