Culturally immersive and historically rich, this trip involves daily walking tours through ancient cities and occasional uneven terrain. While Syria has endured over a decade of political upheaval and civil war, certain areas, particularly those under government control, have reopened to limited tourism, though travelers should be aware that safety, infrastructure, and accessibility vary widely and can change rapidly. The trip begins with a visit to the Crusader era Krak des Chevaliers, one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in the world, offering sweeping views from its hilltop perch. The journey through Syria is designed for travelers with moderate fitness. In Palmyra, now a symbol of both Syria’s ancient grandeur and its wartime devastation, visitors explore UNESCO listed ruins that span from Neolithic origins to Roman splendor. In Hama, the famed Norias, massive wooden waterwheels dating back to medieval times, stand as a testament to Syria’s engineering past. In Aleppo, despite visible scars from conflict, restoration efforts allow for exploration of its iconic Citadel and the partially reopened covered bazaar. The itinerary then leads to Maaloula, a Christian village where Aramaic, the language of Jesus, is still spoken in daily life. The journey concludes with two full days in Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, where travelers can walk the layered history of the old city from the grandeur of the Umayyad Mosque and the Chapel of St. Ananias to the bustling Straight Street and its vibrant souqs. This trip offers a powerful glimpse into Syria’s cultural resilience and its path toward preservation and renewal.
This 7-day trip costs $1,750. Untamed Borders is an adventure travel company specialized in some of the world’s most interesting and inaccessible places. They run cultural tours as well as adventure sports including skiing, trekking, marathons and more. Whenever possible, proceeds from the trip are directed back to the communities visited and the trips are always led by local guides.