Syrian Desert Travel Guide

Explore the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Syrian Desert through this comprehensive travel guide. Discover must-visit places, hiking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.


Syrian Desert is a stunning destination located in the heart of the Middle East, full of breathtaking sights and sounds that capture the imagination of travelers. This travel guide offers a comprehensive tour of Syrian Desert, providing insights into the best places to visit, various hiking routes, top things to do, local culture, and customs, and much more. So, pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready to explore the hidden gems of Syrian Desert.

Introduction to Syrian Desert

Syrian Desert, also known as the Eastern Desert, is located in the northern part of the Arabian Peninsula and covers around 500,000 square kilometers. It spans across various countries, including Syria, Iraq, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. The desert is home to an array of flora and fauna, including a diverse mix of plant species and several unique animals such as the Arabian leopard, Nubian ibex, and sand cat.

List of Places to Visit in Syrian Desert

Syrian Desert offers numerous attractions that cater to different interests. Here’s our list of recommended places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mari. An ancient city located on the west bank of the Euphrates River, Mari served as an important hub for trade and commerce. The site features several archaeological excavations with artifacts dating back 5,000 years.

  • Palmyra. The stunning ruin of Palmyra once served as a strategic trade center and later on became an important city of the Roman Empire. The site features several exquisite monuments, including the Temple of Bel and the Arch of Triumph.

  • Aleppo Citadel. This medieval fortress, located in the heart of Aleppo city, served as a military stronghold for several centuries. Today, it houses a museum that showcases Syria’s rich cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Syrian Desert: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bosra Amphitheater. This ancient Roman amphitheater is considered one of the most remarkable architectural feats of its time. The site offers breathtaking views of Bosra city and surrounding desert landscapes.

  • Ebla. Ebla is an ancient city that flourished around 2,500 BC. The site features several excavations, including the Royal Palace and Archives, which contains cuneiform tablets revealing information about the city’s history and culture.

  • Dead Cities. These abandoned cities, located in the northwestern region of Syria, offer a unique glimpse into the lifestyle and culture of the people who lived there. You can explore various ruins, including temples, churches, and residential buildings, and take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Syrian Desert

Syrian Desert is a paradise for adventure lovers. The following hiking and biking routes are highly recommended:

  • Tel Aswad Circuit. This hiking and biking trail is located in the southwest of Damascus and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can explore several archaeological ruins, including the ancient city of Marathus.

  • Ain Dara Mountain. Located in the north of Syria, this hiking trail takes you up to the top of the Ain Dara Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert. Don’t forget to carry enough water and other essentials for the hike.

Best Things to Do in Syrian Desert: Activities and Tours

Syrian Desert is a top tourist destination, offering several unique things to do:

  • Camel trekking. Explore the desert on a traditional camel trek and enjoy the beauty of the landscape in a natural way.

  • Hot air balloon ride. Experience the breathtaking views of Syrian Desert from high above on a hot air balloon ride.

  • Night camping. Embrace nature and stay under the stars with a night camping experience in the desert.

Week-Long Itinerary for Syrian Desert

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary to make the most of your time in Syrian Desert:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Damascus and explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.

  • Day 2: Visit Mari, an ancient city that showcases Syria’s rich history and culture.

  • Day 3: Trek the stunning Tel Aswad Circuit and explore the ancient ruins of Marathus.

  • Day 4: Take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy the scenic beauty of Syrian Desert.

  • Day 5: Visit Palmyra and explore the ruins of the once-great city.

  • Day 6: Experience a night camping adventure in the desert.

  • Day 7: Visit Aleppo Citadel and explore the museum and its collection of artifacts.

Food and Drink Scene of Syrian Desert

Syrian cuisine is renowned for its mouth-watering dishes that offer a diverse mix of flavors and tastes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kibbeh. A popular Syrian dish made from a combination of meat, bulgur wheat, and spices.

  • Baba Ghanoush. A delicious spread made from smoked eggplant, garlic, and tahini.

  • Moutabal. A similar spread made from yogurt, garlic, tahini, and eggplant.

Local Beverages

  • Sahlab. A warm, creamy drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla that’s perfect for cold desert nights.

  • Sherbet. A refreshing, sweet drink made from fruit juices and flavored with rose water or orange blossom.

  • Arak. A popular alcoholic drink made from anise.

Where to Stay in Syrian Desert: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Syrian Desert has a variety of accommodations for every budget. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Beit Al Mamlouka. A luxurious hotel located in Damascus that offers traditional Syrian architecture and modern amenities.

  • Hotel El Wassim. An affordable hotel in Palmyra, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.

  • Ebla Cham Palace. A five-star hotel located in Aleppo that offers stunning views of the city and modern amenities.

What to Buy in Syrian Desert: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Syrian Desert is a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some recommendations:

  • Damascus steel swords. Renowned for their craftsmanship and sharpness, Damascus steel swords make for excellent souvenirs.

  • Olive oil soap. Natural, handmade olive oil soap is a popular product in Syrian markets.

  • Syrian rugs. Syrian rugs are renowned for their beauty and are hand-woven using traditional techniques and natural fibers.

Local Culture and Customs of Syrian Desert

The local culture in Syrian Desert is a mix of various customs and traditions. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and dress modestly in public areas. Additionally, it’s important to ask for permission before taking photos of locals.

Best Time to Visit Syrian Desert

The best time to visit Syrian Desert is during the fall and spring seasons (September through November and March through May). Temperatures are mild during these months, and the landscape is lush and green.

Do’s and Don’ts of Syrian Desert

Do:

  • Dress modestly in public areas.

  • Ask for permission before taking photos of locals.

  • Respect local customs and cultures.

Don’t:

  • Consume alcohol in public areas.

  • Display public affection.

  • Use rude or disrespectful language in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Syrian Desert

Syrian Desert is generally safe for travelers. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions, particularly in crowded areas.

Health in Syrian Desert

It’s recommended that visitors obtain up-to-date vaccinations prior to traveling to Syrian Desert. Additionally, visitors should carry enough drinking water and be aware of any environmental hazards, such as snakes or scorpions.

Getting to Syrian Desert: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Syrian Desert

The nearest international airports to Syrian Desert are Damascus International Airport and Aleppo International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Syrian Desert

Syrian Desert is accessible by bus from various major cities in Syria.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a car to explore the desert at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Syrian Desert

The easiest ways to get around in Syrian Desert are by car or taxi.

Where to Go Next from Syrian Desert: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Syria has several tourist destinations worth exploring, including the capital city, Damascus, and the ancient city of Bosra.

Conclusion

Syrian Desert is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, ancient history, and rich cultural heritage. This travel guide provides a comprehensive tour of Syrian Desert, offering recommendations on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scenes, where to stay, and much more. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Middle East.



    Deir-az-Zur