Syria Reborn
8 Days Starting and ending in Damascus
Visiting: Damascus, Maaloula, Sednayah, Al Nabk, Al-Marah, Palmyra, Almishtaya, Safita, Kesab, Qal'at al Hisn, Marqab Castle, Masyaf Castle, Deir Mama, Aleppo, Hama, Homs, Aphamea
Tour operator:
Tour code:
13227
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTour Overview
- Walking tour through Old Damascus
- Explore the Crusader castle of Krak Des Chevaliers
- Absorb the history of Palmyra, one of the most important cultural centres of the ancient world
- Wander through Aleppo and its magical citadel taking in the destruction and rebuilding of a beautiful city
- Visit a convent where you can still hear Aramaic, the language spoken by Christ
- Spend the night in a monastery which offers a rare double monastic community
- Witness locals collecting roses and making rosewater
- Wander through ancient crusader castles
- Participate in spinning silk from silkworm cocoons with locals
Join us for our very special journey through Syria. After years of being ravaged by civil war, Syria is starting to return to a level of normality not seen in years.
Join us for our very special journey through Syria - described as a summary of the of the world history. After years of being ravaged by civil war, Syria is starting to return to a level of normality not seen in years. Embrace the privilege of being one of the first travellers to explore this ancient land. Bursting with ancient and modern history, Syria is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Travel through a multitude of empires from the Hittites, Assyrians, Akkadians, Greeks, Romans, Umayyads, Ayyubids, Mameluks and Ottomans as you discover Damascus, Homs, Aleppo and the magnificent Krak des Chevalliers before venturing off beat to some of the countries more traditional and lesser known communities. Covering a huge amount of ground with our expert local guide explaining all as you go, you will gain an incredible insight into one of the most fascinating and beautiful countries on our planet.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival In Damascus
Location: Damascus
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Emar Hotel or similar
Welcome to Damascus! Upon arrival at Damascus Airport, meet your Syrian driver who will transfer you to the heart of Damascus City.
Damascus City Tour
After a brief rest, embark on a tour of Old Damascus. Begin with a visit to the National Museum to gain insights into Syrian history. Continue your exploration of the Old City, including a stroll through the historic Al Hamediyah Souk, where you can browse diverse goods. Enjoy a break at Bakddash, the oldest ice cream market, known for its rich Arabian ice cream. Next, visit the Umayyad Mosque, a testament to the shared religious heritage of Christians and Muslims.
Historic and Cultural Sites
Proceed to Azem Palace to discover traditional Damascene house layouts. Explore the vibrant Al Bzourieh Souk, renowned for its spices and herbs. A short walk will bring you to the ancient Street Called Straight, mentioned in the Holy Bible, flanked by churches.
Lunch and Holy Sites
Enjoy a lunch break before continuing to Saint Ananias House, one of Christianity’s oldest sites. Conclude your day with a visit to Saint Paul’s Window (Bab Kisan) before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Meals
None
Accommodation
Overnight Emar Hotel or similar
Services
Airport transfer
Travel time and distance (Approximate)
Damascus Airport to Damascus City Centre: 30 km | 30 minutes
Day 2 - Damascus – Sednaya – Maaloula – Al Marah – Nebek
Location: Damascus, Maaloula, Sednayah, Al Nabk, Al-Marah
Accommodation Name: Mar Moussa Monastery or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Sednaya
An early start today, commencing with a visit to the town of Sednayah. This town has grown up around an important and old convent which dates back to 547 AD. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, the convent holds one of the four paintings of the Virgin attributed to St Luke the Evangelist. The sacred icon is preserved in a small, low-ceiling chapel, lit by candles. The walls are covered with offerings, old icons, gold and silver crosses or motifs.
Maalula
Maaloula (Aramaic for “entrance”), the language spoken by Christ, can still be heard here. The houses in the village are built on sharp rocks. Here, you can see the first altar from Christianity and hear the prayer “Our Father” in Aramaic. Also located here, is the monastery of St. Tekla – the first Christian saint. According to local legend, Tekla’s father was an
influential pagan and his soldiers hunted her down to punish her. When she reached the rock, chased by the soldiers, God cut the mountain in two and made a path for the martyr through which she managed to escape. Later, Saint Tekla returned to the location where the miracle happened and settled in a cave. Today, you will pass through the narrow path between the rocks, in the footsteps of the saint.
Al Marah City (“Rosa Damascena City”)
Continuing on to Al Marah City, or Rosa Damascena City, you will see locals in their fields collecting damascene roses to make rose water or rose syrup which is used in traditional drinks and many Syrian sweets. In 2019, practices and craftsmanship associated with the Damascene roses in the village were included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list.
Nebek
Continue to Nebek for a unique experience at Mar Moussa Monastery. The ancient Syrian monastery of St. Moses the Abyssinian (Deir Mar Musa el-Habashi) overlooks a harsh valley in the mountains east of the small town of Nebek. Here you will see a double monastic community (men and women together, which is quite rare). Here you will experience the monks daily life in addition to the presence of Muslim symbols inside the monastery as well as Muslim people alongside the Christians.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Overnight Mar Moussa Monastery or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance (Approximate)
Sednaya to Maalula: 25 km | 40 minutes
Maalula to Al Marah City: 55 km | 1 hour
Al Marah City to Nebek: 35 km | 50 minutes
Day 3 - Nebek – Palmyra – Mishtaya
Location: Palmyra, Almishtaya, Al Nabk
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Villa Rosa Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning it is an early start as you continue to Palmyra, an oasis in the Syrian desert, which contains the monumental ruins of a great city that was one of the most important cultural centres of the ancient world. From the 1st to the 2nd century, the art and architecture of Palmyra, standing at the crossroads of several civilizations, married Graeco-Roman techniques with local traditions and Persian influences. Enjoy a full day here to visit the ruined city.
Palmyra
Palmyra, known as Tadmor in Aramaic meaning “palm tree,” was a thriving centre of caravan trade and crafts from the 1st to the 3rd centuries AD. Often referred to as “the bride of the desert,” it was a key point on the caravan route across the Syrian desert. Located in an oasis 215 km northeast of Damascus and 120 km southwest of the Euphrates River, Palmyra’s ancient ruins include the theatre, the agora, the baths, the Tetrapylon, and the remains of the main gate of the temple of Baal-Shamin. Although the site was destroyed by the Romans in 273, its historical significance remains evident in its well-preserved structures. Drive to Mishtaya near Hama for overnight.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Overnight in Hotel Mishtaya or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance (Approximate)
Palmyra to Mishtaya (near Hama): 150 km | 2.5 hours
Day 4 - Mishtaya – Krack Des Chevaliers – Safita - Marqab – Kassab
Location: Safita, Kesab, Qal'at al Hisn, Marqab Castle, Almishtaya
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Al Nabain Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Krack des Chevaliers
Krack des Chevaliers is a fortress of the Hospitallers (Order of Malta), located in Syria’s Homs Governorate, near the Lebanese border. Perched on a 650-metre-high hill, it is situated not far from the road connecting Antioch to Beirut and the Mediterranean Sea. The name means “Fortress of the Knights,” derived from the Assyrian “karak” (fortress) and the French “chevalier” (knight). Considered one of the greatest fortresses in the world, its strategic location in the valley between Homs and Tripoli and its impressive medieval fortifications have kept it safe from siege or attack. The castle was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site in 2006.
Safita
The region was first controlled by the Crusaders around 1110 and was mentioned in an Arab chronicle in 1112. The Knights Templar constructed a dungeon and later a tower by 1152. Known as Chastel Blanc, Burj Safita, or Safita Tower, the base of the structure dates back to the Phoenician era. The current tower, which remains of the original castle, was restored in 1170 and 1202 following earthquake damage. The large bell on the western wall of the castle can be heard up to 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) away from Safita.
Marqab
Margat, also known as Marqab, is a castle near Baniyas, Syria. It was a Crusader fortress and one of the major strongholds of the Knights Hospitaller. Drive to Kassab in the Latakia Governorate for the night.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Overnight in Hotel Kassab or similar
ServicesPriv
ate vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance (Approximate)Hotel Kassab to Mishtaya: 50 km | 1 hour
Crack des Chevaliers to Safita: 50 km | 1.5 hours
Safita to Marqab: 30 km | 1 hour
Marqab to Hotel Kassab: 60 km | 1.5 hours
Day 5 - Kassab – Misyaf – Deir Mama – Hama – Aleppo
Location: Masyaf Castle, Deir Mama, Aleppo, Hama, Kesab
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Aleppo Palace or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Deir Mama
This morning you will depart for Deir Mama which has two main springs. The southern and northern regions and the central village spreads between them with one main road. Deir Mama’s history goes back to the Roman era; it was the only village in the Misyaf region that was not under feudal rule, unlike the neighbouring villages. Deir Mama’s residents, the Alawites and Christians, share a shrine that each group worships. Alawites refer to it as Sheikh Sobeh whilst the Christians call it Saint Mama. Deir Mama is famous for making the traditional Arak liquor and natural silk handicrafts. Spend time with the locals as they spin silk from the silkworms’ cocoons.
Hama
Your next stop is the beautiful town of Hama. Located on the Orontes River, the city is dotted with huge water wheels and associated aqueducts from the city’s ancient water supply system. The creak of the wheels with the sound of rushing water is simply relaxing. Continue to Aleppo for the night.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
2 nights at Aleppo Palace or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance (Approximate)
Deir Mama to Hama: 70 km | 1 hour 30 minutes
Hama to Aleppo: 130 km | 2 hours
Day 6 - Aleppo
Location: Aleppo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Aleppo Palace or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Aleppo was arguably one of the worst affected cities during the Syrian war. Here you’ll get the chance to see some of the terrible destruction, as well as the opportunity to witness the early stages of the massive rebuilding projects that Syrians are now undertaking.
Aleppo is among the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Archaeological findings show that it was inhabited as early as the 6th millennium BC. Ruled successively by the Hittites, Assyrians, Akkadians, Greeks, Romans, Umayyads, Ayyubids, Mameluks and Ottomans who left their stamp on the city. The Citadel, the 12th-century Great Mosque and various 16th and 17th-centuries madrasas, residences, khans and public baths, all form part of the city’s cohesive, unique urban fabric.
The biggest landmark of the city is the ancient castle, known by its European name Citadel, which rises on a hill in its historic centre. Not far from the Citadel is the famous Halebski Souk (the covered central market of the city), considered the largest in the world with a length of its galleries of approx 13 kilometres. This market was completely destroyed during the war. It is currently in the process of restoration and nearly 1 km of it is already functional. You will also explore the Old Town and the Armenian Quarter.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Aleppo Palace or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Day 7 - Aleppo – Aphamea – Homs - Damascus
Location: Aleppo, Homs, Aphamea, Damascus
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Emar Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Aphamea
After breakfast, you will depart for Aphamea which was an ancient Greek and Roman city. It was the capital of Apamene under the Macedonians, before it became the capital and Metropolitan Archbishopric of the late Roman province Syria Secunda, again in the Crusader period. In 2006, the castle was included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List.
Homs
Continue to Homs where you will visit the Khaled Ibn Al Walid mosque and the Um Al Zinnar church. For approximately 2,000 years, Homs has served as a key agricultural market, production site and trade centre for the villages of northern Syria. It has also provided security services to the hinterland of Syria, protecting it from invading forces. Excavations at Homs indicate that the earliest settlement at the site dates back to around 2300 BCE. Continue to Damascus.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Overnight in Damascus hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance (Approximate)
Aleppo to Aphamea: 105 km | 1 hour 30 minutes
Aphamea to Homs: 65 km | 1 hour
Homs to Damascus: 160 km | 2 hours
Day 8 - Departure
Location: Damascus
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward departure.
Meals
Breakfast
Services
Airport transfer
What's Included
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Border transfers between Lebanon and Syria return
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7 nights accommodation
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Breakfast daily
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Sightseeing as per the itinerary
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Private air- conditioned vehicle
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English speaking local guide
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Entrance fees to all attractions as per the itinerary
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Visa support (applying for clearance)
What's Not Included
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International flights
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Drinks unless otherwise mentioned
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Visa fee
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Travel Insurance
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Tips
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Inoculations
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Items of a personal nature
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Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
Check out our Q&As
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
Entrance fees to all attractions as per the itinerary are included.
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
As detailed in itinerary.
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Are flights included in this tour?
International flights are not included.
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What is the minimum group size?
The min group size is 2 people.
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes, The local guides on the tour is English speaking
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
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What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
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Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
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What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
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Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
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I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Crooked Compass requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of crooked compass charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.