Is Now the Right Time to Visit Syria? Discover the Wonders of Damascus and Aleppo While Navigating Travel Risks and Rewards

Published on December 17, 2024

Despite its tumultuous past marked by civil war, Syria is now emerging as a potential destination for adventurous tourists. However, questions of safety, accessibility, and sensitivity to the nation’s recovery remain at the forefront. While the UK Foreign Office continues to advise against all travel to Syria due to unpredictable security conditions, some tour operators, like Lupine Travel, are preparing to resume trips as early as April 2025.

The Appeal of Syria for Tourists
Syria’s rich history and cultural treasures make it an extraordinary travel destination. Before the war, landmarks like the ancient city of Damascus, Aleppo’s old town, and Palmyra’s classical ruins attracted tourists from around the world.

Sean Kennedy, who visited Syria in 2009, recounts:
“Damascus was breathtaking. Our hotel near the 3rd-century Roman East Gate gave us easy access to the Umayyad Mosque, one of Islam’s holiest sites. The city was a harmonious blend of religions, with places of worship for Jews, Christians, and Muslims coexisting peacefully. The people were incredibly warm and hospitable, which made the experience unforgettable.”

Aleppo, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, provided a unique juxtaposition of ancient history and modern life. Palmyra, another highlight, left Kennedy in awe as he witnessed locals gathering around its 2,500-year-old columns for family meals under the sunset.

For travelers seeking destinations steeped in history, Syria’s appeal is undeniable. The country boasts influences from the Romans, Ottomans, and Byzantines, evident in its architectural marvels and cultural heritage.

The Risks of Traveling to Syria
The UK Foreign Office maintains a stern warning: “If you are a British national in Syria, leave by any practical means.” The country remains volatile after over a decade of conflict, and travelers face numerous risks, including:

• Security concerns: Ongoing violence, artillery strikes, and terrorism persist in many regions.
• Infrastructure issues: Water, electricity, and healthcare services remain unreliable, while food and fuel shortages are common.
• Kidnapping threats: Westerners, including tourists, journalists, and aid workers, are viewed as high-value targets by terrorist groups.

Australia’s travel advisory echoes similar concerns, strongly warning against any travel to Syria due to the extreme risk of violence, armed conflict, and abductions.

Travel Insurance and Safety
One significant barrier for travelers is the difficulty in securing travel insurance. Standard policies become void if traveling against Foreign Office advice. While some high-risk insurers provide coverage, options are limited. Battleface, for example, excludes Syria from its coverage due to international sanctions. However, High Risk Voyager offers insurance for travelers, with policies starting around £150 for a 10-day trip.

Accessing Syria: The Journey In and Out
Direct flights to Syria remain non-existent for most Western travelers. Damascus International Airport is currently closed, limiting access to overland routes. Most tourists enter Syria via neighboring countries like Lebanon and Jordan.

• From Beirut: The Lebanese capital is just 60 miles from Damascus. Middle East Airlines operates daily flights from London to Beirut, but the overland journey through checkpoints can be long and arduous.
• From Amman: Travelers can access Damascus from Jordan’s capital, approximately 120 miles away.

Tour operators emphasize the importance of working with reputable agencies to ensure proper documentation and border entry. Dylan Harris, founder of Lupine Travel, confirms:
“While entry into Syria via Lebanon is possible, we will wait until formal border checks and tourism visas are reinstated. This ensures all visitors enter legally and safely.”

Should You Wait to Visit Syria?
Many argue that visiting Syria now might be premature. Pat Yale, a guidebook writer, notes, “Even Syrians in exile are hesitant to return. Is it really the time for holidays?” Travelers like Stephen Leah agree: “Syria fascinates me, but I’ll wait for better days.”

However, supporters like Middle Eastern travel expert Matthew Teller argue that responsible tourism could benefit Syrians:
“Now that Syria is free from dictatorship, its people need our support. Tourism could provide a critical boost to the nation’s recovery, showcasing its unparalleled cultural heritage.”

Looking Ahead: Syria’s Tourism Future
While the future of tourism in Syria remains uncertain, its appeal as a historical and cultural gem is undeniable. For now, those considering a trip must weigh the risks carefully, heed official advice, and remain patient as the country rebuilds.

As Lupine Travel’s Dylan Harris concludes:
“It’s a long road, but reopening Syria to tourism could mark a turning point. The people deserve it after enduring such hardship.”