Zebqin Valley Reserve

Zebqin Valley Natural Reserve

Zebqin Valley is located approximately 17 km south of Tyre, stretching from the Al-Aziya spring along its wadis over an area exceeding 20 km². It is one of the most important biodiversity sites in Jabal Amel, hosting most of the species characteristic of the region and ranking among its most distinctive areas. The valley is characterized by a Mediterranean vegetation cover considered among the richest and most diverse globally, with continuous forests extending over 13 km and a width exceeding 3.6 km in some areas—features not found elsewhere in the region. The valley’s wadis encompass parts of the towns of Qlayleh, Zebqin, Yater, Ramiyeh, and Al-Salhani, reaching the border with Palestine.

Environmental Features

Biodiversity and Forests: The valley contains the last pine forests in the region, alongside mastic, oak, and carob trees, in addition to dozens of plant species, including medicinal plants.
Water Resources: Numerous springs and seasonal streams flow through the valley, forming river-like channels that support species survival and sustain the ecological life cycle—from fish and amphibians to birds and carnivorous mammals.
Natural Caves: The valley hosts natural caves, such as the Nafkha Cave and Al-Salhani Caves, which serve as refuges for wild pigeons, bats, and other animal species, with unique geological and ecological characteristics.
Wildlife: Notable species observed in the valley include the Golden Jackal (Canis aureus), Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena), Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes), Porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum), Badger (Meles meles), and Rock Hyrax (Procavia capensis), along with a wide range of birds and reptiles.
Reserve Project

Based on its environmental value, the Green South Association submitted a report accompanied by studies to the relevant municipalities and regional representatives on August 25, 2016, proposing the declaration of the valley as a natural reserve. This initiative aims to enhance the health of the natural environment, deepen understanding of biodiversity, and support sustainable development pathways. The municipal council of Zebqin adopted the proposal on February 13, 2017, followed by the Yater Municipal Council on March 24, 2017 (covering private lands within Yater’s jurisdiction). Since then, the association has been working with the Zebqin Municipality on the necessary procedures with the Ministry of Environment, which is expected to forward the file to the Council of Ministers for official approval.