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, and 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, particularly in places that are under government protection.
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 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.Additionally, during the night in Damascus, you may hear Israeli surface-to-surface missiles being shot down by the city’s anti-missile air defenses. However, this is a common occurrence and, consequently, should not cause alarm.
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."
Often, people portray Syria as a one-party state; technically, however, it does have a multi-party system. Syria, though, is not North Korea, 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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Syria's history is approximately about 14000 years
In fact, we recommend dressing modestly, following cultural norms and sensitivities, alongside knowing the dress code in Syria.Specifically, Women should aim to cover their shoulders, chest, and knees, with loose-fitting clothing being preferable. Additionally, it is a good idea to carry a scarf when visiting religious sites where covering the hair is a good idea.For men, wearing trousers and short or long-sleeved shirts is acceptable. Moreover, It is also important to avoid offensive or provocative slogans, brands, or designs on clothing.In the end, by adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience during your visit to Syria.
Wearing a hijab is not mandatory for women travelers. However, it is considered a sign of respect in remote areas or religious Muslim and Christian sites and also, can help you blend in with the local culture. In fact, we advise our female clients to be aware of the dress code in Syria, dress modestly, avoid tight-fitting pants, and ensure that the buttocks, chest, shoulders, back, and other areas of skin exposure are appropriately covered.
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.
the vast majority are Islam while Christianity is about 10% and the remaining is a combination of Druze and Jews.
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, there is, and you may drink during your visit to Syria. For example, Damascus has a fabulous bar scene, with pop-up bars and even drink kiosks. On the other hand, Aleppo is much more conversational and has one bar and one liquor store.Furthermore, there are Christian areas where they not only make their own booze but enjoy a drink too. With regards to this, your Guide will advise you on the cultural norms for when you visit different parts of Syria.
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 and Homs and Aleppo, 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.
Yes, you can, in fact, we organize tours to Syria, focusing on safe areas, and include a professional tour guide.
Yes, you can!Many people, however, are surprised when they realize that Syria used to be one of the most popular destinations in the Middle East before the war. Furthermore, Syria re-opened for tourists once again a few years ago. In addition, the process to get a tourist visa to Syria is similar to what it used to be; consequently, you are still required to have a local guide, so, we are available for you.
No, it is not possible to travel independently in Syria. Since 2019, it has been mandatory to have a tourist guide and be part of an organized tour. Furthermore, this requirement was implemented after an incident involving a journalist who, in fact, entered Syria as a tourist and engaged in press-related activities.
You need a passport valid for at least three months, and a Syria border security clearance number, which we assist with.
Most nationalities can get a Syrian visa at the border after having the visa reference number document. In addition, when you book our Syria tours, consider that it takes 3 working days for us to order your border security clearance and visa reference number however, American passports need to wait 12 - 20 days. Moreover, journalists are denied tourist visas. Furthermore, your passport must be valid for at least six months. After having this number, you can easily buy your Syrian tourist visa at the border. Additionally, before entering Syria, you must exchange money (Euros or Dollars) for Syrian pounds. You can always exchange the money if you have some Syrian pounds left at the end of the tour. Finally, our driver for the transfer from Beirut-Damascus-Beirut will guide you and help you with all these simple procedures.
You will need to fill out our automated Syria Visa Form to request a Syria border security clearance number, which, in turn, we will help you secure. Subsequently, our driver will then have the document ready to assist you at the border. With the document in hand, you can then proceed to pay for your Visa on Arrival.
Yes, since the Spring of 2023, American passport holders can travel to Syria when they book a tour with a Syrian travel agency like Syria Scope Travel.
We kindly request 12 to 20 days to process your visa security code.
The cost of Syria Visa depend on your nationality, ranging from 25 to 160USD. It’s advised to check the latest fees.
While visa-on-arrival is available for all nationalities, citizens from Thailand, Singapore, the USA, Taiwan, and African countries require special permission which can extend the security clearance process to 2-3 weeks.
Admission is refused to holders of passports or travel documents containing an Israeli visa or stamp or any data showing that the visitor has been to Israel or indication of any connection with the state of Israel. Furthermore, if you have an Israeli stamp and wish to visit Syria, you must get a new passport. In addition, when requested, Israeli authorities don’t stamp passports, however, they consider that having a stamp from a border crossing entry or departure into/from Jordan or Egypt is also seen as you have been to Israel if that specific border crossing is with the State of Israel.For example, you can’t have a Taba Border Crossing stamp in or out of Egypt without entering or departing from Israel itself. In addition, the Menachem Begin Crossing is the international border crossing between Taba, Egypt, and Eilat, Israel.Also, citizens of the State of Israel are banned from entering the Syrian Arab Republic.Moreover, journalists on a mission are denied tourist visas. Therefore, you need a specific type of press visa. However, if you’re a journalist and want to travel in tourism-related activity, contact us directly so that, we analyze your situation and make the necessary process to get you a tourist visa.
Any indication of travel to Palestine therefore, can result in a denial of entry into Syria. Furthermore, travelers should be aware that proof of travel to Palestine will, consequently, result in immediate denial of entry into Syria. This, in fact, applies even if the traveler holds a valid entry visa or is part of a group visa.
Yes, you can learn Arabic during the Syria tour, but you can't study in a school because it's not available after the war.
Since the date of issue, the security clearance is valid for 3 months 1 entry.
No, you can do that after we issue your Security clearance, Specifically, it's valid for 3 months from the issue date, and you can choose any date during that period. Additionally, we can issue a new Syria security clearance if you choose later dates.
You need to pay the visa fee at the border when you arrive from Lebanon or Jordan to the Syrian land border.
The visa process takes around 5 working days to issue the visa for EU passports (for USA passports it takes 2 to 3 weeks); however, as soon as you confirm earlier, it's better to make sure that you will get the best value for the service. For instance, this includes a guide and the hotel.
Yes, you can. After 30 days inside Syria, we can extend your tourism visa for 10 days with a tour.
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.
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, Fly Baghdad Airlines, United Airways, Algerian Airlines, and Pakistan International Airlines.
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 very 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.
Yes, it would change if you book a group tour and everyone cancels so it will change to a private tour.
By cash when you arrive in Syria, no deposit is required.
Our selection of hotels in Syria considers many factors: the most essential safety, cleanness, and professional staff, always, of course, focusing on providing you with the best breakfast possible. When available we put all our clients in these hotels. Damascus Accommodation 1 » Emar HotelDamascus Accommodation 2 » Dar El Noor HotelAl Mishtaya Accommodation » Villa Rosa HotelAleppo Accommodation » Aleppo Palace HotelLatakkia Accommodation » Al Samman HotelTartous Accommodation » Shahin Tower HotelHoms Accommodation » Al Waleed Hotel
Yes, sure
Yes! sure you can, please feel free. However, you need your guide to move between cities.
We personally cap all of our groups at 6 people, but usually, we have around 4 – 6 people. Although, there is some flexibility. On particularly, busy tours we will break the groups into two, so, as to make sure you have the best Syrian tour possible.
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 Border.Accommodation.Security clearance (needed for the visa).Private transportation and driver around Syria.Breakfast.English or any required language-speaking tour guide.Entrance fees to the places listed in the itinerary.
Two people, a guide, and a driver
Any item bearing a sign of political significance, such as a mug printed with a picture of a political figure
Drone photography is prohibited in Syria. In reality, If you have a small drone, you can keep it with you in your luggage, but you cannot use it.
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 50 USD for one-way transportation or 100 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.
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, there is and you may drink during your visit to Syria. For instance, Damascus for example, has a fabulous bar scene, with pop-up bars and even drink kiosks. In contrast, Aleppo on the other hand is much more conversational and has one bar and one liquor store. Additionally, there are Christian areas where they not only make their own booze but also, really enjoy a drink. With regards to this, your Guide will advise you on the cultural norms for when you visit different parts of Syria.
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.
Prices vary depending on the time of the year and how much you purchase your tickets in advance. Generally, we can say that a round-trip ticket from most European cities to Beirut will cost around 250 Euros to 500 Euros, depending on the season. furthermore, flying in and out of Beirut, Middle East Airlines can be much cheaper, as it is Lebanon’s national carrier.
All our tours include entrance tickets for attractions. So, you won't have to worry about additional costs for visiting monuments.
In brief, you need a passport valid for at least three months, and a Syria border security clearance number, which we assist with.
Most nationalities can have a Syrian visa at the border afterward, having the visa reference number document. Furthermore, when you book our Syria tours, consider that it takes two weeks for us to order your border security clearance and visa reference number (however, American passports have to wait two months). In addition, journalists are denied tourist visas. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six months. Once you have this number, you can easily buy your Syrian tourist visa at the border. moreover, before entering Syria, you must exchange money (Euros or Dollars) for Syrian pounds. Interestingly, you can always exchange the money if you have some Syrian pounds left at the end of the tour.Finally, our driver for the transfer Beirut-Damascus-Beirut will guide you and help you with all these simple procedures.
The costs depend on your nationality, ranging from 25 to 160 USD. It’s advised to check the latest fees.
Yes, it would change if you booked a group tour, and everyone cancels so it will change to a private tour.
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, except for the tour payment, which is made in cash with 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.
Because of sanctions, ATMs are not working in Syria, but there is an internal ATM system that works only with Syrian pounds.
You can withdraw up to 200 USD per month from the ATMs in Lebanon.
Yes, you can.
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's history is approximately about 14000 years.
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 5 USD, and it typically comes with 2 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 plug type used is the European standard C and F types with 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.
Traditional handicrafts of Syria include metalwork, glassblowing, pottery, brocade, mosaics, swords, carpet weaving, and traditional soap-making.
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.
