Lebanon in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Lebanon

22°C (72°F) High Temp

10°C (50°F) Low Temp

120mm (4.7 inches) Rainfall

68% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect hiking weather in mountains - cooler temperatures make 8-12 hour treks comfortable without summer's oppressive heat
Wildflower season peaks mid-March - hillsides bloom with red poppies, white daisies creating Instagram-worthy landscapes
Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 30-40% less than summer peak, flights from Europe drop by €200-400
Comfortable urban exploration - Beirut's concrete jungle becomes walkable without summer's crushing 35°C (95°F) heat

Considerations

Unpredictable mountain weather - can shift from 15°C (59°F) to 5°C (41°F) within hours, requiring layered clothing strategy
Frequent rain disrupts outdoor plans - afternoon showers occur 12 days monthly, lasting 1-3 hours each time
Reduced ferry services to Cyprus - choppy Mediterranean conditions limit departure schedules to 3-4 weekly instead of daily

Best Activities in March

Qadisha Valley Hiking Trails

March offers ideal conditions for Lebanon's most spectacular valley hikes. Temperatures stay comfortable for 6-8 hour treks, wildflowers create impressive photo opportunities, and snow-capped peaks provide dramatic backdrops. Morning mist adds mystique to ancient monasteries carved into cliffsides. Rain typically holds off until afternoon, giving 6-7 hours of clear hiking time.

Booking Tip: Book guided treks 2-3 weeks ahead through certified mountain guides. Full-day excursions typically cost $45-75 per person including transport from Beirut. Look for operators providing waterproof gear and emergency shelter. Reference booking widget for current certified guides.

Baalbek Archaeological Site Tours

March's cooler weather makes exploring these massive Roman ruins comfortable - summer heat reflects brutally off limestone blocks. Morning temperatures around 15°C (59°F) are perfect for 3-4 hour site visits. Fewer crowds mean unobstructed photos of Jupiter's Temple columns. Light rain enhances dramatic sky backdrops for photography.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours from Beirut typically cost $35-55 per person including transport and guide. Book morning departures to avoid afternoon rain showers. Look for tours combining Baalbek with nearby Anjar ruins. Current tour options available in booking section below.

Lebanese Wine Region Tastings

March marks pruning season in Bekaa Valley - perfect time to see vineyard operations and taste previous year's harvest alongside aged reserves. Cool weather makes outdoor tastings pleasant, and winemakers have more time for detailed explanations before busy season begins. Rain creates dramatic mountain vistas across valley.

Booking Tip: Bekaa Valley wine tours typically cost $60-90 per person including 3-4 winery visits and lunch. Book through licensed tour operators offering small groups (6-8 people maximum). Transportation from Beirut adds 2 hours each direction. See current wine tour options below.

Jeita Grotto Underground Exploration

March's increased rainfall feeds spectacular stalactite formations inside Lebanon's premier cave system. Underground temperatures remain constant 16°C (61°F) - perfect escape from variable outdoor weather. Enhanced water levels make boat rides through lower grotto more dramatic. Fewer tour groups mean peaceful exploration.

Booking Tip: Entry tickets cost $15-20 per adult with boat ride included. Combined packages with nearby attractions typically $40-60. Book during weekday mornings for smallest crowds. Photography permits available separately. Current combination tours in booking widget below.

Beirut Food Walking Tours

March weather makes street food exploration comfortable - cool enough for long walks between neighborhoods but warm enough to enjoy outdoor seating. Seasonal ingredients like fresh herbs and early spring vegetables appear in traditional dishes. Rain occasionally provides atmospheric backdrop for covered souks and traditional restaurants.

Booking Tip: Food walking tours typically cost $45-70 per person for 4-5 hour experiences including 8-10 tastings. Book tours starting late morning to avoid morning rain likelihood. Look for tours covering both Christian and Muslim quarters. Current food tour operators listed in booking section.

Cedars of God Mountain Visits

March offers last chance to see ancient cedar forests with snow backdrop before spring melt. Morning temperatures around 2°C (36°F) at 2,000m (6,562 ft) elevation create crisp conditions for forest walks among 3,000-year-old trees. Afternoon warming to 10°C (50°F) makes extended visits comfortable with proper layering.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Beirut typically cost $55-80 per person including transport and guide. Bring winter clothing - temperatures drop significantly with altitude. Check road conditions day before travel due to potential snow. See current mountain tour options below.

March Events & Festivals

Early to Mid March

Beirut International Women's Festival

Annual celebration featuring local and regional female artists, musicians, and filmmakers. Multiple venues across Beirut showcase contemporary Middle Eastern culture through performances, exhibitions, and workshops. Intimate indoor venues provide perfect escape from March's variable weather.

Throughout March

Tyre International Festival Planning Season

While main festival occurs in summer, March marks announcement of programming and early bird ticket sales. Cultural venues around ancient Tyre begin special exhibitions and preview events. Local restaurants create special menus anticipating increased cultural tourism.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots - essential for muddy mountain trails and wet cobblestones in old quarters

Layerable clothing system - temperature swings from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F) require adaptability

Compact umbrella - afternoon showers occur 12 days monthly but last only 1-3 hours each

Light waterproof jacket - March rain is frequent but not heavy, requiring breathable protection

Warm fleece or wool sweater - mountain visits and evening temperatures demand insulation

Sun hat and SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 6 despite cooler temperatures and cloud cover

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - wet limestone and marble surfaces become slippery

Small daypack with rain cover - protects electronics and documents during unexpected showers

Thermal underlayer - essential for early morning mountain excursions starting at 2°C (36°F)

Quick-dry pants - practical for hiking and city exploration when weather changes rapidly

Insider Knowledge

Lebanese schedule outdoor activities between 10am-3pm in March to avoid morning mist and afternoon rain - follow local timing patterns for best weather windows

Mountain restaurants close Tuesday-Wednesday in March due to low season - always confirm operating days before driving long distances to avoid disappointment

Exchange money at Beirut money changers rather than hotels - March 2025 economic conditions mean 15-20% better rates downtown versus tourist areas

Book mountain accommodations with heating - many guesthouses don't heat rooms assuming warm weather, but March nights drop to 5-8°C (41-46°F)

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only summer clothes expecting warm weather - March requires full winter gear for mountain visits and warm layers for evening

Scheduling outdoor activities without rain backup plans - 40% chance daily means indoor alternatives essential for each day's itinerary

Driving mountain roads without checking conditions - March snow and ice above 1,500m (4,921 ft) can close passes with 2-hour notice