Syria Group Trip Sept 2025
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Overview
Dates: September 7 - 14, 2025
Limited spots available on a first come, first served basis!
Our 8-day, 7-night tour of Syria will immerse you deep into the country's rich history and culture. You'll meet the Syrian people, feel the warmth of Syrian hospitality, and enjoy some of the Middle East's most delicious food. You'll learn how this resilient nation is emerging from decades of repression and conflict. And finally, our trip will culminate with a one-of-a-kind visit to the Aramaic-speaking village of Maaloula for the annual Feast of the Cross festival.
You'll travel with Doug as well as highly experienced, professional Syrian tour guides.
The tour will include: Damascus, Bosra, Palmyra, Al-Mishtaya, Krak Des Chevaliers, Homs, Hama, Aleppo, Mar Musa, and Maaloula.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive to Damascus International Airport in Damascus, Syria or Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport in Beirut, Lebanon. If traveling via Lebanon, meet with our driver and enjoy a scenic drive through the Lebanese countryside to the border with Syria. After crossing the border, you'll proceed to our hotel in Damascus.
In the afternoon, embark on a short intro tour of Syria's capital city, and enjoy our first evening together as a group. Check out Damascus' vibrant nightlife scene, and get some rest for the week ahead.
Overnight: Damascus
The Guides
Doug is an American traveler and YouTuber. He has spent years traveling throughout the Middle East, and has led many group trips to countries in the region. See his experience in Syria on his YouTube channel.
Rami is a professional tour guide from Damascus, Syria. Guiding is more than a job for Rami; it’s a calling. Fluent in English, he ensures you feel at home, immersing you in Syria’s beauty.
Inclusions & Price
Included:
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7 nights lodging
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Breakfast every day
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Private airport transfers
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All tours, tour guides, & entry fees
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Ground transportation throughout the tour
Excluded:
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International flights
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Lunches & dinners
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Visa fee, if applicable
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Travel insurance
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Souvenirs, snacks, alcohol
Price:
Shared Twin Room: $1,750
Single Room: $2,050
How to Join
There are limited spots available on the trip!
To apply to join, please send an email to trips@dougbarnardtravel.com.
A $750 deposit will be required to reserve your spot. This deposit is non-refundable except at the sole discretion of the tour organizers. A second payment of $750 is due 90 days before the start of the trip, and final payment is due 45 days before the start of the trip.
Visa Information
As of July 6, 2025, citizens of almost all countries must obtain a visa in order to visit Syria, regardless of port of entry. It is still possible to enter Syria via the land border with Lebanon, but regular visa fees now apply to land border ports of entry. Therefore, we recommend flying directly to Damascus, if possible.
Visa fees vary according to nationality. Please see below for common visa fees. Please contact us if you don't see your country listed below.**
**Given the recent political changes in Syria, rules and regulations are changing quickly and frequently. Visa rules and fees are subject to change. We will keep you updated on any changes that may occur.
Passport | Visa Fee |
|---|---|
Australia | $150 |
Canada | $100 |
European Union | $75 |
India | $50 |
Turkey | $50 |
United Kingdom | $150 |
United States | $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should come on this trip?
Everyone is welcome on this trip. Syria is a beautiful country with an incredibly rich history and culture, delicious food, and warm hospitality. Those interested in joining us on this trip should come with an open mind and be ready to immerse themselves in a culture that may be very different from their own. There will be light physical activity involved throughout the trip (climbing stairs, monuments, etc.), but nothing overly strenuous. The weather in Syria can vary in September, with temperatures typically ranging from 61-91° F (16-33° C). We will send a detailed recommended packing list to confirmed participants.
Is it safe to visit Syria?
Yes. Despite the revolution that occurred in Syria in December 2024, Syria is safe to visit and continues to welcome many tourists. State institutions and law enforcement are fully functional. Throughout the duration of the trip, you will be accompanied by experienced American and Syrian guides. If you have more specific questions about safety, security, or the political situation in Syria, get in touch with us.
What are the hotels like?
We will be staying in upscale local hotels. All hotels offer wifi, air conditioning, and breakfast. The rooms are shared twin rooms, meaning that if you're traveling solo, you'll be paired up with a roommate (single supplement also available).
What is the food like? Is alcohol legal in Syria?
Syria is famous for its cuisine - the food is delicious and we'll be eating a lot of it! You can expect a mix of meat and vegetarian dishes. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies so we can accommodate you!
Alcohol is indeed legal in Syria, and major cities like Damascus have a vibrant nightlife scene with various bars, clubs, and cafes open for business. Syria also produces fantastic wine, and a local liquor called arak. You'll have several opportunities to sample local Syrian wines, beers, and spirits if you'd like!
What's the best way to get to Syria?
After the recent visa rule changes announced on July 6, 2025, the best way to travel to Syria is via air to Damascus International Airport. It is also possible to enter Syria via the land border with Lebanon, and if you choose to enter this way, we will provide transportation from Beirut, Lebanon to Damascus. Visa fees are now the same regardless of port of entry.
Have more questions? Email trips@dougbarnardtravel.com and we'll get back to you ASAP!