Lebanon’s rugged landscapes and breathtaking trails have long been a source of inspiration for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. At the heart of this thriving outdoor playground is Gilbert Moukheiber, a mountain leader instructor and the founder of 33North, WAALebanon and Boukaat Loubnan Trails. With a deep passion for nature and an unwavering commitment to sustainable adventure tourism, Moukheiber has dedicated his career to connecting people with Lebanon’s wild beauty, as we discover.

What first drew you to the world of mountain leadership and outdoor adventure?

I wanted to be in the mountains, to connect people with the mountains and with nature. Thankfully, I was capable of bringing this passion into my professional life. My journey has always been about exploring Lebanon’s wilderness, helping people appreciate their culture and nature, and fostering economic support through adventure tourism.

In your opinion, what is the most important lesson nature can teach us?

The most important lesson nature teaches us is knowing when to say no, when to turn back and how to play it safe. Nature is a powerful force, and respecting it is essential for survival and enjoyment.

You’ve dedicated your career to exploring Lebanon. How has your perspective on the country evolved through your experiences?

Since 1996, Lebanon has evolved significantly in terms of nature and adventure tourism. Today, we have two national trails: the Lebanon Mountain Trail and the Boukaat Lebanon Trails, along with many other nature trails. We’ve also developed a program with Antonine University to train new mountain leaders. While we still need to establish rules and regulations for the sector, we are making progress. My hope is that Lebanon will be recognized internationally as an adventure tourism destination.

Through 33North, WAALebanon and Boukaat Loubnan Trails, you’ve helped shape Lebanon’s outdoor adventure scene. What impact do you hope to have on future generations?

33North reflects Lebanon’s geographical latitude, emphasizing that Lebanon has always been my main focus. I was never interested in promoting other destinations because Lebanon offers a unique mixture of nature, people, and connection. Through WAALebanon, we train people to explore the backcountry safely. I also played a role in developing the Lebanon Mountain Trail and recently, for the past four years, I’ve been working on the Boukaat Lebanon Trail. This trail promotes off-the-beaten-path destinations, encouraging people to discover the lesser-known beauty of Lebanon.

Leading expeditions must come with its fair share of challenges. What was the greatest challenge you faced?

The main challenge in leading expeditions is dealing with people. Guiding is about group management — it’s not just physical effort or navigating the environment. It involves risk management and meeting people’s expectations, which evolve with time. Expeditions can take place in harsh conditions over long durations, and the goal is always to ensure that everyone returns safely while having a meaningful experience.

What role do you think outdoor activities play in fostering a deeper connection between people and their environment?

Nature is the ultimate playground, a space where we can grow, push our limits, and discover ourselves. It helps us expand our comfort zone without stepping into dangerous territory. Hiking in Lebanon has played a crucial role in bringing people into rural communities, supporting local businesses and creating connections between visitors and residents. It’s an essential way to explore Lebanon’s identity and culture.

How do you balance the thrill of adventure with the responsibility of conservation and sustainability?

We adopt the principles of leave no trace and conduct risk assessments before every expedition. We limit group sizes to reduce environmental impact, avoid excessive use of motorized vehicles and only make fires in designated areas with responsibly sourced wood. By following these guidelines, we ensure that adventure and sustainability go hand in hand.

What would you say to someone who has never experienced Lebanon’s wilderness? 

Lebanon’s wilderness remains an undiscovered gem on the international tourism map. We have over 1,000 kilometers of trails, historical landmarks dating back over 2,000 years and breathtaking landscapes that can be explored within short driving distances. The hospitality of our people is unmatched, and new adventure activities are constantly emerging. I encourage everyone to take the chance to explore Lebanon; you’ll be surprised at what you find.

33northleb |  Boukaatloubnantrails | waalebanon

If you liked reading this, check out our article on Lebanon’s role in the Med Trails Network.