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Syria FAQ

Is tipping customary in Syria?

Tips will be appreciated by Syrians, but remember to tip discreetly (no need to grandstand here). If you're satisfied with the services provided, tip as appropriate. Generally, add 10% to cafe and restaurant bills and leave loose change for street vendors. It's also a good idea to tip local guides and drivers - US$2-4 per day is acceptable.

What is the internet access like in Syria?

Internet access in Syria is growing, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots increasingly becoming more common in large cities, especially Damascus.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Syria?

Mobile phone coverage is good in the larger cities. Coverage may not be available in more remote areas, especially if travelling through the desert. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Syria.

What are the toilets like in Syria?

You will have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation whilst in Syria. Toilets are usually of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to, although Western-style toilets can be found in some tourist areas. Bring your own toilet paper and soap as these are rarely provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Fresh juice = 40-50 SYP
Street cart snack= 50 SYP
Dinner in a local restaurant = 400-500 SYP

Can I drink the water in Syria?

Although tap water is considered safe to drink in Syria, drinking filtered water is a safer option. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Syria?

Major credit cards are usually accepted by shops and hotels in touristy areas, but are less commonly accepted by smaller vendors, in remote towns and in rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option in Syria.

What is ATM access like in Syria?

ATMs are common in Syria’s large cities and are easily found in and around shopping centres, tourist areas and hotels, although many don't accept foreign cards. ATMs are far less common in rural areas and smaller towns, so you're advised to be prepared for this by having enough cash before travelling out of the city.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Syria?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Syria?

Jan 1 New Year’s Day
Jan 24 Mouloud (Birth of the Prophet)
Mar 8 Revolution Day
Mar 21 Mother’s Day
Mar 31 Easter Sunday
Apr 17 Independence Day
May 1 Labour Day
May 5 Orthodox Easter Sunday
May 6 Martyrs’ Day
Aug 8 Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan)
Oct 6 Anniversary of October Liberation War
Oct 15 Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice)
Nov 4 Islamic New Year
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Muslim festivals are timed according to lunar phases, which change each year, so the dates above are estimates only. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/syrian-arab-republic/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Syria?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • SYRIA:
    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: Yes - in advance
    Canada: Yes - in advance
    Germany: Yes - in advance
    Ireland: Yes - in advance
    Netherlands: Yes - on arrival
    New Zealand: Yes - on arrival
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - in advance
    United Kingdom: Yes - in advance
    USA: Yes - in advance

    Only when there is no Syrian embassy or consulate in the passport holder's country may an entry visa be issued at the border, such as New Zealand & Dutch passport holders. Depending on your nationality getting a visa at the border is often difficult and problematic.

    Please note that it won't be possible to attain a visa or enter Syria with Israeli stamps in your passport.

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Syria at a glance

  • 2
  • Damascus
  • 22.5 million
  • Arabic
  • SYP
  • (GMT+02:00) Beirut
  • +963

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