2026 tours
Syria Wonders
Syria Wonders is an eight day journey through the heart of Damascus, Aleppo, and beyond, uncovering one of the world’s oldest living cultures through its cities, traditions, and people.
From walking the ancient streets of Umayyad Mosque to witnessing the powerful Feast of the Cross in Maaloula and exploring icons like Krak des Chevaliers and Palmyra, every day is
layered with history and meaning. This is a raw, immersive adventure through Syria’s culture and heritage, designed for those who want to experience something few ever will.
The key details:
Duration: 8 days
For 18 - 80 years old
Starts in Beirut / Damascus
All meals included
English speaking guide
In depth cultural style
Arrival in Damascus from Beirut, OR
Airport transfer from Damascus airport, and hotel check-in
Evening
• Group welcome meeting:
• Trip overview
• Cultural insights and expectations
• Traditional Syrian dinner in a historic courtyard house
Night
• Early rest to recharge for the journey ahead
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Morning
• Enter Old Damascus via Bab Sharqi
• Walk along Straight Street
Midday
• Explore the magnificent Umayyad Mosque
• Wander through Al-Hamidiyah Souq
Afternoon
• Visit Azem Palace
• Discover hidden courtyards and artisan workshops
Evening
• Rooftop tea or café overlooking the Old City
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Morning
• Depart Damascus for Maaloula
• Explore the cliffside village where Aramaic is still spoken
• Visit Saint Sergius and Bacchus Monastery
Afternoon
• Time in the village as preparations begin
• Engage with locals, explore narrow mountain paths
• Optional short hike through the gorge
Evening – Feast of the Cross
• Witness one of Syria’s most powerful celebrations
• Fires lit across the mountains surrounding Maaloula
• Music, gatherings, and a deeply spiritual atmosphere
• Unique opportunity to experience an ancient tradition still alive today
Night
• Continue journey toward Homs (brief stop depending on timing)
• Late arrival in Aleppo
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Morning
• Explore Citadel of Aleppo
Midday
• Walk through the rebuilt Aleppo Souq
Afternoon
• Visit Great Mosque of Aleppo
• Explore hidden caravanserais
Evening
• Traditional Aleppine cuisine (one of the richest food cultures in the Middle East)
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Morning
• Drive to Hama
→ See the famous Norias of Hama
Midday
• Visit Krak des Chevaliers
→ One of the best preserved Crusader castles in the world
→ Explore towers, halls, and defensive systems
Evening
• Return toward Damascus or overnight nearby
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• Early departure to Palmyra
Key sights
• Grand Colonnade
• Temple of Bel ruins
• Roman Theatre
• Valley of the Tombs
Experience
• Walk through vast desert ruins
• Understand the rise and fall of an empire
Evening
• Return to Damascus
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• Drive south to Bosra
Highlights
• Roman Theatre (one of the best preserved in the world)
• Ancient city streets and ruins
Afternoon
• Return to Damascus
Evening
• Farewell dinner
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• Free morning in Damascus
→Last walk through the Old City
→ Souvenir shopping (textiles, sweets, spices)
• Departure
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Why you'll love this tour
all transport + accommodation included
All meals on a full board basis
Professional english speaking guide the whole tour
want to join?
email:
beyondborderstrips
@gmail.com
"I thoroughly enjoyed myself, came back with a heaving camera roll and made some beautiful friends for life in the process. I'd say that's a trip done well and an excellent outcome for me! I'm booked on 2 more of Jay's trips for 2025, and I cannot wait to experience these with him and his guides!"
Aisha
United Kingdom