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How to travel to Syria in 2024: Need to know

By Joan Torres 356 Comments Last updated on April 12, 2024

Wanna travel to Syria with Against the Compass?

Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Syria on:

M ay 29t h to June 5th , 2024

Syria had been in my plans for a very long time and, finally, they started to make it easier for travelers. Well, not that easy, but definitely easier.

Since 2018, I have visited Syria 6 times, visiting places like Damascus, Homs, Aleppo, Krak de Chevaliers, Hama, Busra, Palmyra and everything along the Syrian coast, including the island of Arwad.

Syria is pretty epic.

On the one hand, I got to visit ancient, marvelous sites that were a real blessing to my eyes.

And, on the other hand, it was a very enriching experience as well, since I met loads of Syrians who told me their side of the story, plus I was able to witness one of the worst humanitarian crises in the 21st century, visiting hair-raising places that require a lot of cold blood, if you don’t want to breakdown into tears, making you empathize with the many beautiful Syrians.

Long Live Syria.

This guide contains everything you need to know for traveling to Syria , including plenty of tips regarding visas, safety, transportation and much, much more!

Why visit Syria with Against the Compass?

Here are the reasons why we believe Syria is a mind-blowing country to travel to, as well as my honest reasons why you should join one of our Syria tours.

In this travel guide to Syria you will find:

Table of Contents

• Syria tours
• Why travel to Syria
• Recommended books
• How to get a visa
• Travel Insurance
• How to get in

Is Syria safe?

• How to move around
• Money in Syria

Responsible tourism and ethics

• Taking photos
• Don’t get off the beaten track
• Where to stay
• More information

🗺️ How to sign up for a tour in Syria

Unfortunately, independent travel in Syria is practically impossible nowadays, so the easiest – and only – way to travel to Syria is through a tour with a valid operator.

More on that in the visa section of this post.

Check this documentary on our Syria tours!

Upcoming group tours for Syria

Against the Compass has several scheduled group expeditions in 2024

• May 29th to Jun 5th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOW
• Aug 11th to 17th, 2024 (7 days, Marmarita Carnival). APPLY NOW
• Sep 15th to 27th, 2024 (13 days). APPLY NOW
• Oct 13th to 20th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOW
• Dec 23rd to 30th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOW

How to join an individual tour or a smaller group for Syria

Do you wish to join a small group, but you can’t travel on any of the above dates?

No problem, just shoot me an email ([email protected]) indicating:

• How many people you are
• How many days do you want to spend in Syria
• Which dates

And we will try to find other travel partners you may travel with. Otherwise, know that we can also organize private, tailored trips .

📰 Why should you visit Syria now?

This is a very good question, one I have been asked a lot recently.

The truth is that reasons vary.

First of all, in the last couple of years, I have been traveling all across the Middle East , so visiting Syria, one of the most fascinating countries in the region, had been on my travel plans for a very long time.

Another even more important reason is that Syria is a great country, home to one of the oldest civilizations ever, so visiting Syria from a tourism perspective is a must-do.

However, most people asking that question tend to refer more to the ethical aspect of traveling to Syria , as this is a war zone from where many people have been forced to escape in order to save their lives.

Well, I want you to know that I fully understand why someone would not want to visit a post-war zone because, truth be told, destroyed buildings and misery are not pleasant things to see.

Nevertheless, the first thing you need to know is that I travel to learn and become wiser and, yes, I am interested in visiting a post-war zone, because this is living history and I wanted to see it with my own eyes, and not through a biased newspaper.

I also think that traveling to Syria with the sole objective of empathizing with the locals is a good thing and, as long as you are absolutely respectful about the crisis, there is nothing wrong with it.

But in the end, we should ask Syrians what they think about it and I can assure you that, since Syria used to be a major touristic destination, today Syrians are very happy to see that tourists are coming back because this is a real sign of recovery.

For more information, read the Responsible Tourism section of this article.

Read about my experience in Aleppo

📚 Recommended books for traveling to Syria

Syria travel guide by bradt.

There are no updated guidebooks of Syria, but Bradt Guides has the only exclusive  travel guide to Syria , updated as of 2010.

Still, it is a good source and a nice introduction to the country

The Rise of the Islamic State by Patrick Cockburn

A must-read book. Written by one of the world’s top experts on the Middle Eastern conflict. In this book, Cockburn gives a very comprehensive explanation of the origin of DAESH, with many references to Syria.

A very useful book to understand the complexity and origin of the conflict.

🪪 How to get a tourist visa for Syria

BREAKING NEWS Americans can now travel to Syria Since March 2023, Americans are finally allowed to apply for a tourist visa

Last updated information 2024

Getting a Syrian visa nowadays is pretty straightforward but that’s something you can’t do alone because the Ministry of Tourism dictates that all travelers who want to get a Syrian tourist visa must book a tour with an operator .

For that, Against the Compass is a licensed and valid tour operator that can help you obtain a visa for Syria.

Join one of our groups, and you will automatically get your visa for traveling to Syria.

We have several scheduled group expeditions over the following months:

How to get a Syrian visa directly from a tour operator

The first thing you must know is that travel agencies will not issue a tourist visa for Syria but a security clearance (a background check), which you need to show at customs.

Consider it as a Letter of Invitation.

This is what the security clearance looks like. Usually, it includes several random people:

With your security clearance in hand, you will be able to purchase a Syrian tourist visa at the border.

The problem, however, is that nowadays, travel agencies are not allowed to issue a security clearance unless you book a tour with them.

How much does the security clearance cost

It’s always included in the total tour package, so it really depends on what tour you book.

How long does it take to get the security clearance?

2 weeks as an average, but you may get the approval in just 2 days.

How long is it valid for?

The security clearance has a 90-day validity, starting from the day you receive it.

How much does the tourist visa for Syria cost?

These are the latest visa fees updated in 2024 .

Note that prices tend to fluctuate based on the exchange rate but, as an average:

• European passport holders: 75 USD
• Canadian passports: 100 USD
• British, Australian, and Argentinian passports: 150 USD
• US passport holders: 200 USD

Try to bring the exact amount for the visa. Otherwise, they will give you your change in Syrian Pounds, using the official bank rate.

You will also have to pay an exit fee of 2,000SYP.

Can Americans get a visa for Syria?

Yes, since March 2023, American passport holders may travel to Syria.

Their visa application takes 4 weeks.

Which Tour Operator do I recommend for traveling to Syria?

I recommend Against the Compass, which only works with the best and most knowledgeable local guides.

As mentioned, we have several group trips a year and by the way, we also organize private tailored trips (from 2-day trips to Damascus to multi-day trips across Syria).

Learn more about Syria expeditions in this video:

🚑 Travel Insurance for Syria

Like in Iran, because of all the sanctions, most travel insurance companies don’t cover for travel in Syria.

The one which does, however, is IATI Insurance .

• They have loads of different plans for all types of travelers: from families to backpackers
• Covers senior citizens too
• Readers of this blog can get an exclusive 5% discount .

🛫 How to get to Syria

How to travel to syria by land, 1 – how to travel from beirut (lebanon) to damascus.

Traveling to Damascus from Beirut is the easiest way to travel to Syria.

Beirut is only 115km from Damascus and the journey takes 2 to 4 hours, including the customs process.

If you book a Syria tour with Against the Compass, we will take care of your transfer from and to Beirut, no problem.

In the unlikely case you were traveling to Syria independently, know that there is no bus service but locals travel in shared taxis.

They leave from Charles Hélou bus station, which is in a very central location, in Gemmazyeh.

Shared taxis from Beirut to Damascus run all day long and I went there at 3pm and waited for no more than 15 or 20 minutes.

The cost per person is around 20USD.

If you go by yourself, you will pay 100USD.

Beirut to Damascus border crossing : Very straightforward.

On the Lebanese side, they barely check your passport and, on the Syrian side, they take around 20 minutes, as long as there are no people, of course.

First, they check your security clearance, then you purchase your visa at the bank counter and give your receipt to the immigration officer.

You only get a stamp, not a visa sticker.

After getting your Syrian visa and resuming your journey, you will go through several checkpoints, but you shouldn’t experience any problem.

Read: A travel guide to Beirut

2 – How to travel from Tripoli to Tartus

You can also travel to Syria from the border north of Tripoli.

Shared taxis to Tartus cost around 12 USD and they leave until 8pm from this statio .

It is only a 65km journey, so it should be fairly quick.

3 – How to travel from Amman (Jordan) to Syria

The border is finally open but the journey from Amman is longer (200km) and the border crossing takes more time.

If you want to enter Syria from Amman, pick-up may also be arranged.

4 – How to travel from Turkey to Syria

Today, that border is not possible to cross legally.

How to travel to Syria by air

Damascus has an international airport but there are a few things that you may wanna take into consideration before booking your flight.

• The airport doesn’t have many connections, only with a few Middle Eastern cities such as Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, or Baghdad.
• The only airlines operating in Syria are Cham Wings , Syrian Air , and Iraqi Airways , airlines the tickets of which can’t be purchased online, but you must book them at the respective office in cash.
• Due to the situation in Syria, the airport in Damascus shuts down pretty often, so the chances of your flight being canceled are relatively high.

This is why I strongly recommend flying to Beirut instead.

Read: Lebanon – A 2-week itinerary

⚠️ Is it safe to travel to Syria?

Along with the visa, safety is the other big question mark for anyone traveling to Syria.

Look, the war is practically over in West Syria (the city of Idlib is the last actual war zone) and cities like Aleppo and Damascus are perfectly safe.

You see children roaming around and everything seems just fine now.

Moreover, the Old City of Damascus is full of military checkpoints where they check your bag and look at anyone who seems suspicious, so there is a high level of security and nothing has happened for a long time now.

Actually, I was in Damascus for Christmas and, for the first time since the beginning of the war, the streets of the Old City of Damascus (and Aleppo as well) were filled with Christmas lights and celebration.

The atmosphere was full of joy, happiness and both Muslims and Christians were celebrating such an event with very big enthusiasm (there is a huge Christian community in Damascus).

This can only mean that even the Syrians themselves believe the city is safe.

Long story short: I personally think that Syria is safe to visit but it will depend on where you go.

For a better understanding, read my analysis: Is Syria safe to visit?

Read: Is it safe to travel to Iraq

Which parts of  Syria are safe to travel?

Read my 100% safe travel itinerary for Syria .

Damascus, Homs, Aleppo , Latakia, Tartus, Krak De Chevaliers, and also Palmyra.

Still, keep in mind that this is a post-war zone, which means that it is highly unstable and things could change overnight.

The people – The Syrians

Language spoken in syria.

Levantine Arabic is the official language.

You should know that many English-speaking people left the country but you will always find someone who does. In any case, try to learn some Arabic before traveling to Syria.

Religion in Syria

Around 65% of the population are Sunni Muslims but, like in Lebanon , in Syria, there are many different religions, including a large Christian population. Bashar Al-Assad is Alawite, a Shia branch.

How do Syrians feel about tourism?

According to the UN, around 500,000 Syrians have been killed, nearly 5,000,000 escaped from the country and several more million who are still in the country need humanitarian assistance.

We are talking here about one of the worst humanitarian crises in the 21st century .

Like I said at the beginning, many people are skeptical about traveling to Syria, claiming or thinking that it may be disrespectful to all the people that have been affected somehow.

Well, what I think is that, before making any judgment, we should ask the actual Syrians living in Syria what do they think about it.

When visiting Syria, I have never talked to a single Syrian who was not happy at seeing a foreign tourist.

The ones who spoke English approached me, asking a lot of questions and showing their gratitude for visiting their country.

They don’t hesitate to talk to you about the crisis, the problems that it has caused, etc.

Hello, how are you?

Well, alive, thank God! – A random Syrian told me

However, I thought that wandering around Damascus as a tourist would be like being a celebrity. I mean, people were extremely nice and kind but it was not like when you travel in Pakistan , for example, where everybody stops you in the street to talk to you.

The main reason was that most people thought I was a journalist and the second was that Syrians have always had great international exposure, so seeing foreigners is something they are actually used to, with the only difference they haven’t seen many since 2010.

Long story short: Syrians are happy to see tourists.

🛺 Transportation: how to travel around Syria

Note: This info refers to 2018 when traveling in Syria independently was allowed.

You can travel around Syria by local buses and shared taxis.

I took the bus from Damascus to Aleppo , which takes more than 7 hours.

The reason is that the section of the road from Homs to Aleppo is not totally Government-controlled, so after Homs, they turn right and make a huge detour to get to Aleppo.

Update 2022: Today, the direct road from Damascus to Aleppo that goes through Idlib is finally under the control of the Government.

There is not much to say here, other than the roads of Syria are full of military checkpoints, which is what you may expect.

Your driver will keep your passport and he will handle everything for you, so don’t worry about that.

I also took the bus from Homs to Damascus and it was a very similar story.

From Aleppo to Homs I took a local shared taxi.

Seriously, buses run normally, smoothly and without any problem

In Damascus, this is the main bus station to go to Homs and Aleppo.

The station at Aleppo is quite far from the city center but you will see plenty of taxis just outside.

As per safety , the truth is that many people were being overprotective with me, always taking care that I was feeling safe and comfortable, so you should not worry about that. Most people taking the bus to Aleppo are from the army by the way.

💻 Internet and connectivity in Syria

Wi-Fi – Internet works relatively well across the country. The hotels I stayed at had a good connection and you can also connect in most relatively good cafés and restaurants.

Mobile – I bought Syriatel and, for 7,000SYP, they gave me 2GB and some calls but, of course, prices may change. They only asked for my passport. I recommend you go to the official store. There is one next to Merjeh Square, right here: 33.513185, 36.29777 .

Get a VPN for traveling in Syria

You should always use a VPN when you travel, especially when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks.

Your connection will be much safer. 

Moreover, you will be able to access content which is typically censored in Syria. 

I recommend ExpressVPN – Extremely easy to use, fast and cheap. 

If you want to learn more about VPN, check: Why you need a VPN for traveling .

💰 What you need to know about money before traveling to Syria

Remember to get travel insurance for Syria IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Syria + COVID-19 5% discount if purchasing via this link

In Syria, they use the Syrian Pound (SYP) , a currency that has been fluctuating like crazy for the past 10 years.

Before the crisis, $1 equaled 50SYP.

In 2018, during my first visit, $1 equaled 490SYP.

Today, you can exchange $1 in the black market for up to 13,950SYP .

As a consequence, Syria is suffering from massive inflation and the problem is that most salaries haven’t increased accordingly.

Exchanging money in Syria

You can exchange both Euros (€) and USD ($) but USD can be exchanged at a better rate.

If you bring 100 USD notes, keep in mind that they only accept the new ones with the blue line.

If you have Syrian Pounds left when you leave, you can exchange them for Lebanese Pounds or USD in most exchange offices in Beirut, at the official bank rate, which means that it won’t be so good.

Where can you exchange Syrian Pounds?

The best is to exchange at the exchange offices you find before reaching the border. With our groups, we always exchange in a Lebanese town named Chtoura .

ATMs and credit cards in Syria

Because of the foreign sanctions, in Syria, you can neither pay by credit card nor using ATMs. You must bring all your money in cash.

Update 2024: Due to the current financial crisis, the same rule applies to Lebanon. If you are traveling to Syria from Lebanon, you must bring enough cash for visiting both countries.

How much does it cost to travel to Syria?

These are the prices of the most typical things:

• Lunch in a local restaurant: 50,000 to 80,000SYP
• Food in a nice restaurant with wine: 150,000 to 250,000SYP
• Breakfast (like hummus or ful): 35,000SYP
• National Museum: 25,000SYP
• Aleppo Citadel: 2,5000SYP
• Bus from Damascus to Aleppo: 50,000 to 70,000SYP
• Budget Hotel in Damascus: $35 to $45 for a private room
• Mid-range hotel in Damascus: $60 to $90 for a private room
• Taxis within cities: 40,000 to 60,000SYP
• Local shared taxi Aleppo to Homs: 100,000 to 150,000SYP

Syria is a post-war zone, where millions of people have lost their houses and relatives, much like Haiti , so please, be a sensitive tourist.

Don’t say war but crisis or situation instead

You will see that many Syrians themselves don’t really use the word war but they prefer to say other less harsh words.

Don’t take selfies with damaged buildings

Seriously, this is one of the most disrespectful things you could ever do and you would actually be an asshole if you did it.

Empathize with the locals

When you are in an area full of destroyed buildings be polite to the people, say hello , shake hands and just be nice with them.

Collaborate with the local economy

In Homs and Aleppo , you are likely to see small businesses open among all the ruins. Do buy things from them.

In Homs, I saw one small bakery shop in the practically destroyed souk; I couldn’t resist buying one kilo of sweets there, which I gave to a young boy that was looking for something among the trash.

Read: A travel guide to Iraqi Kurdistan

Are the Syrian cities really destroyed?

This seems to bring a lot of confusion, so let me explain it to you:

Only the outskirts of Damascus are destroyed, as there was a bloody battle there. That area is off-limits to tourists.

The Old City and the new part of town remain intact.

A percentage of the Old City is destroyed, as well as some areas from outside the city.

Most of Aleppo isn’t damaged but some very important sites from the Old City, like the Great Mosque, are gone.

Nowadays, however, the city is being rebuilt and people are slowly coming back.

One of the most affected cities by the war.

Approximately 40% of the city is destroyed and that includes its bazaar, one of the liveliest and most important souqs in all the Middle East .

The Temple of Bell was destroyed by ISIS but Palmyra is a massive archaeological site and many of its wonders can still be seen.

📸 Taking photos when you travel in Syria

You can take photos of everything except for one thing: military stuff.

Yes, it is very obvious but the problem is that there is military stuff everywhere, especially in Damascus.

In Damascus, it happened a few times that I took a picture of some cool building or whatever, from relatively far away, and didn’t realize there was a checkpoint right next to it.

Of course, the soldiers approached me but, after quickly checking my passport and my camera, very kindly, let me continue.

In Damascus Old City, there are checkpoints everywhere, so pay attention before taking any photos.

🧭 Don’t get off the beaten track in Syria, not yet

As of 2024, this section still is highly relevant.

Seriously, don’t.

Don’t do it because you are going to ruin it for everybody.

Syria just started opening to tourism, so stick to the main touristic areas.

I am telling you this because there was a German guy who went to the outskirts of Damascus to take photos of some destroyed buildings and he was put in jail for a week.

That was back in 2018, when independent travel in Syria was allowed.

Since then, booking a tour is required in order to get a visa for Syria so, even if you wanted to get off the beaten track, you would not be able to.

🏨 Accommodation: where to stay in Syria

Since the crisis, the Government of Syria has introduced a dual pricing policy in all hotels, in which foreigners pay more than the locals.

This has increased the rates substantially but you can still find many affordable options.

Where to stay in Damascus

Budget – Green Hotel – Single rooms cost 15USD and double 30USD. It was very clean, there was a heater, good Wi-Fi and the guy from the reception spoke English. It was here, just outside of the Old City: 33.510168. 36.298925 .

Boutique Hotel –  Beit al Mamlouka – A small hotel at the heart of the old city.

Top option –   Beit al Wali – One of the best hotels in the city.

Luxury – Four Seasons – Crazy expensive, but the best hotel in Syria. Note that it’s not managed by Four Seasons anymore, even though they kept their name.

Where to stay in Aleppo

Mid-range – Aleppo Palace – Good, affordable option in Aleppo, with great views of the new part of town. It’s located right next to the I Love Aleppo sign.

In Aleppo, you can also find a Sheraton.

Where to stay in Homs

New Basman Hotel – One of the few options in Homs is this hotel that offers basic but comfortable rooms.

Where to stay in Al Mishtaya

Al Mishtaya is a Christian village near Krak de Chevaliers and the place where we stay when I bring groups into Syria.

They have a pretty good brand-new hotel named Vila Rosa Hotel .

Where to stay in Palmyra and Busra

Today, you can’t stay in any of them because there are no hotels.

🍲 The food and alcohol in Syria

In the last few years, I haven’t traveled to many countries that are famous for their food, but Syria definitely is.

Being an olive-oil-rich Mediterranean country, the ingredients used in their cuisine are fresh and similar to the ones we used in Spain, Italy, France, and Greece.

The food is actually pretty much the same as in Lebanon, with their own regional variations, of course.

From the classic hummus to kibbeh (local steak tartar), different sorts of grilled meat or a typical dish of Aleppo consisting of meatballs in cherry sauce, the food in Syria is so varied. 

For me, however, breakfast is the best part, as they always serve different variations of hummus and ful deep in super tasty olive oil and vegetables.

As per alcohol, you should know that Syria has a large Christian population, so alcohol is easily available, especially in the Christian district of the Old City of Damascus, where there is a street filled with bars and many liquor shops.

You can actually buy a $1 beer and drink it in the street!

❗ More information for traveling in Syria

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

All guides and articles for traveling in Syria destination

• Travel Guide to Aleppo
• Syria Itinerary
• Is Syria Safe?

Travel guides to other countries in the Middle East

• Iran Travel Guide
• Palestine Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Oman
• Travel Guide to Lebanon
• Iraq Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Saudi Arabia
• Yemen Travel Guide

You will also like our Libya travel guide and Haiti travel guide .

You will also be interested in: Where in the Middle East is safe? and The most beautiful places in the Middle East .

I hope this Syria travel blog will help you to plan your trip. I will try to keep it updated but, if you have more updates, please let us know in the comments section. Thanks 🙂

356 comments

Hi, before the war Syria was known as not being particularly female travelers friendly, do you think that has changed? Would you recommend going there as a solo female traveler? Thanks love your blog!

Hello Iris. When it comes to the local culture and openmindedness, I tried to compare it with other Middle Eastern countries and, to be very honest, I didn’t see much difference versus Palestine and Jordan, 2 countries where females can now travel easily.

In Damascus, you see loads of women without hijab and there is actually a large Christian population and, in their district, you find very openminded people, like in any European capital.

But in any case, I would like to get in touch with a girl who has been there recently, to see what kind of advice she could give and what she thinks about it 🙂

Thank you for your quick reply! 🙂 We are trying to see if we can go in a few weeks, but we might not get the visa in time… Although I might come back, because your article made me put Damascus high on my bucketlist! 🙂

i will go in june as a solo female, i will let you know 😉

So how did your solo trip go?

Hi. I`m curios as well, did any of you ladies manage to travel there and have any insight in how it is to go as a woman?

Hey, I’m Jude I’m 22 and I live now in Syria, for sure solo female travelers are welcome here as well . The people here are very open minded and friendly, specially if you are a foreign tourist because we love to have tourists here again. We have a mix of different religions and cultures here in Syria, so everybody takes care of your space and freedom . if you have any question email me, I’d love to help anyone to visit Syria.

Hello, I am working in Saudi Arabia and I am planning to visit Syria (Damascus) by road in November, 2019. Please guide me is it possible to travel by car to Syria. and safe for tourism. How much money is required for 2 days stay. My final destination will be Palestine. Looking for your reply. regards, Zahid ur Rehman

Could you send me your email id

Hey Jude, Do you know any budget and confortable hotel with private room near the old market or the big mosque, I think it’s safiest to stay inside the old city of Damascus

I want to visit damishq syria. Is it safe for visit?

Can you share your email so I can ask you more specific questions about travelling to Syria as a tourist? 🙂 – Austin and Abigail

Hi! In January I have a plan to travel from Beirut to Damascus – would be great to have a contact with you;) Greetings Dawid

Hello Jude, I am hoping to Travel to Syria in the next few months. I have a lot of questions and would love the opinion of a local, as it is quite difficult to get accurate information about the country! If you are not comfortable putting your email address up, please email me. My email address is [email protected]

I would love to hear from you!

Hi Jude, I am planning to go to Damascus as well. How is the trip from Beirut to Damascus? And how about prices, hotels and food? Thank you! Patricia

I need some more info on traveling to Syria. Would also like to include them in my “postcards from the world” to encourage people to visit. Regards, karen

Hey guys, I’m sorry that I couldn’t reply to all your comments in recent months due to the recent pandemic, hope you’re all fine. Please if you have any question or you want to talk about Syria and/or want a guide or a tour contact my email. [email protected]

Hello Jude, probably I will work in Damascus pretty soon so how are things there for the living on these days?, thank you

Hi Jude thank you for being so welcoming. I am not sure if people can visit Syria without a formal tour group. Please can you tell me if we can visit without a tour group? Thank you. Carmel

Hi! My boyfriend is from Syria (we live in Austria). I would really love to visit his home. Do you thibk. I can travel alone from Amman to Damascus? How’s it going to be thete for me? Thanks for your answer! Cheers, Michaela

Hi Jude, are you living in Syria? My husband and I are in Turkey and trying to apply for a visa to travel in March/April but we need a reference, contact details of someone in Syria to put on our form. Are you able to help?

Hello Jude I’m Cecilia from Philippines I am planning to visit Syria can you help me ? Actually I have to meet my bf in Aleppo it is a little complicated his situation hoping for your response in my gmail address Thanks ( below my name and my gmail

Hi Jude, I’m planning a trip around the beginning of April and would love to have a chat with you :). How can I reach you?

Email? Please?

Hello my name Is Luisa and I am in Syria now. Everything went well. My travel guide Is Sawsan Joumaa and She Is very helpful and good. She only brings me in safe places and She Is Always with me. I am really very happy.

any contact to this travel guide, i will need one..

Hi Luisa, I write to you because probably I will work as humanitarian in Damascus very soon and I need to know all about how is living in Damascus in November 2020.

Ciao. Io mi trovo in Siria e vi posso assicurare che ci sono più donne in vesti succinte qui che sul lungomare di Bari.

Ciao Luisa per caso ti trovi ancora in Syria? Vorrei potere avere qualche consigli su una possibilità di viaggio in Syria a settembre 2021.

Actually I find Syria far more liberal than Jordan. I mean, don’t even compare. Just as an example, while women in Jordan have to follow a complicated sitting protocol in public transportation, in Syria it’s just like in any western country. Syrian women dress in whatever way they wish, in ways which wouldn’t be acceptable in Jordan. These are just two examples.

I stopped reading when I saw — “No. Unfortunately, US passport holders cannot get a visa for Syria.”

Fck that. It’s 2022. They need to grow up…

The day the US Government lifts sanctions against Syria, Americans will be allowed to travel to Syria

Yes i am syrian i live in syria we are not like other middle eastren countries so for sure you can come and you are always welcome

hey syrian guy, can u help me out? i need to talk to you just about the country and i want syrian friend and i am from saudi arabia.

I am educationist from India and heritage management expert.I wish to visit Syria with my son next month for 5 days.Can anyone guide me.Thanks in advance.

Im looking forward to travel to Syria average soon

Hello Iris My name is Nour, i am a Syrian citizen, regarding your question: Syria has been a secular country for more than 50 years, any female (a foreigner or Arab) is welcomed to Syria, make sure you and any other tourist will be totally safe during your stay in Syria. Regards from Damascus

Syria was especially safe for women, I traveled all over the place alone. I was in my mid 50s but many much younger women remarked how safe Syria felt for them. There is a lot of mythology and down right lies spread about all aspects of life in Syria before the war. Arab men do not have sex before marriage as a rule, so they will show an interest but no more so than European men, just be cautious like anywhere else, you might travel. If you are that worried maybe you shouldn’t visit there, Syria had next to no visitors prior to the war regardless of what people might tell you. This was because it was one of Britain’s prohibited countries. Britain resented the fact that Syria invaded Lebanon and that it chose not to cooperate with the capitalist system, being socialist. There was a bright side to this for people who did visit though, and that was the price was the price for everyone, unlike in many of the surrounding countries, particularly Egypt.

Help me please !!!!! I am from syria and I need help to get out of my country……but it is so hard…..please …..is there anyone who can help me ??!

عم تشحد سفرة؟؟

Are you okay?

I traveled to Syria 2008, I was so beautiful and want to revisit hopefully in Spring. I am trying to decide from Lebanon or Jordan since I have family in both place. I want to travel to Axcelê, Syria near Jandaris I have a lot good friends there and I would be staying with them and hopefully when the situation gets better I would like to have a house there. I just love it there and my heart is there.

Hy..my name is ali i am from syria.. Yes actually it changed a lot after social media nd tiktok nd all…u can move freely in some state like (tartous-latakia-damascus) But in other u states u should wear hijab(hair cover) nd not wearing shorts.. U can also roam without hijab but its better to wear cuz ppl will stare at u nd all…

Yes are they fighting in Homs I have a friend there who is a doctor and he’s wanting me to help him leave Syria and come back home to United States but his agent is wanting $1250 fee to start his documents to get him home. I don’t have that kind of money and he can’t get his Money from the states until he gets home and this agent won’t help him And I can’t is there any other way he can get home. He said he’s afraid for his life and it scares me. If you could help me I really would appreciate your help. Thank you Sherry

Yes my name is Sherry could you Joan answer my question above in my email I wrote on October 29, 2020. I don’t know what to do cause I don’t have the money to pay the agent and too I don’t know if it’s a scam or he’s telling me the truth please could you help me. Thank you Sherry

hi Sherry, this article/blog refers to traveling to Syria for touristic purposes. For political or your kind of issues, I think you should contact your embassy.

This is a tourism related article but I’m sure it’s a scam. Did you know this person in real life before he “needed” the money. Is he a friend from the US? If not, I guarantee it’s a scam. If you want to help Syrians, then go to your local Middle Eastern shop and buy Abou Rashed baklavas Chami soap, both of which are made in Syria and provide employment to Syrian people. Don’t send this fake doctor $1250.

Quite the contrary, Syria was known as being really women friendly at least until the mid 2000s but the war began at the end of 2006, I remember the pro-Israeli protests by the Kurds in Qamishli, so the later years might have been more difficult. I found Syria much friendlier than Jordan but for women much the same. In 2006 I noticed lots of the students at Irbid university, Jordan, near Syria were wearing black veils; though they weren’t in the town itself.

I was in Syria 22 years ago with a friend as two female traveller’s in their 30s. Not once did I feel in danger, quite the contrary. We felt perfectly safe and welcome. Syrian people have got to be some of the most hospitable on earth. (She and I felt the same way in Turkey: perfectly safe with the exception that in Turkey, everyone tries to see you rugs!)

I was in Syria the years 2009 – 2010 – 2011. I visited Damascus, Tartus, Palmyra. Syrian people are kind, giving, helpful. A wonderful experience. Not much restrictions as people believes, a peaceful country even though in 2011 the conflict really started. Travelling from Syria to Lebanon or Lebanon/Syria, the best option always have been in taxi. My recommendation for the ladies, to dress without showing too much skin😊 to avoid attention. I love Syria! I love Beirut too! ❤ Will Be back one day soon😊

Very nice travel guide. GOOD JOB !!!

Having been to Syria twice before the war I fully support your reasons for going. It’s people definitely deserve the income that tourism can offer. I know you caution about the security situation but I think it’s especially important to do so about Aleppo. Areas held by extremists border on the city and there have been mortar attacks and some kind of chemical weapon attack on the outskirts. The situation in Idlib will almost certainly only be solved militarily though I guess in this case the govt will keep tourists well away. I agree with you about the rest of the country but it’s important to appreciate the situation around Aleppo. Thanks again for another great article. Unfortunately I won’t have a chance to go back there until next year but will definitely go.

Fantastic information, muchas gracias Joan! I visited Syria with a group from Ireland last June 2018, I fell in love with the country, it’s people and culture. I hope to return in May this year, thank you again for this updated information.

Oh, that’s great! Which places in Syria did you visit? And are you planning to go to different places in May?

Hola again Joan! We spent 3 days in Damascus, visited the Old City, Ummayyad Mosque, the Souk etc, the Palestinian camp, which was pretty much destroyed, then onto Ma’aloula and up to Aleppo. Hoping to visit Tartous/Latakia and Palmyra on the upcoming trip. Thanks again for your excellent report!

Hi Caroline,

Would you mind if I asked what tour you used? Looks like you had a great time. Thank you 🙂

Hi Meg, our group went with Mithra Travel both visits, our guide, Lamis was/is exceptional. I would definitely use them again, highly recommended. Caroline

Hi Joan, I’d like to ask you, how about the relations between Syria and Israel? You write about crossing the borders between Lebanon and Syria, and Jordan and Syria. But how about Israel and Syria? I guess that the border between Israel and Syria is also closed, but anyway, do you know more about it? And how the Syrians think about Israel and the Jews? I know that Israel makes some air raids against the Iranian bases there (at least it is what the news say). Does it have an effect to the opinion of the local Syrians about Israel?

Hi Krasen! The border between Israel and Syria is definitely closed and it will be for a long time. I don’t know if it used to be open during the pre-war but I seriously doubt it. I didn’t talk to any Syrian (in Syria) about Israel but I did talk to Syrians living in other parts of the world and their opinion towards Israel / Jews is the same as Lebanese, Jordanians and, basically, any other Arab.

Hey we hate isreal and isrealies and we love jews and any israrli stamp on your passport will perminatly ban you from syria (thats the law) From syria

Hi! We will travel to Syria in this summer. In the visa application form we need a reference and we have to show our invitation letter. How does it work actually? Is it just formality? Maybe, can you help us?

An LOI can only be issued by a valid tour operator and it is a big responsibility. Then, a friend could also invite you but it is a long process that requires great paperwork, and shouldn’t be asked to random Syrian people on the internet.

Hi Joan. Loved your post. I have soon-to-be relatives in Syria. Would writing a LOI for me put them under any kind of scrutiny or hardship? I want to travel there this winter, and I will be visiting them, so I don’t want or need a tour. But I don’t want to cause any problems for anyone either. Thanks!

Hi Cynthia, I am not sure if an LOI written by them would be valid. You should ask the embassy but for people from Syrian origin and relatives, getting the visa should be easier.

Hi Kristof,

My name is Lotte Beckers, I’m a journalist for the Belgian newspaper De Morgen. I’m working on an article on traveling to Syria (I also spoke to Joan on the phone this weekend). Could we maybe get in touch? Feel free to mail me at [email protected] Thanks

HI Joan , If I get a tourist visit it’s only thru tour guide correct after a tour I want to go and see close friends in Axcelê,Syria that is final destination then like I said buy an apartment in Jandaris where my friends and I would live and hopefully work maybe open something or purchase with them. Which is the easiest way to get there. Please help name’s of company or Taxi service in Aleppo that could drive me the rest of the way.

Hating Israel and Israelis (including Arab Muslim Israelis??)… – Joan Torres, do you allow this kind of hateful comment in this thread? Where’s the outrage? – Syrianguy, get an education, man. After a number of lost wars again Israel, perhaps you could start thinking about the effects of your hateful attitude and realize that it leads to a dead end (literally), i.e. the destruction of your own country — and I feel sorry for the peace-loving Syrians. Hating others will eventually backfire. Horray to all the loving Syrians, down with hateful people — and with governments that make it a policy to hate other nations.

Francis, don’t be a moron. Hate is a right to anyone, it’s a state of mind, better, a state of emotion. There is no bigger fascist than the one who thinks he has the right of ban emotions. Not only this but also the Syrian person obviously is not obviously fluent in English, so better focus in the general idea that there are problems regarding Israel and that an Israeli stamp in the passport will block any request of visiting visa to Syria. Geeeeez!

Ricardo, try not to be the moron yourself. Hate is a right to everyone? Wow man, I have never come across such a weak attempt to justify hate. Hate is not a feeling, nor is it an emotion, it is basically a choice based on biased beliefs which entails emotions like anger and which brings about real actions like trying to murder someone. You are watering down the hate thing into a vague emotional state that cancels the responsibility of the hater. And Syrianguy not being fluent in English still makes him fluent enough to clearly vent his hate. You are trying to excuse his hate with a poor command of English. Pathetic. Denouncing hate is to be a fascist now? Geeez. Remember to take your meds, Ricardo.

I don’t want to get involved in your discussion but to be very honest, the comment you are referring to about ”hating Israel” is debatable.

First of all, he is a 14-year old person who has written many comments besides this one, plus it’s true that he doesn’t speak English very well.

Moreover, it could be that he is referring to the fact that Syria, as a country, hates Israelis, politically, hence they put a travel ban to anyone with an Israeli stamp. He also says he loves Jews, so his problem is about Israel as a country. I would delete any racist, offensive comment but in this case, it isn’t very clear, so there’s no need to make such a big deal out of it,

Did I say Moron? Sorry, my mistake. You are a total idiot with no clue on how humans and the world works, a child, in age and/or mentality, who sees a black and white world and is full of certainty about everything and still, knows shit about hate and emotions. End of conversation, ignoring trolls mode.

Sorry for this parenteses Joan. Over and out.

i am syrian…we respect jews riligion..but we hate israel cuz they steal our arabian land..so if any jews came to syria he is welcomed…but israel ppl they will not be safe in syria…if u have israel stamp ur syrian visa will get rejected directly.

israel does not do stamps on passports anymore, nowadays they give you an entry and exit ticket, instead of making a stamp on the passport. and that’s because of the very specific reason you mention, that other countries wont see that people have visited israel

the northen area of israel, golan hights and down to tiberias lake, all that area belonged to syria and it was occupied by israel in 1967, how do you think syrians feel about syria ? and the border between both countries was never open ..

Hey Joan, you have put a great guide to Syria, thanks man! It is so insightful and useful

I visited Damascus many years ago, around 2005, and I absolutely loved it and now that the country is finally starting to bring back tourism again, I can’t wait to go.

The visa process seems the only barrier though, as I contacted the embassy in my home country and they said that I need an LOI, which means that I will have to get in touch with an agency, which I don’t really want to because I want to travel there on my own.

And by the way, thanks for double-confirming all the information regarding Basel Travel King.

I know 2 people who traveled with him in November and December and both them agreed that he is a scam. He also charged them 100USD a day for a guide who didn’t know absolutely anything about history, which means that you pay all this money for only having a guardian which you don’t really need to. One of them went to Aleppo and instead of staying in a hotel, he stayed at a Basel’s friend but he charged him the price of an expensive hotel.

Anyways, I will try to see if is there anyone who can get me the LOI without booking an expensive tour and I will let you know

Yes, the visa thing is a pain in the ass and it seems that you can’t get it without paying a lot of money first, which sucks a lot… Hopefully, things will soon get easier PS: Thanks for sharing additional information about Basel. He sucks, really. 😀

Great article! I am going in October but I am booking with a local travel agent so I can move fast (I hate buses) and see Palmyra. Maybe even continue to Jordan to see more of Crusader’s castles and Petra. Not sure why are you so surprised by the support to Al Assad. I mean the guy saved them from islamists and religious state. In any case, hope the peace is upon all of Syria soon!

Yes, that is what some of them said, that they defeated the Islamists but Al Assad was not only fighting Islamists but many other groups and those rebels had hundreds of thousands of supporters. However, I believe that most of those supporters are either dead, left the country or they just will never talk about it I also do wish the peace comes soon.

Thank you for this blog, but just a quick comment on this one – even if they do disagree with Assad, the secret police is swarming around the cities so they would never say it (there’s a joke that every third person is mukhabarat in Syria). Don’t assume that they support him just because they say they do!

Well don’t assume they don’t either, I know the Brotherhood was plotting in the mosques in 2005 and coming to England for monetary support from the government here. And that a previously held Guantanamo Bay prisoner was travelling around Britain with Amnesty International advocating the bringing down of the Syrian Government and possibly brought a lot of money from the British govt to the Brothers, at least our govt didn’t deny it. That is my personal. Also I know another family of detainees came to impose the caliphate and two were killed and the other one is in Syria still, maybe in the camp on the east side. The travesty didn’t happen on its own mate. Don’t stir up shit storms with your comments please. Lastly why do you want to visit Syria then? you make me suspicious.

Hi Joan! Syria is a place I want to visit before it becomes too popular. My question is, you entered though Lebanon, but where did you exit? I would fly to Beruit and spend a few days there before crossing the border. They say a Lebanon visa is free on arrival but that is only 1 entry. Did you pay for a multi entry visa and re-enter Lebanon or depart Syria though a different country? It sounds like its best to contact that lady and just do a 1 day tour to get your security clearance. What exactly is that anyway? Just to make sure you are not wanted by interpol!! or is it just a routine procedure? Thanks for any help. Tony.

Hi Tony, I entered and exited through Lebanon. Visa in available on arrival, so when you re-enter, you just get a new visa. The security clearance is just a background check and a requirement to obtain your Syrian visa.

Hi, how you got your copy of the security clearance ? Agency send it to you via post, or you got e-version?

you get an e-version

Thanks Joan. I will look into this trip either before June or after September. Too hot in between! Tony

Hello, I visited Syria in December as an independent traveller and I used a tour company to secure the visa but they didn’t require me to take a tour. I visited Damascus, Hama, Homs and Aleppo with no issues – I tried to visit Palmyra but apparently the security clearance that you may apply for in Damascus takes 5 days to clear and must take a tour as there’s still an active minefield. So unfortunately it may be hard to visit Palmyra for a while. Josh

Thank you Josh. I didn’t know that Hama was possible to visit. Was the ferry wheel still standing? By the way, which company did you book the tour from?

Hello, The water wheels are still standing and are lovely! I took my bus to Aleppo from Hama. Was a strange experience because in Hama because I hitchhiked from Krak des Chavalier to Hama at night and was then invited out to dinner almost as soon as I arrived with the Syrian tourist minister and some of his friends, I assume the hotel manager informed the minister I was staying town. I used some local tour company called Damascus Tours.

that sounds like a great adventure, thank you for sharing- Do you have perhaps the contact of this tour company? I tried to look for it on Google but I don’t see any company with a website named Damascus tours… I would really like to contact them and see if it could be a good alternative, so readers can know. thank you!

Hi Joshua, could you share contacts of Damascus Torus company?

Josh I want to visit Syria I have family there. I have American passport and was thinking about flying to Kuwait for a few days then to Damascus airport. Do you know if I can get a visa at the airport?

Hi Joan, I too tried to look for this travel company but couldn’t find it. Even if its possible to get the security clearance without a tour, it will still cost $325, yes? And the actual visa at the border. I saw the man you stayed with in Aleppo on couch surfing. Did he show you around the city, is the fighting completely finished there? I only ask you because on a Syrian government it mentioned military action in the Aleppo district. That may cover a large area though.

Yes, the security clearance costs 325USD and the Syrian visa at the border around 70USD, for European passports at least, except for British, who pay more. If you only pay for these 2 things, consider yourself lucky.

Yes, my CS host showed me around and as far as I know, the fighting in Aleppo is over.

Although fighting in the city itself has ended, there are jihadi forces relatively nearby. Fighting in the region could occur at any time and the city could get targeted. Anyone visiting should keep up to date constantly on the situation

Great article … I am Syrian … i read your article out of curiosity to see how is the general impression about my city …. you did great especially about the prices ….. Thanks for that

which city?

Damascus…

Joan, your article is wonderful!

Please, do share more of the things you discussed with locals during your stay. It is so hard to find any current info without a political bias. And I would really like to hear more Syrian people’s voices.

You mention they have a good WiFi connectivity in Damascus. Do you think they have any independent blogers that might be of interest?

Thank you again!

Hey! What do you mean by ”independent bloggers that might be of interest?”

You mean if there is any Syrian travel blogger who would be great to follow?

It is doubtful you will make it out alive…Bashar Assad is a murdering, lying psychopath

It’s extremely complicated in Syria. Despite the situation. in Syria, numerous minority groups are still protected by the central government controlled by Bashar Assad.

Speak of an Arabic government that allows such religious freedom.

Syria is all you can speak of. Thank you to the Syrian Republic.

Please talk to the people in idlib..they will tell you the truth..Assad is a psychopath..

I’d love to see your westerner/christian ass trying to walk 5 blocks in Idlibstan without lossing your head. Maybe Hillary can airdrop you there to fight against the christian saviour Bashar.

Bashar w bass.

Hello, My name Is Luisa and I would like to visit Syria in December. If you want we can talk each other my email [email protected] Whatsapp 0039 3204551648

And the Kurds are Pro-Israeli not to mention mainly Turkish. Wht try and take over Idlib at all? Qamishli wa a nice place but some groups want everything for themselves.

Hi Joan, Thanks for the very precise description and advices. I am planning to go there in May, however, I am wondering if they put a stamp on your passport because I have another flight to the US shortly after. Thanks

Hello, yes, they do stamp your passport

Hola Juan me ha encantado tu post muy bien detallado y la verdd dan muchas ganas de viajar. Tbn soy espanol residente del Paris. La cosa es que la semana que viene viajo a Turquia y de paso me encantaria pasar por Siria. Efectivamente las fronteras estan cerradas a turistas por lo que la sola alternativa es ir a Libano. Hoy estuve en la embajada Siria en Paris pero hacer el visado toma alrededor de un mes por lo que ya es practicamente imposible obtenerla aqui. Me parece que el tema de agencias es my caro, asi que me gustaria saber cual es para ti la forma mas barata y rapida de obtener el visado a para poder entrar a Siria ya que mi tiempo es bastante limitado y esperar mas de 3 dias para un visado seguramente anularia una posible visita siria.

Muchas gracias por tu post!!!

Hola Sebastián,la mejor manera será contactar con una agencia, con Sawswan por ejemplo, y reservar un tour de 1 día

Osea q tienes q pagar como minimo el security clearance de 325 USD + 100 USD del tour de un dia? Joder si es asi creo q optare para hacer siria en otro viaje haciendome el visado en la embajada donde me cuesta solo 25 eur…

si de verdad consigues un visado para Siria por sólo 25€, me lo cuentas para que lo pueda escribir todo aquí

http://www.ambassadesyrie.fr/services_consulaire3.php

Aqui tienes los precios. Pero bueno solo por confirmar a mi mensaje anterior, el minimo entonces para entrar desde Libano son 425USD??

En mi más humilde experiencia, jamás me fiaría de una página de información burocrática procedente de un país de Oriente Medio. Es más, estoy segurísimo de que estos precios son falsos y de todas formas, aquí también tendrías que añadirle el coste del security clearance, a parte de la carta de invitación que lo más probable es que te vayan a pedir

Bonjour Je peux vous aider si vous voulez Merci

il faut se contacter

I can say that you have the courage to visit Syria while it is not safe as it used to be many years ago. It is a very good article filled with important inforamtion.

Hi Joan, I sent a whatapp message to the lady you talked about who could maybe help with getting the secuity clearance-Sawswan. I asked her if if she could help with getting the clearance if I booked a tour with her around Damascus and maybe Palmeyria. I mentioned that I had got her number from you and that you had travelled to Damascus in few months ago. It looks like she got my message but no reply. Is there any other way to contact her , has she got a travel company or tour guide company? If I draw a blank with her is there another reputable guide or company I could try?

Thank you very much for the beautiful blog. As a Syrian who hasn’t been back in Syria in two years (living in Lebanon) this fills me with a sense of nostalgia. Thank you for visiting Syria and I hope you had fun!

We Syrians have always been happy to find tourists visiting our humble country, and I myself have always dreamed about helping tourists discover Syria (given the fact that I am one of the rare Syrians who actually speak English properly), but alas the war took away the tourists from me and I had to leave Syria to study abroad in them American University of Beirut.

A couple of my European friends here in Lebanon tried visiting Syria over the last couple of months and couldn’t enter; they went to the embassy and were told that they didn’t need a visa and should go to the border directly, only for the border to tell them to head back to the embassy and get a visa. I am happy that things are becoming more organized now as evidenced by the fact that you could enter the country without any complications. I hope you didn’t get ripped off though! We’ve always had a thing for ripping off foreigners back in the day, but perhaps now that tourists are so few and we’re so glad to have them back our great merchants aren’t too keen on ripping them off.

I do hope to one day return to Syria and meet the nice folk like yourself who have come to visit our country from overseas. Thank you again for writing this blog. I will forward it to all of my foreign friends here in Lebanon who have expressed their desire to visit Syria. I probably won’t be able to go with them (since I would need to get permission from the army to be able to leave the country again and it’s a hassle) but I am sure that the information you provided would very much help them get the visa and find local accommodations .

Thank you, Joan, and thank you to everyone who is standing by Syria and the Syrian people through these troubled times.

Hey there, thank you so much for your kind-hearted words, really.

I loved Syria and trust me when I say that nobody tried to ever rip me off. Everybody was always so kind and trying to be overprotective with me, and I am sure that anyone should have a very similar experience.

Hope you can travel to your beautiful country and the situation will normalize even more in the upcoming months and years.

Kind Regards

Hi Joan, Saludos de Portugal! Thanks for sharing your experience. I will be in Lebanon during May (9 to 17), and really wanted to take this opportunity to visit Damascus. I contacted this travel agent you mentioned, and she asks me for 500$ for a day trip, which is simply insane. I really wanted to do it independently, and, of course, much cheaply. I’ve contacted the Syrian embassy in Paris, but they’re not very responsive. Any recommendations?

Thank you for your time and good travelsl Rodrigo

Hi Rodrigo, It is quite a standard price. I didn’t go on a tour and only the security clearance cost me $325, (and other agencies charge more), so, unfortunately, there is not much you can do, because now there is no way to get a visa without booking first a tour.

Hello Rodrego My friend take those words as a standard whenever you want to visit Syria, the longer period you stay there the cheaper offers you get, for example ( 1 day trip is 500$, then every extra day will cost you 200$ including the hotel+the tourguide)

It is a reasonable price especially since it includes a visa to transfer to and from Beirut and a guide to the Damascus tour

Hi nice blog i live in syria and i am syrian i am 14 years old i read the article to see what people think of us with the lies shown in the media so thanks for the great article i hope when you visit us again you would go to my dad’s restaurant it is called kaza miza and it was awarded the best restaurant in syria by the syrian tourisim minestry in 2016 Again thanks for the article

Thank you! And I would have loved to taste your dad’s restaurants, really. A pity I didn’t know about it before 🙂

Hi Joan, First of all, great article, thanx a lot! I have been trying to go to Syria for a while, and I am thinking about going this coming Oct/Nov. 2019. I am also an independent traveler and hardly any time I take a tour, so far only have taken two; Tibet and DPRK. I want to visit on my own. Heard rumors about a German fella that got in trouble and now the government has implemented a “tour only” for all travelers into Syria, but I believe it is more like a rumor created by the tour agencies and operators. In any case, I hold a U.S. passport and one from the Republic of Georgia, unfortunately neither place has a diplomatic office from Syria. Saw your post about a week ago and wrote to the Embassy of Syria in Madrid, but have not yet received a response. If you don’t mind me asking, when you applied for your visa you had to go in person to the embassy in Madrid and then they sent your passport plus the visa by mail, correct? How long was the process? Also, I see your comments and you talk about a “clearance letter” worth about US $450.00 plus a fee of US $70.00 when you enter Syria, at the border? My plans are using my Georgian passport, obvious reason, and try and go get the visa either in Madrid or Brussels. I don’t count with a lot of time. Do you mind explaining a bit the process? Thank you very much! George G.

Hi George, things have changed a bit recently and you won’t be able to get a visa without booking a tour. Even most embassies will require you to get an LOI from a valid tour operator, which you will only get if you book a tour. This is kind of contradictory because then you can move around Syria independently.

Hi again, Joan, So, basically I can book a tour for let’s say, a day, then I can move independently? That sounds feasible. I know you went in independent, but does anybody here knows of a reliable and easy local tour operator then? Thank you Joan and all participants! George

I tried with the Syrian embassy in Brussels as its the nearest one to me. I emailed them but they never even replied. I think the tour agents are the only way. Just choose carefully!

Very interesting post, thanks for the info! I’m an independent journalist and visited Afghanistan a few months back which was impressive, and now Syria has become a big wish to visit! Those visa regulations suck though… Hopefully come across some local reliable tour operator somewhere. Given your contacts, do you perhaps know if there are different regulations for journalists, holding international press card?

Great site by the way, all the destinations of my interest, will be following!!

Hi Thijs, I don’t really know about journalism visas but Syria has been receiving loads of journalists for the past 8 or 9 years, so as long as you are not from the USA or the UK, I assume it should be feasible? But I don’t know about the process. I think you should contact the embassy!

Hi Thijs, just in case you ever revisit this Blog and your post: I‘m an independent filmmaker from Switzerland and visited Syria in January 2018. Iobtained a journalist visa through the consulate in Geneva. A few days ago I tried to Rentner the Country again, this time as a Tourist – and promptly was denied entry on the grounds of – well – being seen as a journalist. So, I‘d say it‘s risky to apply for a tourisr visa if you have a journalist visa from another country in your passport.

And yes, you should definitely contact your embassy. Btw, as a official journalist you‘ll have to accredit yourself at the ministry of information in Damascus after 24 hrs. and they will assign a governement employee to accompagny you throughout your travelsein Syria. Understandable after all the lies that have Bern Publisher about this Great country over the last decade by Western media . You‘ll have to pay for food and lodging of said employee. Best, Jan

Sorry for the tipos, am writing from 30 degrees Beirout… ;

Hi Joan, First of all, thank you for the great guide. I was so excited after reading your text, but then I looked at some comments and got pretty confused. So, to be clear: you have to get security clearance and visa to cross the border. You can ask for visa in local embassy, is that right? And after incident with German tourist, visas are now available only if you have booked tour? And tour operator is responsible for visa and security clearance, you don’t need to go to embassy? And there is currently no way for getting the clearance and visa without having to book the trip with travel agency? Once again, thank you for this brilliant site!

Hi Monika, yes, I know that this is confusing because everybody is getting different information/interpretation plus rules change every day. I wrote this post 2 months ago and the visa part already seems sort of outdated. Tomorrow will update it.

However, you got it 100% right. In summary, you can’t get a visa without booking a tour and, if you contact directly the agency, you don’t need to go to the embassy but I think that going through the embassy is cheaper (but slower) because you don’t have to pay the 300-400USD for the security clearance.

On the other hand, some rumors say that a few embassies like the one in Beirut and don’t know which Consulate/Embassy in Brazil don’t require the LOI but again, these are just rumors.

Joan, thank you for quick reply. I contacted Syrian embassy in Poland and they informed me that currently tourist visas are not issued at all. They told me to contact them again in two months. Wish me luck for the next time =)

Yeah, each embassy is a complete different world 🙁

Cześć Monika. I jak się Twoja historia skończyła? Jestem ciekaw bo również chciałbym pojechać na parę dni do Syrii. To Joan: Great article. I strongly appreciate that three are such people in Europe who can go to Syria, enjoy it and respect its law and fantastic people regardless of western media and western politicians WHO are responsible for syrian crisis. Greetings!

Hello everybody. I have just updated the visa section of the article. To be honest, the situation hasn’t changed much, meaning that getting the Syrian visa is still a pain, but based on new experiences from some travelers, I have re-written it and the process seems less confusing now. Please, remember that travel reports are more than welcome 🙂

Hi Joan There are a number of signs that a campaign against the rebels in Idlib is starting, which could explain the clamping down on visas and having to go on a tour. The govt isn’t going to want to have tourists going anywhere near fighting or undercover journalists using tourist visas. If so , Aleppo will be much more risky and there would be the risk of suicide bombings or attacks elsewhere. Personally I’d advise people to hold off on booking tours until the picture is clearer – when major fighting starts, which is only a question of when, not if, tours might just get cancelled anyway.

Amazing Article! I want to visit Damascus, Homs, Hama, and Aleppo from Jordan do any of you guys now any buses that go from amman to damascus? If so plz let me know 🙂 also I want to apply for a Syrian visa so do you guys know any cheap government secure agencies that issue them? Once again thank you!

Hi Mahdi, there are a few agencies listed on the article

Hi there is a company called jett which has buses from amman to damascus and if you are jordinian i dont think you need a visa

Thanks for the advice but I checked the Jett website but it seems that there is no bus that goes from Amman to Damascus if you do find it send me a screenshot somehow 🙂

Syria is not safe and will not be safe until the murdering psychopath Bashar Assad is gone.

Lori I wasn’t asking for your opinion on Assad so plz stop btw the only way Syria will be stable is if Assad is in power and everyone knows that, btw going on topic if there aren’t any buses how or where would you find taxis in Amman going to Damascus

Lori I wasn’t asking for your opinion on Assad so plz stop btw the only way Syria will be stable is if Assad is in power and everyone knows that, btw going on topic if there aren’t any buses how or where would you find taxis in Amman going to Damascus and is it possible just to rent a car by yourself and travel throughout Syria?

Hello I am making wild plans to travel from Amman to Kurdistan to enter Turkey from Syria, Aim is to cycle home from Jordan back to Europe. I know there were many conflicts there between the Kurds and IS, but i want to hear if anyone knows anything about this region/ traveling all trough Syria nowadays.

Someone can link me to someone or something?

All I can tell you is that you can’t travel around most Syria and the border with Turkey is closed. It is not the right time to cross Syria on a bicycle

Hello and thanks for the very informative article. Did you have or foresee any difficulties visiting other countries now that you have a Syrian stamp on your passport? Israel is now definitively a No-Go but I was wondering if other countries like the US might be difficult to visit afterwards. Thanks a lot! Hey

Hi Nicola, my Algerian visa was rejected. They didn’t tell me the reasons but I suspect it was due to the Syrian visa. Otherwise, it didn’t make sense

Nicola, That’s not true! If you have a passport with a Syrian (iranian, etc) stamp you can still visit visit Israel. As for the USA, you’ll need a visa (even if you needed before) if you visited the country after 2011. Bf th war I travelled Syria-Jordan-Israel, without any problem.

Joan, como estás? I´m a brazilian national applying for a tourism visa for Syria. As I don’t know anyone from Syria, I’ll have to inform in the application form that my contacts in the country are the hotel managers where I’ll be staying at. I liked your suggestion about the Green hotel. Do they have a website? Would you still recommmend Mohammed so that I can get in touch about a reservation? Or any other hotels I can call or write them? Thank you!

Hi Guilherme, yes, try to contact Mohammed, he is working there still. You can make reservations in other hotels and contact them, but I don’t know anyone personally

Hi there Joan,

this is an update about my sucessful trip to Syria in August, 2019, that might be useful for other travelers. I required a visa at the Syrian embassy in Sao Paulo, by filling an one-page form. It took less than a month and around USD 15 to get my 15-day visa. I booked a 5-night tour with The Golden Target tour company – recommended by Eva, von @evazubeck. It was simply amazing. My itinerary was: Damascus – Palmyra – Homs – Hamra – Aleppo – Crac des Chevaliers – Maaloula/Saydnaya. I had a driver and an outstanding guide (Tayseer) with me, full time. The driver pick me up at my hostel in Beirut and drove me straight to Damascus. Border crossing was wasy and everyone was very friendly. I paid around USD 1600, all included. Hotel rooms were amazing, including my 2-night stay at a five-star ottoman-damacean mansion in old the town in Damascus (Beit Mamelouk Hotel).

We normally started our day at 8:00 AM and finished at 10:00 PM. We saw a lot, no hurry. Every 10/20 km there was a military check point. The agency provided all permits and it was very easy to get through. Everywhere was safe. My guide and some cops/military would always give me some advices on my personal safety when walking around.

Although it sounds a fancy trip for backpackers like me, it was worth it and I had a fantastic genuine experience. I met hundreds of locals in the streets, cafes, road sides etc. It was beautiful. I have been to almost 70 countries, but Syria , blew me away.

Thanks for you post. I highly recommend everyone to go to Syria.

Guilherme, 31, Brazil

hi thank you for everyone, am from dubai want to travel damascus, and, aleppo for business purpose, is it safe to travel this city, can you advice any precautions. thank you

Hi Joan! Thank you so much for writing this article. I would love to travel to Damascus; I contacted Mr. Ayoub like you suggested. Is there any way you could give him a heads up so he knows to look out for my message?

Hi Irene, I think it is better if you wait for him to reply. He will-

Also, another question–will it be hard getting into Israel if I have a Syrian stamp on my passport?

Thanks again! Irene

Read this: https://againstthecompass.com/en/avoid-israeli-passport-stamp/

Hi. I travelled to Syria many times before the war – as a lone woman. And I never had any problems. To the contrary I was treated like a princess, with a huge amount of respect. If you dress conswrvatively and respect the culture, I don’t see why the wonderful Syrian sense of hospitality would have changed.

Im looking foward to go to syria for the first time How do i need to dress to go there??

Hi i am syrian it doesnt matter how you dress we are very open here but dont wear very short or exposing cloths

Hi joan i am a mexican citizen who looks to travel to syria in the future, what are the thing i need to do before i travel there to syria???

Hi Angel, you just need to do what says in the visa section of this post

Its a relief to know that and for me its amazing the idea to travel there, i really pray for the conflict to end and peace shall return to all syria

i am from Saudi arabia and i want to spend my vacation in syria ASAP, can anyone help me out? i have been reading so many articles and it seems so hard, can i travel by plane or by crossing border i have no idea, its so confusing! do i just have to make a tourist visa and a ticket and then i can fly from jeddah,riyadh(saudi arabia) to amman,or damascus (i dont know where the airport is). is that it? please let me know!

Hey, I’m Syrian and I’ve read your article and I really want to thank you about everything you said. We work too hard to show the world what the poor media don’t show, We have terrific nature, awesome historical places from too many cultures, delicious traditional food, and the most welcoming and heartwarming people you will ever met. When you add unbelievable views, delicious food and talented people you meet around here that what makes Syria just amazing. I’d love to help anyone wants to visit Syria with what I’m capable of and let you know about the best places to stay and visit. feel free to Email me: [email protected]

Hi Joan, thanks for putting all this super helpful information together. Do you happen to have any information about the border crossing procedure between Kurdistan Iraq + Rojava / Northern Syria in Semalka? I heard that the KRG sometimes issues permits to foreigners but I don’t know under which circumstances. Best regards from Germany, Karoline.

Hi Karoline, I don’t have any information, but the only issue here is that I have my doubts that you would be able to go to Damascus, as you would have to go through definitely NO-GO zones for tourists. Assuming they give you that permit, you’d be just able to visit Kurdistan, but even then, Syrian Kurdistan is not as autonomous as Iraqi Kurdistan, or at least the Syrian Government doesn’t recognize them as such, so I am not sure if you would also find there pro Al-Assad checkpoints. I would definitely do more research about it if I was you.

Please make a detailed Lebanon and Syria border crossing guide! And explain how you get the visa at the border! Keep the amazing work up!

It’s already explained in this article – There’s not much more to say about it

Hi Joan, I want to ask that I am a Pakistani and currently living in Germany doing my Masters here.In October,I am going to Sharjah UAE for the Internship for three months.During that time,I want to visit Syria to visit Damascus and Aleppo.Do you think that I will get the visa in that short time period of three months. Regards, Ahsan

hello, the visa process takes 1 week. contact Mr Ayoub and he will give more details about it

Hi Joan, I just got back from a few days in Damascus. It was awesome from transport from Beirut to visa clearances to everything. Through your blog I found out how this was all possible so thank you..

thank you for your feedback 🙂

Hi Kelly… your name was in our clearance 🙂 so… may i ask you how was your trip? Did you see many non arab tourists there? Is the city ok to be visited? Thank you sooooo much!

can I ask if you visited with the tour or independent?

thanks Paul

My husband and I booked a 3 day Damascus tour for the next montb and I can confirm they are super professional. Clearance has just arrived and all was pretty smooth. Details will follow… stay tuned

Great, thanks! 🙂 Let us know it goes!

Hi Marzia, Looking forward to connecting with you as am I yet to book my tour but will definitely do it since I’d love to visit Syria during my stay in Lebanon (I am going in October). Could we connect via email for instance to share experiences?

Sure, with pleasure. Mail me to [email protected]

Thanks, Marzia, just sent you a message!

amazing work.have you something to follows on Facebook ,i want to show all my friends AND to all the stupid people out there who still believe the shit in the news.

Thank you but please, keep the insults out of this page 🙂

Great info, thank you. I only carry a US passport, but have family in Lebanon, not far from Anjar. In the past, I’ve been able to just show up at the border, and been given a visa for 17.00 USD (from what I recall). I’m going with a friend, who has a US passport, at the end of November and was interested in knowing if this would be possible or not without having anything. We’re just wanting to visit Damascus, than head to Amman. I also have family in Sweida (Druze). It’s not a huge issue, as we can fly to Amman from Beirut, but would love to go back to Damascus for a few days. Many years ago, I took a train from Damascus to Amman, which was amazing. If a 350.00usd security clearance is the only option, I’m probable will not be able to afford that. Thanks again.

Hi there, the situation is getting more and more complicated for American citizens. I suggest you contact the person mentioned in this article to assist you with it.

If you would like to stay only in Damascous for 1 day, be really carefull with transportation connections, as a 5/6 hour delay while taxing the beirut – Damascus road is a huge possibility and you can easely miss a plane 😉 my suggestion is not to have a too tight schedule 🙂 good luck

I sent Mr. Ayoub an email using the address provided here, and it worked, he responded, but his company will not do tours for US citizens, as it’s to difficult to obtain (his words, not mine)

Yes he told me the same for US Citizens. Can anyone give advice on perhaps any other options to crossing the border from Lebanon into Syria as a US passport holder only? Or entering from another direction or country perhaps? I would like to visit in October and it’s very important to me that I visit.

I have just returned from a trip to Syria, it has been an unforgettable experience, very enriching. Without a doubt, the best and most interesting of all my trips until now. Many thanks to Joan and his website: Excellent prices, very good guides, everything very serious, efficient and well organized. Ayoub and his colleagues are great professionals and very kind, always ready to help the traveler. I chose the 5-day tour, which includes Damascus, Crac des Chevaliers, Aleppo, Hama, Maalula and Seidnaya.

The price of the tour (in my case around 900 €) includes visa clearance, transport between Beirut and Damascus (round trip), hotels in Syria (with breakfast), car journeys from one city to another (with driver), and entrances to places of interest (museums, castles, etc). As Joan points out in his post, this is the most effective, quickest, easiest and cheapest way to visit Syria and make the most of your stay in this wonderful country. Of course, it is cheaper to take care of everything yourself, applying for a visa at the nearest Syrian embassy; but being granted a visa can take several months. Therefore, hiring the services of a tourist agency is the best option (at least for the moment).

Luckily, the war is almost over: The cities are crowded with people at all times. Shops, restaurants, souks and markets vibrate with life and activity (both in Damascus and Aleppo). It cannot be denied, however, that the cruel war has left its mark: Of the cities I saw, especially in Homs (we drove there from Damascus to Aleppo and vice versa) and in Aleppo (where the old town near the citadel has been practically destroyed by bombs and missiles). But the Syrians are rebuilding their country. I saw many volunteers working on the removal of rubble. Many refugees have returned to the country, which is excellent news. On the roads there are many military checkpoints, but they are fast and fluid; soldiers don’t stop cars for long (at least this was in our case). They just control passports, checking that everything is OK, and that there are no “stowaways” (or weapons) hidden in the trunk. The terrorists (whom the media insist on euphemistically calling “rebels”) are entrenched in Idlib and its surroundings, but the rest of the country (under the control of the Syrian army) is extremely safe (probably safer than certain neighborhoods in some big European and American cities…). With the exception (apart from Idlib) of some areas in the north, of the border with Turkey, where there are sporadically collusions between Kurdish armed groups, illegal incursions from Turkey and Islamist gangs.

Many people believe that Syria is living a civil war, when the Syrians I had the opportunity to meet confirmed to me that many of the so-called “rebels” are not even Syrians, but foreign jihadists from all over the world (including non-Arab countries such as Afghanistan and Pakistan, as well as from Caucasian regions such as Chechnya). It is very similar to the situation in Yugoslavia in the 1990s (history repeats itself).

In Damascus I walked through much of the city (especially the old town around Bab Touma, with its narrow alleys), visited the impressive Umayyad mosque, the Azzem palace (now a museum of Ottoman occupation), the national museum (with archeological pieces of great antiquity and value, some of them from Palmira), the craftsmen’s market, or the Via Recta (straight street), where St. Ananias converted St. Paul. The Crac des Chevaliers is a huge fortress on a hill close to Homs, where the Crusaders where (among others). In Aleppo, the archaeological museum is still being restored, but I visited the citadel (built by Saladin), from which there are spectacular views of the entire city. Hama is famous for its norias (waterwheels), which supply water to the region. Maalula is a beautiful mountainous village not far from Damascus, where most of the inhabitants are Christians and still speak Aramaic. Seydnaya is very close to Maalula, also in a mountainous area, and there are very old monasteries and churches, from the time of the first Christians. During my trip I also saw other tourists (from Spain, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Germany…). They were still relatively few, but it is already something very positive and hopeful to see that, even if it is “with eyedrops” tourists start to come again (which is very good for the economy of the country, thus favoring its reconstruction).

In Syria people are very nice and open, very kind and hospitable. The Syrians are happy to see tourists again. When they found out that I was a foreign visitor, they greeted me with a big “you are welcome!” Many speak some English, but it’s not like in Lebanon, where almost everyone speaks English and/or French. So it is useful to learn a few words of Arabic, the most basic will do. So the Syrians will be even happier, seeing the visitor’s interest in their culture and language.

So, shukran ktir (thank you very much) to Joan and to this page. And tahya Suria! (Long live Syria).

Thanks you so much for taking your time in writing this awesome review and glad you had an awesome time!

I am hoping to go on a tour in Syria. I was just wondered if you could allay any safety concerns – was there anything concerning at all you experienced during your trip ? I am a female UK citizen and I would be travelling with one other female. Thank you so much for any insights. From your comment and those of others it appears that it should all be safe but I just wanted to ask to confirm.

Hello Jen, everything was perfectly safe 🙂 Best regards, Felix

Hi Joan. Thank you for such a fantastic article .. it’s full of great info. I’m just wondering .. how long do you recommend staying in Damascus for? I’d really appreciate your insight on this. Thanks so much, Mel

two full days at the very least!

Thanks so much.

Hi Joan, I’m a journalist looking into writing a feature about people going on holiday in Syria and I wonder if I could ask you a few questions? It’s obviously an unusual travel destination and one which many people might associate with war and violence because of it’s recent history. But there’s plenty of tripadvisor reviews from people who have visited in recent years, so I’m trying to speak to some people who have been to ask their perspective. Please reply if you would be interested to talk. Many thanks! Tom

Thanks, I just replied to your email.

Hi everyone, Thank you very much Joan for this amazing information! I want to visit a Syrian friend, but I do not want to ask her to provide a LOI, to avoid that her details are put under audit or anything. This rules out the embassy route and I will try to get the security clearance + visa through the tourism agency you recommend. My question is: can I have any problem if I buy the minimum tour (one day I guess) and then I spend 5 or 6 days in Syria with my friend? or do I need to be accompanied all the time? I could even pay for 1 day tour and not use it at all (or use it only to go from Beirut to Aleppo). Thank you! 🙂

Hi Alberto, this is a concern Ayoub should answer but in any case, I think it is a bit unlikely, basically because the agency you go with is fully responsible for you, so I doubt they will let you roam around freely because if anything happened to you, they would be fucked as well

Hello, My friends and I may be visiting the Middle East next year and want to visit Damascus. We are very respectful of culture and the crisis but I’m concerned about perception. I have 3 questions. How are American Tourists treated? My second question is how are black people treated in Syria (Damascus specifically)? I’m traveling with a friend from Nigeria as well. Any special advice for entry for Nigerian passport holder?

Hi Karmin, I don’t really know what is their perception and attitude towards people from certain nationalities like yours but just to let you know that as of today, they aren’t issuing visas to Americans anymore, but you should contact Mr. Ayoub to ask about the current situation, as well as what are the requirements for Nigerians.

Just saw a girl on YouTube make a visit into Syria from Lebanon and I must admit it has given me itchy feet to visit Syria. You and your blog also. Maybe at the start of next year, need to earn and save some money. Hopefully no issues travelling on British passport.

Read all the comments and no mention of Canadian passport… how is it treated? Same as Australia and New Zealand is my thinking, but if someone could clarify? 🙂

I was quite impressed by the volume of information shared on this website. Thank you! I am of Syrian decent. My father was part of the first born generation in America. HIs parents were born in Homs and remained there until they came through Ellis Island in 1910. The name in Syria was Elian but was changed by Ellis Island officer to “Ellien.” My father passed away in 2017 at t he age of 90 and his dream of going back to the land of his family was never realized. Now my generation is all who is left in the family and I would love to make the journey. I have to admit that I’ve been hesitant to make such a journey given the political unrest but it would be life long dream for me and for my entire family. I may be traveling alone-not sure I feel comfortable bringing my adult children with me. I worry about many things-carrying cash but not feeling comfortable with using credit cards even if they could be used, remaining in contact with family at home while traveling, having no knowledge of the language, risks related whatever political unrest may exist at the time of travel. If I do make a trip to Syria, it’s not going to happen this year for sure. Thank you in advance for any comments about my post.

Thanks for sharing your story. BTW, people with Syrian ancestry/background can get a visa much more easily.

Hi Joan, What do you think if i book a day tour with proper travel agent,then can i walk/travel independently for rest trip around 4-5 day? 5 day trip 1000 USD quite expensive for me. Thanks

Hi Joe, The travel agency won’t allow you as you will fully be their responsibility. In any case, I have been told that for the last couple of weeks, they are getting more and more strict with foreigners that walk around without a guide or a local person, even in the old city of Damascus

What do you exactly mean by getting more strict? Plus, you did go on a solo trip, nothing bad happened. Why not just pay for the clearance and go your own way…

Hola Joan, Soy Alicia, periodista. Estoy escribiendo un reportaje sobre el turismo en Siria y me gustaría hablar contigo. Si tienes un momento este miércoles o jueves te lo agradezco. Un saludo,

Hey, I’m travelling to Syria next month and I found all the info you gave very interesting. Are you sure “IATI seguros” cover syria though? This is what I found in their contract “The cover provided under the Policy excludes those countries that, during the Insured’s trip or stay abroad, are in a state of war, siege, insurrection or armed conflict of any kind, even when this has not been officially declared, and those that are specified in the invoice or in the Particular Conditions.” It would be great if you could somehow verify this info and edit the blog, cause lots of people could be dangerously misled!

Hi Maria, thanks for raising this topic. A few points to clarify: – First of all, IATI won’t cover you in case, let’s say, you are hit by a bomb or any terrorist attack. For this, you should hire a travel insurance specialized in war zones. I used to recommend First Allied that they are no longer providing coverage for people who travel for tourism purposes, only business – Second of all, if you have a car accident, break your leg, lose your luggage, etc, and the reason is a non-related to war event, they will cover you – However, what they mean with the statement you attached is that if you are in an actual war zone, the medical assistance is very limited, so they won’t be able to help you – This means that their coverage is restricted to specific regions. As of today, the only place which is in actual war is Idlib. If you go there and something happens to you, they won’t be able to help you, so your policy will remain invalid. However, Damascus is today a safe place, so you will be fully covered. Hope this clarifies.

I’m about to leave tomorrow for Beirut and onwards to Damascus. Alone. I just read the update that lone tourists get into trouble even in Damascus. What exactly does that report or source said? I’m expecting my clearance any minute now from a friend’s friend in Damascus but this got me worried.

George, is there any way I could contact you? I am planning to go alone too. And would really like to ask about your experience and clarify some stuff. My e-mail address is [email protected]

If you don’t want to put your contact here, please just drop me an e-mail, so I could write further questions to you. Thank you so much!

Wondering how it works as well tbh. I think as a white person you just need to be with Syrian all the time (when I was there we were accompanied all the time and taken care of) – otherwise military might look strangely on you

I just came back from a trip to Damascus with mr. Ayoub from Marotta (if you are reading that, once again, lots of love from Poland!) and everything was in completely perfect order, from start to the sad ending of leaving the beautiful city. I definitely had the most memorable experience of my life and I encourage everyone to go and see it for yourself – it would definitely change your perspective in a positive way.

Thank you Ayoub for organizing everything for me. Hope to see you very soon!

thanks fore your positive vibes, really appreciate it 🙂

thank you so much Wiktor! much love from Syria . all the best

Thank you buddy <3 Hope to be back very soon, sending all the vibes and love back to you!

It is really nice to see the excitement to visit Syria. As a Syrian coming from Damascus and living now in Germany, it makes me really happy to see people trying to reach my beloved country, even though it is still a post war zone, but yet full of history and stories to tell ( Damascus is the oldest still inhabited capital in the world). I have read this article very carefully and found most of it very accurate and would really like to thank Joan for the effort to make it easier for other to experience Syria, the cradle of civilizations. As a Syrian, visiting Syria regularly, I would like to add a couple of things since my last visit in July: 1- Most of the check points in Damascus are now gone, since the entire south region of Syria is secure and the borders with Jordan is open again. 2- Flying to Beirut then to Damascus on road is the easiest/cheapest option, but again it depends on where you come from, so the are flights to Damascus airport from Riad, Dubai, Sharjah, Doha, Kuwait, Baghdad, Tehran and maybe Tunisia ( Syrian airline, Cham wings). 3- As for lone female travelers, i can see no reason to be hesitated or afraid, since Syrian community is really open minded and tourist-friendly. Plus Syrian culture has much respect for independent women which you can find in many different areas of every day life. 4- As for exchange rate, there are couple of things that needs to be cleared: The are two rates: the “official” rate by the central bank of Syria which is relatively stable ( now about 434 SYP for 1 USD) and the black market price which changes by the hour and is hard to keep track with ( now about 625 SYP for 1 USD). 5- Syria and Israel are still in a war state, and Israel still doing, until this day Arial bombing to different locations in Syria with the entire world staying quiet about it. The borders are closed, with UN buffer zone since 1970’s with many Syrian lands occupied by the Israelis. An Israeli stamp on your passport will ban you entrance to Syria and vice versa. 6- In Syria there is no racism towards religion/color/ethnicity/etc.. we are all humans and every one is welcome, you will find full shades of humanity in the streets plus all kind of religions (even Jews, which was a surprise for some people). Just be respectful and you shall be respected back. 7- Couch Surfing is functional in Syria, as i was a host until 2018 when i moved to Germany. But you should always look for good references and avoid the creeps like in every other country. 8- Money wise: Cash and cash only. no Credit/debit/online/mobile/Googlepay/Applepay payments. Payments in currencies other than the Syrian Pound are not accepted. There are plenty of official exchange points in all major cities. 9- I personally recommend to visit Maaloula ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maaloula ) as it is the last city to speak western neo-aramaic language (the actual language of Jesus Christ) plus it’s a very important christian monuments and history. (Yes, Syria is full of christian history and attraction sites and has a big Christian community too). 10- If you speak to locals, it is recommended to say Crisis or situation, as referenced here in this article. what i want to add is you can too say war, since we see it as war including many nationalities from all around the world. But in no circumstance, I mean NEVER call it a civil war, because this is how the war was being falsely advertised in the west, especially by US/UK news agencies, which will take us to the next point. 11- Being a journalist is definitely a bad point to get in. it is not impossible though. i don’t know if there is any Development regarding this subject. 12- If you, for any reason, got sick in Syria, you can go directly to a pharmacy, where they probably would understand and speak English, then they will guide you what to do or where to go, (you can get prescription medications without a prescription if the pharmacist sees it fit, plus medications are super cheap). 13- Always have your passport on you, all the time. 13- If you have any other questions, i would gladly try to answer it to the best of my knowledge, and you can write to me in Arabic, English, German or French.

thanks for your amazing feedback man!

How is it possible to use Couchsurfing if foreigners can only move around in the country when together with a guide?

I am talking about independent travelers, i hosted a guy from China and another one from Malta back in 2018, I don’t have information on how to obtain a visa as an independent traveler, but i know it is possible.

Unfortunately its impossible unless you got your visa thru a travel agency, that’s the bnew rules

Thanks for all the updated information. Syria is on my list. Planning my second trip to Lebanon, will see what is possible to add Syria this time. So I will keep following this site (big thanks to Joan for sharing his experience). Best regards from Germany

5. I repeat what I said in a previous comment. I visited Israeli with a Syrian stamp in my passport(in fact, my itinerary was Syria-Lebanon-Syria-Jordan-Israel). So, it is not true that visitors to Syria are banned from visiting Israel. 10. I am confused. Syrians I know tell me Assad and his ethnic group, a minority, control most of the country and and other groups like the sunni majority and the kurds, are discrimininated by them . The war, or whatever you may call it, has put these groups and others fightinh against each other. They are all Syrians and so if they fight against each other, in English, it is a civil war. Care to enlighten me why a civil war can not be called a civil war?

HELLO JOAN TORRES: I thank you from the bottom of my heart for a most enjoyable trip to Damascus on Sept. 2019, made possible by your informative and generous advice through your exceptional posts. I contacted many consulates, embassies, travel agents, and got no replies. Your recommending Ayoub Smadi of Marrota Travels, answered my requests within hours. He personally, with office staff as Ghaidaa and Jasmine, the brilliant and amiable border expert, provided me a most memorable visit. I wish you long lasting success in all your endeavours.

Glad you had a great time with Ayoub. I only recommend the best!

Dr. Miguel It was a pleasure meeting you, i hope you are still in a good health, thanks for the recommendation and the good words, looking forward to see you again in Damascus. Be safe, god bless

Hey man! I unexpectedly realized we have a friend in common, Hadi from Tripoli in Beirut 🙂 We are very good friends and he personally recommended me to contact you about my ideas plans to travel to Syria! (just 3 days in Damascus actually). Could you assist please? Thanks!!

Hey man, that’s awesome! Yeah, I met Hadi almost 3 years ago during my trip to Lebanon. What do you want to know about Syria?

Hi Joan! Amazing post- thank you so much for taking the time to curate this resource and for connecting me with Mr. Ayoub. I’ve been in touch with him via email and Whatsapp over the past month – he’s provided me with great resources for various itineraries that his company organizes within the country. Communication has been prompt and professional- however I just found out today that my security clearance application was rejected and that all Americans would be rejected for the time being. From the beginning, he set expectations appropriately, that there was a 40% chance of it being approved as an American, which I considered to be too good to be true, and diplomatic relations have eroded since then. I figured this might be a helpful update since the situation is always evolving. Glad I tried and glad my experience was with him- this just gives me more time to explore Lebanon, which of course you provided an incredibly helpful blog post for as well. Thanks again, and safe travels!

Hey Andrea, thank you so much for your positive feedback, and update, and I am very sorry to know that your security clearance was rejected 🙁 Truth is that the diplomatic relations between both countries, USA and Syria, are so volatile and you never know what can happen

Hi Joan, Mr. NOUR HAIDAR keep appearing here. Do you know him?? Does anyone ever contacted him? TQVM

Hi, thanks for a great article. I’m planning a trip to Lebanon in the spring and a few days in Syria sound really interesting. Actually now I’m considering the option of continuing to Jordan – as travelling on Icelandic passport I have visa on arrival to Jordan, do you think that arriving from Syria would affect that status?

Hello, I would like to travel in April to Lebanon and Syria and I also thought about to visit Jordan from Syria. I have still a lot of douth. Specially about Visum and be able to across every country that I want to visit. If doesn’t annoyed you, I would like to be in contact with you in order to feel more calm while I’m organising my solo travel. Thank you

Joan, thank you very much for such a detailed guide. Are there any updates about visiting Syria alone, without travel agency? Is it still really hard to get clearance?

Hi Joseph, As far as I know, the situation hasn’t changed. Unless you have very strong contacts, your only way to get the clearance is via a travel agency and they will only give it to you if you book a tour with them

Hi Joan I’m Syrian living abroad and haven’t seen my home, my family in 10 years. Your words about my home country dropped me in tears. I thank you from my deep heart for this article.

Syrians are very cool nice people, warm heart and welcoming (our problem was always the government not the people, like any other threatened communist regime, zero humane). Of course I will be so much happy to hear that tourists are visiting Syria, Tourism in many countries is one of the main source of income for local economies, in addition for many people who are stranded within syria with no possibility to travel nowhere, for those; seeing a tourist is like seeing santa-cruise on Christmas.

You are always welcome, please be safe and ask a lot before you travel to Syria.

And Joan, couple of years ago I’ve visited Barcelona, it was the most beautiful vacation I’ve ever had, you should be proud of such a place, next time I’m visiting Spain will contact you for an advice.

Thanks for your kind words, and if you come back to Barcelona, let me know and we can meet up for a coffee/drink. Cheers!

Hello. Thank you so much for all the Information. It’s really help. I would like to travel to Syria in April, but the travel agency look like really expensive. More than 1600€ and I’m looking for another alternatives. I don’t know if the travel agency that you know he books just the guide or also the hotels like mine. Any extra information that you think I have to take on mind I would appreciate. Thank you in advance.

Hi Cristina, i already have an itinerary for April 6-11 in syria, with travel agency and german guided tour. Are you interested to join? Maybe we can get in contact, if you want.

I’m glad for this post, seriously Seria is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and I used to travel to that part of the world frequently. It a shame because most people would be put off visiting even when it safe.

I have some news!! In 16/2/2020 all syrians assured us by telling us that aleppo is now safe! That means that war is finished

I’ve travelled to Syria in October 2019 as an independant travel. The situation was perfectly safe in Damascus and surroundings (despite it can change from one moment to the other.. Car bombs in February 2020 in Damascus). Regarding the visa, it seems to be the most difficult part of the process of the travelers, in my case I applied in the embassy in Buenos Aires because I’m argentinian. I filled a simple paper with a reference contact in Syria (a syrian friend in my case). It’s important to know that your syrian reference will be contacted by the Security Office in Syria. They will ask about the relation between you and other questions for security purposes. This is the most important part of the application. Without an sponsor you won’t receive the clearance approvals. It took 4 weeks in total to have my visa stamped on my passport (the same type of visa before 2011) . Also, the authorisation is online and you don’t need to have visa stamped on passport. It cost 105 U$ and I only paid when approved. I traveled in a shared taxi from Beirut some hours before the chaos has started and roads became closed. The trip took almost 3 hours. Many checkpoints in the syrian roads but everything straightforward. I’ve walked the city accompanied and unaccompanied and never was detained for anything both in the old city and in new Damascus. I took taxis without any problem so I don’t know why you say it’s mandatory to be accompanied by a local all the time. The only you must take care is avoid take pictures of the military checkpoints. Damascus is without any doubt one of the most interesting cities to visit in the world but you should know that situation in this part of the world is so much volatile and you never know what can happen. Enjoy it!

Since reading your blog a few days ago I have made a booking for May with Ayoub at Marrota travel. A couple of emails and Ayoub is getting my Visa which will take 1-2 weeks. He has various well priced packages for Damascus only or longer for Homs. Included are getting visa organised and car pickup from hotel and return in Beirut. The hotel choice looked great. As an elderly female travelling alone I have chosen Beit Al Wali which looks fabulous. Am so excited will post more after my trip.

thanks, can’t wait to hear it!

Extremely educational article. Although I am not thinking of traveling there anytime soon, your article was a very interesting read.

I have just returned from trip to Damascus and I can say I’m so happy I took this trip and experienced Damascus myself. I felt perfectly safe, maybe even safer than back home. Food is so tasty! Beers can be found everywhere. Seeing locals living local life and talking to them was priceless! It’s totally opposite to what they serve us in western media! Trip (and security clearance) was organized by Ayoub and the guides were girls from Marotta agency. They were all so professional! I fully recommend them!

Thanks for sharing your experience with us 🙂

Hello, please confirm if google maps works in syria without the use of a vpn. I heard that it is jammed by the government. Or if there is any substitute?

i have been asked by a friend to come to Damascus and help her with a yoga retreat, but that seems impossible as a visa can only be acquired by taking a tour. I contacted the tour operator marrota, but he couldn’t help me or give me any solution. So the only way to go to Syria is with a fixed schedule tour. And you cant stay with a friend for 10 days.

Dear Joan I find that we are like-minded people in the sense that I love the Middle East and its people that cannot be quenched. Over the past 20 years or so, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Morocco, Tunisia,Egypt, Lebanon,Syria and Palestine. I just cannot get enough of these countries especially Ancient Egypt (have made six visits) and remain hungry for more….does it ever ?, and dear, dear Syria. My heart bleeds for this now tragically destroyed country that I visited on three separate occasions and vowed to return. I must return. Last year I spent A month in Egypt and on my way back I stopped over in Dubai for my connecting flight. On my last night in Dubai, I decided to have a coffee in the foyer of the hotel I stayed at. Somebody approached me , sat down, we chatted and when he told me that he was from Syria. I couldn’t contain myself’ hugged him and wept tears of joy. Such was th mix of emotions that had weighed upon me on that unforgettable meeting. I can go on forever, it seems. . But, well, I won’t. I would like to know whether I could go there – I am not afraid- I trust and love and miss Syria so much. The Australian advisory is “Do not travel”, and I do know that when people returned here , that were suspect, even locked up,Do you have any info in this regard ? Thanks for reading this. I’d better stop now with kind regards. Francois

hey Francois, thank you so much for your beautiful comment, and here’s hoping you can go back to Syria soon! As per your concern, I have a Syrian stamp in my passport for more than a year now and didn’t really have any issues other than my Algerian visa being denied. I hold a Spanish passport and never heard of anyone getting into trouble with their governments

Thanks, Joan for your response. I think that I haven’t made my query clear enough. I may well be paranoid so that my problem was somewhat shrouded in secrecy. I actually meant that there were. I believe , instances where Australians travelling to “no go” countries were denied returning to Australia or interrogated overturning. Anyway, should I decide to greenback on a trip to Syria, I’ll take the bull by the horns and see where it all ends up. Best wishes to you. Francois

Hello, Thanks for your interesting articles about Syria ! I’m planning to visit Syria in the future, once the COVID-19 will be over. I’ve found an association in Paris that will help me with the visa. I have several friends who visited Syria recently due to their associative / religious ties there and enjoyed their time here.

Hi Stef, do you have any updates on you trip regarding Syria? How is the situation as a independent traveler at this point and time?

Hello Simon,

Unfortunately, I had to cancel it because of coronavirus… I’ll wait for Syria to ease visa procedures. Getting a visa for independent traveller seems impossible.

Hi, thank you for these valuable comments about Syria and Lebanon. Can you please advise as to the feasibility of a motorcycle trip from Europe to Syrian and Lebanon? Coming from Europe (Switzerland), I’d like to travel through Turkey, Syria and Lebanon with my motorcycle this coming summer (2020), assuming that the restrictions due to the COVID19 situation will no longer be in force by then. Is it possible to travel in Syria and Lebanon with a vehicle registered in a foreign country? Is it possible to cross the borders between Turkey and Syrian, and Syria-Lebanon? I will want to push further south to Israel and Egypt. Do you know if the border between Lebanon and Israel is open for motorcyclists travelling with their own bike? Thanks.

Hi Francis, here are my answers: Turkey-Syria border – Closed Syria- Lebanon border – Closed Lebanon-Israel border – Closed

As per traveling around Syria on a motorcycle, I am not sure about it but what I can tell you is that. as of today, you can’t apply for a visa unless you book a tour, so traveling independently with your motorcycle could be difficult

Hi Francis, do you have any updates regarding the boarders Turkey-Syria/Lebanon-Syria? I am planing to cross Syria with my bicycle at the end of 2020 and the beginning of 2021. Cheers Simon

Thank you Joan!

Hi!, I’m Polish living in Oman. My husband (Egyptian) got a job offer from Syria and we are seriously thinking about moving there when the covid-19 crisis is over (we are thinking about beginning of 2021). I’m trying to find some recent information about travelling there and life in Syria now. The biggest concern for us is transporting our dog. I did not find any regular flights to Syria so I can check the requirements for transporting a pet. Are there any planes having regular flights to Damascus?

Dear Joanna, i live in Syria, the situation here is safe, don’t listen to the fake media. when Covid19 situation ends, you can transfer your dog with you easily by flight.

What is the situation near the archaeological sites at Mari, near Tell Hariri? Is visitation possible? Is it safe?

Mari(Tall Hariri) located in Syrian army controlled area’s , but it’s not possible to visit because it’s near the Kurdish control area’s .

I’m American, living in Damascus, Syria for nearly a year now. Life feels incredibly normal here, despite how it’s perceived in the media. It’s definitely not somewhere I’d rush to visit right now, especially considering the current economic crisis and the collapse of Lebanon, but I do hope that tourism will return to Syria one day. Syrians are incredibly kind and hospitable, and the country is so rich in history.

Hi everyone I’m nadr from homs city in the middle of the country All what he said above is actually right I can help any tourist who wants to come here and take a tour around the city Welcome to syria Wish you all the best ❤️

Hi Nadr. Thanks for being so kind and thoughtful. I am just curious what is a good time to visit Syria? A very good friend of mine is really keen to visit Syria and fortunately, I came across this post and thought to collect more details before I share with him. Thanks and looking forward hearing back from you soon

I would LOVE to visit Syria ..there are some awesome Free Syrians I have become friends with..but you will be a fool to try and visit with Bashar Al Assad still in some power..don’t think for very much longer though..HE GOT TO GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I wouldn’t pay too much attention to your Syrian friends say, they might well use your friendship to promote a syle of government you would never live under. Or they might say what your government wants to hear as they claim asylum. Don’t blame them in the second instance. This is a travel site, but I will say not every Muslim wants to restore the Ummah and live under a constitution that is not secular. For Syria that’ll mean another few centuries of war, look at their history, centuries of attacks from east and west. The adoption of a Sharia constitution will inevitably lead to the ill-treatment of Christians and Muslim (inc. Sunni minorities), as Britain will spur them on. You might welcome that American man in for his 3rd term of office. His wife is Jewish so he could well send the Jews (Israelis) into Syria to commit another genocide. I wonder how the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood will fare under them. Hamas, the Egyptian Muslim Britherhood didn’t do too well. In case you really aren’t a Muslim fundamentalist, the Brothers are the only opposition in Syria. Its a clash of ideologies not political parties.

Thank you for sharing your story and perspective and doing it with such compassion and heart. This was simultaneously beautiful and heart-breaking.

Hi Joan, I was also in Lebanon in 2016. It was my first time in the Middle East and I went to visit my Aunt and Uncle after their baby, my cousin, was born. My Uncle is American and was working in Beirut where he met my Aunt, who is Lebanese but raised in Australia as her family fled the civil war. I absolutely fell in love with Lebanon and am grateful that we got to visit Journey, Byblos, Tripoli and Baalbek, which is 30 miles from the Syrian border. I wanted to go to Damascus but, as you know, it wasn’t doable as this was the height of ISIS. That being said, I never once felt unsafe in Lebanon and Beirut reminded me a lot of NYC, where I live. I’m hoping to get back to the Middle East once a Covid vaccine is released and your blog is my go to for up to date info. Long story short, thank you for the detailed information you always provide!

Thanks, Cara for sharing your great experience. Hope we all get a vaccine soon and you can go to Syria 🙂

I remember having read somewhere that Syria would do a visa system similar to the Iranian one. It would be great for us travellers. Did anyone hear anything about this ? Thanks, Stef’

Hi Stef, to be very honest and unfortunately, I seriously doubt it, not in the short term at least.

Hi, I’m planning to visit Syria around the end of this year from the UK but only concerned about the Covid, I’ve heard the border is open now. Any advice about going during the pandemic? or simply just recommend not to go?

hey, I’m from Lebanon, and I was planning to go to Syria. but Syrian friends that are living in Lebanon right now said that there is a lot of control at the Syrian borders and using or having USD is considered illegal and you might get some problems at the military checkpoints ( Like taking away your money …). The covid 19 is uncontrollable with no proper health system and Some regions are still unsafe. I don’t know if there are recent updates from locals that are living there or more recent traveling experiences.

Hi Kate, do you have any updates on your plan? I am also interested to visit Syria at the end of the year. Since I am in Turkey and travelling with my bicycle, I will most likely have to enter thru Lebanon. Any updates are appreciated. Cheers

Hi, I may change my plan to visit Syria next year around March given to the circumstance right now.

Hi, The borders and airports in Syria are open only to Syrian citizens and international organizations, who have obtained an entry visa through a close relationship with a Syrian citizen inside the country. Borders and airports are closed to tourism, there are no exceptions at the moment. It is a great hope to allow tourists to enter before Christmas. For those entering Syria currently, there is no home quarantine, the procedures followed are to check the PCR test and exchange cars at the border because no Syrian or Lebanese car is allowed to enter the borders of the other country.

Hello Joan,

I don’t travel as simply as you do. I prefer to have archaeologists show me around a country and I found a licensed archaeologist tour guide in Syria. The problem is that the government’s rule would require me to use an official tour company rather than just a government-loyalist tour guide, which I already intend to use. This would add more than $1000 to the cost of the trip. Do you know of any ways to get the requirement to use an official tour company waived so long as you’re accompanied by an official tour guide at all times?

By the way, while many travelers dislike the idea of a guide, I think using a knowledgeable archaeologist or historian tour guide is an excellent way to really learn about the history of the sites while increasing the labor intensity of tourism, thereby giving money and employment to a country that needs it, don’t you think? I’m just still angry at that German tourist for ruining things for the rest of us, even if you’re not lol.

Too bad they’ve shut the borders because of the coronavirus and currency crisis. Hopefully they will give me a visa this May after I show proof of vaccination.

Hi there! I think that going with a liscensed tour guide is enough but the problem is that in order to get your visa, you must get it through a tour operator

Hi My husband and I plan to drive to the UK from the UAE starting in October this year. COVID depending. Would we be able to drive from Lebanon to Turkey through Syria? Would this be safe? Would we be able to get a transit visa? Thanks Hanneke

Hi Hanneke, as of today, the Turkish-Syrian border remains closed. It will also be difficult to get a visa to travel around Syria independently by car, but you should contact the person I recommend on this blog

Hello, Joan! This post isn’t about Syria, though I am interested in visiting Syria one day, but I noticed that you mentioned that you are from Spain. Have you ever been/do you know anything about Barcelona? I was planning on traveling there in May 2020, but COVID put a stop to my plans. I still want to plan a different visit in the future because I have always wanted to travel to Spain. If it’s not too much trouble, could you give me some recommendations on where to go in Barcelona? Or, really, anywhere in Spain? Any advice would be great. Thank you so much for your time and I really enjoyed reading your blog.

Sincerely, Elly

Hi Elly, I moved to Barcelona now, but I suggest you visit my hometown area, anything around Cap de Creus and northern Costa Brava, from Palamós to Portbou

Hi, I am a Canadian who is looking to visit Syria in the summer (if the covid situation calms down). Do you know if the entry requirements have changed? Do I need to book a tour? Have the visa requirements changed? I have been told that I can contact the Syrian embassies in Brazil or Cuba to file a visa application.

Hi Kiki, so far, the country remains closed, so there aren’t any updates or changes regarding entry requirements

Thank you Joan! do you know where I can receive updates about it?

Syria is officially open to Iraqi tourist groups, government sources said that the country will soon open to all nationalities within two months.

I live in Syria currently, and i speak English like a native, if you ever needed help coming to Hama city i would be there 🙂

Hi, I’m an American who would like to visit Syria for 3 or 4 months starting in April or May. Is the situation the same? Is the government still expecting to open to tourists soon? Are there some good Arabic schools you could recommend?

I would recommend against this. There are a number of issues with your plan such as the length of time you want to stay, and how you intend to obtain your visa. As an American, you’ll also be under more scrutiny.

On the Syrian ministry of tourism website

It doesn’t mention , tour groups

I wonder if things have changed ? And people can travel independently

Hi Hasan, the info found in the Syrian ministry of tourism website, or any embassy’s will never be updated

Hi! Any updates regarding traveling to Syria? Are the entry requirements still the same? Do we still need to book a tour?

Hi there, the country is still closed due to COVID19

Hola Joan, Muchas gracias por esta valiosa informacion. I have a couple of questions for you, regarding going to Syria and taking some things to help an animal shelter there. Do you think that it would be better to buy the things there, or do you think that it would cause any problems to take some items with me?

Thank you very much in advance. E.

Hi Ericka, items like what? In any case, we can answer most tourism-related queries, but I don’t know the legislation regarding your matter

Thank you so much! Best regards, Ericka

Hi, So you get a max of 10 days to tour Syria? Can you go and visit the people who are in need of help and help them? Is it allowed?

I doubt it, and hope not because you could be Islamic State. I shared a dorm room in Beirut in 2016 with a nice young Muslim woman from Canada. She was going to the Sabra/Shatila area of Beirut to volunteer with the Palestinians, many of whom, by then, had come in from Syria. Her father had sent her over from Canada and she supported the Islamists so was hoping to go to Syria with a charity that operated in Beirut. I’m sorry to say volunteering or do-gooding has helped IS get in to Syria and the anarchists in to get in to support the Kurds. I will admit most of them arrived from Turkey and entered Syria illegally. Why can’t you just visit and accept the country as it is?

Just rung the embassy, seems country is still closed to tourists due to covid 14th Oct 2021. Said a personal invitation might be ok but don’t have any contacts there and cant seem to find anyone online yet 🙂

Update! The borders have seemingly reopened to international tourism; visas are being issued. I am still uncertain as to what the Covid-19 entry/exit formalities are, but PCR test(s) are likely necessary.

Are the tourist visas, issued to individuals or does one still require a guided tour group based in Syrian ?

Correct. Visas are now being issued again.

Thank you for the info.

Just to confirm, I visited in the first week of December 2021. Everything was fine, but due to uncertainty over the Omicron variant, I would recommend caution before travelling. Do not visit Syria if you have any political, journalistic or humanitarian interest in the country.

did you go independently or did you have a guide?

Thanks! Dani

Let me get this straight – they put a guy in jail for taking a photo with a building? Sounds like North Korea if you ask me. No thank you.

Hey Joan Been following you for a while and feeding for your expertise to plan my independent backpack trip. Thanks for your amazing content. I’d be very keen on joining your Syria expedition but it’s sold out. Any chance you’ll have a second one some time this year? Thanks

Hello Joao! Yes, I will most likely in May. If you allow me, i can add you to my email list so you will find out when it’s released. Sounds good?

Sound good, please do so and looking forward to it! Thanks

actually, I just realized that you were already in the list!

Hi Joan, please add me to the list for the Syria tour in May, gracias, [email protected] , Caroline Horca

Do tourists still need to remain with a tour group when in Syria?

Hi there. Awesome blog. Really. Thanks for sharing your experience and views with us. I am planning to spend a month studying Arabic and I was considering Cairo, but I have just found out that Syria is open, which is great. Do you know any Arabic language schools in Damascus? Also… If you have any info regarding accommodation for a 1-month stay I appreciate. Shoooookran.

Hi can you add me to the list for the tour in May. [email protected]

Hey Joan Just learned from your IG that you’re planning to run a second expedition to Syria in April!!! :):):)

The meeting point would be in Beirut so we’d need to get a visa for Lebanon and Syria. Would you recommend getting the visas in advance or on arrival both in Lebanon and Syria? Btw, I have a Portuguese passport.

On the other hand, in case someone tests positive for Covid and can’t make the expedition, what is the policy there in terms of payments and options?

Thanks Joao

Hey Joao, yes but that one is for Spanish and is fully booked! If you want, you can join one in March. 2 spots left.

Consulta: Te escribo desde Argentina. En caso de querer hacer un viaje con vos, como es para ciudadanos de LATAM? Sobre para ciudadanos argentinos que hoy tenemos restringida las transferencias en dólares. Salen desde España o tienen algún contacto allí? Espero viajar con ustedes en algún momento, sobre todo Siria o Irak. Gracias amigo y felicitaciones.-

Hi Joan! I’m interested in going to Syria with a group, but I saw you mentioned Americans cannot travel to Syria. Might that be a typo? I’m not able to find that stated anywhere.

Hello Erin, unfortunately, US passport holders are not allowed to visit syria atm. Are you in my newsletter? I’ll announce it there once this ban reverts

Okay. I wouldn’t use the word “banned.” It sounds like you’re not comfortable bringing American passport holders, but we are allowed in the country. I had a group of friends go during the election last year.

Most people reading this site are American, so I am the first person who wants Americans to visit Syria – I have taken many Americans into Iraq – but in Syria they are currently banned, yes, banned. Ask any agency, either local or foreign, and you will see that nobody can get you a visa for tourism purposes. If you don’t believe it, then try to get one you will see. They are expecting things to change in the future but as of today, you can’t.

Last year, the country was closed due to COVID. They only opened in November and Americans have never been allowed since then, so I seriously doubt that your friends managed to get there with a tourist visa, nobody could. Maybe they went with a pilgrim or business visa, but that’s a different story. We only work with tourist visas.

Could you tell me where you’re reading that information? I don’t see it stated on the US embassy’s or US State Dept page. They definitely discourage you from going, but I do not see anything stating US passport holders will not be allowed in. The State Dept even has a “if you decide to travel to Syria” section.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/syria-travel-advisory.html

https://sy.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/#:~:text=The%20Department%20of%20State%20continues,for%20U.S.%20interests%20in%20Syria .

This is Syria, things arent written anywhere. My team in Syria works closely with the security department, the one who issues the security clearance to be able to purchase a tourist visa and I can assure you that they stopped issuing SC for Americans

Hello, am an Austrian traveler and would like to know if it is possible to walk by foot from Beirut to Damascus and from there further south to Jordan? In terms of visa and security… PS: Am on a pilgrimage and want to avoid public transport… Many thanks for your help and information in advance, Georg Richtsfeld.

Hi there… The thing is that you can’t get a visa unless you book a tour with a valid travel agency. The guide must go with you to travel between cities and in the hypothetical case walking into Syria on foot was allowed, I don’t know if the guide will want to join you on foot… I can try, and ask, but you definitely need to be with the guide.

I’m interested in this tour. I am an American passport holder but I also have an Armenian passport. I live in the USA. I know Americans can’t get into Syria, so I can use my Armenian passport. Will this be an issue if they also find out I live in the USA and am also an American citizen?

Hey Matthew! You can certainly apply with your Armenian passport. We had American dual citizens (Russian and Italian) born in the USA who joined our tours, but the approval takes a bit longer, and they get it 80% of the time, so it’s worth trying. In the hypothetical case you didn’0t get it, you’ll get a refund.

Hello, Am I able to visit Syria these days with an American passport?

Hey Dan! Unfortunately, still not possible…

It has been a great help to find this web site, just before traveling to give a hand to a religious ONG working on the field in Syria. So important to know carrying a credit card is nowadays useless there…

Hello. I have planned to go from Beirut to Damascus for a few days. I would like to know if there are still some not too expensive places to stay, hostels or whatever. Because i have many difficulties in finding one available. Thanks !

Hey Joan, according to Marrota Tourism and Travel Syria is issuing visas to Americans now. Have you heard anything about this?

Hi Chris, yes it’s true. We haven’t applied for anyone yet, but I already got some Americans interested in joining one of our tours

Hey, I am planning to visit west Syria, I wonder if its safe to camp with a tent on beaches? Or even allowed? Also heard many kidnapping stories. Are they still going on or it was during crisis?

Hi Bulut, there aren’t any kidnapping issues but independent travel in Syria is not allowed

Hi – are your trips in November and December proceeding as planned? I am trying to get a better understanding of what the actual situation is on the ground currently in Lebanon/Syria for potential trips.

We canceled October and November trip but if situation in Lebanon stabilizes, we’ll run December for sure!

Thanks for the update. I was wondering about the current travel conditions.

Hi Joan, I am a native Syrian and I found all these Information pretty objective and true, thanks for the detailed blog. I am a female dentist living in Aleppo, and I wonder if I could somehow join in this tour in Syria as a translator or a travel guide in my city 😀 I am looking for chances to get in touch with English and German speakers, and I thought this would be a good idea. Or maybe helping the solo travelers. Feel free to contact.

Dear Aaya, thanks for your offer! You are welcome to hang out with us any time we run a tour into SYRIA!

I am planning to go to Syria in a couple weeks. Do you recommend it given the current situation?

I’m gonna be traveling the middle east by car next year and i’m really happy to hear I can also visit Syria! I was wondering if I can take my car with me into Syria. Are there any tours for that? Or maybe solo traveling will be allowed again soon? I have a Land Rover Defender, and i’m traveling up north from Saoudi Arabia, so probably will enter through Jordan. What would be my options?

Hi Natascha, you can enter with your own vehicle, just that the clearance at the border will take a long time.

As per the rest, you can self-drive, but the guide is supposed to go with you in the car.

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Blog Home Office in the media

https://homeofficemedia.blog.gov.uk/2019/02/15/fact-sheet-returnees-from-the-conflict-zone-in-syria/

Factsheet: Syrian Travellers

This factsheet was updated on 5 november 2019..

This factsheet explains our approach to managing the threat posed by individuals who have taken part in the conflict in Syria.

As set out in our CONTEST strategy , more than 900 individuals of national security concern from the UK have travelled to engage with the conflict in Syria. Of these, approximately 20% have been killed whilst overseas and around 40% have returned to the UK. The majority of those who have returned did so in the earlier stages of the conflict, and were investigated on their return. A significant proportion of these individuals are assessed as no longer being of national security concern.

Anyone who does travel to Syria, for whatever reason, is putting themselves in considerable danger but also potentially poses a very serious national security risk to the UK.

Those who have fought for or supported terrorist organisations including Daesh should wherever possible face justice for their crimes in the most appropriate jurisdiction, which will often be in the region where their offences have been committed.

Everyone – male or female above the age of criminal responsibility – who returns from taking part in the conflict in Syria or Iraq must expect to be investigated by the police to determine if they have committed criminal offences, and to ensure that they do not pose a threat to our national security.

Individuals that do return should expect to be investigated and, where there is evidence that a crime has been committed, prosecuted. Decisions on prosecutions are taken independently by the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) on a case-by-case basis.

Do these people have access to consular assistance?

Since 2011, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has advised against all travel to Syria. British nationals in Syria should leave by any practical means. All services of the British Embassy in Damascus are suspended.

How does the Government deal with those who do return?

In addition to seeking prosecution of terrorism suspects, we use a range of tools to manage the threat posed by those who return – managing risk through Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures (TPIMs) and using Temporary Exclusion Orders (TEOs) to place in-country conditions upon return. This can include regular reporting to a police station and mandatory attendance on the Desistance and Disengagement Programme – an intensive programme of tailored interventions designed to protect both the individual and wider society.

The Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 introduced a new offence of entering or remaining in an area outside the United Kingdom that has been designated by the Home Secretary if it is necessary for protecting the public from terrorism. The designated area offence will support efforts to prosecute those who return from overseas that have engaged in terrorism and efforts to deter those here in the UK who may seek to emulate those that have already left.

What offences could returnees be charged with and what sentences could they face?

The UK courts have extra-territorial jurisdiction over a number of terrorism offences relevant to foreign fighters, including:

• Preparation of Terrorism (maximum sentence: life imprisonment)
• Encouragement of Terrorism (maximum sentence extended from 7 to 15 years in the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act)
• Training for Terrorism (maximum sentence: life imprisonment)
• Membership of a Proscribed Organisation (maximum sentence: 10 years)

In the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act we extended extra-territorial jurisdiction to the following offences so that a person may be prosecuted in the UK for conduct that took place abroad, which would have been unlawful had it taken place here:

• Inviting or Expressing Support for a Proscribed Organisation (maximum sentence: 10 years)
• Displaying an Article Associated with a Proscribed Organisation (maximum sentence: 6 months)
• Dissemination of Terrorist Publications (maximum sentence extended from 7 to 15 years in the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act)
• Making or Possessing Explosives Under Suspicious Circumstances (where the offence is committed for terrorist purposes) (maximum sentence: life imprisonment)

What about children who return?

The Foreign Secretary made it clear to the House that the Government will try to help any British unaccompanied minors and orphans in Syria. We will work with relevant UK and international partners to facilitate their return where feasible.

Each request for consular assistance will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

We expect children returning from Syria to have been exposed to the conflict, indoctrination and to have experienced severe trauma. A range of specialised support – some which is funded directly by the Home Office – is offered to address concerns ranging from safeguarding to national security. Our support will be tailored to the needs of each individual child.

The Home Office has funded a NHS Foundation Trust to assist local authorities and local NHS trusts to conduct comprehensive mental health and emotional wellbeing assessments of all British children returning from the conflict in Syria; and to provide key worker support to assist in the safe reintegration of those children.

The Foundation Trust will ensure coordination for the provision of mental or emotional health interventions for the child and family as identified by their assessments. This may include direct provision of treatment, referral to another appropriate specialist service or supporting the local NHS providers. This will be dependent on both expertise and practical considerations.

Additionally, the Foundation Trust is equipped to liaise with other agencies and individuals in contact with the child to ensure that more general support is provided where necessary, again with the objective of ensuring that returning minors are reintegrated in the safest way possible.

As the organisation is commissioned at the local level, they are included in the Local Authority’s multi-agency arrangements, to ensure that a consistent approach is being taken with regards to the individual children and families – some of whom will have many different agencies involved in their case providing support (as well as the potential for an on-going criminal investigation into the activities of the parents (and potentially the child)).

Why can’t we ban people from entering this country if we suspect that they have been involved in terrorism?

If a UK national has, or in some cases could acquire, another nationality, the Home Secretary has the power to remove their British citizenship and stop them from returning if they assess that to do so would be conducive to the public good. However, it is prohibited under international law to remove the nationality of an individual when to do so would leave them without any nationality and, in effect, stateless.

Since 2010, around 150 individuals have been deprived on the basis that deprivation is conducive to the public good.

Where it is not possible to deprive an individual of their British nationality we are obliged, under international law, to let them return. However, we have a range of tools available to protect national security and mitigate the threat they may pose.

Tags: foreign fighters , returnees , Syria

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Syria (Middle East)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
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Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Hepatitis A; Rabies; Tetanus.
• Other vaccines to consider: Diphtheria; Hepatitis B; Typhoid.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera.

No yellow fever vaccination certificate required for this country.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher during floods and after natural disasters, in areas with very poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water.

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria precautions

• Malaria risk is low and from May to October inclusive, in areas along the northern border, especially in rural areas of El Hasaka Governorate. There have been no indigenous cases reported since 2005 but reporting has been disrupted due to conflict since 2010.
• Malaria precautions are essential. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Low to no risk areas: antimalarials are not usually advised.
• If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, schistosomiasis.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

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Introducing Syrian Arab Republic

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Syrian Arab Republic travel guide

Until the recent civil war, Syria was a diverse destination that revelled in its antiquity. Inhabited for tens of thousands of years, the country accumulated all the cultural riches afforded by such a long history and was rightly considered one of the Middle East’s top destinations. Sadly, the war-ravaged nation is now struggling to preserve its ancient relics, which document the rise and fall of myriad civilisations.

Like its history, Syria’s landscapes are varied. Vast steppes cover much of the country, but mountains soar in the west, deserts stretch in the east and volcanic fields spread across the south. Meandering through this dusty land is the great Euphrates River, which also flows through neighbouring Iraq.

Syria was once regarded as a frontier region, bordered to the east by Persians and west by the Arabs. The country fell to the Persians in the sixth century and though it retained Christian and Jewish populations, Syria was from then on a Muslim nation.

The country’s story is littered with dramatic episodes. Syria was subsumed by empires from Babylon to Canaan, Assyria to Phoenicia; it was conquered by the Ottomans, endured a campaign by Napoleon and was invaded by the Egyptians. During the height of pan-Arabism in the 1950s, the country briefly joined with Egypt in the United Arab Republic, but seceded to form the Syrian Arab Republic in 1961.

The battles and territorial scrambles of the past have translated into a catalogue of staggering cities, such as Damascus and Aleppo, which are chock-full of stunning monuments and ancient mosques.

The uprising against the ruling Baath Party in 2011 gave way to a civil war, which continues to rage and is further complicated by the formidable presence of the jihadist militant group Islamic State. Travel to Syria is ill-advised (it is probably the most dangerous country on the planet right now) and the future remains uncertain.

185,180 sq km (71,498 sq miles).

18,563,595 (UN estimate 2016).

92.2 per sq km.

President Bashar al-Assad since 2000. 

Prime Minister Hussein Arnous since 2020.

Travel Advice

The foreign, commonwealth & development office ( fcdo ) advise against all travel to syria. british nationals in syria should leave by any practical means., military activity in the region.

On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel.

On 19 April, there have been reports of explosions in Iran, and unconfirmed reports of explosions in Syria and Iraq.

Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact  FCDO  travel on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . You can also  get email notifications  when this travel advice is updated.

Read  FCDO  advice on how to deal with a crisis overseas.

A major earthquake (7.8) hit the Gazientep region of Southeast Turkey on 6 February 2023, severely impacting cities in Northern Syria including Idlib and Aleppo. A further earthquake (7.5) was felt later in the day and there have been several aftershocks. The risk of further aftershocks remains.

Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for Syria’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider.

If you plan to pass through another country to return to the UK, check the travel advice for the country you’re transiting.

It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO ’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

Consular support is not available from the British government from within Syria, as all services of the British Embassy in Damascus are suspended and all diplomatic and consular staff have been withdrawn. If you need to speak to a consular officer in the UK, call the FCDO in London on +44 (0)20 7008 5000.

The situation in Syria remains volatile and dangerous owing to a decade of ongoing conflict and insecurity. The Syrian regime does not exercise control of parts of the country, notably in the north west where fighting has caused significant civilian casualties and displacement. Daesh, formerly known as ISIL, continues to operate as an insurgency and conducts regular attacks, especially in north east Syria and other terrorist groups are also active. Throughout Syria, local security situations are fragile and can deteriorate into armed clashes without warning. See Civil unrest/political tension and Terrorism

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Syria. Continued attacks across Syria including in major cities, have left large numbers of people dead or injured. There is also a very high threat of kidnapping throughout Syria. There have been a number of kidnappings, including of British nationals and other Westerners, by Daesh and other groups. See Terrorism

If you choose to travel to Syria against FCDO advice, you should make sure you and any dependents have valid exit stamps on your travel documents if you need one and take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance .

Coronavirus travel health

Check the latest information on risk from COVID-19 for Syria on the TravelHealthPro website

See the TravelHealthPro website for further advice on travel abroad and reducing spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 pandemic .

International travel

Commercial flights to and from Syria remain limited. Travel companies can provide updated information.

Some travellers may require an exit permit to leave the country. The permit can be obtained from the General Security Department.

Entry and borders

See Entry requirements to find out what you will need to do when you arrive in Syria.

Be prepared for your plans to change

No travel is risk-free during COVID-19. Countries may further restrict travel or bring in new rules at short notice, for example due to a new COVID-19 variant. Check with your travel company or airline for any transport changes which may delay your journey home.

If you test positive for COVID-19, you may need to stay where you are until you test negative. You may also need to seek treatment there.

Plan ahead and make sure you:

• can access money
• understand what your insurance will cover
• can make arrangements to extend your stay and be away for longer than planned

Travel in Syria

Syria has announced a number of measures and restrictions to limit the spread of coronavirus, including local lockdowns and the enforcement of fines for non-compliance.

For information on financial support you can access whilst abroad, visit our financial assistance guidance .

Military activity in the Red Sea area       

Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that Travel Advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor Travel Advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.

Civil unrest/political tension

The situation remains volatile and dangerous after a decade of conflict The Syrian regime does not exercise control of parts of Syria, notably in the north west and north east of the country. There are many armed groups – both internationally-backed and domestic – controlling huge swathes of the country.

In the north-west, a ceasefire between regime and opposition forces has been in place since March 2020. However, some violence continues involving the use of small arms, artillery and sporadic airstrikes. The earlier regime offensive displaced large numbers of civilians, caused significant civilian casualties, and severely damaged civilian infrastructure including health facilities.

In north-east Syria, a ceasefire agreed in October 2019 remains in place but the situation remains unstable with intermittent violence.

Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) fighters continue to operate as an insurgency and conduct regular attacks, especially in north-east Syria. Civil unrest and violent clashes between armed groups remain common throughout Syria, including in areas of north-west Syria under Turkish control, and areas of south Syria.

Fighting has at various times caused the temporary suspension of commercial flights, closed roads, impeded access to land border crossing points and led to the closure of some border crossings.

A number of foreign journalists have been killed during the course of the Syrian conflict. All foreign journalists entering Syria require special permission from the Syrian authorities. Those journalists and other foreigners in opposition-held areas are vulnerable to mistreatment by armed groups as well as to explosive remnants of war, improvised explosive devices, and the bombardment of these areas. Others have been detained by regime security forces or other armed groups during the crisis. The security forces have confiscated phones, cameras and video cameras.

Political activity

There are severe restrictions on political activity. Thousands of people have been detained, and in many cases tortured and executed, because of actual or perceived involvement in political activity. Foreigners engaging in unlicensed political activity are at risk of detention.

The regime authorities have detained and deported several British nationals for unauthorised activity. Activity in opposition-held areas will also attract attention. If you are deported by local authorities, you will not be able to return to Syria.

Humanitarian crisis

Humanitarian needs in Syria have increased significantly since the beginning of the crisis with over 13million people in need of humanitarian aid. The ongoing conflict has seriously affected public infrastructure and services. This widespread destruction has led to high unemployment, scarcity/prohibitive cost of food, lack of water, sanitation, health services and fuel. Electricity, internet and cellular services are intermittent in many parts of the country.

The escalating conflict has led to a rise in crime in most areas, including extortion at checkpoints, violent robbery, carjacking and kidnapping.

Fighting near airports has sometimes caused the temporary suspension of flights. Road networks may be blocked without warning. There are security force checkpoints on major road routes.

Fighting and road closures have affected access to some land border crossing points. Some border crossings are in the hands of non-state armed groups, vulnerable to attack, and/or closed.

Road travel

Road travel remains very dangerous in many parts of the country due to fighting, the fragile security situation and unexploded ordnance. Driving standards and traffic systems are poor, and the accident rate is high. Driving at night is particularly dangerous. When there is a car accident with a pedestrian, the car driver is usually legally responsible.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Syria.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out more about the global threat from terrorism .

There have been many terrorist attacks across Syria including in major cities, resulting in large numbers of casualties. There are a number of terrorist groups that operate in Syria, including Daesh and Hay’at Tahrir al Sham (formerly known as Jabhat Fatah al Sham / Al Nusrah Front).

These groups target a wide range of places, including official installations, airports, border crossings, public transport and civilian spaces like public squares, hospitals, places of worship and learning institutions.

There is an increased threat to Westerners in Syria. Terrorist groups continue to pose a significant threat to civilians residing in Syria and have demonstrated the ability to conduct co-ordinated attacks against armed actors and civilians.

Targets for terrorist attacks have included: residential compounds, military establishments, oil facilities, airports, public transport, commercial venues, including markets and stores, maritime facilities, land border crossings, government buildings, hotels, restaurants, large crowds, police stations, political offices/events, sports venues/stadiums and religious sites/ceremonies. There is a heightened threat of attacks against Western interests. While attacks can take place at any time, there’s a heightened threat during religious or public holidays. Methods of attack have included shootings, large-scale co-ordinated bombings designed to cause mass casualties, suicide bombs, vehicle bombs, rockets and mortars.

Foreign nationals, are high value targets for terrorists, insurgents and criminals. There’s a heightened threat of terrorist attacks globally against Western interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant of this and the FCDO’s advice not to travel to any part of Syria at this time.

If you travel to Syria to fight, and your activities amount to offences against UK terrorism legislation, you could be prosecuted on return to the UK.

There is a very high threat of kidnapping throughout Syria. Kidnappings can be for financial or political gain, and can be motivated by criminality or terrorism. There have been a number of kidnappings, including of British nationals and other Westerners. Some hostages have been killed.

Terrorist groups operating in Syria routinely use kidnapping as a tactic. Westerners continue to be targeted and any Western presence in Syria would be at high risk. British nationals are viewed as legitimate targets, including those engaged in tourism, humanitarian aid work, journalism or business sectors. If you’re kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release.

The long standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Syria is a multi-faith country. Alongside the majority Sunni population, there are large practicing Shia, Christian, Druze and Alawite communities, as well as other smaller sects and religions. As the conflict continues, divisions along sectarian lines have increased, communities have been displaced and levels of religious tolerance can vary considerably. There are restrictions on unlicensed political and religious activity, particularly political Islam.

In many areas of Syria the punishment for possession of drugs is life imprisonment. For drug trafficking, the death penalty applies.

This page has information on travelling to Syria.

This page reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British Citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Syria set and enforce entry rules. If you’re unsure how Syria’s entry requirements apply to you, contact its UK embassy, high commission or consulate .

The FCDO advise against all travel to Syria. The information on this page covers the most common types of travel and reflects the UK government’s understanding of the rules currently in place. Unless otherwise stated, this information is for travellers using a full ‘British Citizen’ passport.

All travellers

If you choose to travel to Syria against FCDO advice, you will need to get a visa and security clearance before you travel.

In June 2013, the Syrian regime issued a law stating that individuals who enter Syrian territories illegally will be punished by a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years and/or a fine of 5 to 10 million Syrian pounds.

If you’re fully vaccinated

If you’re fully vaccinated, you can enter Syria without needing to test but you may be required to isolate.

If you’re not fully vaccinated

If you’re not fully vaccinated, you’ll need to show proof of a negative PCR test (taken no more than 72 hours before entry) when entering Syria. See information on getting a test before entry .

Check your passport and travel documents before you travel

If you are visiting Syria, your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 3 months from the date of entry into Syria – local authorities may ask you to produce a copy of your passport; you should carry a copy with you at all times.

Check with your travel provider to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

Previous travel to Israel

If you have an Israeli stamp in your passport or Emergency Travel Document it is highly likely that you will be refused entry into Syria, regardless of your nationality.

If you have a health condition, or you are pregnant, you may need specialist healthcare abroad. Check whether your destination country can provide the healthcare you may need and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for unexpected medical evacuation or local treatment.

See the Coronavirus travel health and Healthcare sections in the  Coronavirus page for COVID-19 health information.

If you choose to travel to Syria against FCDO advice, at least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website .

General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines . For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.

There are clear links between mental and physical health, so looking after yourself during travel and when abroad is important. Information on travelling with mental health conditions is available in our guidance page. Further information is also available from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC).

Local medical care

The quality of health care has deteriorated significantly during the conflict, with many hospitals no longer operating and shortages of even the most basic medicines and medical supplies. The destruction of infrastructure means there are regular outbreaks of infectious diseases across the country. There have been reported cases of cholera in Syria, details of which can be found on NaTHNaC . Further guidance is also available in their Cholera factsheet

The currency of Syria is the Syrian Pound (SYP); although prices may be set in US Dollars (USD) (for example, COVID-19 PCR tests) regime authorities have warned against carrying or using currencies other than the Syrian Pound, and penalties are severe. There are four official exchange rates for SYP to the dollar; it is difficult to access USD in Syria.

As a result of the ongoing conflict there have been a number of restrictions placed on financial transactions in Syria. Some of these restrictions are the decision of the Syrian regime, while others are the result of international businesses and banks being unwilling to invest or trade with Syria in the current environment.

Since 2011, Syria has been subject to financial sanctions put in place by the European Union (EU) and, therefore, imposed by the UK as a member of the EU. The UK’s own sanctions regime on Syria came into force at 11pm on 31 December 2020 with substantially the same effect as the EU legislation. For more information, please visit the website of the Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation, HM Treasury and this page on UK sanctions on Syria .

Economic situation

Syria is suffering a severe economic crisis, and it is often difficult to obtain or pay for basic goods and services, including essential foodstuffs and fuel. As of mid-2020, the value of the Syrian Pound has fallen rapidly against the US Dollar. Prices have increased accordingly.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission . If you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad, contact the FCDO in London on 020 7008 5000 (24 hours).

Foreign travel checklist

Read our foreign travel checklist to help you plan for your trip abroad and stay safe while you’re there.

Travel safety

The FCDO travel advice helps you make your own decisions about foreign travel. Your safety is our main concern, but we can’t provide tailored advice for individual trips. If you’re concerned about whether or not it’s safe for you to travel, you should read the travel advice for the country or territory you’re travelling to, together with information from other sources you’ve identified, before making your own decision on whether to travel. Only you can decide whether it’s safe for you to travel.

When we judge the level of risk to British nationals in a particular place has become unacceptably high, we’ll state on the travel advice page for that country or territory that we advise against all or all but essential travel. Read more about how the FCDO assesses and categorises risk in foreign travel advice .

Our crisis overseas page suggests additional things you can do before and during foreign travel to help you stay safe.

There is a range of financial support from the government that you can access while you are unable to return due to coronavirus restrictions.

For further UK government guidance on support you can access whilst abroad, visit our waiting to return guidance . This includes guidance on finance, health, and staying connected.

Refunds and cancellations

If you wish to cancel or change a holiday that you’ve booked, you should contact your travel company. The question of refunds and cancellations is a matter for you and your travel company. Travel companies make their own decisions about whether or not to offer customers a refund. Many of them use our travel advice to help them reach these decisions, but we do not instruct travel companies on when they can or can’t offer a refund to their customers.

For more information about your rights if you wish to cancel a holiday, visit the Citizen’s Advice Bureau website . For help resolving problems with a flight booking, visit the website of the Civil Aviation Authority . For questions about travel insurance, contact your insurance provider and if you’re not happy with their response, you can complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service .

Registering your travel details with us

We’re no longer asking people to register with us before travel. Our foreign travel checklist and crisis overseas page suggest things you can do before and during foreign travel to plan your trip and stay safe.

Previous versions of FCDO travel advice

If you’re looking for a previous version of the FCDO travel advice, visit the National Archives website . Versions prior to 2 September 2020 will be archived as FCO travel advice. If you can’t find the page you’re looking for there, send the Travel Advice team a request .

Further help

If you’re a British national and you have a question about travelling abroad that isn’t covered in our foreign travel advice or elsewhere on GOV.UK, you can submit an enquiry , or contact us on Twitter or Facebook . We’re not able to provide tailored advice for specific trips.

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Can you travel to Syria?

Sajid Javid enacts controversial new powers to ban UK citizens from entering dangerous parts of the war-torn country

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The home secretary plans to use a new counter-terror law to ban UK nationals from entering or remaining in terrorist hotspots in Syria.

What next for Syria? How did the Syrian Civil War start? Isis: what does the future hold for the terror group?

Under the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act (CTBS), Sajid Javid wants to prevent Britons from entering Idlib, in northwest Syria, and parts of the northeast of the country. He has given British citizens in northern Syria 28 days to leave the area or face prosecution.

The new act allows the Home Office to bar UK citizens from travelling to or remaining in specific designated areas in order to protect the public from terrorism, The Guardian reports. Failure to comply could result in a maximum prison sentence of ten years when they return to the UK.

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Javid, who is expected to run for prime minister, says he has asked his department to “work closely with the police and intelligence agencies to urgently review the case for exercising this power in relation to Syria, with a particular focus on Idlib and the north east”.

“So anyone who is in these areas without a legitimate reason should be on notice,” he added.

What are the new laws?

The Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act, which was granted Royal Assent in February this year , gives police new powers to tackle terrorism, The Register reports. It says the government introduced the measures “to crack down on terrorist activities in the aftermath of attacks in London and Manchester in 2017”.

In addition to introducing tighter restrictions on accessing online content relating to Islamic State (Isis) propaganda or similar groups, the new law allows the home secretary to ban British nationals from travelling to – or remaining in – specific designated areas.

Idlib province in northwestern Syria and other areas in the northeast of the country have been singled out as the first regions to be subjected to the new powers, amid what Sky News calls an “upsurge in violence around Idlib in particular” where Russian-backed Syrian government forces have launched an offensive against rebel fighters.

The Times reports that those in the areas in question “will be expected to make their own way to Turkey or Iraq”. This would involve crossing some of the most dangerous border regions in the world.

Anyone who remains in Syria for longer than 28 days will need to belong to groups exempt from the law, such as journalists conducting research.

Why is the new law controversial?

Although travel to a country in the grip of one of the most brutal wars of the 21st century may seem an improbable occurrence, many people do still visit Syria for personal and business reasons.

As a result, some believe the law is unenforceable and infringes on the rights of UK citizens.

The advocacy group Liberty says the bill poses “several significant threats to civil liberties and human rights” and is “symptomatic of a poorly conceived strategy that mistakes unreflective expansion of government power for evidence-driven responses to national security concerns”.

“People travelling to visit family, conduct research, document human rights abuses or undertake humanitarian relief could all be criminalised by this offence,” the organisation adds. “Faced with up to ten years in prison should their reasonable excuse be found wanting, some people will simply opt not to travel, which would have a chilling effect on family relationships, academic inquiry, investigative journalism and acts of solidarity.”

The Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) has gone so far as to state that it doubts “whether, as currently drafted, the bill is compliant with the European Convention on Human Rights”.

Furthermore, The Times says that although people detained in Syria will be deemed unable to leave, “the position of those in refugee camps is less clear”.

Is travel to Syria safe?

No. Despite the Home Office declaring that Idlib and northeastern Syria are off-limits by law, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) continues to advise against all travel to Syria, stating that the situation in the country remains “extremely volatile and dangerous”. It also suggests that anyone currently in Syria should try to leave immediately.

“High levels of violence persist throughout Syria, including full scale military operations involving the use of small arms, tanks, artillery and aircraft,” the FCO adds. “Estimates suggest that over 470,000 people have been killed in the Syria conflict, including over 55,000 children.”

The US State Department (DOS) puts this even more strongly, suggesting that if any US citizens decide that travel to Syria is absolutely necessary, they should draft a will and then make plans with their loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.) and funeral wishes.

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Syria Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 13, 2023, syria - level 4: do not travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed. 

Do not travel to Syria due to  terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, armed conflict,  and  risk of unjust detention .

Country Summary:  The U.S. Embassy in Damascus suspended its operations in February 2012. The Czech Republic serves as the protecting power for the United States in Syria. The U.S. government is unable to provide any emergency services to U.S. citizens in Syria.

Syria has experienced active armed conflict since 2011. No part of Syria is safe from violence. Kidnappings by armed groups, unjust arrests and/or detentions, the use of chemical warfare, shelling, and aerial bombardment of civilian centers pose significant risk of death or serious injury. The destruction of infrastructure, housing, medical facilities, schools, and power and water utilities has also increased hardships inside the country.

The U.S. government particularly warns private U.S. citizens against traveling to Syria to engage in armed conflict. U.S. citizens who undertake such activity face extreme personal risks, including kidnapping by armed groups, unjust arrests, injury, or death. The U.S. government does not support this activity. Our ability to provide consular assistance to individuals who are injured or kidnapped, or to the families of individuals who die in the conflict, is extremely limited.

Protests and demonstrations are quelled by government forces through aggressive tactics and protestors, activists, and political dissenters are routinely detained without access to legal representation or communications with friends and family.

Terrorist groups are active in Syria. Parts of Syria have experienced recent increases in incidents of bombings, IEDs, and assassinations. Fighting on behalf of or providing other forms of support to designated terrorist organizations, including ISIS and al-Qaeda affiliates, can constitute the provision of material support for terrorism, which is a crime under U.S. law that can result in penalties including prison time and large fines.

There is an ongoing risk of kidnapping and detentions of U.S. citizens and Westerners throughout the country. U.S. citizens remain a target. U.S. citizens are also targets of abduction and/or unjust detention by the Syrian government and while in detention do not have access to due process or medical attention. Government detention centers are known to be unsanitary facilities where widespread cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment of detainees has been documented, as well as torture and extrajudicial killings. Minors, persons with physical, sensory, or mental disabilities, and elderly have frequently been victims of unjust detention. The Syrian government has also been implicated in the enforced or involuntary disappearance of more than 100,000 citizens, including medical and humanitarian workers, journalists, human rights activists, political opposition, and additionally those suspected of affiliation with these groups and their family members. Note: Only the Syrian government can issue a valid entry visa to Syria. Failure to obtain a legitimate entry visa directly from the Syrian government could result in detention. 

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within or in the vicinity of Syria, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) and/or a  Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) , which says that heightened military activity associated with the Syrian conflict may result in the risk of GPS interference, communications jamming, and errant long-range surface to air missiles straying into adjacent airspace within 200 nautical miles of the Damascus Flight Information Region. These activities may inadvertently pose hazards to civil aviation transiting the region. It also has the potential to spill over into the adjacent airspace managed by neighboring states and eastern portions of the Mediterranean Sea.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Syria.

If you decide to travel to Syria:

• Visit our website on  Travel to High Risk Areas .
• Draft a will and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney.
• Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.
• Share important documents, login information, and points of contact with loved ones so that they can manage your affairs if you are unable to return as planned to the United States. Leave DNA samples with your medical provider in case it is necessary for your family to access them.
• Establish your own personal security plan in coordination with your employer or host organization or consider consulting with a professional security organization.
• Develop a communication plan with family and/or your employer or host organization so that they can monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. This plan should specify who you would contact first, and how they should share the information.
• Enroll your trip in the State Department's  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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International Edition

Travel Advice for Syria

Going to Syria and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Syria? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Syria from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Syria

The decision to take a trip to Syria is your choice and you are accountable for your personal health and safety whilst in Syria.

The material on this web page is provided for information only and compiled from travel advice and warnings for Syria by governments around the world to their citizens.

While we make every effort to provide you accurate travel advice details, it is provided on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This operators of this website does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information given.

General Cautions You Need to Keep in Mind Whilst Taking a Trip in Syria

Crime – Petty criminal offenses such as pick pocketing in a crowded surrounding to sexual assault and muggings do take place in bigger cities of Syria. Make sure that all your personal items, such as passports and other traveling documents, are safe at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings whenever in public locations. Be particularly alert if going to sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists frequently use such occasions to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transport. It is in your interest of safety and security to avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are happening and follow the directions of local authorities. Monitor local media in Syria for info on ongoing demonstrations in Syria.

Scams – Take caution in popular tourist areas in Syria, where scammers target travellers. If you’ve been scammed in Syria, reach a safe location quickly; take note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; alert the authorities in Syria and get a report and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card provider to inform the fraud; they will likely request a copy of the police report to cancel the financial transaction.

Spiked Food and Drinks – Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of complete strangers when travelling in Syria or anywhere else. Watch out for accepting snacks, drinks, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that might put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

What is the entry/exit requirements for Syria?

Every nation or territory chooses who can enter or leave through its borders, likewise Syria chooses who enter its territories. The Government of your home country can not interfere on your behalf if you do not meet your Syria’s entry or exit requirements.

To learn more about the entry/exit requirement for Syria go to visa requirements for Syria or get the most recent info with the visa office at the Syrian consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance for Syria

Travel health cover is just one of the major reasons travellers obtain travel insurance. It will not stop you getting ill or hurt, though it can avoid you suffering financially. Medical aid overseas can be really expensive.

You need to pay for all treatment you get overseas. You can’t expect to get free or subsidised treatment through your Syria’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can not pay, local authorities might detain you. The government from your home country can’t pay you medical bill for you, loan you cash or get you out of jail.

You require travel insurance coverage for travelling to Syria . You also need to see to it you choose a plan that is right for you.

Check out the small print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance firm upfront. If you don’t, you might invalidate your travel insurance policy.

Inform your travel insurance company the activities you intend to do, prior to you go. Many popular activities like winter sports are omitted in standard plans. You may require to pay added.

Check if you have free credit card travel insurance coverage. Some cards include travel insurance cover. Nevertheless, they commonly have different conditions than paid plans. Be aware of the differences.

If you’re travelling to Syria from a country that has a reciprocal healthcare arrangement, you still require travel health insurance. Agreements are limited in what they’ll will cover.

If you have a terminal illness, you may not be able to obtain basic travel insurance. Nonetheless you might have the ability to get a specialised insurance provider that covers you for health, mishaps or property problems unconnected to your ailment. Talk to your insurance firm to learn.

Find out more about obtaining global travel insurance coverage for Syria prior to you go.

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Syria

Syria is known for its mountains, deserts, and diverse ethnic and religious groups.

Due to recent violence, much has changed in Syria. The UK government and other organisations recommend against travel to the region.

Do I Need Vaccines for Syria?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Syria. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Syria: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , rabies , polio , cholera and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.
• Polio – Food & Water – Required if arriving from a region with polio transmission. Multiple polio cases have been reported in the last year. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Recommended for travel to most regions.

See the tables below for more information:

Due to the ongoing conflicts in Syria, polio has made a resurgence. Ensure your vaccination is up-to-date.

Previously uncommon infections like measles and tetanus have rising case numbers in the region. Update any routine vaccinations you may need.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Do I Need a Visa for Syria?

Travel to Syria is not recommended at this time. If you choose to travel anyway, a visa will be required. Passports must have at least three months validity from the date of entry.

Sources: Embassy of Syria and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Syria?

Syria has a Mediterranean influenced climate, characterized by long, hot and dry summers. Winters are wet and mild.

Summers are in the range of 25 to 30 degrees, whilst Syrian winter temperatures stay from below 10. Due to the desert climate, daily temperatures vary significantly from day to night.

The coastal region of Syria receives limited rainfall. The landlocked, desert regions see much less.

How Safe is Syria?

Due to internal conflict and violent radical groups, Syria is very unsafe. The UK government and other organisations highly recommend against travel to Syria.

Kidnappings, bombings, murder and terrorism are common throughout Syria. Some regions are active conflict zones.

Crime rates vary by regions, but most are generally unsafe.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Syria

British embassy and consular services have been temporarily suspended in Syria. Travel at your own risk.

Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Ring or book online now and start travelling safely today!

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Syria? Do I Need a Visa for Syria? What is the Climate Like in Syria? How Safe is Syria? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Syria

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Syria and the UK

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Turkey and Syria earthquakes: UK government response

6 February 2023

UK takes steps to further facilitate aid flow into Syria

15 February 2023 — Press release

UK commits major new aid package to Turkey-Syria earthquake response

UK commits to additional funding to the White Helmets to support search and rescue efforts in Syria

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Due to the Asad regime’s atrocities against the Syrian people, the UK suspended all services of the British Embassy in Damascus and withdrew all diplomatic personnel from Syria in 2012.

From outside the country, the UK works for a political solution that will establish a lasting settlement to the conflict and protects the rights of all Syrians. We believe that the only forum capable of achieving this is the UN-led Geneva process; the UK fully supports the work of UN Envoy Geir Pedersen. We will not reopen our embassy or provide reconstruction assistance without a credible, substantive and genuine political process being firmly underway.

Alongside our support for diplomatic efforts to end the violence, the UK has alleviated suffering by committing £2.81 billion of humanitarian aid to the Syria Crisis since 2012, our largest ever response to a single humanitarian crisis. This aid package includes food, water, sanitation and basic relief items.

Additionally, the UK is committed to ensuring that those responsible for the most serious crimes in Syria are held to account. The UK has contributed over £9 million since 2012 to various accountability mechanisms and NGOs gathering evidence and assisting victims. We also continue to support the independent UN Commission of Inquiry’s investigations into human rights violations and abuses in Syria.

The UK, as a leading member of the Global Coalition against Daesh, has contributed to the liberation of all territory previously held by Daesh in Syria and Iraq. For more information on this, see UK action to combat Daesh .

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"We took my mother from here and we buried her in our cemetery."

People in Gaza "want to rest", he said.

"We don't want to be living like that, we want to live," he added.

"There is no life. This is all for nothing. I feel sad, lonely, alone in the world."

Reem Zaydan said she was still searching for her son and believed he had been killed in January

"The day my son was martyred, I knew he was martyred without anyone telling me. A mother's instinct," she said.

"My son was displaced in an area, and he used to always contact us after any strike or anything. When Khan Younis in its entirety was besieged, he did not call us, unlike every other time.

"I have been coming here for days. Every day, I come from 6am until 2pm. I come from Rafah city and head to the same place. Once they finish their work, I go home."

Karima al-Ras, 55, who lives in Khan Younis, said she had found her son after two months of searching for him.

"Today, I came at 6am when I found my son, Ahmad," she said.

"His father died when he was 12, and I raised him. I gave him an honourable life. I made him study mechanical engineering. Cars would come to our doorsteps and he would fix them. Ahmad was beloved by everyone."

The IDF has called claims they buried Palestinian bodies "baseless and unfounded".

The military said the operation in the area of Nasser Hospital was to locate hostages and missing persons, and bodies "buried by Palestinians in the area of Nasser Hospital were examined". 

"The examination was carried out respectfully while maintaining the dignity of the deceased. Bodies examined, which did not belong to Israeli hostages, were returned to their place," the IDF said.

By Tom Cheshire, Ben van der Merwe and Sam Doak, Data and Forensics Unit

Israel has denied accusations that it buried Palestinians in a mass grave, following the discovery of more than 300 bodies in the courtyard of a Gaza Strip hospital.

The discovery of hundreds of bodies in the courtyard of Khan Younis's Nasser hospital prompted the Hamas-run government to accuse Israel of digging the graves "to hide its crimes".

The UN says it is investigating claims that some of the bodies had their hands bound and were stripped of clothing.

You can read the Data and Forensics team's full investigation here...

The US Senate has advanced a $95bn aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan towards the final vote, the final step before sending it to the White House for Joe Biden to sign into law.

One of the bills provides $61bn for Ukraine, a second $26bn for Israel and a third $8.12bn "to counter communist China" in the Indo-Pacific. 

It comes after the House of Representatives abruptly ended a months-long stalemate and approved the assistance in a rare Saturday session.

Joe Biden has promised to sign it into law as soon as it passes the Senate.

The risk of famine throughout Gaza, especially in the north, is "very high," Washington's special regional envoy for humanitarian issues has said this evening.

David Satterfield told reporters that Israel must do everything possible to facilitate efforts to avert a famine and called for more to be done to get aid to those in need, particularly in the north.

For context : Israeli strikes intensified across northern Gaza today and Israel ordered new evacuations in the area.

An Israeli army spokesperson said people are being urged to flee from the Beit Lahia area in the region's northeast.

The area lies a short distance from Beit Hanoun city, where Israeli tanks made a new incursion overnight.

Benjamin Netanyahu is "a failure who belongs in jail", the Palestinian president has said.

Earlier, Mr Netanyahu said on X he had hosted soldiers for the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Passover. 

He said an empty chair had been left in the centre of the table and on it were the photos of all 133 hostages who are still in Hamas captivity. 

"I am committed to returning all the abductees home," he said.

Responding, Mahmoud Abbas said: "Stop lying, Netanyahu. 

"You have failed to return someone in more than 200 days. Your government has failed. You failed the Israeli people. You are a failure and belong in jail."

Palestinian health authorities have accused Israeli forces of killing a Palestinian man and wounding two people, including a child, during raids in the occupied West Bank city of Jericho and adjacent refugee camps.

The man had been standing outside his house in Jericho city, watching troops as they carried out a raid but had not been involved in any fighting, according to his uncle.

The Palestinian news agency WAFA said the two wounded, including a child, were hit by bullets during a separate incident in the Aqabat Jabr refugee camp, just outside Jericho.

We have been reporting today on mass graves discovered near Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.

Our  Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall says now that Israeli forces have withdrawn from some areas in Gaza people are starting to uncover many of the dead.

"There have been accusations, including from the United Nations, that some of the bodies were found bound and gagged - the implication being that Israeli forces might have executed some of the Palestinians," he says.

"However, the Israeli military - in a statement released to us - has strongly refuted that. They've said it is baseless and unfounded.

"They say in some limited cases they dug up some bodies when intelligence led them to believe that some of the hostages might have been buried there.

"Having not made any of those discoveries they then respectfully reburied the bodies.

"I would add to that and say our team in Gaza has been to the site of the mass grave in recent days and we ourselves have not heard any accusations that any of the bodies have been found bound and gagged." 

Displaced Palestinians have been sheltering in a UNRWA-affiliated school in Deir al Balah, in the central Gaza Strip.

The scenes come as Israel bombarded northern Gaza overnight in some of the heaviest shelling in weeks, causing panic amongst residents and flattening neighbourhoods.

A Hamas representative has called for an escalation across all fronts of the conflict.

Abu Ubaida, a spokesperson for the militant group's armed al Qassam Brigades, made the comment in a televised speech to mark 200 days of war.

He was cited by an Al Jazeera journalist as saying: "We call on all the masses of our nation to escalate resistance actions in all forms and on all fronts."

In further comments reported by Al Jazeera, Mr Ubaida said Hamas would continue to push for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, an end to the military operation and the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.

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Sunak rejects offer of youth mobility scheme between EU and UK

Labour also turns down European Commission’s proposal, which would have allowed young Britons to live, study and work in EU

Rishi Sunak has rejected an EU offer to strike a post-Brexit deal to allow young Britons to live, study or work in the bloc for up to four years.

The prime minister declined the European Commission’s surprise proposal of a youth mobility scheme for people aged between 18 and 30 on Friday, after Labour knocked back the suggestion on Thursday night, while noting that it would “seek to improve the UK’s working relationship with the EU within our red lines”.

The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen , suggested the scheme, which would also have allowed young people from within the EU to stay in the UK to work or study for the same period of time, would have been an area in which there could be “closer collaboration”.

“The topic of youth mobility is in both our interests, because the more we have youth mobility being on both sides of the Channel, the more we increase the probability we will be on good terms because the next generation knows each other very well,” she said on Thursday.

But the UK government indicated on Friday that Brexit had ended free movement and it had no desire to reopen that conversation, even with strict conditions on length of stay.

“We are not introducing an EU-wide youth mobility scheme – free movement within the EU was ended and there are no plans to introduce it,” a government spokesperson said.

However, they did note that the government would be happy to do deals with individual member states. It is known that the UK is keen to strike an arrangement with France.

One source said the UK wanted to “cherry-pick” which countries it wanted such programmes with.

The youth mobility scheme would not be a return to freedom of movement and would, if agreed, require a YMS visa, evidence of sufficient funds to sustain a living and health insurance.

The Conservatives have been urged to rethink their rejection of the offer because it could help boost the economy.

Ed Davey, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, said: “Expanding our existing youth mobility visas to cover European countries on a reciprocal basis would be a win-win.

“It would be a much needed boost to our economy, especially hospitality and tourism; it would offer great new opportunities to young British people to work abroad; and it would be a crucial step towards fixing our broken relationship with Europe.

“Of course, the details would need to be negotiated, but no UK government should reject this idea out of hand.”

Some Labour MPs believe the scheme could have helped Labour reach its plan to decarbonise UK power by 2030.

A senior Labour MP likened the scheme to a “sugar-rush, fast-fix” solution that would be helpful to an incoming Labour government but would be hard to wean off. They said: “Even though Labour has reduced its green objectives, it still wants to decarbonise the grid. There will be a time lag between training, recruitment and reskilling workers that would require an army of engineers for example to do that, and we’re currently far behind.

“To hit the ground running, this scheme offers us the opportunity to do that, but we would have to continue to fix labour market shortages.”

A Labour spokesperson said: “This is a proposal from the EU Commission to EU member states, not to the UK. It has come about because the UK government is reportedly approaching other European countries to try to establish mobility arrangements.

“Labour has no plans for a youth mobility scheme. We have already suggested some tangible ways that we would look to improve the relationship and deliver for British businesses and consumers, including seeking a veterinary agreement to tackle trade barriers, mutual recognition of professional qualifications and improved touring opportunities for artists.”

Anand Menon, a professor of European politics and foreign affairs at King’s College London and director of UK in a Changing Europe, said: “Clearly there is a debate to be had about the costs and the benefits of a youth mobility scheme, but I find it utterly depressing that both of the major political parties, one of which will form a government after the next election, do not know the difference between free movement and a limited youth mobility scheme which involves visas.”

He said he suspected the surprise emergence of a youth mobility scheme was a move to head off cherry-picking in the EU in the face of a surge of far-right parties, some of which are Eurosceptics.

“They are scared that member states will do bilateral deals, which becomes more of a threat the better the Eurosceptic parties do in the elections,” Menon said.

“For instance, Geert Wilders [the Dutch populist politician] would be more likely to do a bilateral deal with Britain if it involves annoying Brussels, and then the danger is you end up with governments in the EU negotiating unilaterally with the Brits because it is in their own interests.”

• European Union
• European Commission
• Ursula von der Leyen
• Young people
• Conservatives

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