Our Essential FAQs for Syria. First, Check out our answers; additionally, Syria travel tips, moreover, our Syria travel guide is your gateway to enriching travel experiences. finally, Start your Syria adventure with inspiration and knowledge.
Contrary to misleading news and misconceptions, In fact, Syria is considered safe to travel to nowadays. Furthermore, Syrian people are known for their friendliness; consequently, the crime rate towards tourists is relatively low. Additionally, the locations you will visit in Syria have been assessed for security and are, therefore, considered safe. Syria Scope Travel guarantees visitors that it is safe to travel to Syria.
Inside New Government-protected areas, Syria is quite safe. You will be far from zones of conflict. Generally speaking, you will feel safe in Syria and quickly release this upon arrival, You will have to cross many army checkpoints, and our guides will ensure everything goes smoothly without wasting your precious travel time.
Many parts of Syria are very safe, while other parts are not safe for travel. Clearly, our Syria tour packages are limited to safe Government-controlled regions; therefore, you can count on us for trouble-free travel. Our adventure travel company seeks to provide the best service while maintaining maximum safety standards.So, Yes, you can visit safe regions within the Syrian new government-controlled areas, except for certain specific regions that you will not explore during this trip.Moreover, while traveling in Syria, it is important to cooperate with your guide during emergencies and follow their instructions. In addition, you may encounter roadblocks and checkpoints along the way, but necessary paperwork, including tourist permits, will be handled for you. Furthermore, It is essential to maintain a polite and friendly demeanor when interacting with security personnel since they are present to ensure your safety and well-being.
In the case of serious threats to safety, tours may be canceled. Indeed, the safety of travelers is of utmost importance; therefore, necessary precautions will be taken in such situations.
We understand that safety is, indeed, a top concern, especially for women travelers. Therefore, we have implemented strict measures to prioritize the safety and well-being of all our clients, particularly our female clients. Moreover, our guides in Syria are highly qualified, experienced, and culturally sensitive. Consequently, they dedicate themselves to ensuring that our female clients are treated with respect and dignity throughout the tour. Furthermore, we continually assess and enhance our safety protocols to address any potential concerns. In addition, we encourage open communication between our clients and guides, fostering a supportive environment. As a result, our female travelers can feel secure and empowered during their journey.
Certainly, Our guides undergo comprehensive training, including emergency procedures, to handle any situations that may arise during the tour. As a result, their priority is the safety and well-being of our clients, and consequently, they are equipped to address any challenges that may occur.
Army checkpoints are common in Syria; nevertheless, your guide will ensure they do not disrupt your valuable travel time. in fact, they are a part of daily life in Syria.
Travelers should stay open-minded; furthermore, they should step out of their comfort zones and embrace the fantastic destination that Syria is.However, while remaining aware of the security situation, it is important to approach the trip with a polite and friendly attitude towards Syrian people and security personnel. Moreover, by following these guidelines and cooperating with your guide, you can have a safe and enjoyable travel experience in Syria.
Yes, it is generally advisable to engage in conversation with locals, especially students and young people who approach you. In fact, interacting with Syrian people can offer unique cultural insights; moreover, this interaction can also enrich your travel experience.
Like any other country in the world, when you engage with locals, you must exercise caution and, therefore, keep your personal information, such as your address, hotel, and itinerary, confidential. Indeed, you should prioritize your safety by, consequently, not divulging sensitive details to strangers.
You can choose to share your social media contacts if you feel comfortable doing so. However, it's essential to exercise discretion and evaluate your level of trust before sharing personal information. Furthermore, you can decide to connect with them later depending on your discretion and comfort level.
New Syria is free, and you can ask your guides or the locals about politics.
This type of society exists in many Middle Eastern countries, However, the younger generation is the most receptive to this matter.
In case of an emergency in Syria, the local emergency phone numbers are 110 for police, 112 for medical emergencies, and 113 for the fire department.
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When you meet Syrians in Syria or all over the world, you will notice that they are extremely happy and optimistic because of getting rid of the criminal dictator regime that tortured the Syrian people for decades.
Syria's history is approximately about 14000 years
The accommodations you'll be staying at are secular, allowing you to wear any clothes you feel comfortable in and freely express yourself.
No, For religious sites that require modest attire, appropriate clothing is readily available upon arrival at the location.
When encountering someone who is praying in a mosque, it is considered respectful to avoid crossing directly in front of them. Instead, pass by from the sides or behind the person who is praying. Furthermore, this gesture demonstrates awareness and respect for their religious practice.
Christians make up 10% of Syria's population, while the remaining majority consists of a diverse mix of Islamic sects.
Smoking is allowed in many public places in Syria, however, some establishments may have designated non-smoking areas. thus, It is always considerate to ask before smoking in public areas.
Yes even alcohol is available in Syria, and you can enjoy a drink during your visit. Damascus, for instance, boasts a vibrant bar scene with pop-up bars and drink kiosks. In Christian areas, locals often produce their own beverages and enjoy drinking as part of their culture. Your guide will provide advice on cultural norms to follow when visiting different parts of the country.
Yes! We strongly recommend giving a tip to your local guide and driver at the end of the tour.For example, tipping could be 2 _ 7% of what you paid for the tour.
Yes, but elderly religious people should be asked before that.
Yes, there are many good bars, especially in Damascus, Homs, and Lattakia, furthermore, there is even a speakeasy bar.
Nightlife in Syria varies depending on the city and region. For instance, many cities like Damascus, Aleppo, the Valley of Homs, and coastal cities offer a range of entertainment options; more specifically, these include restaurants, cafes, bars, and cultural events.
Syria’s vibrant calendar is adorned with an array of local festivals and events that reflect its diverse cultural tapestry. in particular, religious celebrations hold a special place; for instance, notable occasions like Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Christmas, and Easter, thereby, fostering unity and joy among communities. Additionally, the holy cross festival in Maaloula on September 14th and the Virgin Mary Carnival in Marmarita on August 15th offer captivating insights into the region’s religious heritage.
Public holidays in Syria include, for instance, New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Revolution Day, and, moreover, Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Friday and Saturday, for this reason, the best nightlife is on Thursday night.
Traditional handicrafts of Syria include, for instance, metalwork, glassblowing, pottery, brocade, mosaic, swords, carpet weaving, as well as traditional soap-making.
Unmarried male and female travelers are welcome to share a room during the tour. There's no restriction on accommodation arrangements.
Yes, you can, in fact, we organize tours to Syria, focusing on safe areas, and include a professional tour guide.
Yes, you can! Many are surprised to learn that Syria was once one of the most popular travel destinations in the Middle East before the war. The country reopened to tourists a few years ago, and now obtaining a tourist visa is even easier with the introduction of a visa-on-arrival system.
Travelers to Syria can generally obtain a visa upon arrival, with a few exceptions for certain nationalities—such as Iran, Israel, Russia, and Iraq—that require prior approval. Once you receive your visa on arrival, you are free to travel independently within Syria.
To enter Syria, your passport must be valid for at least six months. If you are flying to Syria, some airlines may ask for proof of a Syrian visa before boarding. To avoid issues, it’s best to book a tour through a licensed travel agency, which can provide you with a confirmation letter including tour dates, guides, and details. Entry by land from Lebanon or Jordan is usually easier, as visas are issued on arrival at the border.
Syria grants visas on arrival to most nationalities, with the exception of citizens from Israel, Iran, Russia, and Iraq. The easiest place to obtain a visa on arrival is at the land border crossings with Lebanon or Jordan. For travelers flying directly into Syria, some airlines may still request a visa in advance at the airport, as not all carriers have updated information on the new regulations.
You only need your passport and to state that your purpose is tourism to obtain a visa on arrival in Syria.
American citizens can obtain a visa on arrival in Syria for a fee of $200.
The processing time for obtaining a visa on arrival at airports or land borders usually takes around 30 minutes, depending on the length of the queue.
It depends on your passport, You can find all Visa Prices here
Visa-on-arrival is available for all nationalities except Iran and Israel, Russia, Iraq
After the liberation of Syria, some of the policies of the former regime changed and there is no longer a problem in having a stamp from Palestine.
Yes, you can learn Arabic during the Syria tour, but you can't study in a school because it's not available yet.
Pay in USD at the land borders and the Airports in Syria
We can organize your tour right away, but planning ahead ensures the best value tailored to your needs.
Yes, you can. After 15 days inside Syria, we can extend your Single Entry tourism visa.
Yes, if you don't have a multiple-entry Visa when you leave Jordan and come back again, you need to pay for the Visa fee.
The new authorities do stamp your passport directly, you can ask for a stamp on paper instead of your passport.
You must use the same passport for entering Syria that you used to enter Lebanon, Jordan, or any other country if arriving via Damascus airport.
The visa is valid for a single entry, allowing a stay of up to 15 days from the date of arrival. Travelers can also pay extra for Double Entry (90 Days) or Multiple Entries ( 180 Days). Tourists are not eligible for the 15-Day Transit Visa.
Border crossings are only permitted from Lebanon and Jordan, or from Turkey if you hold Turkish citizenship or Syrian. Alternatively, you can also enter Syria via direct flights to Damascus or Aleppo airports.
The Syrian-Lebanese border operates daily from 8 AM to 10 PM, while the Syrian-Jordanian border is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM.
no, when you arrive to Syria and get a Visa on arrival, they will only ask you about where to stay during your time in Syria.
Yes, these Syria tours are tailored exclusively for you and your group. Also, we offer group tours with fixed dates for solo travelers.
Few airlines operate in Syrian airports nowadays, including Cham Wings, Syrian Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Royal Jordanian.
The best hub to fly to Syria is Beirut airport – in Lebanon – from where we pick up and drop off in total security. In addition, we can pick you up at a place of your choice in Beirut, either at your hotel in the morning or directly from the Beirut Airport arrivals gate.
Yes, of course, Syria has several international airports, including Damascus International Airport, Aleppo International Airport, and Lattakia International Airport. However, due to the sanctions, we have limited flights for a few destinations.
Prices vary depending on the time of the year and how much you purchase your tickets in advance. But usually, we can say that a round-trip ticket from most European cities to Beirut will cost around 250 USD to 500 USD, depending on the season. However, flying in and out of Beirut, Middle East Airlines can be much cheaper, as it is Lebanon’s national carrier.
During your tour in Syria, you will always be accompanied by a professional guide and a driver. Both are local people who adapted to take you around the country, proudly show you around, and make you have a great time exploring this amazing historical nation.
All our tours include entrance tickets for attractions. So, you don’t need to worry about additional costs for visiting monuments.
All tours start and finish in either Beirut (Lebanon), Amman (Jordan), or Damascus (Syria). To clarify, these cities have major airports that are easily accessible from Turkey, Europe, or Gulf countries.
Yes, the tour itinerary can be subject to change due to various factors such as the current political situation, weather conditions, traffic, or unforeseen events. Also, travelers should be aware of this possibility and remain flexible during the tour.
Absolutely no.
By USD cash when you arrive in Syria, no deposit is required, we also accept PayPal payment with an extra %10.
Our carefully selected hotels in Syria range from 4 to 5 stars and are chosen with key factors in mind: safety, cleanliness, professional staff, and, of course, an exceptional breakfast experience. Whenever possible, we accommodate all our clients in these top-quality hotels.Damascus : Bei AlMamlouka, Beik Bash, Beit Zaman, Talisman, Beit Alwali 5-star boutique Al Mishtaya : Villa Rosa HotelAleppo : Quattro, Rigga HotelLatakkia : La Mira HotelTartous : Shahin Tower HotelHoms : Al Waleed Hotel
Yes, sure, All the hotels we use provide 24-hour electricity, wifi, hot water, and reliable amenities to ensure a comfortable stay throughout your tour.
Yes! sure you can, please feel free.
Our group trips are designed to be with 3 to 6 participants per group. If reservations exceed this number, we divide the groups to ensure flexibility and provide a more personalized and enjoyable experience for everyone.
We provide a range of services including guided tours, accommodation bookings, transportation arrangements, in addition, tailored travel packages to suit your preferences.
Absolutely! Our travel experts can help you create a personalized itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Let us know your preferences, and we'll tailor the perfect journey for you.
Our customer support is available 24/7. Contact us through the provided helpline or email, and we'll assist you promptly with any queries or concerns.
Please review our cancellation policy on our website. We also, aim to provide flexible options, however, it's important to understand the terms and conditions that are related to cancellations and refunds.
Transportation options in Syria include taxis, buses, trains, and private cars.
Transport to/from Beirut, Damascus Airport, or Amman.Accommodation.PermitsPrivate transportation and driver around Syria.Breakfast.English or any required language-speaking tour guide.Entrance fees to the places listed in the itinerary.
Any item bearing a sign of political significance, such as a mug printed with a picture of a political figure
Drones are prohibited in Syria without official authorization. They are often confiscated upon entry, particularly at airports. To operate a drone legally, travelers must coordinate with the Ministry of Information and obtain the necessary permits in advance.
The usual amount for a tip is 2 to 7% of what you paid in total for the tour, that's total and not per guide and driver.
The drive from Beirut to Damascus takes 3 hours including the border crossing.
We recommend Syriatel company, also, you can get a SIM card at the border.
We do not have any age caps at all, in fact, our tours generally have people of all ages.This actually, is what makes our tours so special.
The tour starts at 8 am early morning, so it is advisable to arrive in Beirut the day before. Also, we can provide assistance with hotel bookings and airport transfers if needed.
Our Syria tours include two transfers: one on the first day and another on the last day while returning from Syria. In addition, You have the flexibility to choose where to use these round-trip transfers. also, we can pick you up directly from the airport or your hotel in Beirut or Amman, and the same applies to the return journey. Ultimately, Let us know your preferences, and we will make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs.
If you prefer to start the tour from Amman in Jordan, there is an additional supplement of 100 USD for one-way transportation or 200 USD for round-trip transportation. Similarly, if you choose to start the tour directly from Damascus in Syria, there is a price reduction of 25 USD for one-way transportation or 50 USD for round-trip transportation.
Yes, if you arrive at the airport early in the morning, we can arrange for a pick-up directly from the airport. However, please consider that the tour involves a full day of visiting Damascus, so it’s recommended to get some rest beforehand.
March, April, May, August, September, October, November, and December.
Of course not, you are free to meet people and do what you like but of course, you need your guide to show you around when you are in places like Palmyra and so.
Personal expenses in Syria are quite affordable. You can expect to spend around $5 to $15 for a meal in a restaurant, $1 to $3 for street food, and $4 for a beer in a bar. If you buy beer from a shop, it's about $2.
You can explore private tour extensions. If you'd like to extend your stay after the group tour, we'll prepare a personalized quotation for you.
Departures from or to Amman city cost an additional charge of $100 each way, added to the total private tour price. If it's a Group tour and you want to start or finish in Amman City, the cost is $200 for a private car each way, $25 for a jet bus, and an additional $50 for Airport Transport.
we use SUV car for 1-2 travelers, Van H1 for 3-5 travelers, Coaster for 6-13 travelers, and Coach Bus for 14-50 travelers
English-speaking tour guide.
Yes, sure, or standard Hotels all have private bathrooms in the rooms and WIFI, Hot water, electricity 24 hours
Yes, we will automatically arrange a double room with one of the group trip members, as the single room is optional.
Yes, for tourists, rooms can be mixed-gender. A roommate of the same gender is preferred. If you book a trip and choose a shared room, you don't have to pay the difference for a single room, as it's our responsibility to find a roommate for you.
Bringing alcohol into or out of Syria is prohibited without the proper customs permits. Alcohol is available for purchase within Syria, but travelers are not allowed to import or export it through border crossings or airports.
There is no minimum number of participants required for group tours. Since we advertise them on our official website, we will definitely organize this tour, and you don't need to worry about the tour being canceled due to insufficient numbers.
It is recommended to drink bottled water during your stay in Syria. in reality, this helps ensure that you consume safe and clean water, thus, reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses.
The restaurants we visit cater to vegetarians, vegans, and other unique dietary requirements out there. Again, we do recommend bringing in some snacks from home just in case you get the munchies on the road and can’t find anything suitable at the time.
Yes, alcohol is available in Syria, and you can enjoy a drink during your visit. Damascus, for instance, boasts a vibrant bar scene with pop-up bars and drink kiosks. In Christian areas, locals often produce their own beverages and enjoy drinking as part of their culture. Your guide will provide advice on cultural norms to follow when visiting different parts of the country.
Traditional Syrian dishes include hummus, tabbouleh, kibbeh, falafel, shawarma, stuffed grape leaves, and mujadara.
Syrian cuisine is not typically spicy like some other Middle Eastern cuisines. Instead, it relies on ingredient, and aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon to enhance flavors
While street food can be delicious, it is important to choose vendors with good hygiene practices. Observing how food is prepared and ensuring it is freshly cooked can help reduce health risks
Syria is predominantly Muslim, so pork is generally not consumed. Halal dietary laws are followed, meaning that meat should be prepared according to Islamic guidelines.
It is possible to experience diarrhea while traveling in Syria, as in many countries, particularly if food hygiene is not observed. To reduce the risk, make sure to eat in clean, reputable places and drink bottled or filtered water.
Mostly US dollars ($) but € can be exchanged too.
Due to the current financial instability in Lebanon, it is indeed, advisable to bring cash for your stay in both Lebanon and Syria. Specifically, taking money out from Lebanese ATMs may result in losing money due to the unfavorable government exchange rate. Additionally, Lebanese ATMs have weekly withdrawal limits, for this reason, relying solely on withdrawing money in Beirut or other cities may not be feasible.
No, due to international sanctions, unfortunately, international cards do not work in ATMs in Syria. Therefore, all payments within the country are made in cash using Syrian pounds or USD dollars.
Personal expenses in Syria are relatively affordable. For example, a meal at a restaurant can cost between 5 to 15 USD, fast food from street vendors ranges from 2 to 5 USD, also, a beer at a bar costs around 4 USD.
Money can be exchanged for Syrian pounds at the border or in Damascus. In addition, the driver accompanying you will assist with the exchange process at the border. However, if you have leftover Syrian pounds at the end of the tour, you can exchange them back to your original currency. Rest assured that our team will guide you through the process and ensure a smooth exchange experience.
Yes! We strongly recommend giving a tip to your local guide and driver at the end of the tour. in fact, tipping could be 2 _ 7% of what you paid for the tour.
Due to international sanctions, ATMs in Syria do not accept international cards. As a result, all transactions within the country must be made in cash.
You can withdraw up to 200 USD per month from the ATMs in Lebanon.
Yes, you can.
The best place to exchange money is at the border, where you’ll typically get the best exchange rate. You can also exchange currency at exchange companies in Damascus, Aleppo, and Homs, though the rate is about 3% lower. Since the exchange rate is volatile, you can track it using the Lira Today website.
Syria, a country at the crossroads of myriad cultures, presents a fascinating tapestry of historical, natural, and cultural heritage. Indeed, with its rich past shaping a diverse array of attractions and monuments dispersed across the vast landscape, it undoubtedly stands as one of the world’s most uniquely intriguing nations.As you journey through Syria, you will find yourself immersed in a rich tapestry of antiquities, where, an array of architectural treasures spanning the millennia, each with its own captivating story. Moreover, Syria boasts six sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List: The Ancient City of Damascus, the Ancient City of Bosra, the Site of Palmyra, the Ancient City of Aleppo, Crak des Chevaliers and Qal’at Salah El-Din, as well as the Ancient Villages of Northern Syria.In addition to this, Further enriching its UNESCO heritage, Syria offers an additional 12 locations on its tentative list, featuring the likes of the Noréas de Hama, Ugrarit (Tell Shamra), Ebla (Tell Mardikh), Mari (Tell Hariri), Dura Europos, Apamée (Afamia), Qasr al-Hayr ach-Charqi, Maaloula, Tartus, Raqqa-Ràfiqa, the island of Arwad, and the Mari & Europos-Dura sites of Euphrates Valley.Collectively, these sites present an immersive chronicle of Syria’s layered history, thus, paving the way for an enriching itinerary.As seasoned Syria tour operators, we meticulously design our packages to cater to your every requirement.Moreover, With an intimate understanding of the country, we provide you with unmatched services, connecting you with our trusted partners, experienced guides, and carefully vetted accommodations to ensure an unforgettable Syrian journey.
Syria’s capital is Damascus, with a population of approximately 5 million Syrian people. Many people actually ask, “Is Syria in Africa” but in fact, Syria is located in the Middle East (Asia), bordering Lebanon, Turkey, Iraq, and Jordan.
Syria offers a unique shopping experience with bustling markets (Souqs) and bazaars. Souvenirs, traditional crafts, spices, textiles, and jewelry can be found in markets like the Souq Al-Hamidiyah in Damascus and the Souq Al-Madina in Aleppo. In addition, Syria has many famous malls to shop in.
Yes, internet access will be widely available in all the hotels where you will be staying throughout the tour. Of course, you can stay connected and easily access the internet during your stay.
Yes, tourists have the option to purchase prepaid SIM cards in Syria. In fact, buying a prepaid SIM card during your trip is relatively easy. Actually, you can obtain a local SIM card at the border or in Damascus. Also, the price for a prepaid SIM card is 35 USD, and it typically comes with 10 gigabytes of data. Furthermore, our guide in Damascus will assist you in obtaining a SIM card and provide any necessary guidance.
Major industries in Syria include oil and gas, agriculture, textiles, manufacturing, tourism, and services.
The electricity voltage in Syria is 220-240 volts, and the standard plug types are European C and F, featuring two round pins.
When taking photographs in Syria, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and people. For instance, avoid taking photos of women without their permission, as many prefer not to be photographed. In addition, always ask for permission before photographing people or places, and consult your guide for appropriate locations for photography.Ultimately, respecting the privacy and cultural sensitivities of the local community is essential.
Internet speeds in Syria can vary, but generally, they are good. In fact, major cities and tourist areas usually have better internet infrastructure.
You might want to look for proper travel insurance, actually, we recommend IATI travel insurance because it covers all the countries where the FCDO advises against all travel, also, it offers budget plans and covers all sorts of adventure activities.
Syria has a Mediterranean / Middle-Eastern climate, for this reason, we recommend either spring or autumn. also, the winters are a cool and majestic time to visit Syria. on the other hand , summer days hit the high 30s Celsius so not as hot as some may expect it to be.
In our minds yes, it is. As a heavily sanctioned country the money generated by tourism benefits local Syrians in real time. Unlike North Korea for example most people work in the private sector.
5 hours without electricity and 1 hour with electricity but importantly, all of the hotels you will stay in have generators so you will have electricity power all the time.
That's because of sanctions, you should put your phone on airplane mode, switch off the Wi-Fi then restart your phone and turn on Wi-Fi and it will work.
Al Qaeem border crossing between Syria and Iraq is open, and tourists from Iraq enter Syria via this border.
The National Museum in Damascus is closed on Fridays, while the Citadel and National Museum in Aleppo are closed on Tuesdays.
Yes, ESIM is available in Syria, the cost is around $35 for eSIM + 10 GB of Data with Syriatel or MTN telecom companies.
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