I first heard about "nature walking and hiking" in 2006. At that time, I was assisting a friend who was working on the LMT (Lebanon Mountain Trail) project.

In May 2007, I "reluctantly" accompanied a group to Qadisha (which soon became my favorite place). Back then, I had no intention of becoming a guide because I believed it would be an activity limited to a few days per year. However, I soon found myself dedicating all my weekends to it. Since 2017, this has become my primary occupation, and I lead groups all over Lebanon.

Sometimes, these outings span several days, combining visits and hikes. During such trips, I handle all the organization and logistics, in addition to guiding the hikes. I also coordinate with local guides to visit sites along the route.

"Hiking" is, first and foremost, the joy of direct contact with nature and the appreciation of its beauty. Furthermore, it involves meeting people from diverse backgrounds, enriching the experience with exchanges and discoveries. For instance, I've encountered hidden and unexpected talents, such as a furniture restorer who practices "Zajal," spontaneous mountain poetry, or the traditional wood-fired oven in Jezzine.

If I were to name my favorite places, I would begin with Qadisha (the Holy Valley), a unique site, the Cedars of Bcharré, the Shouf Reserve, the forest of Ehden, the oaks, junipers, and firs of Akkar. Not to forget Baalbek, with a good guide to help visitors appreciate the less obvious but intriguing details. I also appreciate the authenticity of Tripoli, the coexistence of modern life behind the ancient facades in Batroun, and the list goes on.

In conclusion, I believe that to be a hiking guide in Lebanon, one needs to have knowledge of the history and the stories that each tree and rock can tell, whether linked to geology, archaeology, or heritage.