Hauran Travel Guide
Discover the cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay and what to do in Hauran, Syria.
- Introduction to Hauran
- List of Places to Visit in Hauran
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Hauran
- Best Things to Do in Hauran: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Hauran
- Food and Drink Scene of Hauran
- Where to Stay in Hauran: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Hauran: Souvenirs, and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Hauran
- Best Time to Visit Hauran
- Do’s and Don’ts of Hauran
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Hauran: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Hauran
- Where to Go Next from Hauran: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Hauran
Located in southern Syria, Hauran is a region known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. This area boasts a number of ancient ruins, fascinating museums, hiking and biking trails, and local products that are sure to leave visitors captivated.
List of Places to Visit in Hauran
Here is a list of the top attractions to see in Hauran:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Bosra Amphitheatre
- Qanawat Archaeological Site
- Suweida Museum
- Shahba Archaeological Site
- Kanaker Village
Natural Attractions of Hauran: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Mount Hermon
- Al-Musayfirah Park
- Jabal al-Arab Forest Reserve
- Wadi al-Rummah
Hiking/Biking Routes of Hauran
Hauran offers some of the most beautiful hiking and biking trails in the region. Here are some of the best routes for outdoor enthusiasts:
- Al-Fowara Trail
- Shabraq Trail
- Jabal Al-Arab Trail
Best Things to Do in Hauran: Activities and Tours
Apart from hiking and biking, here are some recommended activities to do:
- Visit local markets
- Attend a traditional wedding
- Join a cooking class
- Take a guided tour of the archaeological sites
Week-Long Itinerary for Hauran
For a week-long adventure in Hauran, here is a suggested itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Bosra Amphitheatre and Qanawat Archaeological Site |
| 2 | Hiking or Biking in Al-Fowara Trail |
| 3 | Explore Suweida Museum and mount Hermon |
| 4 | Visit Kanaker Village and Wadi al-Rummah |
| 5 | Attend a traditional wedding |
| 6 | Cook traditional dishes in a local cooking class |
| 7 | Take a guided tour to Shahba Archaeological Site and Al-Musayfirah Park |
Food and Drink Scene of Hauran
The food scene in Hauran is a mix of different Arab and Mediterranean cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Makdous
- Kibbeh
- Fattet hummus
- Shawarma
Local Beverages
- Arak
- Jallab
- Qamardeen
Where to Stay in Hauran: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
There are several accommodation options in Hauran, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:
- Al-Ward Hotel
- Al-Qasr Hotel
- Al-Hallabat Guest House
- Zara Hotel
What to Buy in Hauran: Souvenirs, and Local Products to Bring Home
Hauran is known for its unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some things to buy during your visit:
- Handmade pottery
- Traditional fabrics
- Olive oil
- Spices and herbs
Local Culture and Customs of Hauran
Hauran’s culture is deeply rooted in Arab traditions and customs. When visiting, be aware of the following cultural considerations:
- Respect local dress codes
- Remove shoes before entering someone’s home
- Always use your right hand for eating or shaking hands
Best Time to Visit Hauran
The best time to visit Hauran is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is mild during these seasons, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Hauran
Here are some general do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Hauran:
Do:
- Dress conservatively
- Try the local cuisine
- Respect local customs
Don’t:
- Take pictures of people without their permission
- Drink tap water
- Show public displays of affection
Safety and Health
Safety in Hauran
Although Hauran is generally considered safe, it is advisable to practice caution and stay informed about any political changes in Syria. Travelers should avoid political rallies and demonstrations, and be aware of their surroundings.
Health in Hauran
Visitors should be vaccinated against common diseases such as Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus, and Typhoid. It’s also important to drink bottled water and use insect repellent to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria and dengue fever.
Getting to Hauran: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Hauran
The closest airport to Hauran is Damascus International Airport (DAM), which is about a 90-minute drive from the city.
Bus Stations Near Hauran
There are two major bus stations in Hauran: Suweida Bus Station and Shahba Bus Station. These stations offer regular buses to other cities in Syria.
Other Options
Taxis and private cars are also available for hire in Hauran.
How to Get Around in Hauran
The best way to get around Hauran is by private car or taxi. Buses and minibusses are also available but can be crowded and uncomfortable.
Where to Go Next from Hauran: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Hauran include:
- Damascus
- Palmyra
- Krak des Chevaliers
- Aleppo
Conclusion
Hauran is a stunning region filled with natural beauty, fascinating history, and warm hospitality. Exploring this area is an unforgettable experience where you can immerse yourself in Arabic culture and cuisine. From hiking and biking to visiting ancient ruins and sampling local dishes, Hauran has something for everyone.