Travel to Syria is no longer the mystery it once was. Despite this, many people’s perceptions remain shaped by outdated information.
While the country has experienced profound change over the past decade, guided travel to Syria is now possible, providing it’s carefully managed. If you’re seeking to understand one of the Middle East’s most historically rich destinations, Rocky Road Travel would love to take you there in 2026 or 2027.
What Has Changed About Travel to Syria
One of the most significant changes is how travel to Syria is organised. Independent travel is not possible, and you must join guided tours arranged by experienced operators with strong local partnerships. Companies like Rocky Road Travel work closely with on-the-ground teams to ensure itineraries are realistic, secure and adaptable.
Key areas popular on organised tours have generally improved. Major routes between Damascus, Homs, Aleppo and Palmyra are accessible; hotels used by tour groups are carefully vetted; and sites are visited with local guides who understand current conditions.
Entry procedures have also become more streamlined, with visas arranged in advance and collected on arrival at the border or Damascus International Airport.
Tours today are designed with flexibility in mind. Routes may be adjusted at short notice depending on local conditions, something Rocky Road Travel openly communicates to our travellers. This way, we enable you to experience Syria responsibly, without unnecessary risk or false expectations.
What Hasn’t Changed: Syria’s Intriguing Culture
Despite years of upheaval, the heart of Syria remains deeply familiar to those who know its history. Damascus is still one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, where life flows through ancient souqs, courtyards and alleyways much as it has for centuries. Aleppo’s resilience is evident not only in the areas which have been rebuilt, but in the warmth and pride of its people.
Religious and cultural traditions continue to define daily life. Churches and mosques stand side by side, festivals are still observed, and hospitality remains a defining feature of Syrian society. Travellers often remark that the human connection feels unchanged, even as the country around it continues to rebuild.
If you’re a history lover, Syria remains unparalleled. From the Umayyad Mosque and Krak des Chevaliers to Palmyra’s vast Roman ruins, the country’s archaeological significance has not diminished. With our knowledgeable local guides, you learn details that cannot be gained through books or documentaries alone.
Responsible Travel in Today’s Syria
Modern travel to Syria places a strong emphasis on responsibility. Small group sizes, locally owned hotels and Syrian guides ensure that tourism directly benefits communities rather than bypassing them. Rocky Road Travel caps its group tours at just 12 people, helping to minimise impact while offering a more personal experience.
This approach is particularly relevant for travellers joining Rocky Road Travel’s group and private Syria tours in 2026 and 2027, including their popular September and December itineraries. Autumn and winter offer cooler temperatures, quieter streets and a more intimate atmosphere, especially in Damascus Old Town during the festive season.
Why Guided Tours Matter More Than Ever
Nowadays, a decent tour in Syria requires an experienced team with patience and local knowledge. What has changed is not Syria’s soul, but the importance of travelling with a trusted operator. Our tours begin and end in Beirut, Amman or Damascus, with all logistics handled by professionals who continuously monitor conditions on the ground.
For those willing to travel thoughtfully, Syria offers something increasingly rare: a destination that challenges assumptions, rewards curiosity and leaves a lasting impression. While the practicalities of travel have evolved, the essence of Syria remains as powerful as ever.
For more about our tours in Syria, simply get in touch today.
