Why this trip

This isn't your typical tour.

Yes, we'll explore some of the world's most powerful ancient sites that cover every inch of Syria, but it's much more than that.

This trip is about being human, witnessing history, reckoning with loss, and making space for personal reflection along the way. Few places on earth can offer that kind of depth, and even fewer allow you to experience it this intimately. This 7 to 10-day experience is curated to engage the mind, body, and soul.

In partnership with the professionals at SyrianGuides, who have been hosting travelers for years, we will walk through ancient cities that have been inhabited for thousands of years, yet endured their harshest wars over the last 15. We will hear directly from people who lived it: survivors, locals, and storytellers whose perspectives can't be found in guidebooks.

You'll feel the heartbeat of Damascus while staying in a beautifully restored traditional hotel in the Old City. You'll wander ancient streets, share home-style Syrian meals, meet locals who redefine resilience, and stand in places that challenge how you see the world.

This is honest, immersive and deeply transformational travel, the kind that stays with you long after you've returned home.

Two parts

Do the classics. Stay for the coast.

Main tour · included for everyone

7 days of ancient Syria

Dates: May 1–7, 2027
Group size: 18
Price: $1,950

Old Damascus, Maaloula, a night at a desert monastery, a night in Palmyra, Hama and Aleppo.

Optional add-on

3 days on the coast

Dates: May 7–10
Price: + $500

A beach camp, a beach hotel, a boat to Arwad Island and cabins in the hills. You can decide later, even after you arrive in Syria.

The route

Where we go.

Seven days from Damascus to Aleppo. Sleep at a desert monastery, watch the sun set over Palmyra, and eat your way through Aleppo. Add three days on the Mediterranean coast if you want more.

The rough routeBus back to DamascusCoast add-on

Tap a place to see what we do there and the videos I've made there.

Where you sleep

6 nights. This is the rough shape of the trip, and the order can change a little.

2nightsOld Damascus
The mosque, the souks and the old lanes.
1nightDesert monastery
By way of Maaloula. Simple, shared, and a sky full of stars.
1nightPalmyra
Sunset among the columns and a Bedouin dinner.
2nightsAleppo
North through Hama and Serjilla, and our farewell dinner.

+ Coast add-on · 3 more nights · back in Damascus on May 10

1nightBeach camp
Tents by the water near Latakia.
1nightBeach hotel
Down the coast: Ugarit, Jableh and the sea.
1nightHill cabins
Arwad Island, a zip line and wooden cabins.

What's in the trip

The highlights.

This is what the trip holds, not a fixed schedule. The order of the days, the timings and small details can change, and our local guides set the final plan.

The courtyard of the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus

Where we start

Old Damascus

The trip starts in one of the oldest living cities on earth.

The Umayyad Mosque, one of the great buildings of the Islamic world
The old souks
The Ananias Chapel and the lanes of the old Christian quarter
The hakawati, the traditional storyteller, at one of the oldest cafés in the city
Ghouta, a part of the city destroyed in the war, and a drive through the new city
A welcome dinner

The trip starts on Orthodox Easter weekend. There is an optional late-night Easter service, and the Old City celebrates in the streets, when the parades are held.

The mountains

Maaloula & a night at the desert monastery

Two places that feel like nowhere else in Syria.

Maaloula, a cliffside village where Aramaic is still spoken, and its monasteries
Deir Mar Musa, a monastery high in the desert mountains, reached by about 400 stone steps
Frescoes from the 11th and 12th centuries, and time with the community that lives there
Sunset, a simple shared dinner, and a sky full of stars

Good to know: this is a living monastery, not a hotel. Rooms are simple and shared, and bathrooms are basic. Bring a small overnight bag. Several past guests called this night the highlight of their trip.

The desert

Palmyra

One of the great cities of the ancient world, and we stay the night.

The colonnaded street, the theater and the temples
The story of Queen Zenobia, who took on Rome, and of what was lost and what survived in 2015
Sunset among the columns, then a Bedouin dinner
An optional sunrise at the ruins, with almost nobody else there

A giant wooden waterwheel beside the Orontes river in Hama, seen from above

On the road north

Hama & Serjilla

Two stops on the way from the desert to Aleppo.

Hama and its giant wooden waterwheels
Serjilla, one of the Dead Cities: a Byzantine town left standing in the hills

The north

Aleppo

A city that has been trading, cooking and rebuilding for thousands of years.

The Citadel of Aleppo, rising above the Old City
The historic souks, section by section coming back to life
A traditional laurel soap factory, a craft about 800 years old
The old quarter of Jdeideh
A proper Aleppine dinner. Come hungry
Our farewell dinner

Optional add-on · May 7–10 · + $500

Coast add-on: 3 more days by the sea.

After a week of ancient cities, three days of sea, sun and fresh air.

The group at a beach camp on the Syrian coast, with tents and a campfire

By the sea

Beach camp in Latakia

About three hours from Aleppo, and a different world.

Swimming and doing nothing
A beach barbecue at sunset
A night in tents by the water

The Mediterranean

Down the coast

Slow time heading south along the sea.

Ugarit, a Bronze Age city and the home of one of the world's first alphabets
Jableh and its Roman theater
Time on the beach, and a night at a beach hotel
A boat to Arwad, the only inhabited island in Syria, and a seafood lunch

Two people on a giant swing above the green hills near Tartus

The hills

The adventure cabins

Up from the sea into green hills.

A zip line and outdoor activities
Dinner in the mountain air
A night in wooden cabins
A relaxed drive back to Damascus on May 10, arriving mid-afternoon

Good to know: the cabins are simple. You come for the views and the fun.

The group

Up to 18 guests
Hosted by me
Licensed local guides the whole way

How it ends

The main trip ends in Aleppo on May 7
After breakfast, our bus takes 7-day guests back to Damascus, arriving mid-afternoon
Add-on guests go on to the Mediterranean, and are back in Damascus on May 10

Good to know

The monastery night is simple and shared. Bring a small overnight bag
The add-on nights are a beach camp, a beach hotel and wooden cabins
Bring modest clothes for mosques and shrines. Women need a scarf

The fine print, made simple

What's included?

Two-way transferFrom and to Beirut, if you choose to fly there
Accommodation4 to 5-star traditional hotels in Damascus and Aleppo, one night at the desert monastery and one night in Palmyra. Two to a room
TransportationAir-conditioned bus
All breakfasts and lunches, some dinnersFrequent meals during the trip
Guides who know itHosted by Nick, with professional Syrian guides
Sightseeing and toursEntrance fees for the key historical sites
Visa assistanceGuidance through the visa process
Travel insuranceLocal travel insurance provided to you
Points and miles consultationTips on using points and miles to lower the cost of your flights

Optional extras

Coast add-onThree more days by the sea, May 7–10+ $500
Single roomYour own room, where there is one. Monastery rooms are shared for everyone+ $500
Extra nightA hotel night before or after the trip, if you come early or stay longer$150

What's not included

Visa fees. Government visa fee, $0–$200, depending on your passport
Flight tickets. International flights
Personal expenses. Souvenirs, snacks, and other personal purchases
Tips. Gratuities for guides and drivers
Bad vibes. These will not be given or received :-)

About the trips

What are they saying?

“As a Lebanese woman, I grew up surrounded by narratives about Syria… What I found in Syria was not what I had been told to expect. I found warmth, kindness, generosity, and a hospitality that felt deeply familiar… In a world where so much travel has become about ticking boxes and collecting photos, Nick creates something different. He creates understanding.”

Rana Kaji · Lebanon

“Visiting Syria as a fellow Syrian (living in America) was deeply personal… I returned with a renewed sense of pride and a deeper bond to my roots. I'm so glad I faced my fear to go back despite the uncertainty… Thanks to Nick, I was able to surpass that fear with ease and comfort.”

Reema Albahri · Syria / USA

“Syria is one of the most misunderstood countries in the world… What impacted me most were the people. Syrians are some of the most welcoming, generous, and kind people I've ever met while traveling… The perfect mix of history, culture, adventure, nature, and unforgettable people.”

Dillon Ventura · USA

Good questions

FAQ

Who runs the trip?

The trip is operated by SyrianGuides, a licensed Syrian tour company, with a licensed local guide the whole way. I host the group and helped shape the route.

What is the night at the monastery like?

Deir Mar Musa is a living monastery, not a hotel. You reach it by about 400 stone steps. Rooms are simple and shared, and bathrooms are basic, so bring a small overnight bag. Several past guests called this night the highlight of their trip.

What is the coast add-on?

Three more days by the sea after the main tour: a beach camp near Latakia, a beach hotel, a boat to Arwad Island, and a night in wooden cabins in the hills with a zip line. It is $500 more and ends back in Damascus on May 10.

Can I decide on the coast add-on later?

Yes. You can decide on the add-on later, even after coming to Syria for the booked trip.

How does the 7-day trip end?

The main trip ends in Aleppo. On the last day, May 7, the group splits after breakfast and our bus takes 7-day guests back to Damascus, arriving mid-afternoon. Plan your flight out for that evening or later.

Does this trip go to Krak des Chevaliers or Bosra?

Not on this route. Both are on the Christmas and April trips.

Is the route final?

These are the places and experiences on the trip. The order of the days and small details can change, and our local guides set the final plan. Street events are never promised, so we enjoy them when they are held.

How do I book?

Fill out the interest form on this page, then pay the $750 deposit. That's it. You're in. There is no application to wait on.

Does filling out the form mean I'm on the trip?

No. It is an interest form, not a booking. It tells me you are interested, and it is where you ask your questions. I read every form and reply myself. Your spot is saved when you pay the $750 deposit.

How do I pay?

The deposit is $750. You can send it by Wise, Venmo, Revolut or PayPal on the payment page. The rest is due 30 days before the trip starts.

Can I get a refund?

The $750 deposit is fully refundable for 48 hours after you pay it. After that it is non-refundable. The rest of the price is due 30 days before the trip starts, and from that point there are no refunds. If we have to cancel the trip, you get a full refund, including the deposit. Read the full cancellation and refund policy.

Can I have my own room?

Rooms are shared, two to a room. A single room is an extra $500 for the whole trip. At the monastery, rooms are simple and shared for everyone.

Can I come early or stay longer?

Yes. An extra hotel night before or after the trip is $150. Tell me your dates when you book.

Is the airport transfer included?

Yes. A two-way transfer from and to Beirut is included, if you choose to fly there.

Is it safe to travel to Syria?

Travel is conducted through carefully planned routes and trusted local partners. The itinerary focuses on stable areas, with security considerations built into every part of the trip. No trip is free of risk, and many governments, including the United States, currently advise against travel to Syria. Please read your own government's travel advice before you book.

Do I need my own travel insurance?

Local travel insurance is included with the trip. Many regular travel insurance plans do not cover Syria, so check your own policy before you travel. I recommend also carrying your own medical and evacuation cover that is valid in Syria.

How can I obtain a visa for Syria?

Visa assistance is provided as part of the trip. You'll receive guidance on required documents and the application process ahead of time.

How long does it take to get a visa to Syria?

Visa processing times vary by nationality, but typically take a few weeks. We recommend starting the process well in advance.

How much does a visa to Syria cost?

Visa fees depend on nationality and are paid separately. They range from $0 to $200. Exact costs will be confirmed during the application process.

Can I use credit cards in Syria?

Credit cards are generally not accepted. Cash is used for most transactions, and guidance on handling money will be provided.

What is the currency exchange rate in Syria?

The Syrian Pound is used locally. Currency exchange is handled on the ground, and guidance will be provided before arrival.

Any dress code for women in religious sites?

Modest dress is required in religious sites. Women should bring a scarf and wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.

Are vegan options available in Syrian restaurants?

Yes. Syrian cuisine includes many vegetarian-friendly dishes, and dietary preferences can usually be accommodated.

What vaccinations do I need to travel to Syria?

No specific vaccinations are required for most travelers, but it's recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations. Consult your healthcare provider before travel.

What are the best places to buy souvenirs in Syria?

Local markets, traditional souks, and artisan workshops are the best places to find handcrafted goods, textiles, and local products.

In which cases can't I visit Syria?

Entry restrictions depend on nationality, travel history, and visa eligibility. If there are any concerns, they will be reviewed during the visa assistance process.

How to book

Fill out the interest form. Pay the deposit. You're in.

01

Fill out the interest form

It is right below. It is not a booking: it tells me you are interested, and it is where you ask your questions.

02

Pay the $750 deposit

This is what saves your spot. That's it. You're in. Send it by Wise, Venmo, Revolut or PayPal on the payment page.

03

Get ready

Visa guidance, a packing list and a briefing call. Bring your questions.

04

Pay the rest

Due 30 days before the trip starts. After that there are no refunds.

Start here · no commitment

Interested? Fill out the interest form.

Fill it out and I'll contact you ASAP. It is not a booking and it costs nothing. It tells me you are interested, and it is the place to ask me anything. Your spot is only saved when you pay the deposit.

Fill it out and I'll contact you ASAP. Not a booking. Costs nothing.

Fill out the interest form ↓

Cancellation and refunds, in plain words

Your $750 depositFull refund if you cancel within 48 hours of paying it. After 48 hours it is non-refundable.
The rest of the priceDue 30 days before the trip starts.
The last 30 daysNo refunds once the trip is 30 days away or less.
If the trip is cancelled by usYou get everything back, deposit included.

Read the full cancellation and refund policy →

Limited spots left · May 1–7, 2027

Step 1: the interest form.

This is not a booking yet. Spots are limited, and yours is saved when you pay the $750 deposit.

This is not a bookingSending the form does not put you on the trip, and it costs nothing. It only tells me you are interested.
What happens nextI reply myself, by WhatsApp or email. Got questions? Ask them in the form.
Step 2: pay the $750 depositThis is what saves your spot. By Wise, Venmo, Revolut or PayPal on the payment page. That's it. You're in.
RefundsThe deposit is refundable for 48 hours, then non-refundable. See the cancellation and refund policy.
Your detailsOnly used to reply to you and to plan your trip. They are shared with SyrianGuides, the licensed company that runs the trip, when you book. See the Privacy Policy.

Email me to save your spot →

Ancient Syria+ Coast.