Syria Pioneers Tour

Day 3 - ​​Maaloula » Mar Musa » Ebla » Aleppo

• Our first stop today will be the October War Panorama, which vividly recounts the story of the October 1973 War, providing valuable insight into Syria’s modern history.
• Following this, we will visit the notorious Saydnaya Prison, once used by the Assad regime as a site for the torture of political prisoners, offering a solemn look at this dark chapter in Syria’s history.
• After that, we'll then drive to Maaloula, a small Christian town that suffered immense destruction by ISIS in 2014. Despite this, it remains one of the most scenic villages in Syria and is the only place in the world where Aramaic, the language spoken by Christ, is still actively used as a living language; in fact, it is possible to hear the Lord’s prayer being spoken using it.
• Then, we visit Mar Musa, a breathtaking 6th-century monastery perched among rugged mountains. Shaped like a towering fortress, this ancient site was founded by Mar Musa al-Habashi (Saint Moses of Abyssinia), who, according to legend, was the son of an Ethiopian king.

• Next, we explore Ebla, an ancient archaeological site famous for the world’s oldest preserved library of clay tablets, offering insight into early civilizations.
• We will head to Aleppo, a flourishing metropolis since the 3rd millennium BC, Aleppo has been fighting with Damascus for the title of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city.
• Once we have explored more of the city, we'll enjoy dinner at Qurtuba, a renowned Syrian restaurant run by an Armenian family, known for its authentic flavors and warm atmosphere.
• Overnight in a 4-star hotel in the center of Aleppo City.

Day 4 - Aleppo city tour

• Subsequent to breakfast, our first stop in the morning will be, of course, the famous Aleppo Castle, which stands in the middle of the city and dominates it from the height of its fifty meters.
• The citadel features beautifully designed towers and perfectly constructed entrances to prevent enemy intrusion, along with sturdy iron gates.
• Then, we'll stroll through the market stretching from the front of the castle to the old city. Along the way, we'll witness the contrast between the destroyed areas, the active restoration sites, and finally, the fully renovated section, which now looks absolutely stunning.

• Moreover, Aleppo is renowned for its spicy sausage; therefore, we’ll make a stop at Abu Hagoub Restaurant, famous for serving the best sausage sandwiches in the city.
• Then, we visit the Umayyad Mosque in Aleppo, which is currently in the final stages of restoration.
• Subsequently, we'll visit Al-Jubaili Soap Factory, the oldest in Aleppo, where you'll have the opportunity to witness the traditional process of crafting the world-famous laurel Aleppo soap, renowned for its quality and history.
• We will also visit a soap exhibition where you can touch the largest bar of soap in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records.
• We head for sunset at one of our secret spots overlooking Aleppo; subsequently, we head back to Uncle Hamido's restaurant, where you'll get the chance to taste what is often hailed as the best falafel in the world.
• Finally, overnight in a 4-starhotel in the center of Aleppo City.Sample text. Click to select the Text Element.

Day 5 - ​​​St. Simeon » Qalb Loze » Apamea » Hama 

• Following breakfast, our first stop in the morning will be the majestic Basilica of St. Simeon, one of the oldest and largest church ruins in the world. Built in the 5th century, it honors Saint Simeon Stylites, who famously lived atop a pillar for decades in devotion.
  The site offers sweeping views and a deep sense of early Christian history.
  
• We’ll explore the ancient church of Qalb Loze, one of the best-preserved examples of early Byzantine architecture in Syria. Dating back to the 5th century, this church is considered a prototype for many later Christian structures in the region, with its distinctive arches and unique basilica layout.
  
• We’ll visit the impressive ruins of Apamea, one of the great cities of the ancient Seleucid Empire.
  While being famous for its grand colonnaded street stretching over 2 kilometers, Apamea offers a glimpse into Syria’s classical past with its Roman theater, mosaics, and fortress overlooking the Orontes Valley.
  
• We’ll stop in Hama, famous for its ancient wooden water wheels known as “norias,” which once played a key role in the city’s irrigation system.
  Set along the Orontes River, these iconic structures, some dating back to the Byzantine era, offer a charming and historic glimpse into Syria’s engineering heritage.
  
• Overnight in a boutique hotel in the center of Hama City.

Day 6 - ​​​Salamiyah » Al Tabqah » Jaabar Castle » Raqqa

• To start the day, our first stop will be Shmemis Castle, This ancient castle, dating back to the 2nd century BC, is perched atop a volcanic crater and offers breathtaking views of the fertile plains that stretch across the surrounding landscape.
• Following this, we’ll head to Raqqa Province, we will cross the border and secure an entry permit for the region before heading to the Tabqa Dam on the Euphrates River.
  The dam creates a vast lake and is surrounded by fertile agricultural lands, making it a vital area for irrigation and farming.
• After that, we'll continue our journey to JabbarCastle, This 10th-century castle, built on an island encircled by water, has been home to various civilizations throughout history.
  The island offers stunning views and is known for its many restaurants serving uniquely spiced Euphrates fish.
• We’ll enjoy lunch at one of these local spots ​and we also have the opportunity to enjoy a scenic boat ride around the castle and along the Euphrates River, adding a relaxing and picturesque experience to our visit.
• Next, we will arrive in the city of Raqqah.
• Overnight stay at a 3-star hotel in the heart of Raqqah City.

Day 7 - ​​​​​Raqqa » Al Hasakah » Qamishli

• Early in the morning, at the hotel, we will visit the Black Stadium, a former I-S-I-S prison. The site bears powerful testimony to recent history, with haunting messages and drawings left behind by former prisoners on the walls.
• We will engage with the local community and visit the main square in Raqqa Governorate, a central hub that reflects the city’s resilience and ongoing recovery.
• Meanwhile, we’ll head to Al-Hasakah Governorate, where you’ll get to taste some of Syria’s most unique and locally crafted sweets, distinctive to this region.
• Then we’ll continue to Qamishli Governorate, known for having the highest concentration of Kurdish population in the region. Situated near the Iraqi-Turkish border and crossed by the Tigris River to the north, Qamishli boasts stunning natural landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry.
•  Overnight in a 4-star hotel in the center of Qamishli City.

Day 8 - ​​​Qamishli » Women's village » Rasafah » Hama

• To start the day We’ll begin by exploring the key landmarks of Qamishli, then head to a truly unique destination — the Women’s Village.
  This all-women community is one of a kind. Men are not permitted to enter. Actually, women here sustain themselves through agriculture, handicrafts, and food production. We’ll have the opportunity to meet and engage with the residents, gaining insight into their lives, history, and the evolving reality of this remarkable region.
• Following this, we will travel we will travel to Raqqa Governorate to visit the remarkable archaeological site of Al-Rusafa.
  This ancient city is home to a stunningly preserved church that dates back to the early Christian era and is associated with Saints Sergius and Bacchus—Christian knights venerated across the region. A monastery dedicated to them also exists in Maaloula, making this visit a profound connection to Syria’s deep Christian heritage.
• By the afternoon we will leave the eastern Euphrates region and head to the city of Hama.
• In a 4-star boutique hotel in the center of Hama City.

Day 9 - ​​​​Idlib » AL Bara » Citadel of Salah ad-Din » Lattakia

• We will begin our day with a visit to Idlib Governorate, which has become more accessible to other cities after its liberation. Here, you will observe a unique economic system distinct from other regions, 
• Next, we visit Al-Bara, one of the most striking Dead Cities of Syria. Nestled in the hills of the Idlib countryside, this ancient Byzantine site is known for its impressive ruins, including stone houses, tombs, and churches dating back to the 5th and 6th centuries.
  Al-Bara offers a haunting yet beautiful glimpse into Syria’s early Christian history and rural life during antiquity.
  
• Then, we will visit Syria’s most breathtaking castle, majestically perched on a rocky hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding green mountains.
  In fact, one of its most remarkable features is a manually excavated moat, a testament to the dedication and skill of its builders.
  This historic fortress has witnessed the influence of multiple civilizations, from the Phoenicians and Byzantines to the Crusaders and the era of Saladin.
• After that, we will continue our journey to the charming city of Lattakia, where the sea meets lush green mountains and a lively urban atmosphere. Upon arrival, we will explore the city and take in its unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture.
• Stay at a 5-star Resort in Lattakia City, with a beautiful sea view.