Is Iraq safe to visit in 2024?

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

Is Iraq safe to visit in 2024?>

Wanna travel to Iraq with Against the Compass?

Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Iraq, where we’ll visit Baghdad, Babylon, Karbala, Mosul, and more

October 23rd to November 3rd, 2024

learn more

For the average traveler, Iraq is considered one of the most dangerous countries in the world to travel to, and the reasons are more than obvious.

From the Iran-Iraq war back in 1980 to the Saddam Hussein Gulf conflict, the following US invasion, and the more contemporary civil war, where the bloodthirsty Islamic State was the main protagonist, the media has been showing us a dangerous Iraq dominated by war for more than three decades.

It will take years for Iraqis to get rid of that unfortunate reputation, and that’s why we are here:

To tell you that despite all that recent trouble, safety in Iraq has drastically improved, making it a relatively safe country to travel to, a land inhabited by beautiful Iraqis who just carry on with their lives and show nothing but kindness to any foreign guest they may bump into.

This guide is a complete analysis made to diagnose how safe is Iraq from a traveling perspective, which includes my personal experience, local insights, safety by region and more.

For all the practical information, read our Iraq travel guide

In this Iraqi safety guide you find:

Table of Contents

Latest updateIraq todayTravel adviceMy personal experienceSafety by regionIraqi KurdistanDangersSafety tipsIs it safe for AmericansIs it safe for women?More information

our recommended travel insurance for Iraq

IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Iraq.

GET 5% DISCOUNT HERE

Latest update: How safe is Iraq?

Is the war between Gaza & Israel affecting safety in Iraq?

Today – believe it or not – Iraq is one of the most stable countries in the Middle East, and that unfortunate event between Gaza & Israel should not affect your plans of visiting Iraq.

Therefore, we believe that Iraq is all good to go.

For example, while just to be cautious, we decided to postpone ours trips to Syria that had been scheduled in 2023 due to the potential instability in Lebanon, in Iraq things are good as usual and in fact, we still ran 3 group expeditions in November and December 2023.

Is it safe to travel to Iraq today?

How safe is Iraq right now?

In March 2021, Pope Francis went to Iraq, visiting regions once held by ISIS, while proving to the rest of the world that Iraq wasn’t as dangerous as the media pretends it is.

Right after his visit, the Iraqi Government announced the introduction of a visa on arrival regime, available for up to 38 nationalities, including all EU passport holders, the USA, Canada, the UK and a couple more.

Check the Iraq visa section of my travel guide for more details.

Before the Pope’s visit, getting into Iraq with a tourist visa had always been extremely difficult, and expensive, so easing and liberalizing their visa regime, while encouraging travelers to go to Iraq, can only mean one thing:

From a tourism perspective, the safety situation has improved, which means that Iraq is a safe country to visit

The Islamic State took control of pretty much the entire north of Iraq – excluding the Kurdistan region – but by March 2019, they had lost most of their territory and today, they are nothing but a few insurgent groups hiding in remote desert areas, or not even that.

Their legacy in the northern towns and cities is still visible, especially in the old city of Mosul, most streets of which are composed of rubble. Reconstruction, however, is ongoing, many Iraqis are slowly moving back to their hometowns and the city bazaars seem more lively than ever.

So, is Iraq safe to travel?

In my opinion, there’s never been a safer time to travel to Iraq than in 2023.

The Old City of Mosul is mostly composed of rubble, but Mosul is a safe destination within Iraq nowadays

Is it safe to travel to Iraq? A look into the Goverment’s advice

When looking at the Iraq travel advice from the US Department of State or the FCDO, it looks like Iraq is immersed in the most dangerous chaos ever, a giant red zone where only the absolutely insane would dare to venture.

FCDO Iraq travel advice – Advice against all travel

While it’s true that this kind of advice has a certain logic behind it, know that they also show a distorted version of reality, typically based on an unlikely worst-case scenario.

Instead of trusting these biased reports, do talk to travelers who have recently been there, or locals who can tell you the latest updates in terms of safety in Iraq.

This blog post is precisely that, a deep analysis based on my personal traveling experience and locals’ insights.

How safe is traveling to Iraq from my personal experience

I traveled all over Iraq multiple times, from everywhere in the Kurdistan area to Mosul, Baghdad, Nasiriya, the Marshes, and everything in between.

In my experience, I personally believe that Iraq is a safe country to travel to, and the reasons are as follows:

Iraqi police in the city of Fallujah

It’s easy to move around

I found Iraq to be an extremely easy country to travel around, with plenty of public transportation and accommodation options.

All towns and cities are well-connected with buses and local shared taxis, and pretty much any city has a good offer of hotels for all budgets.

To my surprise, my initial perception was that backpacking in Iraq would be quite challenging, but it was not and in fact, I found Iraq much safer than AfghanistanMali, or even Pakistan, for example

The atmosphere is pretty relaxed

I was also surprised by how calm and peaceful all towns and cities seemed to be.

Petty crime is extremely rare and there wasn’t any visible tension.

I was always able to walk around freely with my camera without anyone ever asking questions or stopping me.

Local Iraqis will be there to help you

Local Iraqis are particularly kind, helpful, and hospitable. Amazing people.

As soon as they knew I was a foreigner, they would always approach me. In the worst-case scenario, they would just want to have a friendly chat while on other occasions, they would even offer to show me around or a cup of chai.

From my experience, Iraq felt like a safe place to visit, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Meeting local Iraqis is a great way to travel safer in Iraq nalysis: which regions in Iraq are safe to visit?

Let’s look at Iraq’s safety by region.

Is Baghdad safe?

Baghdad is a giant metropolis and the most likely starting point for adventurers heading into this country. It’s chaotic and absolutely packed with traffic jams but, with its lively bazaars and historical sites, it’s also one of the most exciting destinations to visit in Iraq.

The capital has lived some pretty dark days in its recent past, but it’s also one of the places which has seen the biggest security improvement.

Nowadays, I personally believe that Baghdad is a safe city to travel to.

There’s a lot of security, you can walk around freely, and the locals are very nice.

Nevertheless, always be cautious. We can’t forget that Baghdad is under terrorism threat, as happened in July 2021.

Baghdad is chaotic but safe

Is southern Iraq safe?

Anywhere south of Baghdad is considered southern Iraq, which includes popular destinations such as Karbala, Najaf, Babylon, Nasiriya, Chibayish, and Basra.

ISIS was mainly operating in the north and west, so south of Iraq has been safe for quite a while, even during ISIS rule.

re Karbala and Najaf safe?

As you may know, Karbala and Najaf are the holiest cities in the world for Shia Muslims, two cities that every year receive millions of pilgrim tourists.

Given their importance for the Shia community, many foreign travelers believe Karbala and Najaf are dangerous cities to travel to, an obvious high-priority target for Sunni terrorists.

The threat definitely exists, but there’s also a high level of security, with strict checkpoints within a 1km perimeter from the actual shrines.

Moreover, to enter the shrines you are thoroughly checked and cameras and bags are not allowed to be brought inside.

Despite all this trouble, however, the atmosphere was rather relaxed as well.

Karbala is one of the safest places to visit in Iraq

Is northern Iraq safe?

The north is dominated by Mosul, a city liberated from ISIS back in 2017.

Is it safe to travel to Mosul?

I visited Mosul several times and it does feel safe, a city full of hope, becoming more and more vibrant as we speak, and where UNESCO is putting tremendous efforts into rebuilding one of the most beautiful old cities in the Middle East.

Nowadays, you can walk around all by yourself or go to dinner alone and you will find everything pretty smooth.

For more information, read. How to visit Mosul.

Is western Iraq safe?

Fallujah, Hit, Haditha or Rawa are all cities in West Iraq which you might be familiar with, especially Fallujah, a city that witnessed a fierce battle during the US Invasion.

The area was also taken by the Islamic State, only liberated in 2016/17.

Today, the west of Iraq remains the most off the beaten track region in Iraq – with touristic interest – home to lovely oasis towns sitting on the shores of the Euphrates River.

Is Fallujah safe?

Fallujah is the only place I have visited in the west of Iraq. It’s the Iraqi city that has suffered the most, first with the American invasion, and then with ISIS.

Today, Fallujah can finally enjoy some peace, but it’s also true that most visitors are forced to be accompanied by the local authorities.

Besides American soldiers and ISIS fighters, Fallujah has seen very few foreigners since 2001, so the locals are particularly happy to see international visitors interested in learning about the contemporary of their city.

This is the bridge in Fallujah where those American contractors were hanged from

Is Kurdistan safe?

Kurdistan is, by far, the safest region in Iraq.

For more information, read the next section.

The ongoing reconstruction of Al Noori mosque in Mosul

Is Kurdistan safe to visit?

When reading about safety in Iraq, it’s important to differentiate between the northern region of Kurdistan and the rest of Iraq.

Is it safe to travel to Erbil and Iraqi Kurdistan?

Kurdistan has always been a relatively safe and easy country to travel to compared to Federal Iraq, and a good alternative for travelers looking for something less hardcore.

Iraqi Kurdistan is a semi-autonomous region located in the north of the country.

Check my Iraqi Kurdistan travel guide

Technically, they are the same country, but Kurdistan enjoys a significant degree of political autonomy, it has its own army, there are different visa rules and you even get a different passport stamp.

From a cultural standpoint, Kurdistan is very different from the rest of Iraq.

You need to keep in mind that Kurdish people are not Arabs:

They wear their own traditional clothes, eat their own food, and speak a different language. Kurds like to say that their culture is closer to Iran than Arabs.

A Kurdish man in ErbilThey are two completely different regions and, whatever you have been hearing in the news, for the past years, in relation to bombs, terrorist attacks, and ISIS, it didn’t really happen in Kurdistan but in the rest of Iraq.

Kurdistan has always been a relatively safe place to travel to, and that’s why travelers and backpackers alike have been visiting the country for quite some time now.

Why is Kurdistan safer than the rest of Iraq?

No religious sectarianism – Kurdistan is a mix of different religions and groups, including Christians, Muslims, Yazidis, Assyrians and more. However, their national identity has always prevailed over their religion, the reason why Kurdistan has never been a victim of the religious sectarianism that nearly led the rest of Iraq into being a failed state.

Support from foreign armies – If you look at the map before the liberation, you clearly see that Kurdistan was bordering ISIS territory. Yet, ISIS barely managed to get into Kurdistan and that’s partly due to the large support and presence of foreign armies, especially the Americans.

ISIS map in 2015

Large expat community – This is more like a consequence of all the above but, since Iraqi Kurdistan has always enjoyed certain stability, Erbil has become some sort of (a safe) regional business hub with many settled foreign companies.

Seeing Western expats and families wandering around the city is not a rare thing to see. On the other hand, there are many foreigners living in Baghdad too but, while in Erbil they are free to move around without putting themselves at risk, in Baghdad, they are not allowed to leave the international area known as the Green Zone.

Read: Where in the Middle East is safe to travel?

Enjoying our time in Iraqi Kurdistan, the safest region to visit in Iraq

Is Iraq a dangerous country to visit? What you need to know

Is Iraq dangerous for tourists?

Here are some of the dangers:

Is there ISIS in Iraq?

After the liberation, most ISIS fighters were either killed or locked up in the high-security prison of Al-Hoot, in Nasiriya.

Those who managed to escape are either hiding the fact that they are former fighters or scraping by in the desert.

Suicide bombings in Iraq

Unfortunately, one of the dangers in Iraq is that the country is under terrorist threat, and anybody telling you otherwise is ignoring the reality because, in 2021, two suicide bombings took place in Baghdad, in January and July.

However, the probability of being caught in such an attack is low, since they happened in a specific place, at a certain time of the day.

Checkpoints in Iraq

One of the challenges – not really a danger- you may face as an independent traveler is going through checkpoints.

There are both army and police checkpoints at the entrance of every city, and also on roads. They may convey a certain respect but they exist for security reasons.

Some checkpoints are easy and you will just get through. Others, however, require some extra patience because the respective authorities will want to check your passport or even what’s inside your bag.

In any case, know that at all checkpoints the army guys tend to be friendly.

For more information and tips, check the checkpoints section of my travel guide.

Checkpoints in Kurdistan In the Kurdistan region, all checkpoints are run by Peshmerga (the Kurdish army), but they are a lot easier than in Iraq. They might check your passport from time to time, but even independent travelers self-driving will get through very easily.

Shia Militias

Before venturing into Federal Iraq, I was warned to be careful with the different Shia Militias. They control different parts of Iraqi territory and are known to be quite hostile with anyone.

That’s not entirely true, in my opinion. Having traveled from north to south, the only place where I encountered some slight trouble was in the city of Samarra, which is controlled by a Shia Militia named Sarayat al Salam, and the only trouble they gave me was that they made me wait for a long time, but they were never unfriendly.

Hanging out in a checkpoint

How to stay safe in Iraq

Consider joining a tour

Traveling with a group and an expert local guide will make things much safer!

Check out his upcoming group Federal Iraq EXPEDITION on:

Sep 30th to Oct 10th, 2024. SOLD OUTOct 23rd to Nov 3rd, 2024. APPLY NOWDec 6th to 16th, 2024. (SpanishAPPLY NOWFeb 18th to 28th, 2025. APPLY NOWApr 4th to 14th, 2025. APPLY NOWEpic 8-day expeditions, where we will be visiting places like: Baghdad, Babylon, Mosul, Samarra, Hatra, Mesopotamian Marshes, Karbala and more!

All details can be found here:Iraq EXPEDITION.

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 (joan@againstthecompass.com) indicating:

How many people you areHow many days do you want to spend in IraqWhich datesAnd we will try to find other travel partners you may travel with. Otherwise, know that we can also organize private, tailored trips.

An Against the Compass EXPEDITION we did in Iraqi Kurdistan

Make local friends

For independent travelers, having local friends is almost as good as traveling with a local guide.

For that, the Facebook group Iraqi Travelers Café is a great place to stay connected with English-speaking local Iraqis.

Use common sense

Stay away from public demonstrations, don’t walk alone in certain areas in the middle of the night, don’t trust anyone with suspicious behavior, etc., the usual stuff. Use your common traveling sense.

Is Iraq safe for American tourists?

Because of the invasion, many Americans wonder whether Iraq is a safe country to travel to for US citizens.

To be honest, I don’t think your nationality makes any difference in terms of safety. To the average Iraqi, you will just be one more foreigner and, when it comes to getting a visa, the same rules apply as EU passport holders.

Nevertheless, I have to admit that for entering Samarra – where you find the checkpoint of Sarayat al Salam – Americans tend to spend longer there, and that’s because, during the invasion, the US army killed many members from this Shia militia.

Is Iraq safe for women?

According to female travelers I have been talking to, traveling in Iraq as a solo woman isn’t very different than in other Arab countries like Egypt or Jordan.

Occasional verbal harassment does happen, but it’s rare, and most Iraqis will be nothing but extra kind with any foreign women.

What to wear as a solo female traveler in Iraq

In cities like Baghdad, Mosul, or Nasiriya, you will see all sorts of women dressing in all different ways, some of them apparently quite liberal.

However, do always dress modestly in order to avoid unwanted attention, and bring a headscarf with you, since you may need it depending on the area you are visiting.

On the other hand, in Karbala and Najaf – two very holy cities – a full abaya covering your whole body is mandatory.

For more information, read this Iraq travel guide for females.

More information for traveling safely in Iraq

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.

ll our guides to IraqIraq Travel GuideIraq ItineraryA City Guide to MosulVisiting Syrian Refugee CampSolo Female Travel Guide to IraqTravel Guide to AmediErbil Travel GuideTales of Backpacking in Iraqi KurdistanSolo Female Travel Guide to Iraqi KurdistanIraqi Kurdistan ItineraryIraqi Kurdistan Travel Guide

Check more safety guides

Is Afghanistan Safe?Is Iran Safe?Is Lebanon Safe?Is Mali Safe?Is Mauritania Safe?Is Middle East Safe?Is Oman Safe?Is Pakistan Safe?Is Sudan Safe?Is Syria Safe?Is Tunisia Safe?

-

By: Joan Torres
Title: Is Iraq safe to visit in 2024?
Sourced From: againstthecompass.com/en/is-it-safe-to-travel-to-iraq/
Published Date: Tue, 19 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Thailand’s Breathtaking New Lifestyle Destination Unveiled – Beyond Skywalk Nangshi

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

Thailand’s Breathtaking New Lifestyle Destination Unveiled – Beyond Skywalk Nangshi

The southern Thailand hospitality Icon, Kata Group, marking 40 years of hospitality reign by unveiling “Colors of Beyond” – a transformative rebrand for the Beyond resorts and a splash of excitement into vacations. A 500-million-baht investment in Beyond Skywalk Nangshi, a sky-high landmark destined to attract global travelers. This is more than a facelift – it’s Kata Group redefining hospitality and painting unforgettable experiences onto Southern Thailand’s canvas.

.

Unforgettable Phang Nga Adventure Awaits at Beyond Skywalk Nangshi!

Forget the ordinary and step into an exhilarating escape at Beyond Skywalk Nangshi in Thailand’s stunning Phang Nga Province. Here, 500 million baht has been poured into crafting a 57-room haven that caters to every travel style and budget. Thrill-seekers will conquer their fears on Thailand’s highest and longest glass-floored viewing platform, while nature lovers soak in panoramic vistas from the infinity pool. Couples can create lasting memories amidst verdant valleys, and families can embark on unforgettable adventures together.

Beyond Skywalk Nangshi redefines the Phang Nga experience with its diverse room types, each promising a unique perspective on the surrounding beauty. Seaview Tent, these cozies 23 sq m tents offer comfort and style, blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature, imagine waking up to the gentle murmur of waves and a panoramic sunrise over the sparkling sea. Forest Tent, nestled amidst lush greenery, these 23 sq m tents promise a tranquil escape. Breathe in the fresh air and wake up to the symphony of birdsong, surrounded by the emerald embrace of the forest. Seaview Pavilions, climb the stairs to ultimate relaxation in these 30-31 sq m pavilions. Located in a charming two-story building, they boast sweeping views of Samet Nangshi’s pristine beauty, offering a haven of luxury just steps from the beach. Pool Villa, unwind in a private oasis with one-bedroom and two-bedroom villas. Featuring a refreshing pool or Jacuzzi, stunning sunrise views, and a distinctive design, these villas offer the ultimate escape for couples or solo travelers.

A noteworthy feature is the ‘Beyond Skywalk,’ recognized as the tallest and longest glass-floor walkway in Thailand. Spanning 180 meters and positioned 80 meters above sea level, the walkway comprises three layers of thick glass (30 mm), capable of supporting weights up to 500 kilograms per square meter. It reveals dazzling turquoise waters with stunning clarity. Every step feels like hovering, every glance offers a breathtaking perspective. Admission to Beyond Skywalk, which includes food and drink credits, is priced at 500 baht for adults, 300 baht for students/children, and free for young children (during the launch period until February 29).

Beyond Skywalk Nangshi offers a smorgasbord of delights beyond its breathtaking skywalk. Fuel your adventures at Horizon, an all-day restaurant serving delectable cuisine with a panorama that’ll leave you speechless. Or grab a casual bite and invigorating coffee at Skywalk Café, the perfect spot to soak in the laid-back vibes.

Afterward, take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool on the 4th floor of the Upper Lobby building. Breathe in the fresh air as the Andaman Sea stretches before you, a shimmering turquoise canvas dotted with emerald islands.

Island adventures beckon. Glide through mangrove-lined canals in a traditional longtail boat, a symphony of birdsong and shimmering water weaving around you. Explore iconic landmarks like James Bond Island with its dramatic limestone karsts, discover hidden coves on Hong Island, snorkel amidst vibrant coral reefs at Panak Island, or wander through the charming floating village of Panyee. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of local communities, visiting bustling gypsy villages and soaking up the warmth of Thai hospitality.

For more information, please visit https://web.facebook.com/BeyondSkywalkNangshi

The post Thailand’s Breathtaking New Lifestyle Destination Unveiled – Beyond Skywalk Nangshi appeared first on lifestyleandtravel.

-

By: Lifestyle+Travel
Title: Thailand’s Breathtaking New Lifestyle Destination Unveiled – Beyond Skywalk Nangshi
Sourced From: www.lifestyleandtravel.com/beyond-skywalk-nangshi/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=beyond-skywalk-nangshi
Published Date: Fri, 09 Feb 2024 16:04:03 +0000

How to travel to Syria in 2024: Need to know

TODAY'S ADVENTURE

How to travel to Syria in 2024: Need to know>

Wanna travel to Syria with Against the Compass?

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

August 11th to 17th, 2024

learn more

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 toursWhy travel to SyriaRecommended booksHow to get a visaTravel InsuranceHow to get inIs Syria safe?The peopleHow to move aroundInternetMoney in SyriaResponsible tourism and ethicsTaking photosDon’t get off the beaten trackWhere to stayThe foodMore information

our recommended travel insurance for Syria

IATI Insurance is one of the very few that covers travel in Syria.

GET 5% DISCOUNT HERE

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). SOLD OUTAug 11th to 17th, 2024 (7 days, Marmarita Carnival). APPLY NOWSep 15th to 27th, 2024 (13 days). APPLY NOWOct 13th to 20th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOWDec 23rd to 30th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOWLEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SYRIA TOURS

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 (joan@againstthecompass.com) indicating:

How many people you areHow many days do you want to spend in SyriaWhich dates

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

One of our latest Syria groups!

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.

The beautiful Omayyad Mosque in Damascus, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the world

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

The views from the citadel in Aleppo… No words needed – Is it safe to travel to Syria

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

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE PRICES ON AMAZON

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.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK THE PRICES ON AMAZON

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:

Against the Compass has several scheduled group expeditions in 2024

May 29th to Jun 5th, 2024 (8 days). SOLD OUTAug 11th to 17th, 2024 (7 days, Marmarita Carnival). APPLY NOWSep 15th to 27th, 2024 (13 days). APPLY NOWOct 13th to 20th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOWDec 23rd to 30th, 2024 (8 days). APPLY NOWLEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SYRIA TOURS

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:

The security clearance for Syria

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.

Wanna travel to Syria with Against the Compass?

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

August 11th to 17th, 2024

LEARN MORE

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 USDCanadian passports: 100 USDBritish, Australian, and Argentinian passports: 150 USDUS 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.

My visa for Syria and my Lebanese stamps

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 backpackersCovers senior citizens tooReaders of this blog can get an exclusive 5% discountBUY IT HERE TO GET YOUR DISCOUNT

The Old City of Damascus – The columns belong to an old Roman Jupiter temple – Is Syria safe?

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.

Charles Hélou station – Beirut to Damascus

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.

On our way from Beirut to Damascus

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 WingsSyrian 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

Somewhere in Damascus – Can you travel to Syria?

Is it safe to travel to Syria?

Is Syria safe?

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.

Celebrating Christmas in Damascus – How to travel to Syria

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

A tank from the Syrian Army, somewhere near Palmyra

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.

Long Live Aleppo – Is it possible to travel to Syria?

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.

Friendly Syrians, always – Visit Syria tourism

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.

More friendly Syrians – How to visit Syria

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.

When you travel in Syria, you’ll see that Bashar Al-Assad face is everywhere

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.

Get a vpnIf 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

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.

The new Syrian bill with Bashar Al-Assad’s face on it. Nowadays, this is around 50 cents.

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.

TMs 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 80,000SYPFood in a nice restaurant with wine: 150,000 to 250,000SYPBreakfast (like hummus or ful): 35,000SYPNational Museum: 25,000SYPAleppo Citadel: 2,5000SYPBus from Damascus to Aleppo: 50,000 to 70,000SYPBudget Hotel in Damascus: $35 to $45 for a private roomMid-range hotel in Damascus: $60 to $90 for a private roomTaxis within cities: 40,000 to 60,000SYPLocal shared taxi Aleppo to Homs: 100,000 to 150,000SYP

The Citadel of Aleppo – Traveling to Syria

Responsible tourism and ethics

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.

Syrians hanging out in a destroyed building in Homs

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

The streets of Homs, which is around 40% destroyed – Is it safe to visit Syria now re the Syrian cities really destroyed?

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

Damascus

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.

leppo

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.

Homs

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.

Palmyra

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

the Old City of Aleppo – Is Syria a safe place to visit?

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.

A soldier in Aleppo’s citadel

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.

Damascus bazaar is really good to visit

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.

Green Hotel in Damascus. I paid 15USD for this room. It was simple but clean and everything you need!

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!

Hummus for breakfast

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.

ll guides and articles for traveling in Syria destinationTravel Guide to AleppoSyria ItineraryIs Syria Safe?

Travel guides to other countries in the Middle East

Iran Travel GuidePalestine Travel GuideTravel Guide to OmanTravel Guide to LebanonIraq Travel GuideTravel Guide to Saudi ArabiaYemen 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

-

By: Joan Torres
Title: How to travel to Syria in 2024: Need to know
Sourced From: againstthecompass.com/en/travel-syria/
Published Date: Wed, 13 Mar 2024 04:00:00 +0000