Lebanon is one of the few places where you can ski in the morning and swim by the afternoon, but that same geography makes winter driving in Lebanon unpredictable. If you plan to rent a car in Lebanon this season, here is how to choose the right vehicle, check the roads and get your rental ready before you head up the mountain. Browse our SUV rentals or full fleet, and book online when you are ready.
Which Mountain Roads Are Affected by Snow in Lebanon?
Snow can fall from roughly 800 to 1,000 metres above sea level, and the roads most often affected include Dahr el Baidar, Tarshish–Zahle, Arz–Inata and Faraya–Tarshish. When snow arrives, the Traffic Management Center and the Internal Security Forces usually announce which roads are closed, which are open only to SUVs and four-wheel-drive vehicles, and which require tire or metal chains.
Conditions change within hours, so check the latest announcements before every mountain trip. For the basics of road etiquette and enforcement, read our guide to driving rules in Lebanon.
Choosing the Best Rental Car for Winter Driving in Lebanon
A city car is fine for Beirut and the coast, but mountain routes in snow are a different story. An SUV gives you higher ground clearance and, on four-wheel-drive models, better traction, which matters on roads that are open only to SUVs. If you want comfort as well, consider our luxury SUVs; for mixed city and highway use, a medium car is usually enough.
Not sure which suits your route? See our best car to rent in Lebanon guide or ask our team about the right vehicle for your destination.
Winter Car Rental in Lebanon: Pre-Trip Checklist
- Tires: check tread and pressure before you leave the city.
- Lights and wipers: make sure headlights, fog lights and wipers work, and top up washer fluid.
- Fuel: start with a full tank, since queues and closures can add hours to a trip.
- Chains: ask our team before your trip whether chains are needed for your route and what your rental agreement allows.
- Phone and charger: keep your phone charged and save the Lerecom 24/7 support number.
- Warm essentials: pack water, a blanket and warm clothing in case you are delayed.
Snow and Ice Road Safety Tips
- Drive slowly and keep a longer distance from the car ahead; braking takes much longer on wet or icy roads.
- Brake and accelerate gently, and use a lower gear on descents.
- Never drive through flooded roads, and avoid speeding in rain or fog.
- Follow instructions from the ISF and road signs; if a road is closed, turn back.
- Plan to descend before dark, when temperatures drop and ice forms.
Check Your Insurance Before Going Up the Mountain
Weather-related damage is a common worry. Review what your rental covers before you travel, and read our guide to car rental insurance in Lebanon. Our rentals come with no cancellation fees and 24/7 support, so you can change plans if a storm hits.
New to renting here? Our complete car rental in Lebanon guide covers documents, pricing and pick-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a rental car to the mountains in winter in Lebanon?
Yes, as long as the roads are open and you follow the instructions of the Traffic Management Center and the Internal Security Forces. Check road conditions before you leave and ask the Lerecom team which vehicle suits your route.
Which rental car is best for snow in Lebanon?
An SUV is usually the best choice for mountain roads in winter because of its higher ground clearance and, on four-wheel-drive models, better traction. Some roads are open only to SUVs and four-wheel-drive vehicles during snowfall.
Do I need snow chains to drive in the Lebanese mountains?
On some roads during snowfall, the authorities require tire or metal chains. Ask the Lerecom team before your trip whether chains are needed for your route and what your rental agreement allows.
How do I know if a mountain road is closed because of snow?
The Traffic Management Center and the Internal Security Forces announce road closures and restrictions, and local media repeat them. Check the latest announcement before every mountain trip, since conditions can change within hours.
Is a rental car covered if it is damaged in winter weather?
Coverage depends on your rental agreement and insurance option. Read the terms before you travel and contact Lerecom with any question about what is included.
Ready for Winter on the Road?
Whether you are skiing in Faraya or visiting the cedars, Lerecom has the car for the trip. Contact our team or book your rental online today.
