As soon as it became possible in 2018 for tourism to resume after years of civil war, Young Pioneer Tours were the first to take you there. Now that life is returning to relative normal again and travel is back on the cards, we’re excited to continue taking you to Syria, a country that we fell in love with and know like that backs of our hands. That’s why for many reasons we know this country better than any other company, hence why our itineraries are more unique.
Beginning and ending in Lebanon’s vibrant capital, Beirut, this tour is your opportunity to see Syria at a unique point in its history. Until the recent war, the only thing most people knew about Syria was Palmyra, and now Syria’s famous but for all the wrong reasons. Make the most of your visit in Lebanon and explore more of what this ancient yet contemporary country has to offer on our Ultimate Lebanon tour.
From Beirut we’ll drive two hours to Damascus, the capital of Syria. Travelling in Syria is truly a surreal experience, on one hand you’ll get to experience the famous cosmopolitan nightlife that has returned to the capital where the streets are lined with bars, cafes, young locals smoking shishas and drinking cocktails, and then on the other hand we see the truly harrowing effects of full-scale war – destroyed hospitals, schools and houses.
From Damascus we’ll then make our way to Aleppo, once the pearl in the Middle East, going via the Christian town of Maaloula, with its historic churches now largely restored after their destruction by Islamist militants. On the journey to Aleppo, you will witness the destruction the occurred in Syria throughout the journey, with it being particularly paramount in the city itself.
During our stay in Aleppo you will explore many sites other travel groups cannot visit, as well more obvious ones such as the Presidential Park and the Aleppo Soap factory – the oldest company in the world.
Driving around Syria is an experience itself as we stop on the way at charming coffee stands where we’ll get a chance to mingle with locals while also passing destroyed villages. In Syria we often have to take the long route to avoid rebel-controlled areas, but this just means seeing more of the amazing countryside.
Shrouded in a coat of destruction, we’ll then visit Palmyra, which now requires special permission to get into, but despite its tragic recent history, is still a breath-taking site.
We’ll then make a special visit to the rebel held town of Busra. While not at war with the government, Busra acts on its own, and you will not see banners or large posters of Bashar al-Assad. Here you’ll explore one of the best kept colosseums in the world, outside Rome of course, as well as the fabulous ruins of the old town, before we return to Damascus.
Before your tour concludes we’ll visit the very the best restaurants and bars the capital has to offer for a farewell celebration with our local guides. You’ll also have the chance to speak to a professor, who famously guided Jimmy Carter, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie on their visit to Syria.
Aside from what we offer there are multiple chances to meet, eat, drink and converse with Syrians about their everyday lives. You will be very surprised by how direct and open locals are with their views.
Sunday September 1st – Beirut, Lebanon – Damascus, Syria
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Monday September 2nd – Damascus
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Tuesday September 3rd – Damascus – Aleppo
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Wednesday September 4th – Aleppo
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Thursday September 5th – Aleppo – Hama – Almishtaya
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Friday September 6th – Almishtaya – Homs – Palmyra – Damascus
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Saturday September 7th – Damascus – Busra – Damascus
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Sunday September 8th – Damascus – Beirut, Lebanon
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What is the language in Syria? As a predominantly Arab country the main language of Syria is Arabic, but with such a rich culture and diversity of peoples, there are also a number of other languages spoken within the country. To read if it is ethical t …
Read MoreWant to extend your YPT adventure? Join one of our great tour extensions
• Letter of Invitation / Visa Support
• Accommodation in twin share at 3 & 4 star hotels
• Breakfasts
• All transportation throughout the tour
• Entrance fees to all sites
• YPT guide and local guides
• Visa fee paid at the border on arrival (depending on your nationality $60 – $140)
• Single Supplement ($400)
• Lunches and dinners
• Accommodation and any other services in Lebanon before and after the tour commences
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks or any optional activities
• Travel Insurance
We have expert guides ready to help answer any questions you may have.
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