Tourleb |  Impact tourism in Lebanon

Tourleb | Impact tourism in Lebanon

sunset in Lebanon

Tourleb | Impact tourism in Lebanon

I have made it clear how much I love traveling to Lebanon and there are many things and destinations you can explore on your own. However, when you want to get a better understanding and see Lebanon beyond the touristic sites, Tourleb is the way to go!

Since it was my second time traveling Lebanon I was super excited to dive deeper and get a better understanding of this deeply complex country.

About TourLeb

TourLeb is an inspiring women-led organization that has been leading the charge when it comes to impact tourism and community-oriented tourism in Lebanon. Founded by a passionate team of local guides, TourLeb seeks to give international and national visitors alike access to traditional experiences way off the beaten path.

TourLeb’s mission is to use sustainable tourism as a vehicle for positive change in the local communities of Lebanon. By sourcing locally-made products, connecting visitors with local guides, and encouraging travelers to take guided tours that promote cultural exchange, they are able to leave a tangible impact on those who may not otherwise have access to tourism opportunities.

The founders

Nada and Joëlle are two remarkable women who have dedicated themselves to raising awareness about the cohabitation of Christians and Muslims in Lebanon through their “Trait d’union islam-christianisme” project. Living in Canada for many years, they have heard all kinds of stories and prejudices about their homeland. To dispel these myths, they have created a book, a documentary, and a photo exhibition that have been exhibited across Europe, America, and Lebanon. Through oral testimonies, they provide a window into the lives of people from the smallest villages to the biggest cities and share their love for every part of Lebanon without exception. Their project is not only inspiring, but it also serves as a model of how people can come together to deconstruct prejudices and build bridges of empathy and understanding. With their deep knowledge of Lebanon and fearless love for all people, Nada and Joëlle invite everyone to join them on this journey to better understand Lebanon.

How to experience Lebanon with TourLeb

TourLeb offers carefully curated community-focused tours that give you a chance to explore way beyond the traditional tourist itineraries. By connecting you with local guides, providing locally sourced products and services, and encouraging cultural exchange, TourLeb makes it possible for visitors to have a meaningful impact on the destinies of communities in Lebanon.

While I was traveling Lebanon in 2023 I went on a day trip through seasons and time to explore how the traditional cheese was being made. What made the tour so special to me was that it literally felt like I was out and about for an exciting day with friends. I loved visiting the cheesemakers and the impact tourism made on their lives.

In Tripoli, I went out to discover the often hidden gems with a so-called storyteller and had the most wonderful experience. Away from seeing Triopli’s most famous sights, Mary Jo presented the city with such a personal touch which was absolutely refreshing and wonderful.

me at Jouvert in Jamaica
The impact

When you book a tour with TourLeb, you are not only enabling travelers to discover the deep layers of real Lebanon that often go unseen by most people but also contributing to local economic growth. At the same time, the company is building relationships between local communities and tourists which help foster dialogue and understanding.

The tours give visitors an opportunity to learn about the diversity of Lebanon, witness its unique landscape and customs, and become part of a living culture. TourLeb also puts a special emphasis on connecting travelers with local experts who can offer them first-hand insights into the communities they are visiting.

When I think back to my experience in Lebanon 2023, I remember the positive impact of the tourism industry. TourLeb has enabled local communities to benefit from increased economic opportunities. From being able to provide services for visitors, such as meals or lodging, to creating special experiences for travelers, these tours helped create jobs and much-needed income for the people of Lebanon.

It also created intercultural and social connections, strengthening ties between local communities and tourists alike. Tourists were able to experience the true beauty of Lebanon in a way they never would have otherwise.

By connecting travelers with local experts and promoting community-based projects, they are helping foster dialogue and understanding between different cultures and creating economic opportunities for communities all over Lebanon.

Travel Lebanon

Things to do in Beirut | 2023 Update

Things to do in Beirut | 2023 Update

I did not know what to expect and was taken by huge surprise by this pulsing and simply beautiful city. The “Paris of the Middle East” as many referred to Beirut is a stunning city that wears its heart on its sleeve. Despite the crisis, there are so many cool things to do in Beirut!

read more
Packing for Lebanon | What to bring

Packing for Lebanon | What to bring

Getting ready to embark on a trip to Lebanon? But before you head off for your magical Middle Eastern adventure, there’s one important thing you need to do: pack! In this blog post, I want to share my advice with you on what clothing essentials you should pack, gadgets that will make things easier along the way, plus some tips designed with the budget- and eco-conscious traveler in mind.

read more

Yunguilla  | Community Tourism in Ecuador’s cloud forest

Yunguilla | Community Tourism in Ecuador’s cloud forest

Yunguilla

Ecuador

Community tourism in Ecuador's cloud forest

Duration: at least 3 days

Budget: $ 55 per day

Yunguilla Corporation is a community-owned, sustainable development project founded by the 30 indigenous Quichua families of Yunguilla in the cloud forest region of Ecuador. The organization has been committed to promoting socio-economic and environmental sustainability since 2000. These include sustainable agriculture initiatives such as a coffee plantation, and the Agroforestry Program, which helps farmers implement low-impact farming techniques. They also support community-based tourism initiatives such as bird-watching tours, trekking to nearby waterfalls, and workshops on local cultural traditions.

  • Bird Watching 90% 90%
  • Hiking 95% 95%
  • Day-Trips 95% 95%
  • Culture 100% 100%

Yunguilla truly amazed me with its remarkable commitment to sustainability and stringent biosafety protocols. Since the year 2000, this community of 30 indigenous families has been a shining example of how sustainable production, environmental conservation, and community-based tourism can uplift livelihoods.

Yunguilla’s commitment to sustainability is a beacon of hope for many communities in Ecuador. By prioritizing environmental protection, building sustainable livelihoods through tourism, and maintaining their traditional culture, Yunguilla is an inspiration for other communities looking to create a better future for their people and the planet.

My experience in Yunguilla left an indelible mark on my heart, and I cannot wait to return to this hidden gem that holds the essence of Ecuador’s remarkable heritage.

Mission

Since its inception in 2000, Yunguilla Corporation has implemented a number of ambitious projects with the goal of improving livelihoods for local families while preserving the environment. The community has already begun reforestation efforts and is actively promoting agroforestry as an alternative to traditional agricultural practices.

Yunguilla is an inspiring example of how communities can come together to create a better future that balances people’s needs with respect for the environment. A visit to this magical place is a must for anyone who wants to experience nature up close and explore sustainable development in a rural setting

Downtown Beirut
Me at Frenchman's Cove Beach in Portland, Jamaica

Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve

Yunguilla is located in the heart of Ecuador’s Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve. This reserve holds some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world and is home to thousands of species that are endemic to this region. It is an incredibly important area for conservation efforts, and Yunguilla is playing a key role in preserving it.

Deforestation is an enormous problem in Ecuador. Areas of pristine rainforest are rapidly being cleared to make way for cattle pasture, mono-crop plantations, and oil exploration projects. This has had devastating effects on the environment and local communities who depend on the forest for their livelihoods. Yunguilla’s commitment to sustainability serves as a model for other efforts around the country to curb deforestation and increase community-based sustainable development.

Yunguilla has invested heavily in forest regeneration projects that have successfully reforested degraded and deforested areas. The community also runs a number of initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of the Chocó Andino Biosphere Reserve, and they partner with organizations committed to environmental protection to ensure that their efforts are effective.

Sustainable Agriculture

Yunguilla is also leading the way in sustainable agriculture. The community has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce their reliance on pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical inputs. These efforts are helping to protect soil fertility and conserve water for future use. Yunguilla farmers have also adopted agroforestry practices that promote biodiversity by planting a variety of crops in the same space and using natural pest control methods.

In addition, Yunguilla is committed to preserving traditional farming techniques and knowledge passed down from previous generations. This helps ensure that future generations have access to this valuable information and can continue to benefit from sustainable agricultural practices.

Fruits in Yunguilla ecuador
Long Bay beach im Portland, Jamaica

Education & Community Engagement

Yunguilla is committed to providing educational opportunities for its people. The community has invested in creating a high school and primary school, so that everyone has access to quality education. In addition, Yunguilla is working with local universities and organizations to provide job training programs and other educational initiatives.

Yunguilla also engages in community outreach activities like workshops on environmental topics, tree-planting, and water conservation. These activities help the local population gain awareness and understanding of the importance of sustainability. Additionally, Yunguilla has organized events to bring people together and celebrate their cultural heritage.

Protecting the future

Yunguilla’s Biosafety Protocols

Yunguilla has implemented a number of biosafety protocols over the years to ensure that their community remains healthy and protected from any potential environmental hazards. These protocols include strict water and waste management systems, which have helped to preserve the area’s natural resources while providing safe drinking water for community members.

Yunguilla’s Renewable Energy Sources

Yunguilla also has a strong commitment to renewable energy sources, such as solar power and biogas. These clean energy sources have helped to reduce the community’s carbon footprint while providing reliable electricity for homes and businesses.

Bourj Hammoud in Beirut
corniche in Beirut 2022

Unique Homestays in Yunguilla

Visitors to Yunguilla can enjoy a wonderful homestay experience where you get a comfortable guest room in one of the families’ houses. My time there was so enriched by the warm hospitality of the local families, who welcomed me into their comfortable homestays and shared their stories.

Witnessing microenterprises firsthand

During my visit, I had the privilege of witnessing the community’s microenterprises in action and indulging in delicious local dishes at their community restaurant. The food in Yunguilla is something special! Enjoy traditional Ecuadorian fare such as encebollado, and tamales made from local ingredients. Plus, the restaurant uses locally-grown organic produce for their dishes, so it’s also a great way to support the local economy and farmers. The local craftsmen also made beautiful weaving and jewelry pieces, which I was able to purchase.

Cable car in Jounieh, Lebanon
Rafting Rio Grande River, Jamaica

Tours around Yunguilla

Yunguilla Cultural Tours

Visitors can also choose to take part in a cultural tour organized by Yunguilla that takes you to visit some of the historical sites in the area. Learn about traditional medicine practices, agricutural knowledge, and the unique way of life within this rural community.

Hiking & Bird watching

Yunguilla is an absolute paradise for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike, offering an authentic and immersive experience of rural life in the Ecuadorian highlands. On my visit, I had the chance to explore the community’s fascinating trails. The forest walks were nothing short of magical, immersing me in the enchanting sounds and sights of nature. From the cloud forests, one can observe many species of hummingbirds and other birds, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Cultural activities

I also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that educate and engage visitors with local culture. These include traditional medicinal walks through the forest, and educational tours to learn about conservation practices and sustainable production techniques.

Cheesemaking

One of the most memorable experiences of my visit was learning about the process of making traditional cheese from a local family. We were able to take part in every step, from milking to curdling and shaping the cheese.

Jam making

I was particularly delighted to get involved in a jam-making workshop. I also had the chance to learn how to make traditional jams from fresh, local fruit, and also to sample some of the exquisite jams they produce in Yunguilla. The freshly made jams can be enjoyed with breakfast or as an accompaniment to other main dishes. Also a super nice souvenir to take home!

cheesemaking at yunguilla
Fruits in Yunguilla ecuador

Volunteering

As a volunteer, you’ll be assigned activities based on your interests and abilities, as well as the needs of the community. You may explore environmental education by conducting forest research or helping with the organic garden. If you enjoy hands-on tasks, you can assist with the construction and maintenance of trails, camping areas, and recreational areas, as well as composting systems and other infrastructure projects. In addition, you have the opportunity to participate in agricultural and forestry tasks, such as reforestation, alongside the community organization’s family members. Another way to immerse yourself in the community is by participating in mingas, which are communal gatherings to work towards common goals. Finally, you can try your hand at dairy and jam processing, which combines food science with sustainability. Overall, the volunteer opportunities presented here are a great way to both benefit the community and learn new skills

Get ready to travel Ecuador

How to get to Yunguilla from Quito

The easiest and most comfortable way is going by Uber. It takes about 90 minutes depending on traffic.

Best time to visit Yunguilla:

You can visit Yunguilla all year round. It is a beautiful destination and you’ll always find something to explore regardless of the weather. In June lots of indigenous celebrations are taking place throughout the months. 

What to bring to Yunguilla

As you are pretty high up, the weather tends to be a bit more extreme. When it is sunny, it feels very hot but it cools down equally as quick. Bring comfortable and rather sporty clothes, and do not forget a rain jacket! Bring ample mosquito repellent, too!

Where to get money

Bring money before you head to Yunguilla. 

tanzania travel Zanzibar beaches

Packing List Ecuador

As you see, there are plenty of things to experience in Jamaica. To come fully prepared, check out my packing list for Jamaica, which includes everything from eco-friendly toiletries to sustainable fashion and even the coolest travel gadgets!

Traveling Ecuador?

Ecuador Itinerary

Places to visit in Ecuador