As of early 2026, Syria has technically reopened to international tourists, but it remains a high-risk destination with complex entry requirements. Most Western governments, including the US, UK, and Canada, maintain strict "Do Not Travel" advisories due to the lingering effects of the civil war, terrorism, and kidnapping risks. For those who choose to visit, a visa is mandatory and is generally only granted if you book through an authorized Syrian travel agency that provides a government-approved guide to accompany you throughout the trip. While cities like Damascus and Aleppo are seeing a slow return of visitors attracted to their ancient history and UNESCO sites, many parts of the country remain off-limits or under the control of various factions. Travelers must navigate numerous military checkpoints and deal with a severely damaged infrastructure, including frequent power outages and limited banking services. It is a destination only for the most experienced "dark tourists" who are willing to accept significant personal risk and bureaucratic hurdles.