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, locals 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 of Syria are not safe to travel to. Clearly, our Syria tour packages are limited to safe Government-controlled regions; therefore, with us, you can be sure to travel trouble-free. Our adventure travel company aims to ensure the best service while maintaining maximum safety standards.So, Yes, within the Syrian government-controlled regions, the country is safe to visit except for some specific regions you will not visit 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, and 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 are dedicated to ensuring that our female clients are treated with respect and dignity throughout the tour.
Certainly, Our guides undergo comprehensive training, including emergency procedures, to handle any situations that may arise during the tour. thus, their priority is the safety and well-being of our clients, and they are equipped to address any challenges that may occur.
Army checkpoints are common in Syria, but your guide will ensure that they do not disrupt your valuable travel time. It is a part of daily life in Syria. Additionally, during the night in Damascus, you may hear Israeli surface-to-surface missiles are being shot down by the city’s anti-missile air defenses. However, this is a common occurrence and should not cause alarm.
Travelers are advised to stay open-minded; furthermore, they should step out of their comfort zones, and embrace the fantastic destination that Syria is.However, while being aware of the security situation, it is important to approach the trip with a polite and friendly attitude towards locals 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 encouraged to engage in conversation with locals, especially students and young people who approach you.in fact, interacting with locals can offer unique cultural insights also, enrich your travel experience.
Like any other country in the world, while engaging with locals, it is important to exercise caution and keep personal information such as your address, hotel, and itinerary confidential. indeed, prioritize your safety by not divulging sensitive details to strangers.
You may choose to share your social media contacts if you feel comfortable doing so. However, it is essential to exercise discretion and evaluate your level of trust before sharing personal information. Moreover, connecting with them later is entirely up to your discretion and comfort level.
Often portrayed as one-party state technically at least it does have a multi-party system. Syria though is not North Korea and you can ask your guides, or people 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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14000 years
Wearing a hijab is not mandatory for women travelers. However, in remote areas or religious places, it is considered a sign of respect and can help you blend in with the local culture. in fact, we advise our female clients to dress modestly, avoiding tight-fitting pants and ensuring that the buttocks, chest, shoulders, back, and other areas of skin exposure are appropriately covered. Furthermore, when visiting religious Muslim and Christian sites, it is advisable for women to wear a headscarf as a sign of respect and to blend in with the local culture. Additionally, dress modestly by covering your buttocks and avoiding tight-fitting pants, as well as any clothing that exposes the chest, shoulders, back, or other areas of skin.
In fact, we recommend dressing modestly, following cultural norms and sensitivities. Specifically, this includes covering the buttocks and avoiding tight-fitting pants. Additionally, It is important to cover the chest, shoulders, back, and any other areas of skin exposure. in the end, by adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience during your visit to Syria. Furthermore, men should dress conservatively when visiting religious Muslim and Christian sites. This includes, for instance, wearing clothing that covers the arms and legs, preferably with loose-fitting garments. moreover, It is also important to avoid offensive or provocative slogans, brands, or designs on clothing.
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.
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. indeed, this gesture demonstrates awareness and respect for their religious practice.
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, there is and you may drink during your visit to Syria. Damascus for example, has a fabulous bar scene, with pop-up bars and even drink kiosks. Aleppo on the other hand, is much more conversational and has one bar and one liquor store.And then, there are Christian areas where they not only make their own booze but 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.
Yes, but elderly religious people should be asked before that
Nightlife in Syria varies depending on the city and region. However, many cities like Damascus, Aleppo, Valley of Homs and costal cities offer a range of entertainment options, including 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 offers 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.
Islam and christianity and Jews.
Yes, there are many good bars especially in Damascus and Homs and Aleppo, furthermore, there is even a speakeasy bar.
We recommend dressing modestly; therefore, following cultural norms and sensitivities. This includes, for instance, covering the buttocks and avoiding tight-fitting pants. furthermore, It is important to cover the chest, shoulders, back, and any other areas of skin exposure. By adhering to these guidelines, you can, in turn, ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience during your visit to Syria. Men should dress conservatively when visiting religious Muslim and Christian sites. This includes, for instance, wearing clothing that covers the arms and legs, preferably with loose-fitting garments. also, It is important to avoid offensive or provocative slogans, brands, or designs on clothing.
Yes, we organize tours to Syria, focusing on safe areas and include a professional tour guide.
Yes, you can!Many people however, get 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 before; consequently, you are still required to have a local guide.
No, it is not possible to travel independently in Syria. Since 2019, in fact, it has been mandatory to have a tourist guide and be part of an organized tour at all times. also, this requirement was implemented after an incident involving a journalist who 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 make a Syrian visa at the border after having the visa reference number document. When you book our Syria tours, consider that it takes two weeks for us to order your border security clearance and visa reference number (American passports need to wait two months). Journalists are denied tourist visas. 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. 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. Our driver for the transfer 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 we will help you to secure. Our driver will then have the document ready to assist you at the border. With the document, you can proceed to pay for your Visa on Arrival.
Yes, as of April 2023, our Syria tours are available to US passport holders.
We kindly request 4 to 6 weeks (two months) to process your visa security code.
The costs depend on your nationality, ranging from 25 to 160 USD. It’s advised to check the latest fees.
While visa-on-arrival is available for all nationalities, citizens from Thailand, Singapore, USA, Taiwan, and African countries require special permission which can extend the security clearance process to 3-5 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. If you have an Israeli stamp and wish to visit Syria, you must get a new passport. When requested, Israeli authorities don’t stamp passports, but 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. 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. Journalists on a mission are denied tourist visas. You need a specific type of press visa. But, if you’re a journalist and want to travel in tourism-related activity, contact us directly so 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 Syria tour, but you can study in a school because its not available after the war.
Yes, since Spring of 2023, American passport holders can travel to Syria when they book a tour with a Syrian travel agency like Syria Scope Travel.
no, you can do that after we issue your Security clearance, it's valid for 3 months from the issue date and you can choose any date during that period also 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 Syria land border.
The visa process takes around 1 week to issue the visa for EU passports (for USA passports it takes 3 to 5 weeks), but as soon as you confirm earlier, it's better to make sure that you will get the best value for the service. Such as a guide and the hotel.
since the date of issue the security clearance is valid for 3 months 1 entry.
after 15 days inside Syria we can extend your tourism visa for 10 days and after that another 10 days, that's with a tour.
yes, when you leave Jordan and back again you need to pay for the Visa fee.
Yes, these Syria tours are tailored for you and your group exclusively. Also, we offer group tours with fixed dates for solo travelers.
Few airlines are operating nowadays in the Syrian airports, including Cham Wings, Syrian Airlines, Fly Baghdad Airlines, United Airways and Pakistan International Airlines.
Without a doubt, 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 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 Euros to 500 Euros, 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 an 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). In fact, 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 cancel so it will change to a private tour.
by cash when you arrive to 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
We personally cap all of our groups at 14 people, but usually we have around 6 – 12 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, and 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.
Review our cancellation policy on our website. We also, aim to provide flexible options, but it's important to understand the terms and conditions 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 + Driver
Yes, sure
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 8 percent 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 and you can get a SIM card at the border
For a tour of Syria, we do not have any age caps at all and despite young being in our name we welcome a very broad church of people. Our tours generally have people of all ages,This we feel is what makes tours of Syria 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 includes 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, December
Yes sure you can, you will feel free, but, you need the guide to move between cities.
of course no, you are free to meet people and do what you like but of course, you need the 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 for vegetarians, vegans and other unique dietary requirements out there. and 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 conversation 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.
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.
Most nationalities can make 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 need 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.
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. 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% from what you paid for the tour.
Because of sanctions ATMs are not working in Syria, but there is internal ATM system 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, Crac 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 collectively 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 people. Many people actually ask, “is Syria in Africa” but in fact, Syria is located in the Middle East (Asia), bordering Lebanon, Turkey, Iraq, Jordan.
Syria offers a unique shopping experience with bustling markets 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.
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. in reality, 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. actually, 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, 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 real 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, mosaic, 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 wifi then restart your phone and turn on wifi and it will work.
